Shopping
Introduction: The Allure of Nashville’s Unique Shopping Scene
Nashville, the city synonymous with country music, isn’t just for music lovers. Beneath the surface of twangy guitars and honky-tonks lies a vibrant and diverse shopping scene that offers visitors everything from high-end fashion to handcrafted goods steeped in Southern tradition. Whether you’re seeking one-of-a-kind vintage finds, locally-made art, or trendy boutiques, Nashville’s retail landscape has something for every type of shopper. The city’s blend of Southern hospitality, creativity, and cultural heritage creates a unique shopping experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Overview of the Shopping Scene
Nashville’s shopping scene is as varied as its music. The city is home to a range of options, from historic marketplaces and eclectic boutiques to luxury malls and artisan shops. Each shopping district has its own distinct vibe, whether it’s the upscale elegance of The Gulch or the quirky charm of East Nashville. In addition to the fashion-forward stores, you’ll find shops selling locally crafted goods, vintage vinyl, handmade jewelry, and specialty foods. What makes Nashville’s shopping experience truly unique is the way it reflects the city’s creative spirit, with many shops run by local artisans and designers who infuse their Southern roots into every product.
Key Shopping Districts and Streets
Nashville’s best shopping areas are concentrated in distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own shopping culture. Below are the city’s top shopping districts, complete with a detailed look at what makes them special.
1. 12 South
- Address: 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
- History: A former residential neighborhood turned trendy hotspot, 12 South is one of Nashville’s most walkable shopping areas.
- Ambiance: The tree-lined street is home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants.
- What to Buy: Local fashion, accessories, handmade goods, and unique home decor.
- Featured Shops:
- Imogene + Willie: Famous for custom denim and stylish American-made clothing.
- White’s Mercantile: A modern-day general store offering curated gifts, home decor, and Nashville-themed items.
- Draper James: Actress Reese Witherspoon’s Southern-inspired boutique, offering stylish clothing and accessories.
- Unique Feature: 12 South is also home to several Instagrammable murals, including the popular “I Believe in Nashville” mural.
- Price Range: $$-$$$
- Payment Options: Most shops accept credit cards and mobile payments.
- Navigational Tips: Limited street parking, but the district is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.
2. The Gulch
- Address: The Gulch, Nashville, TN 37203
- History: Once an industrial area, The Gulch has transformed into a chic, upscale neighborhood with high-end boutiques and trendy restaurants.
- Ambiance: Sleek, modern, and buzzing with energy, The Gulch offers a mix of luxury retail and urban fashion.
- What to Buy: Designer clothing, trendy apparel, and beauty products.
- Featured Shops:
- Two Old Hippies: A unique store blending fashion, music memorabilia, and a guitar wall.
- Lucchese Bootmaker: A high-end Western boot shop, offering handcrafted leather boots.
- Kittenish: A trendy women’s boutique started by country singer Jessie James Decker.
- Unique Feature: The Gulch is home to Nashville’s first LEED-certified green neighborhood, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly businesses.
- Price Range: $$$
- Payment Options: Credit cards widely accepted, and many stores offer contactless payments.
- Navigational Tips: Parking is available in garages, but The Gulch is also accessible via public transport and rideshare services.
3. Hillsboro Village
- Address: 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37212
- History: Located between Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities, Hillsboro Village has long been a favorite among students and locals alike.
- Ambiance: A lively, bohemian atmosphere with charming boutiques, coffeehouses, and art galleries.
- What to Buy: Vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, quirky gifts, and local artwork.
- Featured Shops:
- BookManBookWoman: An indie bookstore that’s a haven for book lovers.
- A Thousand Faces: A gallery and boutique that showcases unique jewelry, pottery, and art by local artisans.
- Posh Boutique: Offers contemporary fashion and accessories with a trendy yet accessible vibe.
- Unique Feature: Hillsboro Village is home to The Belcourt Theatre, a historic indie movie house that often features art-house films and live performances.
- Price Range: $$-$$$
- Payment Options: Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Navigational Tips: Street parking is limited, but there are nearby lots and garages. It’s a short drive or bike ride from downtown.
4. East Nashville
- Address: East Nashville, Nashville, TN 37206
- History: Known for its artistic and eclectic community, East Nashville is one of the city’s most creative neighborhoods, full of independent boutiques and quirky shops.
- Ambiance: A laid-back, bohemian vibe with an emphasis on local and handmade goods.
- What to Buy: Vintage vinyl, handmade crafts, eco-friendly products, and unique gifts.
- Featured Shops:
- The Hip Zipper: A beloved vintage shop selling curated clothing and accessories from decades past.
- Grimey’s New & Preloved Music: A vinyl lover’s paradise offering new and used records, plus regular in-store performances.
- Goodbuy Girls: A Western-chic boutique known for its retro boots and accessories.
- Unique Feature: East Nashville hosts the Tomato Art Festival each year, a quirky celebration of art and culture that brings vendors and shoppers together.
- Price Range: $-$$
- Payment Options: Cash is preferred at some vintage stores, though credit cards are accepted at most locations.
- Navigational Tips: Ample street parking is available, and the neighborhood is bike-friendly.
5. Green Hills Mall
- Address: 2126 Abbott Martin Rd, Nashville, TN 37215
- History: Established in the 1950s, this upscale mall has grown into a luxury shopping destination, attracting shoppers with its high-end retailers.
- Ambiance: Sleek and sophisticated, with an emphasis on designer brands and luxury experiences.
- What to Buy: Designer fashion, high-end jewelry, and premium beauty products.
- Featured Shops:
- Nordstrom: The mall’s anchor store, offering top brands in fashion, beauty, and home decor.
- Louis Vuitton: The go-to destination for luxury handbags and accessories.
- Apple Store: For all your tech needs, from iPhones to laptops.
- Unique Feature: Green Hills Mall also houses The Cheesecake Factory, offering shoppers a break with decadent treats.
- Price Range: $$$
- Payment Options: Credit cards are widely accepted, and valet parking is available.
- Navigational Tips: The mall provides ample parking, and valet services are available at several entrances.
Featured Shops and Local Businesses
Nashville’s independent shops are where the city’s creativity shines brightest. Below are a few local favorites that you won’t want to miss:
6. Hatch Show Print
- Address: 224 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203
- Specialty: One of the oldest working letterpress print shops in America, Hatch Show Print creates iconic posters for music legends and local events.
- What to Buy: Hand-pressed posters, prints, and custom designs.
- Unique Feature: Visitors can tour the workshop and see the printing process in action.
- Price Range: $-$$
- Payment Options: Cash and credit cards accepted.
7. Artisan Hatchery
- Address: 1808 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
- Specialty: A collective of local artisans showcasing handmade jewelry, pottery, and crafts.
- What to Buy: Unique, handcrafted gifts and home decor items.
- Unique Feature: Artisan Hatchery is dedicated to supporting local craftspeople and small businesses.
- Price Range: $$
8. Hey Rooster General Store
- Address: 1106 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
- Specialty: A modern take on a Southern general store, offering locally made foods, home goods, and gifts.
- What to Buy: Small-batch jams, handcrafted candles, and Southern-inspired kitchenware.
- Unique Feature: Everything in the store is made or designed by Nashville artisans.
- Price Range: $$
9. The Factory at Franklin
- Address: 230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN 37064
- Specialty: Housed in a restored 1920s factory, this shopping and entertainment complex offers an array of boutiques, art galleries, and eateries.
- What to Buy: Art, antiques, and handmade goods.
- Unique Feature: The building itself is a piece of history, with original brick and beams adding charm to your shopping experience.
- Price Range: $-$$$
- Navigational Tips: Located 30 minutes south of Nashville in Franklin.
Sustainable and Ethical Shopping
Nashville’s shopping scene increasingly focuses on sustainability and ethical business practices, making it easy for visitors to support local artisans and eco-friendly businesses.
10. Nisolo
- Address: 1803 9th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
- Specialty: A sustainable footwear and accessories brand that focuses on ethical production and fair trade.
- What to Buy: Handcrafted leather shoes, bags, and accessories.
- Unique Feature: Nisolo operates with a commitment to fair wages, sustainable materials, and a carbon-neutral supply chain.
- Price Range: $$-$$$
11. Abednego
- Address: 1017 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206
- Specialty: A boutique focused on ethically made clothing, accessories, and home goods.
- What to Buy: Stylish, eco-friendly clothing and sustainable home decor.
- Unique Feature: Abednego is dedicated to supporting brands that prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices.
- Price Range: $$
Navigational Tips and Practical Information
- Best Time to Visit: Nashville’s shopping districts are lively year-round, but weekdays offer quieter experiences. For outdoor shopping, spring and fall provide the most pleasant weather.
- Shopping Hours: Most shops open between 10 AM and 6 PM, though some boutiques may stay open later on weekends. Malls generally stay open until 9 PM.
- Price Ranges: From affordable vintage finds ($) to high-end designer goods ($$$), Nashville offers something for every budget.
- Payment Options: Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are becoming increasingly common. Cash is still preferred in some vintage shops and flea markets.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind vintage item, a handcrafted souvenir, or the latest in designer fashion, Nashville’s shopping scene offers something for every taste and budget. With its blend of Southern hospitality, creativity, and commitment to local artisans, Nashville’s stores are as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. So grab a tote bag, hit the streets, and immerse yourself in the unique shopping experience that Music City has to offer!