InTownUrban Neighborhoods

Like any great city, where your neighborhood starts and ends (and even what it is called can vary with who you ask) can be open to interpretation. Sometimes there are even sub-neighborhoods! Here are the more commonly known urban communities, with a bit of commentary and links to a few noteworthy places within them*:

8th Avenue South
12th Avenue South
Belmont
Buena Vista
Central Business District (CBD) aka “The Downtown Core”
Church Street
District
East End
East Nashville
Eastwood
Edgefield
Edgehill Village
Elliston Place
Germantown
Gulch
Hillsboro Village
Hope Gardens
Inglewood
Lafayette
Lockeland Springs
Market
Midtown
North Capitol
Rolling Mill Hill
Rosebank
Roundabout
Salemtown
SoBro
Sulphur Dell
Sylvan Park
Waverly
West End - north/east of i440
Woodland

* Disclaimer: the commentary herein is meant to be informational, not guaranteed, and is believed to be accurate. Links are provided as a courtesy and are not meant to be an endorsement of any particular establishment

8th Avenue South

This is an area that is more commercial than residential. But that is changing as well. Eighth Avenue South is rapidly becoming one of urban Nashville�s most interesting areas. Stretching from just south of downtown and continuing towards Woodland -In-Waverly and Berry Hill, it offers a number of interesting places to visit.

One of the local "meat and three" favorites is Arnolds Country Kitchen on 8th. Just a few doors down is Flyte, a trendy new restaurant and bar. Also on that corner is Prix de Solde featuring interiors and staging services. Farther south is both Grimey�s, a record shop par excellence and The Basement, offering great live music. Keep going and you will reach Douglas Corner. DC is home to several antique stores as well as Zanie�s Comedy Club. And be sure to visit the Douglas Corner Caf�, one of Nashville�s premier songwriter showcases.

Neighborhood Links:
Flyte
Prix de Solde
Grimeys Records
Douglas Corner Caf�
The Basement
Zanies Comedy Club

12th Avenue South

12South is one of Nashville's newer/older neighborhoods. Located south of downtown and near Belmont University, its northern boundary is around Wedgwood and southern is at Gale. 12South is primarily residential, except for an interesting and friendly mix of retail and dining establishments. Blocks of primarily single-family homes are divided by 12th Avenue. Historic Sevier Park is a very popular neighborhood gathering spot for residents.

Are you ready for a cucumber martini? How about an avocado popsicle? On 12 South you'll find a fun and eclectic mix clothing, boutiques, art, dining, drinking (coffee houses as well as a tap room, a wine bar, multiple restaurants) and more.

Schools:
Glendale Elementary
John T. Moore Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
Portland Brew
Mafiosa�s
Vinea Wine & Sprits
Correiris Formaggeria
Las Paletas
Frothy Monkey
Rumours
Serendipity
12 South Taproom
Mirror
Las Paletas
Katy K

Belmont

Centered on Belmont Avenue, this neighborhood is filled with an assortment of early 20th century bungalows, interspersed with some Tudor and foursquare styles. The central reference point would be Belmont University on its northern end and I-440 to the south. It has the feel of a progressive neighborhood with traditional architecture.

Other than the University, perhaps Belmont's greatest claim to fame might be Bongo Java; a local coffeehouse that was home to the famous "Nun Bun." Surrounding Bongo Java is a number of locally owned and operated shops and neighborhood dining opportunities. Given Belmont�s strong music program, a great many of our musical �stars of tomorrow� live in this area.

These areas offer an opportunity to live in the city; next to the intellectual energy of higher learning. Record contract; organic coffee and pancakes; martini or micro brew anyone?

Schools:
Eakin Elementary
West End Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
Bongo Java
Belmont University
School of Music
The Curb Event Center

Buena Vista -

Buena Vista is primarily a residential neighborhood, including a large PUD (planned unit development). It is located north of downtown just to the west of Germantown and Salem Gardens. It is bounded by Rosa Parks (formerly 8th Ave. N.) to the east, Jefferson St. on the south and I-65 to the north and east. While mostly single-family homes, there are some multi-family and some new condo construction currently under development. And for good measure there are some retail and commercial businesses, mostly along Jefferson and a large Kroger on Rosa Parks.

Central Business District (CBD) / Church Street / Downtown -

As the name implies this is Nashville's primary commercial area. In years past, the CBD housed major department stores, movie theaters as well as the major hotels. That began to change in the early 1970's with the advent of suburban malls and gradually the CBD became for the most part office oriented. That was true, at least during the day. At night, our "honky-tonks" took over.

Today the CBD is undergoing a major resurgence. It is still a business powerhouse with State and City government as well as Nissan North American headquarters located here (while a new facility is being constructed). The 2005 business survey showed almost 1400 businesses employing almost 50,000 workers. And the numbers have grown since then!

Residential renewal began several years ago with loft conversions in old retail buildings, and continues with new residential condominium construction. The CBD is the �heart� of our new downtown. Check out the historic block-long indoor arcade. The Arcade is located between 4th and 5th Avenues � block north of Church Street. And speaking of historic, don't miss Printers Alley!

Major attractions are many and growing almost weekly. The world famous Ryman Auditorium (original home of the "Grand Ole Opry") is here, as is the Convention Center and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. There is something going on it downtown every day and night. And you don�t want to miss the Art Crawl!

Besides what is at their doorstep, residents are within easy walking distance to other major music venues, as well as theater, symphony, art, and professional sports venues. This neighborhood is also home to The Hermitage, Tennessee's only Mobil 5 star hotel!

Schools:
Eakin Elementary
West End Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
The Ryman Auditorium
Tootsies Lounge
The Hermitage Hotel
Marriott Courtyard
Nashville Public Library
Morton�s Steakhouse
Tennessee Performing Arts Center
Nashville Convention Center
Demos Restaurant
Dunn Brothers Coffee

The District -

This is where many visitors first experience Nashville. Centered along lower Broadway, this area is home to a number of Nashville's nightclubs honky-tonks and souvenir shops. There are a few converted residential options hidden away here as well. Starting just 1 block from the Cumberland River, you are close to history (in the form of the restored Fort Nashboro); but its claim to fame is fun. This is "Nash Vegas."

Neighborhood Links:
Hard Rock Caf�
Big River Grill
Decades
Buffalo Billiards
Graham Central Station
BB Kings
Hooters
Tootsies
Global Internet Caf�
Jacks BBQ
Gruhn Guitars

East End -

See East Nashville.

East Nashville

Ah, so close but so far away. East Nashville is a neighborhood filled with architectural (and other) treasures. Located just across the Cumberland River from Downtown, East Nashville is where LP Field (home of our Tennessee Titans) is located.

Actually like many of our city neighborhoods, what is referred to as East Nashville is comprised of a number of �sub-neighborhoods� (East End, Edgefield, Inglewood, Lockeland Springs, Rosebank, Eastwood and several others) each one with its own unique feel and history.

With the exception of several newer multi-family developments East Nashville is comprised of well-established neighborhoods; many that have undergone a recent resurgence and revitalization. It is home to many who are young and young at heart. A bit of everything: funky, alternative, established. You name it. Songwriters, artists and young families all have been attracted to East Nashville joining many life-long residents.

There are a number of places to occupy your day (and nights) without ever leaving the area. Like parks? Art galleries? Like to golf without going to the country club? East Nashville has all that and more.

Suggestion: Start at Beyond the Edge in Five Points for lunch. They have a tasty Amaretto Chicken salad Sandwich. Prefer a hot dog? Then stroll around the corner past "Garage Mahal" and visit "I Dream of Wienie".

Schools:
Ross Elementary
Warner Elementary
Lockeland Elementary
Cora Howe Elementary
Baily Middle School
William Henry Oliver Middle
Stratford High School

Neighborhood Links:
Historic East End
Art and Invention Gallery
Caf� Margo
Marche
The Turnip Truck
Rosepepper Cantina
Eastland Caf�
Portland Brew
Historic East Nashville
French Quarter Caf�
Alegria Gifts
The Lipstick Lounge
Bongo Java East
The Family Wash
Alley Cat Lounge
Beyond The Edge
Shelby Golf Course

Eastwood -

See East Nashville.

Edgefield -

See East Nashville.

Edgehill Village -

A new hot spot is Edgehill Village (at the corner of Villa and Edgehill). Converted from a dry cleaning plant, this eclectic mix of retail shops offers great examples of Nashville's urban re-use of older buildings. Want to try "bubble tea?" Visit the Fat Straw. Incredible cakes? There's Dulce Desserts. The list goes on and on.

Neighborhood Links:
Edgehill Studios
Rosario�s

Elliston Place -

Elliston is another component of the areas surrounding Vanderbilt University. It sits next to West End just north of the Vandy campus. There is a lot packed into these blocks. Food and entertainment are the best-known landmarks however there is residential here as well. Rotiers is considered by many to have one of the best burgers in town. Want something healthier? Smoothie King is right across the street. Better yet, the Elliston Place Soda Shop has been a local hangout for well over 60 years. Visit an old fashion soda shop. Looking for a good book? Or one that is out-of-print? Visit Elders Bookstore. These are just a few of many interesting places along Elliston. There is serious nightlife here also.

Neighborhood Links:
Exit/In
Ombi
Elder�s Bookstore
Smoothie King

Germantown -

Located north of the capitol building is Nashville's first neighborhood, Germantown. It has something for just about everyone. Stroll tree lined streets to fine dining, at the Germantown Caf�, Monell's (southern food served family style), or The Mad Platter. Looking for lighter? Try Zackie's for a hot dog. During your walk you will enjoy a quiet and friendly ambience, a peaceful haven, yet within sight of the downtown skyline and the capitol. Want to take home a bite? Visit Lazzaroli's Pasta shop for fresh-made pasta to go.

Germantown offers single-family residences and recently built multi-family lofts, condos and town homes. There are still residual commercial businesses in this area, but rapidly being surrounded by new homesteaders. It has an active neighborhood association and has been designated as an Arboretum with 138 different species of trees and shrubs growing inside its boundaries!

The historic Nashville Farmer's Market is located nearby as is the Bicentennial Park and Morgan Park. This area is transitioning rapidly and with its proximity to the Cumberland River prices will continue its growth as more people learn about it. The adjoining areas of Hope Gardens, Salem Gardens are also undergoing a rapid revitalization.

Schools:
Eakin Elementary
West End Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
Historic Germantown
Germantown Caf�
Lazzaroli Pasta
SNashville Jazz Workshop
Nashville Farmers Market
Monells Family Style
The Mad Platter

The Gulch -

The Gulch is a happening! Located between downtown and midtown (Music Row), the Gulch is what is sometimes known as an "in-fill" neighborhood. A unique partnership between government and private developers is creating a grand new urban neighborhood right before our eyes! The early activity has been centered at the southern end of the Gulch, near the Midtown and Edgefield areas. Stay tuned for the northern end to emerge next.

It began several years ago with the redevelopment of a number of older commercial buildings. These were rehabilitated and put to new use. Offices, nightclubs, and restaurants have all sprung up. Then new urban residential has been added to the mix.

There is something in all price ranges in the Gulch. From rentals to upper-end condos with 24 hour concierge service, the Gulch is coming to life. There are a number of new projects currently underway with more in planning. Most of these buildings are "mixed-use," meaning there is retail on the street level with office and/or residential above. In this way the Gulch is growing its retail along with its residential.

Already known for a number of very hip and popular dining and entertainment venues, its residents enjoy being just a few blocks from everything, but without the congestion of the some of the higher density areas during events. Like bluegrass music? One of the nation�s cornerstone venues is here at the Station Inn. Pull up a chair and enjoy!

Schools:
Eakin Elementary
West End Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
The Station Inn
Sambucca
Watermark
Bar Twenty 3
Radius 10
Ru Sans
City Hall Entertainment Center
12th & Porter
Judge Beans BBQ

Hillsboro Village-

Its University neighbors heavily influence HV. In just a few compacted blocks you will find most of the essentials of campus life. Food, drink, books, clothes, art, boutiques, nightlife, and coffee. Plus a post office for getting money from home to pay for the above. Ground zero is roughly 21st Ave. S. and Belcourt Ave. If the weather is nice, head to Jackson�s Bar and Bistro and sit outside to people watch.

Neighborhood Links:
Bookman/Bookwoman
Fido
Boscos
Cabana
The Pancake Pantry
South Street
Belcourt Theater
Sunset Grill
The Trace

Hope Gardens -

Hope Gardens is located directly northwest of downtown, within site of the State Capitol. It has a mix of industrial, retail, commercial and residential components. In recent years there have been several new residential developments constructed. These have been aimed primarily at the affordable housing segment, meant to offer workforce housing near the city.

Being adjacent to the Capitol North neighborhood, Hope Gardens residents have a very short walk to the Nashville Farmers Market and the Bi-Centennial Mall. Not to mention downtown itself of course. Only a few blocks in size, residents are closely located to the grocery and drug stores in Buena Vista and Germantown.

Neighborhood Links:
Nashville Farmers Market
Bi-Centennial Mall

Inglewood �

See East Nashville.

Lafayette -

This urban neighborhood lies south of downtown; South of SoBro actually. The main street through Lafayette is Lafayette. An area of principally light industrial businesses, our urban planners have a vision for the future.

There is a vision for building more affordable workforce housing and also developing this area into an �arts and crafts� oriented destination. With its many commercial low-rise buildings, the potential to create street level boulevards and cross streets of interesting shops and galleries is promising. Already new development is springing up all around in the adjoining areas of Rutledge Hill, SoBro and the Gulch. It won't be long before residential catches up here as well.

Did we mention that it is also on the short list as a location for the new Convention Center? Meanwhile, you can grab a great hot dog at Hot Diggity Dog or catch great R&B live music at 3rd and Lindsey.

Neighborhood Links:
3rd & Lindsey

Lockeland Springs �

See East Nashville.

Market �

See North Capitol.

Midtown -

The midtown area might be most easily associated with �Music Row,� the location of many of Twang Town�s recording studios and related businesses. This neighborhood is bordered by Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities and includes many businesses, bars and dining as well. Midtown is comprised mostly of single-family homes. Interspaced with these homes (some converted to businesses) are a handful of condos and multi-family options. As you get closer to the Roundabout several office complexes appear. Oh yes, and you can eat and drink! You might start at Virago a popular spot and known for its sushi. Prefer something less fussy? Try the Red Door Saloon.

To really take in some neighborhood history, take a tour of the historic RCA Victor Studio "B" located on the row. Tickets available through the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Neighborhood Links:
Broadway Brewhouse & Mojo
South Street
Boundr�y
Noshville

Within the (loosely defined) area of Midtown are a couple of noteworthy subsets: The Roundabout, and Edgehill Village.

North Capitol / Sulphur Dell / Market

This neighborhood is known by several different names. Located between the Central Business District and Germantown, immediately north of downtown. Its boundaries are the River to the east, Rosa Parks (8th Ave N.) to the west, Jefferson to the north, and James Robertson Pkwy to the south.

This area has recently been primarily commercial in nature however developers and demand for affordable downtown living has sparked a rapidly increasing transition. A successful residential project has resulted in a second phase and other residential projects coming right behind. This area is within easy walking distance of most of downtown. Also within its boundaries are several unique destinations.

The most striking landmark is the Bicentennial Mall, a Tennessee State Historical Park, located in the shadow of the State Capitol. Right next to it is the (also historic) Nashville Farmer's Market. By the way, the Farmers Market is undergoing a renovation and also offers a choice of no less than eight interesting and tasty dining establishments. And of course it is also an easy walk to Germantown as well as downtown venues.

From here you can also enjoy the French Lick Greenway, part of a bike/trail complex that leads to and along the Cumberland River past many interesting and historic venues.

Schools:
McGavock Elementary
Buena Vista Elementary
Two Rivers Middle
McGavock High School

Neighborhood Links:
Farmers Market
The Stockyard Restaurant
Bi-Centennial Mall

Rolling Mill Hill / Rutledge Hill / Lafayette

Located just south of SoBro, these neighborhoods are each in the midst of urban transition. This area is emerging from being heavily commercial into mixed-use.

A major residential/retail project is underway on Rolling Mill Hill, which will overlook the Cumberland River. When completed, it is envisioned that there will be a brand new neighborhood reclaimed from commercial use. There is both restoration and newer residential on Rutledge Hill comprised of apartments, condos and town homes as well as a few single family. The City of Nashville has many of its administrative offices here and it also is home to the Nashville Children's Theatre.

Schools:
Fall-Hamilton Enhanced Option Elementary
Glencliff Elementary
Cameron Middle
Wright Middle
Glencliff High School

Neighborhood Links:
Fall-Hamilton Enhanced Option Elementary
Rolling Mill Hill Redevelopment

Rosebank

See East Nashville.

The Roundabout

Home to "Musica," sculptor Alan LeQuire's tribute to our musical heritage, this area offers up its own collection of business, residential, dining and entertainment choices. Looking to see a Nashville star in their native habitat? Try The Pie Wagon at lunchtime. Been known to have a cocktail? Start at the Tin Roof and stroll to your left or right.

Neighborhood Links:
Musica
Dan Mc Guiness
Music Row Tours

Salemtown

S-Town is a residential neighborhood just north of Germantown. Casual observers sometimes assume that it is part of Germantown however it has its own unique history and identity. Its borders are I-65 on the north, Rosa Parks (8th Ave N.) on the west, the Cumberland River to the east and Hume Street on the south. It has been comprised of modest single-family homes and has the advantage of being quite close to the city center. Residents of Salemtown have watched the rapid growth in Germantown and are now experiencing it for themselves. There are a large number of rehabs, and new infill construction both completed and underway on literally every block of Salemtown. Indeed, many investors have concluded that this neighborhood offers some of the best values currently available in urban Nashville

SoBro

SoBro (short for “South of Broadway”) is one of Nashville's newly-coined city neighborhoods. It encompasses the blocks south of and paralleling Broadway, with Demonbreun as its main artery.

While SoBro has been known mostly for its commercial flavor, the impressive and growing number of recent and planned new projects makes it one of Nashville's most dynamic areas. In addition to being home to major entertaining venues; there are hotels (including the Hilton and Wyndham's restored/converted train station, the Union Hotel), office buildings and multiple new residential projects all underway.

Start at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Catch a concert at the Gaylord Entertainment Center (GEC for short). You'll want to visit the Frist Center for the Performing Arts. When you finish, you might want to stroll out back and over to the Cummins Station complex, filled with a variety of business and dining surprises. And for the experience of perfect sound you must visit our new Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Did we mention the proposed new Nashville Sounds baseball complex?

Schools:
Eakin Elementary
West End Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
The Sommet Center
Schermerhorn Symphony Center
The Frist Center for the Visual Arts
County Music Hall of Fame & Museum
The Flying Saucer
Mercy Lounge
The Rutledge
The Musicians Hall of Fame
Wyndham Union Hotel
Hilton Hotel
The Palm

Sulphur Dell �

See North Capitol.

Sylvan Park

Located west of West End; off Murphy Road and bounded (roughly) by I-440, Charlotte, Harding and White Bridge is the serene neighborhood of Sylvan Park. It offers the look and feel of a well-established neighborhood, yet is just a few minutes from the city.

That's if you felt the urge to leave. Sylvan Park is a haven for families and urbanites that prefer their city with a bit more greenery than chrome and glass. Hosting an active neighborhood association, you sense a pride of ownership and a place where young families interact with long established ones. There are some excellent local dining establishments here as well as recreation and education. Parks and a golf course co-exist with education (Montgomery Bell Academy, Aquinas College) and medicine (St. Thomas Hospital). Check out Star Bagels, offering some of the best in town. And Sylvan Park Caf� is one of the city's most popular "meat & threes". Feeling like a sandwich? There's Goldie's Deli too.

Schools:
Sylvan Park Paideia Elementary
West End Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
Park Caf�
The Produce Place
The Caf� Nonna
Aquinas College
McCabe Pub

Waverly �

See Woodland � In � Waverly.

West End

West End is another area that many people blur the boundaries of. At first glance, much of this area is retail, with West End Avenue filled with shops and businesses. But, hey, it is running right along Vanderbilt�s campus! There is residential here too. In fact, there has been a major growth of condominiums and multi-family residences being constructed over the past year or two. West End boasts a central location for education, entertainment and dining. With Centennial Park and the extraordinary Parthenon as its centerpiece, many professionals now call West End their home.

Schools:
Sylvan Park Paideia Elementary
Harpeth Valley Elementary
Eakin Elementary
John T. Moore Middle School
Hillsboro High School

Neighborhood Links:
The Parthenon
Zola
P.F.Changs
Borders Books
J Alexanders
Vanderbilt University
Blackstone Brewery
Valentinos
Stoney River
Essential Therapy

Woodland / Waverly

Another of Nashville's historic neighborhoods, Woodland-In-Waverly is south of the downtown and its central through street is 8th Ave. So. North and south borders would be around Wedgwood and Craighead Streets. Its best-known landmark would be Douglas Corner, where both Zanies Comedy Club and the well-known Douglas Corner Caf� are located. The later should be a must-see for those who want to see and hear today and tomorrows songwriters and performers. Actually there are a number of businesses located there, including several design, antiques and furniture-related business. While there wander around the side streets on either side of 8th Ave. Most of W-I-W is under historic overlay. Close not only to downtown; but also to Belmont, Lipscomb and Vanderbilt Universities. Like a bargain? You�re also very near the Tennessee State Fairgrounds (home to a very popular monthly flea market). On the western side of 8th Ave. So. and stretching along Wedgewood, is Waverly. Depending which way you go it is also known as Belmont-Waverly or Waverly Place. In either direction, the dominant design is single-family homes. Typical of this area, there are a number of foursquares and with some Tudor and bungalow styles. Recently there a number of new town homes being added as well.

Schools:
Glendale Elementary
John T. Moore Middle
Hillsboro Comp High School

Neighborhood Links:
Douglas Corner Caf�
Zanies Comedy Club
Fairgrounds & Flea Market
Ainsworth Inn (B&B)

* Disclaimer: the commentary herein is meant to be informational, not guaranteed, and is believed to be accurate. Links are provided as a courtesy and are not meant to be an endorsement of any particular establishment.

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