Travel Like A Local: Nashville's Germantown Neighborhood

Travel Like A Local: Nashville's Germantown Neighborhood

For the last several years, Nashville has been a hot spot for tourists and transplants alike. It’s easy to see why—there’s a rich culture of friendly faces, mouth-watering food, live music, and so much more! When you visit, you want to be in the middle of it all. Enter the germantown inn.

Germantown is one of Nashville’s most popular neighborhoods—it’s beautiful, walkable, and located just outside of downtown. Historic buildings, shops, and restaurants are perched along the tree-lined streets. You can park, pack away your car keys, and spend an entire weekend exploring this charming neighborhood alone.

The germantown inn is the neighborhood’s oldest and only hotel. Built in 1865, the two-story, Federal-style house underwent a careful renovation in 2016. It opened to the public that December, becoming a coveted place to stay for Nashville visitors that wanted to live like locals. With 10 guest rooms, a private rooftop terrace, and lush outdoor courtyard, the inn becomes a home-away-from-home for individuals and large parties alike.

The charm of the inn lies in each detail. Each of the inn’s six guest rooms in the Main House is named after a former United States president, while the four suites in the Carriage House are named after four of the country’s most influential women: Abigail Adams, Rosa Parks, Eleanor Roosevelt and Susan B. Anthony. Each suite features bespoke touches blended with historical elements, like colorful, custom presidential portraits hanging near the inn’s original fireplaces. 

The character of the property was brought to life by local designers and artists. Interior designer McLean Barbieri led the design process, with other local artists commissioned for custom drapery fabric, wallpaper and wall installations, and custom lighting. The result is uniquely Nashville—modern, yet warm and welcoming. 

Located near downtown, just steps from restaurants and shopping, the germantown inn is a great place to stay whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. Ready to plan your stay? Here’s our favorite things to do in Germantown—all within walking distance of the inn!


Eat

If you like to start your morning with a big breakfast, Monell’s is a must! They serve a classic country breakfast—pancakes, biscuits and gravy, corn pudding, country ham, and more. If you’re craving something on the lighter side, pop into Barista Parlor for a handcrafted coffee and a bagel or toast!

When lunch time rolls around, Vui’s Kitchen is the place to be. The menu is full of delicious dishes like savory pho and filling banh mi sandwiches. Later, stop by Von Elrod’sfor Happy Hour and enjoy their world class beer menu!

For dinner, oyster lovers can’t skip Henrietta Red. On the half shell or wood-fired, you can’t go wrong either way. Located in a historic building, Geist is another great choice for dinner—make sure to bring your appetite, and don’t skip the house bread.

If you feel like post-dinner drinks, Mother’s Ruin is open until 2AM. Not only are the cocktails divine, their kitchen is also open until 1:30AM for those late-night cravings. 

Play

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, Poppy & Monroe offers delightful manicures and facials—and germantown inn guests are offered 10% off spa services. Poppy & Monroe has also partnered with the inn to offer its guests two exclusive spa experiences for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation: 

The Classic Traveler (80 minutes at $145, gratuity not included): Includes a 30-Minute Facial, Classic Pedicure and a Poppy & Monroe Travel-Sized Organic Nail Oil 
The Luxe Getaway (140 minutes at $240, gratuity not included): Includes a 60-Minute Facial with Gua Sha Add-on, Luxe Pedicure and a Poppy & Monroe Travel-Sized Organic Nail Oil

If you have extra time to spare, take a leisurely stroll down Germantown’s shaded streets. Local boutiques, like Alexis + Bolt and ABEDNEGO, are studded throughout the neighborhood. 

History buffs will love visiting the Bicentennial Capital Mall State Park and touring the nearby Tennessee State Museum. There, you can dive into the state’s rich culture, see natural artifacts, and tour the Tennessee Time Tunnel. Another perk—admission to the museum is free.

After spending time at the museum, stroll to the other side of Bicentennial Capital Mall State Park and visit the Nashville Farmer’s Market. It’s packed with local restaurants, shops, farmers, and crafters—a great place to scoop up a souvenir whether you love local honey, vintage pottery, or handmade soaps.

There’s no better evening than a night spent watching the Nashville Sounds. This Minor League Baseball team is major fun. Hang out in the band box, or grab a premium seat up close to the action. Don’t forget to stop by the concession stand—the food is top tier!