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Margaret Littman, Contributor
Forbes Vetted
Many people come to Nashville to make their dreams come true, whether they’re trying to establish a career in country music or simply looking for a fun-filled weekend away. Home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium and the Honky Tonk Highway, music lovers can enjoy tunes every night of the year in this city at the Station Inn, the Bluebird Café and more. The best hotels in Nashville are an extension of the city’s vibrancy, spotlighting innovative culinary gems, exciting arts and culture offerings and of course, classic Southern hospitality.
With dozens of new hotels changing the city skyline in recent years, Nashville continues to have one of the most exciting hospitality scenes in the country. Many of the city’s best stays, like the Four Seasons Nashville and The Hermitage Hotel, are concentrated downtown, but if you’d like to check out the spirited scenes in other Nashville neighborhoods, we recommend checking in to the W Nashville in the Gulch and The Russell in East Nashville. Below, we’ve selected the best hotels in Nashville for your 2024 trip.
- Best High-End Hotel In Nashville: Four Seasons Nashville
- Best Boutique Hotel In Nashville: Noelle Hotel
- Best Hotel In Downtown Nashville: The Hermitage Hotel
- Best Hotel In The Gulch In Nashville: W Nashville
- Best Hotel In East Nashville: The Russell
- Most Stylish Hotel In Nashville: Fairlane Hotel
- Best Hotel With A Rooftop Bar In Nashville: The Joseph, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville
- Best Hotel For Design Lovers In Nashville: Thompson Nashville
- Best Hotel For Families In Nashville: Gaylord Opryland Resort
- Best Pet-Friendly Hotel In Nashville: 1 Hotel Nashville
Best High-End Hotel In Nashville: Four Seasons Nashville
The infinity-edge pool at the Four Seasons Nashville.
Four Seasons Nashville
Four Seasons Nashville
Who Will Love It: Travelers seeking pampering and luxurious accommodations
All-Star Amenities: Multiple dining options; outdoor pool and hot tub; spa; 24-hour fitness center; twice daily housekeeping, including evening turndown service; room service; overnight shoeshine service
What Not To Miss: The Rivière rooftop restaurant with al fresco seating
Location: Downtown
For travelers who want to stay in a luxurious hotel with top-tier amenities, the recently opened Four Seasons Nashville is an excellent option. Accommodations here are refined and elegant—furniture is carved from local black walnut, brushed metal and marble—and suites have abundant space and natural light. The guest rooms are located on floors seven through 14, so there are stunning views of the city skyline or pool terrace everywhere you look.
Other things that make this the ultimate luxury escape in the city range from the five-star dining options—guests can enjoy casual drinks and light bites at the Rivière Rooftop or an authentic Italian dinner at the swanky Mimo restaurant—to the spa and 24-hour fitness center. You won’t want to miss the rejuvenating hydrafacial or a side-by-side couples massage at the spa. For an indoor-outdoor experience that rivals a tropical resort, take a trip to the seventh floor and luxuriate in the infinity-edge pool and hot tub before ordering a hand-crafted cocktail at the French Riviera-inspired rooftop bar, Rivière.
Best Boutique Hotel In Nashville: Noelle Hotel
Trade Room at the Noelle.
COURTESY
Noelle Hotel
Who Will Love It: Urbanites and others who enjoy a big city vibe
All-Star Amenities: Sparkling and flat water fountains on each floor for filling reusable bottles; rooftop bar; smart flatscreen televisions; handwoven robes
What Not To Miss: Live music in Trade Room on the weekends; grabbing coffee and a pastry at the street-level coffee shop
Location: Downtown
Built in 1930, the Noelle was one of Nashville’s first luxury hotels. It reopened in 2017 following a reimagining and designers and architects kept Art Deco flourishes but added a good dose of urban style. More than any other Nashville hotel, Noelle screams “big city” with its buzzy, high-ceilinged lobby that functions as a bar, co-working space and art gallery and its location near Printers Alley, a narrow bar-lined street that was a Prohibition-era hideout. Petite but stylish guest rooms, located in both the old and new wing of the hotel, have hickory hardwood floors, handcrafted pottery and blackout shades to ensure a good night’s rest. The hotel also showcases original art by local artists, and the mezzanine level looking out on the lobby is a prime people-watching perch.
Best Hotel In Downtown Nashville: The Hermitage Hotel
The recently refreshed lobby of the Hermitage Hotel.
Alyssa Rosenheck
The Hermitage Hotel
Who Will Love It: History buffs
All-Star Amenities: Technologically advanced luxury beds; pillows in down, buckwheat and memory foam; art installations inspired by the hotel’s archive of letters and postcards
What Not To Miss: A restaurant helmed by Jean-Georges Vongerichten; Art Deco shoe-shine station; ladies room with pink marble floors and rose gold-framed mirrors
Location: Downtown
Host to presidents and songwriters—including Gene Autry’s horse, Champion—the Hermitage Hotel has been the darling of Nashville hospitality for more than a century. A two-year-long renovation from 2020 to 2022 brought it squarely into the present. Period details like plaster cornices and the painted-glass ceiling in the Beaux Arts lobby were preserved, but designers chose a lighter color scheme and sleek unfussy furnishings to modernize it. Across the street from the Tennessee State Capitol, suffragettes and anti-ratification forces congregated at the hotel in the weeks leading up to Tennessee casting the final vote for ratification.
This history is celebrated during tea service where staff uniforms, designed by Reese Witherspoon’s label Draper James, sport the suffragette’s yellow rose in the pattern. Attention to detail doesn’t stop at teatime. Guest rooms, which are among the largest in Nashville, have tables that can function as workspaces or in-room dining tables. New millwork conceals updated minibars and a subtle bird theme, inspired by a hand-painted bird discovered on the vaulted ceiling of the hotel’s elegant Veranda room, is woven throughout.
Best Hotel In The Gulch In Nashville: W Nashville
W Nashville Wet Deck
Michael Kleinberg
W Nashville
Who Will Love It: People who like to be in the center of the action
All-Star Amenities: Two Andrew Carmellini restaurants; outdoor foosball; skyline views; W robes
What Not To Miss: Cocktails around the L-shaped pool; well-heeled people-watching in the lobby bar
Location: The Gulch
The Gulch neighborhood is known for its modern high rises with unobstructed city views, brightly colored murals and stylish bars and restaurants. The W Nashville, which opened in late 2021, offers a quintessential “Gulch” experience with its sleek, modern design and vibrant eateries. In signature W style, guest rooms are a tad retro with curved lines and wood floors, but the custom Nashville-inspired artwork and emerald green tiles in the bathroom add color and whimsy. Dining and drinking options have you covered from morning until the wee hours including Barista Parlor, an outpost of the popular local coffee roaster and art purveyor; James Beard award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini‘s chophouse, Carne Mare; and modern American restaurant the Dutch, plus three more swanky bars. The W is one of the few hotels in Nashville where you still see people dressed to the nines; even a ride in the elevator is a fashion show.
Best Hotel In East Nashville: The Russell
The lobby of the Russell.
COURTESY
The Russell
Who Will Love It: Architecture aficionados; philanthropists who want their travel dollars to go to a good cause
All-Star Amenities: Complimentary snacks; charging stations in the pews-turned-headboards; suitcase elevator
What Not To Miss: A free podcasting studio that you can reserve to record interference-free audio; exploring the hip neighborhood
Location: East Nashville
When this former East Nashville church was turned into a 23-room hotel, architects preserved and restored original stained glass windows and made them the focal point of the hotel. The Russel’s bright color scheme and mod lobby furniture compliment the orange-y red, yellow and green rose window. Its most luxurious accommodations, including the penthouse suite and the tower suite, have balconies overlooking the lofty lobby, as well as the stained glass. This is a limited-service hotel—you won’t find a concierge on-site—but the team has designed the experience so everything guests need, from snacks to coffee to neighborhood guides, is at their fingertips. Often described as Nashville’s coolest neighborhood, the location is walking distance to East Nashville’s restaurants, bars, boutiques and music venues. And it’s worth noting that a portion of every room stay is donated to non-profits that fight homelessness in the city.
Most Stylish Hotel In Nashville: Fairlane Hotel
The Corner King suite at the Fairline Hotel
COURTESY
Fairlane Hotel
Who Will Love It: Fans of a mid-century modern aesthetic
All-Star Amenities: 24/7 concierge service; excellent complimentary coffee delivered to your room on request; Euro-top beds
What Not To Miss: Velvet headboards with pull-down cupholders for end-of-the-evening cocktails or coffee in the morning
Location: Downtown
Housed in a modernist 1972 building that was once the headquarters of a leading Nashville bank, the Fairlane is an architecture lover’s dream. It has a grand “see and be seen” lobby with terrazzo floors, wood paneling and flashes of brass, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Restaurants and bars like the locally owned Bagelshop, which serves small batch boiled bagels for breakfast and lunch, and the wine bar and shop By the Bottle, are stylish but approachable. The guest rooms are also 70s cool with jewel toned pillows and furniture, low-to-the-ground beds and marble bathrooms. Located in the north side of downtown, the Fairlane places you within easy reach of Broadway, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and the Ryman Auditorium.
Best Hotel With A Rooftop Bar In Nashville: The Joseph, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville
Exterior of The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville.
Jim Kruger
The Joseph, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville
Who Will Love It: Those who appreciate extra attention and amenities like a rooftop bar
All-Star Amenities: Luxury spa and salon; fitness center; glass cheese cave in Yolan restaurant; luxury Frette linens
What Not To Miss: Perusing the world-class art collection; swimming in the rooftop pool with views of the Nashville city skyline
Location: SoBro
From the moment you walk into the lobby of this luxury SoBro hotel, you’ll be treated like royalty no matter who you are. Valets will greet you by name—even if you don’t remember telling the valet your name—and staff will be happy to tell you about the world-class art that hangs on the walls. In addition to the stunning spa and salon, guests can enjoy the rooftop pool that boasts a bar and restaurant with plenty of delicious options.
The Joseph is named for the patriarch of the Pizzuti family, wealthy real estate developers who own the property, and their personal art collection is showcased throughout. The Pizzuti’s also coaxed award winning chef Tony Mantuano and his wife Cathy to move to Nashville from Chicago to helm Yolan, the Italian restaurant on the Joseph’s ground floor. Cathy selects the wine and Tony creates dishes featuring fine Italian ingredients like black truffle and aged Parmesan displayed in a glass cheese cave. And if you need more evidence that the Joseph puts guests first, the contemporary glass hotel’s best view isn’t in a private penthouse; it’s in the gym, so everyone can enjoy it.
Best Hotel For Design Lovers In Nashville: Thompson Nashville
A corner king guest room at Thompson Nashville.
COURTESY
Thompson Nashville
Who Will Love It: Those who appreciate the finer things
All-Star Amenities: Climate control for personalized nighttime sleeping; Chromecast; Sferra linens; pet-friendly rooms
What Not To Miss: In-room honor bars featuring local spirits and mixers; oyster happy hour at Marsh House restaurant
Location: The Gulch
Where did Michelle Obama stay when she brought her Becoming book tour to the world-famous Ryman Auditorium? Thompson Nashville, of course. From the former first lady to Joe Jonas, the Thompson is a top Nashville choice for visiting celebrities because they are afforded every possible luxury, as well as discretion and excellent service. The hotel’s large rooms, including a penthouse with mid-century modern furniture, feature floor-to-ceiling windows with expansive views of the surrounding Gulch neighborhood, deep soaking tubs and even loaner guitars. The rooftop’s 21-and-up L.A. Jackson bar is known for its DJ sets while the Marsh House restaurant is one of the best sustainable seafood restaurants in the city.
Best Hotel For Families In Nashville: Gaylord Opryland Resort
The resort features a golf course, indoor waterpark and more attractions for the whole family.
Gaylord Opryland Resort
Gaylord Opryland Resort
Who Will Love It: Families or travelers who want plenty of on-site activities
All-Star Amenities: Multiple dining options; indoor gardens; spa; fitness center; Gaylord Springs Golf Links; SoundWaves, an indoor waterpark; complimentary shuttle service; curated boutiques and shops; 24-hour room service
What Not To Miss: Exploring the nine acres of indoor garden atriums; an afternoon at SoundWaves, an indoor waterpark that guests of all ages can enjoy
Location: Music Valley
Travelers with little ones with appreciate the convenience and amenities that are offered at Gaylord Opryland Resort. The sprawling resort has 171 suites and five themed presidential suites, and plenty of walkable attractions to keep kiddos occupied. Onsite attractions run the gamut from the renowned Relâche Spa to the indoor garden atriums to SoundWaves, the four acre waterpark with indoor pools, water slides and immersive music. You can even take a boat ride through the indoor gardens, should you want to admire the florals and foliage from a comfortable seat. If you’re looking to take in local culture while visiting Nashville, the Grand Ole Opry, General Jackson Showboat and Ryman Auditorium are close by. Dining options here are just as impressive as the entertainment, with a host of quick, casual options as well as upscale restaurants with views of the indoor waterfalls.
Best Pet-Friendly Hotel In Nashville: 1 Hotel Nashville
A guest room at the 1 Hotel Nashville.
Courtesy
1 Hotel Nashville
Who Will Love It: Scenesters; wellness lovers; those who appreciate a stellar location that welcomes pets
All-Star Amenities: Rooftop; oversized suites with soaking tubs
What Not To Miss: Drinks at Harriet’s rooftop; morning coffee and people watching at Neighbor’s; a deep tissue massage at the Bamford Wellness Spa
Location: Downtown
Those who have visit any of 1 Hotels locations worldwide know what they’re in for: an upscale, eco-friendly experience that feels equal parts chic and relaxing. The convenient location just steps from the hustle and bustle of Broadway Street and Bridgestone Arena allows a quiet respite to retreat back to after a day spent bar crawling and listening to live music. Those who love to travel with their furry friends will appreciate the fact that this is a pet-friendly hotel that welcomes animals, and the staff can provide recommendations for pet-sitting or walking services, if needed.
Inside the property, you’ll find nods to nature everywhere, from the lobby walls to the native greenery in each room, to the reclaimed and natural materials throughout. Rooms are cozy and quiet (and therefore hard to leave), but so is the Bamford Spa, where you’d be amiss not to indulge in an afternoon treatment. If, in true Nashville style, you’ve come to town looking for some action, you’ll find it upstairs at Harriet’s Rooftop, a bustling space with live entertainment, bespoke cocktails, mouth-watering light bites and incredible views of downtown Nashville.
Featured Tours In Nashville
Nashville definitely doesn’t skimp in the entertainment department; there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Here are four standout experiences that we recommend incorporating into your trip’s itinerary.
- Grand Ole Opry Show With Backstage Tour: A stop at the Grand Ole Opry is a must for first-time visitors. This ticket package grants you admission to a concert at the legendary venue, as well as a backstage tour after the show. You’ll get a glimpse of the Grand Ole Opry’s dressing rooms, hear stories of musicians past and even have the chance to step onstage yourself.
- Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour: Clocking in at just 90 minutes, this charming trolley tour is a great option for those who are on a tight schedule. Over 13 stops, you’ll see over 100 points of interest, including Bicentennial Park, Music Row and Marathon Village.
- Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum Admission: In the heart of downtown Nashville lies the “Smithsonian of country music,” the Country Music Hall Of Fame and Museum. Filled with artifacts and multimedia exhibits, this engaging museum is great for families, couples and solo travelers. You have the option to include an in-depth audio tour for an additional charge.
- Taste Of Nashville Food And Sightseeing Tour: While Memphis gets most of the fame when it comes to barbecue, Nashville’s food scene can certainly hold its own. This guided food tour will give you a taste of what the city has to offer, including slow-roasted barbecue, hot chicken and a local-favorite cocktail known as the Bushwhacker. You’ll also get to take in sights of the Cumberland River, Nissan Stadium and Germantown.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, a 7-year industry veteran who’s visited over 35 countries. The writer of each of our hotel roundups is handpicked based on their area of expertise, whether they are area locals or avid travelers who have visited the destination frequently—and all have bylines in other reputable travel publications. Further, this story is regularly checked to ensure that all prices and information are as current as possible. It was last updated by travel writer Claire Epting in June 2024.
About Margaret Littman, Your Nashville Guide
I am a Nashville local who tells stories about people and places of the South. I’m an expert at pointing folks to the best places to buy boots, eat meat ‘n’ threes and listen to singer-songwriters. I stay in as many Nashville hotels as possible so I know firsthand what the experience is like for visitors. When I’m not writing or editing, I’m stand up paddleboarding on Percy Priest Lake and trying to SUP in all 50 states. My work has appeared in Preservation, Condé Nast Traveler, VinePair and PUNCH, and I’m the author of several books about the region, including Moon Nashville to New Orleans Road Trip and Moon 52 Things to Do in Nashville. Even after decades of living in Music City, I still can’t carry a tune.
What Is The Best Part Of Nashville To Stay In?
If you want to be close to the action, we recommend staying in downtown Nashville. This will give you proximity to a large number of restaurants, tourist attractions and bustling Broadway Street. However, if you’re looking to stay in more relaxed surroundings, East Nashville offers a more laid-back vibe. The eclectic neighborhood is a stone’s throw away from plenty of hip bars, coffee shops and eateries.
What Is The Best Month To Visit Nashville?
In terms of weather, the best months to visit Nashville are April and October. During these shoulder seasons of spring and fall, the average temperature hovers around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for sightseeing and spending time outdoors. You’ll also be able to avoid the large throngs of tourists associated with summer. However, if you’re interested in attending the CMA Music Fest or Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, then June will be your ideal month to visit.
How Many Days Should You Spend In Nashville?
Nashville is a popular destination for long weekend getaways, and it’s easy to see why—you can cover a lot of ground in just a few days, without feeling too rushed. We recommend spending three to four days in Nashville: This will give you ample time to visit iconic destinations like the Grand Ole Opry, eat some delicious barbecue and fully soak up the city’s live music scene.
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