Lodging
Lodging
Aspen, Colorado, is a world-renowned destination that has been attracting visitors for over a century. The town’s history of tourism dates back to the late 19th century when silver miners discovered the area’s natural beauty and began inviting their friends and family to visit. As the mining industry declined, Aspen reinvented itself as a ski resort, and today, it is one of the most popular winter sports destinations in the world.
Where to Stay in Nashville
Nashville, also known as Music City, has long been a hub for music lovers, thanks to its deep roots in country music and its vibrant live performance scene. Over the past few decades, Nashville has evolved into a major tourist destination, offering visitors a mix of musical history, Southern charm, cultural experiences, and a dynamic nightlife. The city now draws millions of visitors each year, not just for its music but also for its culinary offerings, outdoor activities, and burgeoning art scene.
Getting to Nashville is easy, with the city served by the Nashville International Airport (BNA), which is located just 8 miles from downtown. Nashville is also well-connected by major highways like Interstates 40, 24, and 65, making it accessible for road-trippers. The city’s central location in the southeastern United States makes it an ideal destination for domestic travelers.
The best seasons to visit Nashville are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. During these times, the city comes alive with festivals, outdoor concerts, and lush greenery. Summer can be hot and humid, but it’s also the peak season for events and festivals, including the famous CMA Fest. Winter is quieter, but still offers plenty of indoor entertainment, including live music and holiday events.
What to bring and wear largely depends on the season:
- Spring and Fall: Light layers, as temperatures can range from cool in the mornings and evenings to warm during the day. A light jacket or sweater is recommended.
- Summer: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses, along with comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat to protect from the sun.
- Winter: Temperatures can be chilly, so bring warm clothing like coats, scarves, and sweaters, especially if you plan to be out at night.
Types of Lodging
Nashville has everything from luxurious hotels and resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. Many hotels offer amenities like rooftop pools, in-house restaurants, and fitness centers. Resorts provide more extensive services, such as spas, golf courses, and fine dining options. B&Bs and boutique hotels often offer a more intimate, personalized experience, ideal for travelers who want a quieter, cozier stay.
Price and Suitability
- Budget: $100–$200 per night (e.g., Holiday Inn & Suites, Drury Plaza Hotel)
- Suitable for families, solo travelers, and budget-conscious tourists.
- Mid-range: $200–$400 per night (e.g., Thompson Nashville, Cambria Hotel)
- Perfect for couples, small groups, and travelers looking for a balance between comfort and cost.
- Luxury: $400+ per night (e.g., The Hermitage Hotel, Gaylord Opryland)
- Ideal for luxury seekers, couples, and special occasions.
Hotels and Resorts: Examples
The Hermitage Hotel
- Address: 231 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219
- Amenities: Luxury spa, fine dining, pet-friendly, historic charm
- Overview: As Nashville’s only five-star hotel, The Hermitage offers a blend of historic elegance and modern luxury, with spacious rooms and personalized service. Ideal for luxury seekers and history lovers.
- Price Range: $$$$
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
- Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
- Amenities: Indoor gardens, multiple restaurants, spa, golf course, water park
- Overview: This massive resort is a destination in itself, offering families and groups endless entertainment options with its gardens, atriums, and water park.
- Price Range: $$$
Thompson Nashville
- Address: 401 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
- Amenities: Rooftop bar, fitness center, pet-friendly, in-house dining
- Overview: A stylish boutique hotel located in The Gulch, one of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhoods. Perfect for couples and young travelers looking for a modern, urban stay.
- Price Range: $$$
Noelle, Nashville, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Address: 200 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219
- Amenities: Rooftop bar, art gallery, fitness center
- Overview: Noelle offers a boutique hotel experience with a touch of local artistry and culture, making it a great choice for travelers who appreciate unique design.
- Price Range: $$$
21c Museum Hotel
- Address: 221 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
- Amenities: Contemporary art museum, restaurant, pet-friendly
- Overview: This unique hotel doubles as a contemporary art museum, perfect for art enthusiasts who want to combine culture with comfort.
- Price Range: $$$
Hutton Hotel
- Address: 1808 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
- Amenities: Recording studio, rooftop bar, wellness spa
- Overview: A great choice for musicians and creatives, offering luxury amenities with an artistic touch, including an on-site recording studio.
- Price Range: $$
The Westin Nashville
- Address: 807 Clark Pl, Nashville, TN 37203
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, spa, fitness center
- Overview: Located downtown, The Westin is perfect for travelers looking for luxury accommodations within walking distance of Broadway’s nightlife.
- Price Range: $$$
Holiday Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown
- Address: 415 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, restaurant
- Overview: A budget-friendly option close to downtown attractions, ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers.
- Price Range: $
Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown
- Address: 300 Korean Veterans Blvd, Nashville, TN 37201
- Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop pool, fitness center
- Overview: A mid-range hotel with excellent amenities, offering value for money while keeping you close to Nashville’s key attractions.
- Price Range: $$
Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown
- Address: 118 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, live music, restaurant
- Overview: Known for its modern amenities and vibrant atmosphere, this hotel is a hit with younger travelers and couples.
- Price Range: $$
Short-Term Rentals
The rise of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO has made short-term rentals a popular option for travelers seeking more flexibility and space during their stay in Nashville. These rentals often come in the form of apartments, condos, or entire homes, providing a “home away from home” atmosphere. Many visitors choose short-term rentals for their convenience, especially if they prefer staying in trendy neighborhoods like The Gulch, East Nashville, or 12 South.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Advantages:
- More space than traditional hotel rooms.
- Kitchen facilities for cooking, ideal for families or long-term stays.
- A more local experience, often located in residential areas.
- Often more affordable than hotels, especially for larger groups.
- Disadvantages:
- Lack of daily housekeeping or concierge services.
- Inconsistent standards, as each property is independently managed.
- Some areas may not have immediate access to downtown attractions.
Booking Tips
- Use reputable platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway.
- Look for listings with multiple positive reviews and clear communication from the host.
- Make sure to check the cancellation policy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Short-Term Rentals: Examples
Modern Loft in The Gulch
- Overview: A sleek, modern loft located in one of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhoods, perfect for couples or solo travelers.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, rooftop pool access, fitness center, free parking
- Price: $$
East Nashville Bungalow
- Overview: A charming two-bedroom bungalow in a quiet neighborhood, ideal for families or small groups.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, backyard, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi
- Price: $$
Downtown Luxury Penthouse
- Overview: A spacious penthouse with panoramic views of the Nashville skyline, perfect for luxury travelers.
- Amenities: Rooftop terrace, hot tub, modern kitchen, premium location
- Price: $$$
12 South Cozy Cottage
- Overview: A quaint cottage in the hip 12 South neighborhood, offering privacy and proximity to local cafes and shops.
- Amenities: Garden, BBQ grill, kitchen, washer/dryer
- Price: $$
Historic Victorian Home in Germantown
- Overview: A beautifully restored Victorian home in the historic Germantown area, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
- Amenities: Three bedrooms, large porch, pet-friendly, free parking
- Price: $$$
Tiny House in East Nashville
- Overview: For the minimalist traveler, this tiny house offers a unique stay in a quiet, artsy neighborhood.
- Amenities: Compact kitchen, outdoor seating area, Wi-Fi
- Price: $
Spacious Condo Near Broadway
- Overview: A bright, airy condo within walking distance of Broadway, ideal for those wanting to be close to the action.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, rooftop access, washer/dryer
- Price: $$
Midtown Luxury Apartment
- Overview: A modern apartment in the heart of Midtown, great for couples or business travelers.
- Amenities: Pool, gym, balcony with city views
- Price: $$
Eco-Friendly House in Sylvan Park
- Overview: A sustainable home featuring solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, perfect for eco-conscious travelers.
- Amenities: Garden, green energy appliances, Wi-Fi, pet-friendly
- Price: $$
Riverfront Condo
- Overview: A cozy condo along the Cumberland River with easy access to downtown attractions.
- Amenities: Balcony with river views, modern kitchen, Wi-Fi
- Price: $$
RV and Camping
For travelers who prefer to experience the great outdoors, Nashville offers several excellent options for RV parks and campgrounds. Staying in an RV or at a campground allows visitors to be close to nature while still having easy access to Nashville’s top attractions. RVing and camping are especially popular with families, outdoor enthusiasts, and budget travelers looking for an affordable and adventurous way to stay.
Types of Facilities
There are two primary types of outdoor lodging in Nashville: RV parks and campgrounds. RV parks are equipped with hookups for electricity, water, and sewage, making them ideal for travelers with RVs. Campgrounds offer more rustic settings, often with tent sites and basic amenities like bathhouses and fire pits.
Planning and Preparation
- Booking Tips: RV parks and campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons in spring and fall. It’s important to book your site well in advance.
- Essentials: If you’re RVing, ensure you have your hookup equipment, water hoses, and waste disposal tools. For campers, bring your tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear, and any necessary permits.
Planning and Preparation
Pet Policies
Many hotels and short-term rentals in Nashville are pet-friendly, but policies vary. Be sure to check the individual property’s pet policy when booking. Some RV parks and campgrounds also allow pets, though there may be restrictions on breeds or sizes.
Sustainability
Several Nashville accommodations are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly amenities such as energy-efficient appliances, solar power, recycling programs, and locally sourced food options. Look for green certifications when booking to ensure you’re staying at an environmentally conscious location.
Seasonal Considerations
Nashville’s busy tourist seasons are spring and fall, and prices for accommodations tend to rise during these times. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for major events like CMA Fest or the NFL season. Winter is a quieter time with lower rates, though many indoor attractions remain open and enjoyable.
RV Parks and Campgrounds: Examples
Nashville KOA Resort
- Address: 2626 Music Valley Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, pool, shuttle service to downtown, dog park
- Overview: A family-friendly RV resort offering plenty of amenities, located just minutes from the Grand Ole Opry.
- Price Range: $$
Two Rivers Campground
- Address: 2616 Music Valley Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, free Wi-Fi, pool, shuttle service to downtown
- Overview: Conveniently located near the Grand Ole Opry, this campground is ideal for RVers looking for easy access to Nashville’s attractions.
- Price Range: $$
Safe Harbor RV Resort
- Address: 3343 Bell Rd, Nashville, TN 37214
- Amenities: Lakeside views, full RV hookups, boat rentals, pool
- Overview: Located on Percy Priest Lake, this RV resort offers a peaceful lakeside setting with all the amenities of a full-service RV park.
- Price Range: $$
Seven Points Campground
- Address: 1810 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076
- Amenities: Primitive campsites, picnic areas, fire rings, access to hiking trails
- Overview: A scenic campground near Percy Priest Lake, ideal for those who prefer a more rustic, tent-based camping experience.
- Price Range: $
Anderson Road Campground
- Address: 4010 Anderson Rd, Nashville, TN 37217
- Amenities: Tent and RV sites, lakeside views, picnic areas, boat ramp
- Overview: A relaxing lakeside campground offering both tent and RV sites, perfect for nature lovers and those who want to escape the city.
- Price Range: $
Nashville I-24 Campground
- Address: 1130 Rocky Fork Rd, Smyrna, TN 37167
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, pool, Wi-Fi, playground
- Overview: Located just outside of Nashville, this RV park is a great option for families and those seeking a quieter spot close to the city.
- Price Range: $$
Cedars of Lebanon State Park
- Address: 328 Cedar Forest Rd, Lebanon, TN 37090
- Amenities: Tent and RV sites, hiking trails, cabins, horseback riding
- Overview: A state park offering beautiful wooded campsites, hiking trails, and plenty of outdoor activities. Ideal for nature enthusiasts.
- Price Range: $
Grand Ole RV Resort
- Address: 708 N Main St, Goodlettsville, TN 37072
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, free Wi-Fi, live music, laundry facilities
- Overview: A charming RV resort that offers live music and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for country music fans visiting Nashville.
- Price Range: $$
Shady Acres RV Park
- Address: 2270 N Gallatin Rd, Madison, TN 37115
- Amenities: Full RV hookups, laundry, picnic areas
- Overview: A smaller RV park located a short drive from downtown Nashville, providing a quiet and budget-friendly option for RV travelers.
- Price Range: $
Long Hunter State Park
- Address: 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076
- Amenities: Primitive campsites, hiking trails, fishing, picnic areas
- Overview: A beautiful state park offering primitive camping for those looking to enjoy the outdoors with access to hiking, fishing, and wildlife.
- Price Range: $
