I am so thrilled to be writing a new travel guide! If you’ve been around here for a while, then you know travel is the reason I started Beautiful Detour. Travel got me out of feeling stuck and made my mind say “wouldn’t it be crazy if…?” (just like my mom taught me to do). Needless to say, I am grateful to be dipping my toes back into traveling and sharing my experiences with you. 

Where to Stay

The Russell: If you are into unique hotels that give back, then look no further. The Russell is a converted church that is absolutely beautiful. They also partners with Rooms for Rooms and they give away a generous percentage of each night’s stay to local nonprofits who are helping those experiencing homelessness in Nashville. Their tagline is … a technology-driven, concierge-less boutique hotel in the heart of Nashville. You check-in via door code and have a concierge at your fingertips. I woke up early and sent a text asking where to go for coffee and a pastry within walking distance and was sent back three options in under five minutes. The room was beautiful, the bed was comfy, everything was clean, and they provided free water and snacks, and a postcard! 

For the rest of my trip, I shared an AirBnB with my friends. This Airbnb was beautiful, reasonably priced, and not too far from downtown. I’m not sure if I would recommend it unless you are booking a trip for a large girls’ trip. 

What to Eat

Culture & Co.: I have three words for you: Cheese. Conveyor. Belt. This fun restaurant is inside the L&L market and did not disappoint. They have a variety of cheese and charcuterie and an extensive wine list. I recommend taking a friend here. 

Twelve Thirty Club: I went here with a larger group and the staff was so accommodating and really welcoming. I cannot stop talking about the dumplings and nachos I ordered here and I recommend you get them too. Make sure to book a reservation. 

White Limozeen: located in the beautiful hotel The Graduate, this Dolly Parton-inspired restaurant blew me away. Their cocktails are delicious and their food is not only presented beautifully, but it was DELICIOUS. I will absolutely be coming back here for brunch.  

*Ordering Recommendation Cocktail: Golden Hour Entree: Moules Frites

Five Daughters Bakery: I had already had breakfast, but when I saw these donuts, I made room. These donuts pack so much flavor, are the perfect texture and have the cutest store. 

Adele’s: I went for the weekend brunch and I’m so glad that I did. The buffet had a variety of southern dishes and your traditional brunch dishes. Don’t sleep on the bread pudding. I wanted to sneak some home. 

Barista Parlor: this is the only coffee shop I made it to and I loved it. The coffee was really good and they had a variety of options. I also ordered the biscuit and jam and was very impressed. 

What to Do

Arrington Vineyards: if you are looking for a day outside of the city, I recommend hiring a car and visiting the vineyards. You can order a flight or bottle and they have food available for purchase or you can bring your own. There are picnic tables throughout the rolling hills of the vineyard. It was family-friendly as well. 

12 Street Shopping: I was so excited to see some of my favorite online retailers in person. Don’t miss out on Marine Layer, Draper James, Stoney Clover, and Outdoor Voices. There are also fun murals and delicious restaurants on this street. 

Broadway: you can’t go to Nashville without visiting Broadway. It’s the Times Square of New York. I had a fun time with friends going out here and was pleasantly surprised that none of the bars we visited had a cover charge. It will be crowded and loud and the drinks will be overpriced but you will have a fun time! I lost my voice singing along to too many Shania Twain songs. 

L&L Market: has such cute stores and restaurants inside. I highly recommend going here on a cold-weather day. There are clothing boutiques, home decor shops, jewelers, and Nashville food stores here. Don’t forget to take a peek inside Amelia’s flower shop, it smells beautiful. 

Visit a bookstore: I always like visiting a bookstore when I travel and this one is on the corner of Bailey Street. I know, I didn’t believe it either! This bookstore was gorgeous inside and had a wide variety of books and some fun mystery bags too. It is attached to a coffee shop so you can start your book right away. 

Next Time

Country Music Hall of Fame

Visit the Pantheon

Get Jenni’s Ice Cream

Stay at The Graduate

Go vintage shopping

Eat at Bar Taco