Middle Tennessee has something for everyone! From Downtown Nashville’s sky scrapers to the scenic pastures of Williamson County, Middle Tennessee has it all. Here is a breakdown of just a few of Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s best areas.
Downtown NashvilleThis is the area where Nashville lives up to its reputation as Music City, USA. The honky tonks, restaurants, and bars along Lower Broadway are loved by Nashville’s visitors and locals alike. In addition to some of the best music you will ever hear, Downtown is home to The Country Music Hall of Fame, The Music City Center, The Tennessee State Museum, The Tennessee Performing Arts Center, The Historic Ryman Auditorium, The Bridgestone Arena, The Frist Center for the Arts, The Schermerhorn Symphony Center, The Johnny Cash Museum, and The George Jones Museum. Downtown is also a major commerce hub for the banking, communications, and publishing industries. The Tennessee State Capitol building overlooks all of Downtown from its perch high atop Capitol Hill.
East Nashville Just across the Cumberland River from Downtown, East Nashville is one of Nashville’s hottest areas. It is proud to be known as one of Nashville’s most diverse and eclectic communities. It is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, music venues, and boutique shops. East Nashville’s streets are lined with a mixture of historic homes dating back to the 1800s and modern new builds.
12th South12th South is fast becoming a haven for young professionals, families, and the hip crowd. It is home to great dining and shopping. 12th South has a relaxed Urban Vibe with its mix of historic homes and tasteful new builds. Its close proximity to Downtown, Belmont, Eighth Avenue, and Green Hills makes it one of Nashville’s most sought after areas.
The GulchThe Gulch has been transformed from an industrial area that was once home to run down warehouses, to Nashville’s premiere Urban Living District. Many young professionals call The Gulch’s luxury high rise buildings home. The Gulch is also home to exclusive shopping, dining, and the city’s best Bluegrass music at The Station Inn.
Sylvan Park Nestled between The West End Corridor and Charlotte Avenue, Sylvan Park is one of Nashville’s gems. The neighborhood is filled with quaint cottages, and Stately homes from the late 1800s through the 1950s. Many historically appropriate new builds can also be found in Sylvan Park. Sylvan Park is home to some of Nashville’s favorite dining spots like Café Nona, McCabe’s Pub, and Local Taco.
Green HillsGreen Hills is one of Nashville’s truly elite neighborhoods. This family friendly area is home to some of Nashville’s top professionals and celebrities. Green Hills’ architecture ranges from grand mansions to mid-century ranch houses. The Mall at Green Hills is home to Nashville’s most upscale shopping. Green Hills is also home to the renowned Blue Bird Cafe.
DonelsonDonelson is one of Nashville’s best kept secrets. Just minutes from Downtown, Donelson is the proud home of the world famous Grand Ole Opry. Some of the city’s best shopping can be found at Opry Mills Mall. Donelson is also home to three of Nashville’s most historic homes, Two River’s Mansion, Clover Bottom, and Belair Mansion. Donelson is filled with established mid-century neighborhoods with large mature yards, many of which have views of the Nashville skyline. Many young families are discovering Donelson, and bringing a hip, young vibe to the area.
BellvueBellevue is a one of Nashville’s most family friendly areas. Located on the west side, Bellevue’s suburban feel and proximity to Downtown makes it a natural fit for those who want to be close to the city, but still enjoy a more rural setting. Bellevue’s older established neighborhoods feature classic ranch homes, while newer areas have everything from Craftsman to French Country builds. Parts of Bellevue could double for Gatlinburg with its hilltop views. Bellevue is home to a true Nashville dining experience, The Loveless Cafe.
Brentwood/ Franklin/Williamson CountyLocated just outside of Nashville in Williamson County, the cities of Brentwood and Franklin are home to some of Middle Tennessee’s wealthiest residents. In fact, Brentwood’s per capita house hold income is among the highest in the nation. The Cool Springs area of Franklin also boasts some of Middle Tennessee’s best shopping. This area is known for its upscale family friendly neighborhoods and excellent public schools. Some of Tennessee’s most beautiful drives are through the rural parts of Williamson County.
