Ya'll, Nashville is WEIRD. It's like a smaller, more honkey tonk version of Las Vegas. That's really the best way I can describe it. Basically, the actual "city" part of Nashville is only about two blocks crowded with bars and loud contry music, but there are a lot of cute and quaint suburbs (my favorites being 12 South and Hillsboro) that really show off the heart of the city. My favorite part of the city though had to be the people. So freakin' friendly. You'll make friends everywhere you go.
Stay:
Airbnb: I loved my airbnb that I stayed with. Cheaper than any hotel and you get to meet some awesome people! Use this link for $35 off your first stay.
Nashville Downtown Hostel: Originally planned to stay here, but then changed to airbnb. If I was traveling by myself though I definitely would have stayed there. Great, central location and cheap!
Eat:
BurgerUp: A "locals only" spot with great atmosphere, food, and beer. Get the truffle fries. Located in 12 South.
Bar Taco: A relaxed bar and tapas joint with GREAT guac. Located in 12 South.
The Grilled Cheeserie: To die for grilled cheeses + milkshakes. Located in Hillsboro.
Biscuit Love: A hip brunch joint known for it's biscuits and instagramability.
The Red Bicycle Coffee + Crepes: Lowkey coffee shop with some yummy crepes. Get the maple bacon.
Barista Parlor: Open concept, minimilistic coffee shop known for having the best coffee in Nash and a beautiful work space.
ACME Feed & Seed: A four story bar and restaurant located right in the heart of the "honky tonk." The first floor is a little bit of a more upscale honky tonk bar + restaurant, second floor is the piano lounge and sushi bar, third floor for events, and the rooftop feauture a huge bar and great view!
Can't Miss:
There are a couple fun places that I would recommend for your trip! The Bluebird Cafe is a neat little place that holds only 100 people (so get there really early) to listen to some of the best and brightest upcoming singer songwriters. Almost every big country start has gotten their start there. Another unique destination is the full size replica of the Greek Parthenon in Centennial Park that also serves as the city's art museum. I also stopped in for a movie at The Belcourt Theatre that screens indie films plus a variety of musicals and older movies on the weekends (+ it also serves wine and local snacks).