Nine Things to Check Out in the Music City!
Known for its energy and vibrant people, Nashville grew from a foundation built on music. Nashville gets its name the “music city” because it is known as the songwriting capital of the world, where songwriters from all over come to learn the art of songwriting.
Nashville delivers a diverse experience beyond its music-centric reputation. With its unique blend of history, culture, food, and fun, this city is sure to charm and surprise you.
Whether you’re on the hunt for food, music, or entertainment, you’ll quickly find out there’s no shortage of fun things to do.
Here are our top nine things to check out when visiting Nashville!
1. Ryman Auditorium
First opened in 1892, the Ryman Auditorium is an iconic concert venue that has seen some of the biggest names in music grace its stage including Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Garth Brooks, and Billie Holiday. A tour of this historic building is a must for any music lover as they take you through the auditorium itself, as well as sharing stories about the people who have performed there.
During the tour, you’ll get to see the dressing rooms, green room, and some iconic memorabilia on display, such as Dolly Parton’s dazzling rhinestone studded jacket that she wore during her legendary 1973 performance. With events happening almost every night, you can create memories of your own with a glance at their upcoming events page.
2. Nissan Stadium
Known as Music City’s Premier Entertainment destination, Nissan Stadium is home to the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and is one of the best places in Nashville to catch a live sporting and entertainment event. The stadium holds up to 70,000 fans, making it one of the largest in the NFL and features state of the art facilities, concession stands and bars.
Not in town for a football game? Take a tour of the facility or check out some of the upcoming concerts taking place at Nissan Stadium. On the docket for 2023 are Taylor Swift on May 5th, 6th and 7th; Billy Joel & Stevie Nicks on May 19th and Ed Sheeran on July 22nd.
3. Ellington’s and Bagelshop
Located on the 4th floor of the Fairlane Hotel, Ellington’s Mid Way Bar & Grill features a wraparound terrace with lounge seating and fire pits as well as two private dining rooms. The menu specializes in nostalgic mid-20th century staples with Ellington’s own modern style. The restaurant is open daily for dinner and happy hour Monday-Thursday from 4pm-6pm. as well as brunch on the weekends.
Founded by husband and wife duo Max and Kayla Palmer, Bagelshop is also located in the Fairlane Hotel and is open daily from 7am - 1:30pm. Start your morning off right and enjoy bagels that are hand rolled, kettle boiled and baked fresh daily.
4. Frothy Monkey
A staple in the Nashville community since 2004 and recognized as “Best Coffee Shop” by several magazines, Frothy Monkey is an all-day cafe, specialty coffee roaster, and wholesale bakery. Other locations include Franklin, Chattanooga, Knoxville and Birmingham. Frothy Monkey serves breakfast and brunch every day until 5pm, as well as lunch and dinner with beverages including coffeehouse standards as well as craft beer, wine and cocktails.
An ongoing partner with many Oliver brands including the Fairlane Hotel (their coffee is served at our restaurants) and Chancellor’s House in Oxford, MS (coffee is sold there), Frothy Monkey drinks are made from scratch using original recipes and thoughtfully sourced ingredients from regional farmers and producers.
5. HiFi Cookies
Born out of the love of music, HiFi Cookies is a modern cookie company based in Nashville. Their mission is to make fun, delicious, and creative cookies that are inspired from favorite childhood classics like Fruity Pebbles, Cosmic Brownies, and of course, Chocolate Chip Cookies. HiFi Cookies are made from scratch with a wide range of fun flavors and options. Another exciting update - HiFi Cookies has opened their second location on the first floor of the Fairlane Hotel. Make sure you stop by and say hello.
Up next for HiFi Cookies? Getting ready for Valentine’s Day with preorders. Be sure to follow them on Instagram so you don’t miss the preorder date announcement.
6. 5th and Broadway
5th and Broadway is the heart of Nashville and the newest downtown destination that's transforming the former 6.2 acres of the Nashville Convention Center into a vibrant dining and shopping experience. With 235,000 square feet of walkable shops and rooftop restaurants, a renovated conference center, the National Museum of African American Music and world-class entertainment offerings, 5th and Broadway sets the backdrop for Nashville.
In the mood for a popular dinner spot? Check out Boqueria, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Sixty Vines and Slim & Husky’s. Another popular restaurant you don’t want to miss is the three story dining destination from Phoenix restaurateur Sam Fox and music popstar, Justin Timberlake, called The Twelve Thirty Club. The Twelve Thirty Club is a swanky restaurant offering modern regional cuisine with a bar, live music and rooftop dining.
7. QNTM Fit Life
In the mood for a workout while you’re traveling? Well then, you need to check out Nashville’s 100% independently-owned fitness experience, QNTM Fit Life. With a gym inside a state of the art environment coupled with superior revitalization and recovery amenities, QNTM members and guests are able to live a fulfilling life inside and outside the walls. Need some extra relaxation? Try out their Hydromassage and HumanTouch Massage Chairs.
Staying at the Fairlane Hotel? Then take advantage of our “Pick Your Perk” program. Pick Your Perk is an added benefit included with your hotel stay, which means more time for leisure activities, more restaurants to try and a chance to change your routine. Perks include complimentary valet parking in Downtown Nashville, $20 credit to BagelShop, 2 well drinks at Ellington’s or 1 guest pass to QNTM Fit life. Fairlane hotel guests can pick from these 4 perks and there are discounts for their guests.
8. Printer’s Alley
Printer’s Alley is one of the most well known spots in Nashville and is located in downtown Nashville. Tucked away between Third and Fourth Avenue, an array of nightclubs and restaurants hosts visitors and locals and holds a vibrant reminder of the city’s rich heritage.
Printer’s Alley became the center of Nashville’s nightlife by the 1940s, when nightclubs opened and welcomed talents like Chet Atkins, Waylon Jennings, The Supremes, Hank Williams, Barbara Mandrell, and Jimi Hendrix.Today’s nightclubs pay homage to the speakeasies and clubs which developed into the entertainment district we know today.
9. Fairlane Hotel
Located just 2-3 blocks from Broadway, the Fairlane Hotel is Nashville's favorite boutique hotel in the heart of the downtown business and arts district. Close to the hustle and bustle of the nightlife but still a good distance away for some quiet evenings, this 12-story hotel is the right balance of luxury, boutique, and convenience.
Another exciting feature of the Fairlane Hotel? The rooftop pop-up bar! Whether the theme is Christmas or bringing Miami to Nashville in a “Nash Vice”, you don’t want to miss these spectacular events! Join us for our newest pop-up bar inspired by a childhood classic - The Alice! Don’t be late for this very important date!
Whether you want to eat amazing food, party or check out some cool history and culture, Nashville will capture your heart – and your ears!
Ready to make your stay in Nashville a reality? Book a room at the Fairlane Hotel or join us for dinner at Ellingtons.
