A Weekend Birthday Celebration in Nashville:
Where to Eat, Drink, and Stay
We recently spent a weekend in “Music City” to celebrate my daughter’s 21st birthday and had such a good time and so much good food I wanted to share it. She’s a huge fan of live music and wanted to explore Nashville’s bars and nightlife – so we went the weekend after her birthday to celebrate once more!
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Here’s my guide to some standout spots and suggestions for an unforgettable weekend in Nashville:
Dining Highlights
Hall’s Catch – Seafood Perfection
A must-try for seafood lovers, Hall’s Catch had just opened two weeks before our visit and it’s already become a standout in Nashville’s dining scene. Hall’s Restaurant Group is renowned for its unparalleled service (Hall’s Chophouse is most definitely the best restaurant in Charleston, our home town), and this new location definitely lived up to the group’s reputation. Their seafood is flown in fresh daily, offering everything from sushi to caviar…they even have their own custom-named oysters, a result of working directly with oyster farmers. Reservations are essential and very difficult to get, but we can get you on the books when you work with us.
Assembly Food Hall – Culinary Playground with Music
Assembly Food Hall, located just off Broadway, offers a very unique food court experience: it’s split into two sides, with various themed bars (from bubbles to bourbon) and countless food options. (We actually found it a little overwhelming, there were so many choices, but there truly is something for everyone.) You’ll find live music on the main stage, which makes it a fun and lively spot to kick off the evening. We grabbed seats at the tequila bar, enjoyed different lunch choices, and soaked in the excellent local music. Highly, highly recommend this spot!
Hampton Social – A Group-Friendly Brunch Spot
For brunch, we headed to Hampton Social by the river, which offers three floors of dining and entertainment. The bottom floor is a rosé bar, the middle floor is the main dining area, and the rooftop offers movie nights under the stars. Their Bloody Mary is hands-down one of the best I’ve had, and the menu has options for everyone, from protein bowls to vegan options and indulgent French toast. Another spot I highly recommend.
Nightlife in Nashville
L.A. Jackson Rooftop at The Thompson Hotel
L.A. Jackson is the rooftop bar at the Thompson Hotel, located a bit off the main Broadway strip for a more relaxed vibe. On a weekend night, however, it’s bustling with a younger crowd, perfect for those looking for a DJ-fueled party (not exactly my scene but my daughter and her friends loved it). Known for its iconic photo booth, complete with digital and printed versions of your snapshots, it’s a great spot for 20-somethings to mingle while enjoying beautiful city views.
White Limozeen Rooftop at The Graduate Hotel
For Dolly Parton fans, White Limozeen is a must-see. This rooftop bar, inspired by the Queen of Country herself, is all about pink decor and Southern charm. With a DJ on Saturday afternoons, it’s an upbeat, popular spot where you will absolutely need to get a reservation. Don’t miss their signature champagne jello shots, called “Fancy Nancy’s”, which taste like mandarin oranges. While it wasn’t my personal favorite, it’s undoubtedly popular with the younger crowd.
Dinner and Wine at Assembly Hall’s 60 Vines
A great starting point for exploring Broadway, we dined at 60 Vines, a full service restaurant located on the top floor of Assembly Hall. Known for its extensive wine flights and impressive menu, it’s perfect for groups. The service was excellent, and they were incredibly accommodating with my egg allergy; we enjoyed pizzas and salads, which paired perfectly with their wine selections.
Bar Hopping on Broadway
Most bars on Broadway have multiple floors, each with its own music, so you’ll find something for every taste. The rooftop views add an extra layer of charm, letting you take in Nashville’s energy from above; here are some of the highlights:
- Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: An iconic spot on Broadway with a Coyote Ugly vibe, complete with lively music and dancers on the bar.
- Whiskey River: Perfect for the classic Nashville experience of a mechanical bull ride.
- Chief’s: Eric Church’s bar, where you can catch dueling pianos on one of the floors – a refreshing change from the usual bands.
Where to Stay: Our Hotel Picks
- The Hermitage: A traditional Southern gem recently renovated to blend classic elegance with modern comfort.
- The Thompson: Off the Broadway strip, this stylish hotel offers a quieter vibe while still providing easy access to the action.
- The Conrad: Located near Hall’s Catch and Hall’s Steakhouse, this newer property is not within walking distance to Broadway but offers luxury in a quieter area.
- The Virgin Hotel: Close to Broadway, with chic amenities and a vibrant nightlife scene.
- JW Marriott: The closest to Broadway, ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action. The rooms are luxurious, and the rooftop views are spectacular.
Other Must-See Spots
- Acme Feed & Seed: This eclectic spot on Broadway serves barbecue on the first floor and sushi on the second. It’s casual, fun, and doesn’t take reservations – just grab a seat and enjoy the diverse menu.
- Ryman Auditorium & Grand Ole Opry: These legendary venues offer daily tours, allowing you to explore Nashville’s rich music history.
Nashville is a really vibrant, walkable city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique experience. From lively rooftop bars and music venues to charming brunch spots and world-class seafood, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re planning a milestone birthday, a weekend getaway, or just a quick escape, Nashville offers an unforgettable adventure!
Ready to spend the perfect weekend in Nashville? Reach out today and we’ll plan the perfect getaway just for you.
Amy Westerman
President
The Curated Travel Collection
P.S. For more of our travel stories, tips and trends visit our blog.