Southern hospitality, music, BBQ, and bachelorettes. What do these all have in common? None other than Music City USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Better known as Nashvegas to locals, this southern hot spot has become a mecca for brides-to-be and their best gal pals. With so much to do in this laid-back city, our experts have made you a road map to show you around, from where to stay to matching t-shirts, we have you covered!
Where to Stay
You've decided on where to go, and all the girls are on board. Now you have to decide where to stay. You could stay in a hotel, but they get boring and stuffy (not to mention pricey), especially if you are staying more than a night or two. There are a couple of hostels, but who wants to shower with strangers? In our opinion, the best way to go when staying in Nashville is to rent a house (or an entire floor of a house) or stay at a bed and breakfast. Keep the different neighborhoods in mind while looking for a place to stay, too.
Opryland/Music Valley
This neighborhood is just outside of downtown and offers excellent live music, great food options, and plenty of shopping. This is the place to go if you want a slower pace, but still be close to the action.
Downtown/SoBro
If you want to be in the center of the action, Downtown/SoBro is the place to be! Live music all day, every day, plus art exhibits, historical bars, and some of the best food in Nashville. It doesn't get much better.
Midtown/Vanderbilt
Located west of Downtown, this neighborhood is home to Vanderbilt University, and has a little more ritz and glamour. An active nightlife combined with restaurants galore make this neighborhood great for exploration.
West End/Elliston Place
The northern counterpart to Midtown/Vanderbilt, West End is home to Centennial Park and The Parthenon. Elliston Place is a trendier area that features the Rock Block, some of the loudest clubs in Nashville.
Music Row
If you and your girls are music lovers, or just want to see where the musical magic happens, this is the place! Music Row is filled with the rich history that helped give Nashville its nickname– Music City, USA.
The Gulch
This urban hotspot takes its industrial past and combines it with modern contemporary style. A haven for food and music lovers alike, this neighborhood is just outside of downtown and has a little bit of everything.
East Nashville
East Nashville is a historical, laid-back neighborhood that has a lot to offer. Explore several art galleries between shopping sprees, then head to one of the many unique restaurants that call East Nashville home to recharge.
What to Do
What would a trip to Nashville be without music and dancing!? Honky Tonk Highway, located in downtown, is home to some of the most famous honky tonks in music history. For some laughs, look for a comedy club or tour. East Nashville, Midtown, and West End also have their fair share of nightlife, so make sure to bring your dancing shoes.
If you think Nashville is only honky tonks and boot-scootin', think again! Nashville has something for everyone, especially the girls. Use the daylight hours to get out and enjoy some of Nashville's history, or visit Centennial Park and the Parthenon. Take an art or cooking class, visit an art gallery, or shop until you drop at several different mall and boutiques before visiting a spa or hairdresser to relax and get the perfect blowout before you head out for a night on the town.
Try something new when you visit one of the many breweries, distilleries, and wineries, including a brewery founded by two women with a love for beer! There are many guided tours and crawls available that allow you to experience several of Nashville's hotspots without worrying about getting lost while you enjoy the local culture. If your bachelorette enjoys competition, score some tickets to see the Titans or Predators. Also, be on the lookout for festivals and special events when you plan your trip.
Good Eats
Bring your appetite when you come to Nashville. The food scene here is almost as big as the music scene! There are enough choices that even your picky friend will find something to suit her taste buds. A few staples that are must-haves in Nashville include biscuits, BBQ, Nashville's world famous hot chicken, and Meat & Three, a traditional Southern plate with a meat and three sides. Brunch is also a great idea and the perfect thing the morning after a long night out.
Find you caffeine fix at one of many coffee shops, then search for a food truck or taco stand for an afternoon snack! Keep that pesky sweet tooth at bay with one of the many ice cream or candy shops. If you are worried about finding more exotic fare, or have special dietary needs, Nashville has your back. Asian fusion, vegetarian, or a restaurant specializing in locally grown ingredients can all be found around Music City.
Let the Fun Begin
Now that the hard parts are taken care of, get your girls some cute matching tees for your romps around town and you'll be set! Whether you're staying for a week or just the weekend, there will be no shortage of things for you and your besties to do. Send the bride-to-be off in style with an eclectic mix of small-town southern and the city in Nashvegas.
