Howdy Partner, You're Headed to Midtown Nashville: Yeehaw or Yawn?
So you've booked your ticket to Nashville, the heart of country music, and you're staying in Midtown. Now what, besides stuffing your face with hot chicken (which, by the way, is a must)? Don't worry, sugar, this here post is your cheat sheet to turnin' your Midtown stay from a yawn-fest to a yeehaw good time.
What To Do In Midtown Nashville |
Music, But Not Just the Twangy Kind (Although There's Plenty of That Too)
Nashville's soul is music, and Midtown is no exception. Music Row, the epicenter of the industry, snakes right through the neighborhood. You might just stumble upon a rising star belting out a tune on a random Tuesday afternoon. But hey, there's more to Midtown's musical menu than country twang. Dive into The Basement East for indie rock, or catch a wild jazz show at The End.
Pro Tip: Feeling like a baller? The Catbird Seat offers a Michelin-starred experience with a killer soundtrack. Just be prepared to loosen your purse strings a bit (and maybe book way in advance).
Food Glorious Food: From Hot Chicken to Hoity-Toity
Midtown's got your taste buds covered, no matter if you're craving down-home comfort food or fancy nosh. We all know Nashville's famous for its hot chicken, and Midtown's got the OG Hattie B's where the heat is real, honey. But if spice ain't your thing, there are a ton of other options, from gourmet burgers at The Pharmacy to trendy tacos at Bartaco. Feeling fancy? Patterson House is a swanky speakeasy hidden below a restaurant, perfect for a night of mystery and expertly crafted cocktails.
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Word to the Wise: Midtown can get hoppin', so be prepared for a wait at some of the more popular spots.
When the Music Stops: Exploring Midtown's Other Delights
Midtown ain't all about music and food (shocking, right?). Take a walk through the Frist Art Museum and get your culture fix, or browse the cool shops on Fifth Avenue. If you're feeling outdoorsy, Centennial Park is a great spot to stretch your legs and maybe even catch a free concert.
Night owls rejoice! Demonbreun Hill is Midtown's answer to the downtown bar scene, with dive bars like The Basement and trendy spots like Tin Roof.
Tip: Don’t skip the small notes — they often matter.
So You've Had Your Fill of Midtown: What Now?
Midtown is a great launching pad to explore the rest of Nashville. Downtown's a short Uber ride away, where you can explore the honky-tonks on Broadway or visit the iconic Country Music Hall of Fame.
Feeling adventurous? Take a day trip to Arrington Vineyards for some wine tasting and stunning countryside views.
Howdy Partner FAQ
How to get around Midtown?
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
Midtown is walkable, but if your feet get tired, there's a reliable public bus system and ride-sharing apps are readily available.
How hot does the hot chicken get?
Let's just say it'll make you sweat. There are usually different spice levels to choose from, so pick your poison wisely.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
How much live music is there in Midtown?
A lot! From dive bars with open mic nights to established venues with touring acts, you're bound to find something that tickles your fancy.
How to dress for Midtown?
Nashville is a casual city. Jeans and a T-shirt are perfectly acceptable for most places in Midtown. But if you're hitting a fancy restaurant or bar, you might want to dress up a bit.
How to avoid the crowds?
Weekends and evenings are generally busier, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim for weekdays or earlier in the day.