Nashville Photo Diary & Travel Guide

I’ve finally put together a recap of our long weekend in Nashville last October. I’m not a country music fan by any stretch of the imagination (I’m more of a hip-hop girl), so people were surprised that we were making the trek to Music City. But there’s more to the city than just honky tonks (which you have to do, by the way). It’s a vibrant city with pockets of charm that appeal to both country music lovers and non-lovers alike! I listed the things that we did on our trip below. This barely scratches the surface of what Nashville has to offer, but we did a pretty good job of experiencing the highlights over three days.

Sonix iPhone case

THINGS TO SEE & DO

Honky Tonk: Even if you’re not a huge country music fan, you can’t go to Nashville and completely ignore the music scene. Just about every bar downtown offers free live music each weeknight. Just head to Music Row and pop into any bar to embrace the honky-tonk scene. It’s a lively, laid back experience that really shouldn’t be missed. Be sure to bring singles so you can tip the bands! My favorite night was at Nashville Crossroads where a younger band was playing. There weren’t many patrons in that bar, so they were casually taking requests. After one girl requested “Baby Got Back,” Dave requested R. Kelly’s “Remix to Ignition.” It was more amazing than you could possibly imagine with a country twang! (Be prepared to show your I.D. everywhere no matter your age. To a Wisconsinite, it was a little obnoxious since we rarely need to flash our I.D. if we look over 21.)
Street Art: Nashville has an incredible street art scene with murals in the most unlikely places. Some of my favorites were spotted just walking around the downtown area. However, there are a couple of iconic photo locations you’ll want to add to your itinerary for a true Nashville experience: “What Lifts You” by Kelsey Montague (302 11th Ave. S.) with the pint-sized version for dogs and “I Believe in Nashville” by Adrien Saporiti (2706 12th Ave. S.). Be prepared to wait your turn in line with a bevvy of other girls and their Instagram Husbands eager to get the perfect shot.
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge: This bridge spans the Cumberland River and offers great views of the city skyline.
The Parthenon: Built in 1987 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, The Parthenon in Nashville is a full-scale replica of the Athens original. I wanted to go inside and see the statue, but I suddenly felt sick and had to head back to the hotel for some R&R.
Go Gaga for Goo Goos: I had never had a Goo Goo Cluster before visiting Nashville, and I was missing out on its marshmallow nougat, caramel, roasted peanuts and milk chocolate perfection. You can visit the factory, but it’s unremarkable unless you’re a huge fan and have a burning desire for Goo Goo-emblazoned products to bring home. I just picked up bags of the mini Goo Goos at Walgreens and was Goo Goo shamed by the employee who asked if I was eating them for breakfast. (So what if I am, sir…so what if I am?)
Hatch Show Print: If you’re a huge letterpress fan, book a tour to get a behind-the-scenes of this iconic print shop. Their posters make for unique souvenirs and you’ll enjoy them long after you get home, unlike cowboy boots and rhinestone-encrusted belts.
The 12South Neighborhood: 12South is a vibrant neighborhood in Nashville that offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. In fact, it’s where Draper James and its photo-worthy blue and white striped wall is located. Be sure to check out White’s Mercantile, which is a carefully curated, modern take on general store. When we were there, Amelia’s Flower Truck was parked outside. You can follow them on Instagram for their location each day. It’d be a shame to visit Nashville and miss out on that Insta-opportunity.

Line & Dot dress (old; love this) | Ann Taylor sandals (love these and these) | Julie Vos necklace (c/o)

PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden: The Pharmacy will satisfy any burger craving you might have with a menu full of creative burger toppings. They also serve German-style wursts and vintage-style soda shop offerings like milkshakes and malts. The real gem of The Pharmacy is the outdoor beer garden. It’s a well-landscaped oasis and the perfect place to throw back a few pints on a warm night. The stroganoff burger is amazing. (Dave and I split one because the portions were gigantic.)
Husk: Husk is definitely a splurge, but it’s an absolute must for a romantic date night. The restaurant serves up traditional Southern ingredients with a sophisticated twist and is housed in an elegant historic mansion. Like most of Nashville, the dress code isn’t terribly formal. You can get away with a simple dress and a pair of nice flats. Make reservations in advance to make sure you get a table.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: Hot chicken is a Nashville staple and Hattie B’s is the place to go to experience the spicy fried chicken with Southern sides and local beer. There’s typically a long line, but it moves fairly quickly and the food is absolutely worth the wait.
The Filling Station: Located in the 12South neighborhood, this is one of Nashville’s best destinations for craft beer. It’s a store-meets-bar with a myriad of regional brews available on tap and for carry out. There are just a few tables inside, but you can also take your beer to the small outdoor seating area.
Frothy Monkey: Rumored to be one of Taylor Swift’s favorite Nashville locations, Frothy Monkey is one of the best brunch spots in town. Be sure to get the turtle latte for a caffeinated treat.
Yazoo Brewing Company: Yazoo Brewing Company is a local brewery with a wide selection of beer varieties to enjoy on-site. The taproom is large and lively and a great place to enjoy a few mid-afternoon brews before continuing your tour of the city. There’s also an outdoor seating area.
Jackalope Brewing Company: I didn’t like this brewery as much as Yazoo Brewing Company, but it was still a solid option for a couple of beers. They have games available, too.