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Nashville is a vibrant city in Tennessee, famous for its incredibly rich music history. It’s also a big city, and deciding where to stay is not easy unless you’re acquainted with the different neighborhoods. After visiting Nashville a couple of times (the most recent being just a few months ago), I think I have a good idea of the area and can easily help you figure it out with this guide on the best places to stay in Nashville!
First, you need to know which part of the city works best for your trip. The central area is perfect for a first visit, but not ideal if you’re on a tight budget. If you are looking to save some money, consider the Mid-town area. It may be a little more no-frills, but it is also much cheaper than Downtown. Music Row is where we usually stay when we are in Nashville. We love the vibe there, and you are still within walking distance of most of the cool things to do in the city.
Best Places To Stay In Nashville
Throughout this guide, we will break down 8 of the best places to stay in Nashville, offering hotel recommendations, the pros and cons of each area, and a good description of what to expect if this is the area you choose to stay in Music City. All of these recommendations are personal suggestions after spending a considerable amount of time in the city. Read on to discover why Nashville captures visitors’ hearts and keeps them coming back.
1. Downtown
Downtown Nashville is the best area for first-time visitors. It’s the city center with all the top tourist attractions and landmarks, including the Tennessee State Capitol, the Frist Art Museum, the Johnny Cash Museum, and more.
This district encompasses several neighborhoods, including Sobro, The Gulch, Pie Town, and Capitol View. Each of these smaller neighborhoods provides an excellent stay in Nashville, and it’s only a 45-minute walk from one end of Downtown to the other. The district is walkable, allowing easy movement between the popular Nashville attractions.
I recommend this area to travelers who are willing to pay a bit more for a nice hotel room. Few hotels in this part of the city are affordable, so you might want to consider a different part of Nashville if you’re traveling on a budget.
Luxury: W Nashville
The W Nashville is a fabulous five-star hotel in the center of The Gulch. This excellent location allows you to be within walking distance of the best attractions and enjoy great restaurants and live music bars. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a rooftop bar, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and even a yoga lawn.
If you love extra-large, comfy beds, you will adore the W Nashville as all the hotel rooms feature them. Each room comes with spacious ensuite bathrooms, desks, and seating areas, plus floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase spectacular city views.
Mid-Range: Dream Nashville by Hyatt
Dream Nashville Hotel is set in two historic buildings in Printer’s Alley. This hotel features spacious art-deco rooms furnished with large double beds and colorful accents. I appreciate how the guest rooms have unique character compared to monotonous white and beige decor.
Every room at Dream Nashville Hotel includes a private bathroom, a seating area, and a desk. Additionally, with six dining options nearby, some of Nashville’s best bars and restaurants are just steps away. The hotel also has a modern fitness center and 24-hour room service, though unfortunately, it lacks a swimming pool.
Budget: The Capitol Hotel Downtown
The Capitol Hotel Downtown is among the most affordable hotels in Downtown Nashville, boasting a central location. It offers clean and spacious rooms equipped with ensuite bathrooms, dedicated workspaces, and coffee makers. The hotel features a 24/7 reception desk, but the rooms are easily accessible through exterior corridors.
While there’s a modest fitness center available, amenities at the Capitol Hotel Downtown are otherwise quite limited. Rated as a three-star hotel, it offers night rates starting at around $190, which is as low as it gets for Downtown Nashville, barring special deals.
Pros of Staying in Downtown
- Walking distance to popular attractions
- Plenty of things to do in the neighborhood
- Great bars and restaurants
- A safe area for tourists
Cons of Staying in Downtown
- Hotels and restaurants can be expensive
- Crowded with tourists
- Limited budget accommodation options
2. SoBro
SoBro is a neighborhood in Downtown Nashville that merits its own entry on this list. It’s one of the best areas for tourists, featuring many of the city’s best sights. You can easily walk to iconic locations like the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Music City Center.
SoBro serves as a launchpad on the outskirts of Nashville’s Downtown area, perfect for experiencing a different vibe while still being near all the best attractions. Enjoy live music venues like Mercy Lounge, stroll into Downtown Nashville for a day of sightseeing, catch a show at The Bridgestone Arena, or sample local cuisine at surrounding neighborhood restaurants.
Known for its neon lights and numerous honky-tonks, SoBro is home to many of Nashville’s premier hotel brands. Staying here may not be budget-friendly, but it promises a fabulous experience as all the hotels in SoBro are top-notch.
Luxury: The Joseph
The Joseph is among the best five-star hotels in the city. It boasts an outdoor pool, a private garden, a fitness center, restaurant, and bar, giving you everything you need. The decor throughout the hotel reflects Nashville’s musical heritage beautifully.
I love that each room features a vintage radio, and the luxurious suites even come with record players. Every room at The Joseph has its own bathroom, desk, and seating area. The beds are exceptionally comfortable, allowing you to make coffee or tea as soon as you wake up every morning.
Mid-Range: Omni Nashville Hotel
Omni Nashville Hotel is a fabulous four-star hotel in the heart of SoBro. It’s adjacent to the Country Music Hall of Fame, putting you within an excellent location for exploring Nashville. The hotel features designer rooms, a large outdoor pool, and five restaurants.
The hotel rooms are immaculate, with dark wood accents that give off a sophisticated feel. Each room includes a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, desk, seating area, and coffee maker.
Budget: Sentral SoBro
Sentral SoBro offers a unique accommodation experience in this premium neighborhood. Instead of traditional rooms, the hotel features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. They are surprisingly affordable considering the prime location and are equipped with all the essentials for an extended stay in Nashville.
This hotel is ideal for visitors planning a longer trip who want to be centrally located without spending a fortune on accommodation. The apartments are beautifully decorated, providing a homely feel with full kitchens and laundry facilities.
Pros of Staying in SoBro
- Central location in Nashville
- The city’s best attractions are close by
- Ideal for luxury hotel stays
Cons of Staying in SoBro
- Expensive accommodation
- A busy area of Nashville
- Parking is generally not included in the room rate
3. Midtown/West End
The West End, or Midtown, surrounds Vanderbilt University. This district is adjacent to Downtown Nashville, keeping you within walking distance of the city’s best attractions.
The West End also hosts its own landmarks, from The Parthenon at Centennial Park to Church Street filled with excellent live music venues. It’s Nashville’s nightlife hub and the place to be for a short stroll from the city’s best parties.
Midtown also has some of the best hotels in Nashville, offering numerous options for mid-range and luxury accommodations. However, the neighborhood still isn’t particularly suited for budget travelers as hotels aren’t cheap, but you generally receive better value in the West End compared to Downtown.
Luxury: Conrad Nashville
The Conrad Nashville stands as an excellent five-star hotel in the West End. Located just a 10-minute walk from Downtown Nashville, it boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property.
The room options range from a classic King Room to a massive Superior Suite. All rooms feature private bathrooms, workstations, and seating areas. Most rooms also include a kitchenette, equipped with a dishwasher, which I find particularly appealing.
Mid-Range: Graduate Nashville
Graduate Nashville is arguably the most unique hotel in Nashville in terms of decor. Its vibrant pink furniture and accents create an inviting atmosphere, ensuring that you’ll also feel welcome in the shared spaces.
The hotel is known for spacious bathrooms that make morning routines much more enjoyable. Each room has a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a desk, with some rooms uniquely decorated with artwork or guitar-shaped beds.
Budget: Hayes Street Hotel Nashville
Hayes Street Hotel Nashville presents an affordable three-star option just a short distance from Downtown. If you’re on a tight budget but still want central accommodation, this is among the best budget hotels in Music City.
The rooms are basic but feature extra-large beds and colorful accents. Each room has a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and free WiFi. The hotel also has a small fitness center, lounge, and bar, complemented by restaurants within a five-minute walk. While it may not offer luxurious facilities, the pricing is commendable!
Pros of Staying in Midtown/West End
- Hotels and restaurants are more affordable
- Easy access to the city center
- Best for nightlife in Nashville
Cons of Staying in Midtown/West End
- Fewer activities in the neighborhood
- Potentially noisy due to the nearby hospital
- The university area gets very busy during the day
4. Music Row
Music Row is home to numerous radio stations and record label offices, making it immensely popular with tourists. It’s no surprise that some of the city’s finest hotels are located in this neighborhood. We have stayed here multiple times and find it our favorite area for recommending accommodations in Nashville.
Situated next to both Midtown and Downtown, Music Row offers easy navigation to Nashville’s best neighborhoods. Most hotels here are within walking distance of the city center, and there are plenty of intriguing places to explore right in the neighborhood.
Overall, Music Row is likely the second-best neighborhood to stay in Nashville, right after Downtown, especially in terms of value since hotels in Music Row are often significantly cheaper than those in a more central location but still provide excellent amenities.
Luxury: Virgin Hotels Nashville
Virgin Hotels Nashville ranks as one of the top hotels in this neighborhood, and we have stayed here several times, affirming its luxury status even with its “only” four-star rating. It compensates for the lack of a fifth star with an excellent rooftop pool, modern rooms with high-end appliances, and beautiful landscaping in the hotel’s mini garden.
The hotel rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated, each equipped with a private bathroom, desk, and seating area. Some rooms include private balconies, and higher-floor rooms offer limited water views, which is quite uncommon for Nashville. Moreover, this hotel welcomes pets, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with furry friends.
Mid-Range: Kimpton Aertson Hotel
The Kimpton Aertson is an exquisite four-star hotel in Music Row, approximately a 20-minute walk from Downtown Nashville. The property features a stunning rooftop pool complete with a sun deck and a wellness center stocked with modern gym equipment.
The rooms within this boutique hotel are spacious, featuring extra-large double beds and pristine ensuite bathrooms. Each room comes with a minibar, flat-screen TV, desk, and Bluetooth sound system. Furthermore, guests can enjoy multiple lounge areas and dining options, including a modern American restaurant and an on-site bar boasting an impressive collection of Tennessee whiskies.
Budget: Best Western Plus Downtown
Best Western Plus Downtown is one of the best budget hotels in Nashville. Positioned in the northern portion of Music Row, it is just minutes away from Downtown. This hotel offers great value, given its proximity to the city center.
The accommodations are sleek and surprisingly pleasant for the price. While you might not be blown away by the decor, you won’t feel like you’re staying in a rundown hotel either. Each room features comfortable beds, a desk, a flat-screen TV, and complimentary breakfast—even for the cheapest nightly rates. The hotel even comes with a pool, albeit a small one with views of the road.
Pros of Staying in Music Row
- A historic area of Nashville
- Not overly crowded
- Very close to the city center
Cons of Staying in Music Row
- Limited bars and restaurants
- Fewer hotel options
- Fewer tourist attractions in the neighborhood
5. East Nashville
East Nashville is a vast residential neighborhood located to the northeast of the city center. It’s the best option for travelers seeking budget accommodation, as this area provides the most affordable hotels in Nashville. However, the majority of this neighborhood is quite far from the city center, so I recommend staying in East Nashville only if you have access to a car.
While the area may lack numerous tourist attractions, it boasts many trendy restaurants, bars, and unique boutiques. This district is also famed for its street art, visible during casual evening strolls. If you can manage driving around Nashville, you’ll be just 10 minutes from Downtown and all its museums and landmarks.
Choose East Nashville to save money on accommodation while still enjoying the city’s unique charm. Even in this residential neighborhood, numerous venues host live music performances almost every night.
Luxury: The Russell
The Russell is a three-star hotel, so while it may not qualify as a true luxury hotel, it offers a unique experience. Housed in a former church, staying here provides a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. This three-star rating stems from its lack of a restaurant or fitness center, but this is understandable due to the building’s limitations.
The rooms are spectacular, featuring clean, modern furnishings that beautifully contrast with the exposed brick of the original church structure. Each room offers an ensuite bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a coffee maker. So, while you stay in a historic building, modern amenities are still at your disposal.
Mid Range: Waymore’s Guest House and Casual Club
Waymore’s Guest House and Casual Club is an outstanding hotel offering budget-friendly rooms. Additionally, you won’t need a car to stay at this hotel since it’s conveniently located near East Bank and Downtown—with a bus stop practically at the front, allowing you to reach the city center in just 5-10 minutes.
The hotel rooms are beautifully decorated, complete with comfortable beds, desks, coffee machines, and free WiFi. Every room includes a private bathroom, with various room types available, from singles to family suites. There is also an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and doubles as the hotel’s bar.
Budget: Sleep Inn Nashville
Sleep Inn Nashville is a budget two-star hotel located in the far north of East Nashville. While it’s somewhat distant from the city center, if you have a car, you can reach Downtown Nashville in about ten minutes. This makes it a fantastic option for travelers seeking affordable accommodation without straying too far from the city.
The rooms offer surprising spaciousness and essential amenities. Each room includes a comfortable bed, an ensuite bathroom, a dedicated workstation, a coffee maker, and a flat-screen TV—pretty impressive for a two-star hotel. Additionally, there’s a seasonal outdoor pool for guests, along with complimentary breakfast and parking starting at $110 per night.
Pros of Staying in East Nashville
- The hotels are budget-friendly
- A plethora of venues with live music
- Excellent bars and eateries nearby
Cons of Staying in East Nashville
- Limited landmarks and attractions
- Not within walking distance of Downtown
- Scarce hotel options
6. Airport
Hotels near the airport are ideal for travelers with early flights or those visiting Nashville for a brief duration. Additionally, these hotels are generally more affordable than those in other neighborhoods, offering good value.
If you have a car, you can reach the city center in under 15 minutes. Otherwise, I advise against staying near the airport, as public transport can be sluggish and there is little to do aside from visiting other hotels.
Luxury: Sonesta Nashville Airport
Sonesta Nashville Airport is a four-star hotel featuring spacious, clean rooms. A room here would generally cost at least double in the city center, especially given the large windows with panoramic views.
All Sonesta guests enjoy access to a private bathroom, seating area, and desk in their rooms. The hotel also has two swimming pools and two dining options, ensuring excellent facilities at a low price.
Mid-Range: Sheraton Music City
Sheraton Music City is a great hotel close to the airport, boasting two swimming pools, a bar, two restaurants, and a fitness center. It’s a pet-friendly hotel with a sprawling garden, making it one of Nashville’s best mid-range options for pet owners.
Guest rooms are spacious, featuring large comfortable beds and separate seating areas. Each room includes a desk, TV, and private bathroom, while the decor is generally quite pleasant. Additionally, double and quadruple room rates remain the same, providing great value for families and groups.
Budget: Alexis Inn and Suites Hotel
Alexis Inn and Suites Hotel is one of the least expensive hotels near the airport. The rooms are surprisingly well-appointed for the price, and hotel facilities include a restaurant, fitness center, and breakfast bar.
The guest rooms offer standard amenities, including an ensuite bathroom, TV, desk, and coffee maker. While some rooms feature an odd sink placement opposite the bed, there does provide free WiFi and ironing boards, making it an acceptable choice.
Pros of Staying at the Airport
- Affordable hotels
- Convenient for short stays and early flights
- A mere 15-minute drive to the city center
Cons of Staying at the Airport
- Challenging to traverse without a car
- Lack of true luxury hospitality options
- Minimal attractions in the immediate area
7. East Bank
East Bank is a waterfront area of Nashville that is still under development. Although it may not boast the most attractive scenery, it provides close proximity to Downtown. Hotels in this area also tend to be more affordable than those in more central neighborhoods.
The Nissan Stadium is located here, making East Bank an excellent choice for visitors traveling to Nashville for concerts or NFL games. After the event, you can easily walk back to your hotel or cross the bridge to enjoy the bars and restaurants in Downtown Nashville.
Mid-Range: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham is a comfortable three-star hotel situated just moments from Nissan Stadium. It’s a quick 20-minute walk to the main attractions in Downtown Nashville, making it a convenient location.
The hotel features surprisingly spacious rooms equipped with comfortable beds, ensuite bathrooms, as well as a swimming pool and fitness center. Breakfast is included in the affordable nightly rate of just under $200. Each room is air-conditioned and includes a coffee machine, flat-screen TV, seating area, and a desk, along with on-site dining options.
Budget: Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville – Stadium
Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville is an excellent choice for travelers seeking budget accommodations in Nashville. A night at this three-star hotel starts at around $160, which includes a spacious room featuring two queen beds (or a king bed) along with a buffet-style breakfast. All guest rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, desks, and coffee makers.
The hotel also features an indoor saltwater pool, ensuring year-round accessibility. Additional amenities include a fitness center and a business center with conference rooms. Best of all, this hotel is merely 10 minutes from the city center by public transport, keeping you close to Nashville’s prime attractions.
Pros of Staying in East Bank
- Affordable hotel options available
- Within walking distance of Downtown
- Close to Nissan Stadium
Cons of Staying in East Bank
- Limited bars and restaurants in the vicinity
- Few prominent landmarks
- Extremely busy during concerts and NFL games
8. Music Valley
Consider staying in Music Valley if you’re visiting Nashville for a relaxing vacation or a musical event. It’s where you will find some of the best and most elaborate resorts in Nashville, as well as the city’s finest golf courses and even hiking trails.
Another advantage of Music Valley is that it’s one of the safest neighborhoods in Nashville. While there may not be much to do in the evening besides visiting bars or dining out, you can feel comfortable walking around at night, even if you’re alone.
The Grand Ole Opry naturally stands as the highlight of this entire area. As the home of country music, it’s open for tours daily and serves as the primary reason many tourists go out of their way to visit Music Valley, even if they’ve booked accommodation in SoBro.
Luxury: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is so filled with features that you could spend half your trip to Nashville merely exploring the resort. It is absolutely massive, featuring 4 bars, 15 restaurants, and several retail shops.
The hotel rooms exude sleek modernity, with comfortable beds and spacious private bathrooms. All guests have access to a desk and flat-screen TV in their rooms, and select accommodations even have private balconies. However, I must note that the rooms can feel a bit characterless, so you may want to consider other options if you’re not fond of the all-white hotel room aesthetic.
Mid-Range: Club Wyndham Nashville
Club Wyndham Nashville is an excellent choice for extended stays in Nashville. The hotel offers multi-bedroom suites and condos accommodating groups of 4-6 people at very affordable rates—about $50 per person, which is fantastic considering the three swimming pools available!
Although the suites might not be the most aesthetically pleasing, they are clean and equipped with everything you might need for a longer trip, including either a kitchenette or a full kitchen, a separate bedroom, and a private bathroom. The hotel also provides laundry facilities.
Budget: Best Western Suites
Best Western Suites is an affordable option located in Opryland. It features a pool and fitness center, which is somewhat surprising given the room prices. If you’re visiting Nashville for the Grand Ole Opry and need a budget-friendly room nearby, this is a top choice.
The rooms are basic yet encompass all the necessities, including an oversized desk, a TV, a private bathroom, and breakfast included in the nightly rate. Free parking is also available for all guests, enhancing the exceptional value for money.
Pros of Staying in Music Valley
- A very safe neighborhood
- Ideal for visits to the Grand Ole Opry
- A variety of resort options
Cons of Staying in Music Valley
- Far from Downtown Nashville
- Limited attractions in the area
- Not suitable for staying without a car
Best Areas To Stay In Nashville FAQs
What is the best part of Nashville to stay in?
Downtown is the best area to stay in Nashville, particularly for first-time visitors. East Nashville comes in a close second, especially for those looking for better deals and have access to a car.
Is it better to stay Downtown or Music Row in Nashville?
In general, it is more beneficial to stay in Downtown Nashville. This area offers more attractions within walking distance and has a wider selection of hotels compared to Music Row.
Is Downtown Nashville a walkable city?
Yes, Downtown Nashville is an easily walkable neighborhood. It takes approximately 45 minutes to traverse from one end of the area to the other.
Which side of Nashville is the best?
According to locals, the East side of Nashville is the best. While Downtown may be the most popular among tourists, East Nashville offers a charming atmosphere for residents.
Where Not To Stay In Nashville
Nashville is a large city, and like other major cities, it has areas that are safe and those which are not. Neighborhoods to avoid include the Bordeaux Area, Capitol View, and North Nashville. Even East Nashville contains specific areas that are not entirely safe, but I’ve made sure not to recommend hotels in those parts.
Instead, focus on the districts highlighted in this guide. The city center, along with Midtown and Music Valley, is the safest for tourists. Although hotels may be somewhat pricier, your safety is invaluable.
Why We Love Nashville
Nashville resonates with us because it has a unique soul. The locals are incredibly friendly, the city’s food scene is phenomenal, and the music here is renowned worldwide. It’s one of the best places to visit in the United States, particularly for country music enthusiasts.
Whether you’re stopping by Nashville during a US road trip or planning a romantic getaway, you are sure to have a wonderful time. Moreover, you’ll likely feel inspired to refresh your travel playlist!
