Over the last decade, Nashville has become a hot spot for bachelor{ette} parties and weekend trips. The streets are always buzzing with people of all ages — mostly with twenty-somethings ready to tie the knot, looking for one last swing at it all. It is the city that doesn’t sleep of the south and one that should not be overlooked. If you are into country music, it is the place to be. Even if you’re not, you will leave the city in cowboy boots, saying “ya’ll”, and wishing for Nashville Hot Chicken long after you’re gone. If you’re considering a trip to Music City, we’ve got you covered.  Read on to learn all you need to know about booking a weekend getaway to Nashville, Tennessee.

^ Fun fact: Nashville has its own replica of The Parthenon 

Booking Your Trip 

Nashville is a quick flight easily accessible from all of the local New York/New Jersey airports. We suggest flying out of Newark, as it is the cheapest and arguably the most accessible airport in the area. Try flying United Airlines or Southwest Airlines from EWR to BNA, as round-trip tickets range between $200-$400 depending on the time of year you go. The flight is a fast two hours, but most of the time is quicker depending on tailwinds. Remember that Nashville is one hour behind the Mile Square, so you get one extra hour of partying for free.

Where to Stay

Nashville has a ton of little neighborhoods, each one unique in its own way. Of course, everyone wants to stay in Downtown Nashville, right on Broadway, but trust us on this one — don’t do it. The hustle and bustle of Broadway is overwhelming, to say the least. We recommend staying in The Gulch, a trendy neighborhood just slightly south of Downtown. It is centrally located, flooded with chic restaurants and shops, but also close to the Broadway scene.

If you do stay in Downtown Nashville, {bless your heart} the bars are easily accessible to the bar scene and nightlife. There are many centrally located hotels, like The Westin Nashville {807 Clark Place}, Omni Nashville {250 5th Avenue South}, and Hilton Nashville {121 4th Avenue South}. Each hotel is close to the bar scene for when you just need a drink — or five.

We also recommend staying in an Airbnb, especially with a large group. Such places also have the added benefit of a kitchen and shared common space. Save money by food shopping ahead of time at Publix and have your groceries delivered.

See More: Weekend Getaway:  San Juan, Puerto Rico

Twelve South is another great, upcoming area filled with young + hip individuals. Visitors can find a ton of cute little shops and some trendy murals — like the “I Believe in Nashville” one that is so commonly photographed. There are a handful of hip restaurants like in the neighborhood as well.

What to Do

Nashville is filled with so many different things to do, whether you’re in town for a bachelor{ette} party or on a weekend getaway, and is easily one of the most up and coming spots for true Hoboken girls {and guys}.

Along Broadway

Broadway is culture rich and quite possibly, has more bars per capita than Hoboken. Of course, it is a necessity to visit well-known places in the neighborhood.

Honky Tonk Central {329 Broadway}

This is a multi-floor bar that is always buzzing with live music and strong drinks.

Nudie’s Honky Tonk {409 Broadway}

This locale is another multi-floor bar complete with a rooftop and live music.

Tootsies Orchid Lounge {422 Broadway}

Ah yes, this is the iconic purple rooftop bar situated right in the heart of Broadway where many country artists like Willie Nelson got their start.

Robert’s Western World {416 Broadway B}

Robert’s is a honky-tonk bar with live music and the famous Fried Bologna Sandwich.

Acme Feed + Seed {101 Broadway}

This locale is one of Nashville’s historic bars that offers epic Nashville grub and drinks.

Tin Roof {316 Broadway}

Tin Roof is a local eatery and bar with some of Nashville’s best live music.

Beyond Bars

Besides these iconic, must visit bars, there are heaps of other things to do in Nashville.

Pedal Tavern {1504 Demonbreun Street}

The Pedal Tavern is a group party bike adventure around the city. Bring a group and reserve a private bike {six-15 people} or hop on with randos and make new friends while drinking. The bartenders provide everything — cups, music, direction, and fun. Just bring the drinks.

Paddywax {2934 Sidco Drive}

Paddywax is a local candle company started and based in Nashville that offers candle pouring experiences where guests choose their own vessel + scent. Alternatively,

The Candle Bar {2934 Sidco Drive}

Alternatively, The Candle Bar will walk you through the steps of hand pouring your own custom candle. Purchasing candles in Nashville might be a hassle to travel with. The Washington General Store in Hoboken sells Paddywax Candles as well as their Olivina men’s line and Designworks Ink paper line right here in Hoboken.

Shopping

The shopping scene is super trendy in Nashville, as it’s complete with small boutiques and famously known storefronts.

Uncommon James {601 9th Avenue South}

Kristin Cavallari’s new-ish spot is filled with delicate jewelry and accessories. Located in the trendy Gulch neighborhood, it is a must visit if you’re a fan of E!’s Very Cavallari.

Draper James {12th Avenue South}

Reese Witherspoon also has a store in The Gulch and you can’t miss the baby blue and white striped building that houses Draper James. The shop boasts handbags, accessories, clothing and more.

Other cool shops include The Impeccable Pig {1802 21st Avenue South}, a clothing + accessory boutique, and White’s Mercantile {2908 12th Avenue South}, which is filled with unique home and lifestyle buys.

Landmarks to Visit

In Nashville are some historic landmarks that are worthy of a visit, too. Be sure to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame {222 5th Avenue South}, The Grand Ole Opry {2804 Opryland Drive}, and The Ryman Auditorium {116 5th Avenue North}. If you are into hockey and there during the season, catch a Predators game. Bridgestone Arena {501 Broadway} is right in the center of Downtown and tickets are moderately priced. Even if you aren’t into hockey, the Preds are great, the crowd is lit and Roman Josi {one of the defense men} is well worth taking a look at {wink wink}.

Where to Eat 

Nashville has so many great spots to eat with a variety of choices and cuisines. Some of the best restaurants offer a predominantly BBQ + Southern menu while others are trendy and very Hoboken-like {in case you’re missing the Mile Square}. All of the restaurants offer southern hospitality that is second to none, s you’ll fall in love with the atmosphere + the food in no time.

Biscuit Love {316 11th Avenue South}

Biscuit Love is, hands down, one of our favorite breakfast/lunch spots in Music City. It is a trendy spot that serves biscuits any way imaginable. To start, get the bonuts {fried biscuit dough, tossed in sugar, topped in a lemon mascarpone over a blueberry compote}. Trust us on this one. The East Nasty, which was named “The Best Sandwich in America,” features a buttermilk biscuit, fried boneless chicken thigh, aged cheddar, + sausage gravy. The rest of the menu is equally as savory + delicious, so make sure you head over there at least once during your trip. {Insider Tip: You’re going to wait on line, even if you get there at 7:00AM when it opens. It’s worth it and the line moves quickly.}

Milk and Honey {214 11th Avenue South}  

This eatery is another hot spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The Hodgepodge Hash is literally out of this world {roasted red and sweet potatoes, sausage, sautéed veggies + peppers, caramelized onions, pickled red onions, chipotle crema, feta, cilantro, and a sunny side egg}.

Hattie B’s {112 19th Avenue South, 2222 8th Avenue South, + 5209 Charlotte Avenue}

Hattie B’s is known for its hot chicken. Please read very carefully: hot chicken is a common staple in Nashville. Do not, and we repeat DO NOT order anything that rates the heat level at “hot.” Stay at mild or medium. Even the toughest of tough have a hard time handling the heat {but if you can handle it, go for it — and let us know how tasty it is, too}.

The Flipside {2403 12th Avenue South}

 

The Flipside is a retro-chic diner that features a brunch, lunch, dinner, and drink menu that seriously worth checking out. We suggest the poutine or the chicken and waffles. If you are down to drink your calories, order a Bloody Mary. It is big enough to be a meal all on its own.

Read More: How to Eat Healthier While Traveling {It’s Possible, Promise!}

Sinema {2600 8th Avenue South}

Sinema is a restaurant situated in the historic Melrose theater, right in the heart of Nashville. The classic American dishes and drinks are trendy and unique. Plus, the restaurant has a bottomless brunch that is amazeballs.

City Fire {610 12th Avenue South}

This Nashville restaurant is known for its dinner. The menu is jam-packed with tons of options. We love the shrimp + grits as well as the hot chicken mac, which is a spicy twist on your classic mac n’ cheese. Be sure to order an elderflower gin + tonic or a Prickly Pear Margarita — both are awesome options.

Pinewood Social {33 Peabody Street}  

Pinewood Social is right on the outskirts of the main strip in Nashville, right along the river. It is an enormous, multi-purpose space for dining, playing, working, and bowling. Think of an indoor marketplace similar to Eataly in NYC, with coffee shops, restaurants, workspaces, bars, and a small bowling alley.

For the Bachelorettes + Bachelors

If you are in the bachelor{ette} party planning market, we have the perfect resource for you. Bach Weekend is an all-inclusive site for planning your perfect bash. Bach Weekend CEO, Robbie Goldsmith, and his team have the ultimate guide and resources for planning your trip.

“We are THE go-to digital guide to planning your bachelorette party in Nashville for free,” explained Robbie. The website features hotels, restaurants, things to do, and so much more. Their connections are solid and guarantee a great time to be had by all. Bach Weekend takes the guesswork out of planning and even offers a discount {and we love a good deal}.

 Nashville Tips and Tricks

Hitting Nashville is a fun, but complex trip. Yes, there’s always the option to drink on Broadway, but we’ve gathered these helpful tips to guide you through your journey through Music City.

• Four souvenirs, check out Goo Goo Shop {116 3rd Avenue South}, as it sells the most delicious chocolate/nut candies known to man. These treats are also available for purchase at the airport.  FYI — Empire Coffee + Tea in Hoboken also sells them as well.
• If buying cowboy boots is on the souvenir list, go to Boot Barn {318 Broadway + 405 Opry Mills Drive}. It has the best options for cheap. The boots are of high quality. Don’t be surprised if you have to look around for a matching set.
• When eating Hot Chicken, be wary of the levels of spice. Nashville Hot will blow your mind. Avoid at all costs.
• Reservations for dinner are a must. Nashville is a hotspot for travel and restaurants book up very quickly, especially for large groups.
• Musicians will be in every bar. All. The. Time. Be sure to support the local musicians. They are working for tips. Many of today’s biggest country artists started out in a bar in Nashville.
• Speaking of local gigs, make sure to visit Nashville restaurants instead of chains based out of Nashville. You are better off dining at local, one of a kind places.
• As for the climate, Music City is just a smidge warmer than Hoboken. It’s best to visit between April and October.

Have you been to Nashville? Do you have any tips? Let us know in the comments!