Downtown Nashville or Music Row? (Plus Best Hotels!)

From the Author: I've lived in Nashville for 12 years, and my wife was born here. I worked downtown for five years. We love Nashville and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!

Music Row and Downtown Nashville are two separate areas that are a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk apart.

Music Row is within a neighborhood that has recording labels, studios, and music label offices. It's a quiet neighborhood and a place you should explore. However, there's not as much to do as in Downtown Nashville.

Downtown Nashville is where most attractions are, such as Broadway, music museums, honky-tonks and bars, the Ryman Auditorium, Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena, and more.

I'm a Nashville local involved in the tourist industry. I recently spent an afternoon walking the streets of Music Row and Downtown Nashville.

In this post, I'll provide specific hotel recommendations based on how close they are to Nashville attractions.

Downtown Hotels & Attractions

The following hotels are close to Broadway. In fact, all the following hotels are within easy walking distance of all major Nashville attractions.

Hilton Downtown Nashville

Hotel Information:

Downtown Information

From the image above, I've tried to show that the Hilton Downtown is the most centrally located hotel downtown.

From the front entrance, you can see the Country Music Hall of Fame, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Bridgestone Arena, and the Music City Convention Center.

It's also only one block from Broadway.

Hampton Inn & Suites

Hotel Information:

Downtown Information

The Hampton Inn and Suites is only one block further down than the Hilton. Yet, it's a better price.

The hotel is still in the center of downtown and within walking distance of almost everything downtown.

DoubleTree by Hilton

Hotel Information:

Downtown Information

At a medium pace, Townpalce Suites is about 15-20 minutes walk from Broadway and many major attractions.

It is across the street from the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum and a short walk from the State Capital Building.

From the entrance of the Musicians Hall of Fame, you can jump on the Hop-on Hop-off trolley which will take you anywhere in town for a low price.

Townplace Suites has an incredible rooftop bar and restaurant, which we highly recommend.

Music Row Hotels & Attractions

The following hotels are within walking distance of Music Row. This section will highlight the best four hotels, nearby attractions, restaurants, and bars.

Music Row is full of music history.

Music Row might only interest some people coming to Nashville. It's much like a suburban Nashville neighborhood. You'll find houses converted into recording studios next to traditional homes that people live in. However, it's easy to walk through and safe, with lots to do in the area.

If you're a music fan – it's paradise!

Virgin Hotels Nashville

Hotel Information:

Music Row Information

Virgin Hotels are pricier than others in town, but it's a nice hotel and brand new. Also, you won't get any closer to Music Row. You can literally step out the front door and stand on Music Row!

Placemakr Music Row

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Music Row Information

Placemkr Music Row is one block from Music Row. I walked around, and it was an easy, safe walk to Music Row and local shops and restaurants. It's also cheaper than the Virgin Hotel and might be more suitable if you want a more homely feel.

Hilton Garden Inn

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Music Row Information

The Hilton Garden Inn is on the same block as the Virgin and Placemakr hotels. It's one block away from Music Row. So it's a solid choice if you plan to visit Music Row.

Home2 Suites by Hilton

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Music Row Information

Within walking distance of Music Row and nearby shopping, bars, and restaurants.

Downtown Music & Restaurants:

I've written extensive guides on the must-visit Broadway bars, best live music venues, and places to eat. However, I've listed my top personal choices below.

Bars & Live Music:

• Roberts Western World. Located on Lower Broadway, Roberts consistently wins the “Best Country Music on Broadway” award, and many stars have been born here.
• Tootsies Orchid Lounge. Tootsies is one of the most famous bars in Nashville with a deep history. Tootsies has housed many stars that go back to the days of the Grand Ole Opry when it was broadcast from the Ryman.
• The Station Inn. This one is located away from the touristy area of Broadway. It's the hub for bluegrass and American roots music.
• The Stage. On Broadway, The Stage always has an incredible line of musicians.
• Big Shotz. If Broadway is too crowded or you are tired of country music, Big Shotz provides an excellent time. Their music is a mix of country and rock music and they take requests. They are located on 2nd Ave, just off Broadway.

Restaurants:

• BBQ: Jack's Bar-B-Que on Broadway or Peg Leg Porker are two of the best BBQ spots in Nashville.
• Lunch or Brunch: Monell's or City House.
• Hot Chicken: Prince's or Hattie B's.

Music Row Bars & Restaurants

Just across the street from all four Music Row hotels in this article is a great strip of bars and restaurants – within easy walking distance!

Also, just a five-minute walk from all of the hotels mentioned in this article is an area of bars and restaurants popular with locals in Midtown. I wrote a guide to Midtown bars and restaurants here.

Music Row Attractions

RCA Studio B is open to the public and is credited as pioneering the “Nashville Sound.” Guided tours are available, operated by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Inside the first recording studio opened by a major label are details of famous recording sessions and the Steinway piano that Elvis favored.

Starting at what is known as the “Musica Statue,” you can walk or drive the entire length of Music Row. John Rich, a Country Music songwriter, calls the statue “Hillbilly Porn.” It's considered the top of Music Row and is not popular with local musicians and songwriters. John has written over 500 songs on Music Row.

Best Bars Near Music Row

• Winners Bar & Grill. It is an excellent bar with local live music and a casual atmosphere during the week. It gets busy on weekends.
• Losers Bar & Grill. A Nashville dive bar is known for its unglamorous and old style. The live music is great.
• The Dogwood. Great live music with good food.
• The Slider House. Gourmet sliders seven days a week.
• The Red Door Saloon. It's a Nashville favorite and a hangout of celebrities.

Recommend Restaurants Near Music Row

• San Antonio Taco Co.
• Taco Mama
• The Pancake Pantry
• Martins Bar-B-Que Joint
• Tin Roof

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Helpful Information on Downtown & Music Row

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What's the difference between Music Row and Downtown Nashville?

The difference between Music Row and Downtown Nashville is that Downtown has the famous honky-tonk highway with live country music bars, restaurants, and major attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame. Music Row is a historic district and home to major record labels and recording studios. Music Row is situated in the quiet 16th and 17th Avenues West End.

Is Music Row a Good Neighborhood in Nashville?

Music Row is nestled between Edgehill, Midtown, and West End. It’s a quiet and safe neighborhood close to popular bars and restaurants and hotels. Just a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Nashville's famous lower Broadway strip. Situated in Davidson County, it’s a popular place to live or rent as it offers an urban and downtown feel.

What is the best part of Nashville to Stay in?

The best part of Nashville to stay in is the downtown district. Downtown Nashville is close to all the major attractions like the Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, Bridgestone Arena, Nissan Stadium, and of course, Nashville’s famous honky-tonk highway. Most of these attractions are within walking distance or a short ride of downtown.

Is Music Row walkable to Downtown Nashville?

Yes, Music Row is walkable to downtown Nashville. If you are prepared to walk, it will take about 20-30 mins. Driving only takes about 5 mins, depending on the time of day. There are also public transport and ride-share options.

Is there anything to see on Music Row in Nashville?

Yes, there is plenty to see if you are a music fan or a music history buff. Music Row is a historical place where music labels still create hits. Attractions include RCA Studio B is open to the public and is credited as pioneering the Nashville Sound. Midtown, near Music Row, has many live music venues and restaurants.

What Part of Nashville Has the Best Bars?

The best bars in Nashville are located in the downtown district. Along Lower Broadway are about 32 bars, half of which were started by country music stars. Other areas of Nashville, like Midtown, the Gulch, East Nashville, and West End are also known for their bars and nightlife. So if you have limited time in Nashville, definitely spend it in the downtown area.

Is Music Row and Downtown Nashville the Same?

Music Row and Downtown Nashville are not the same. Music Row has an impressive array of recording studios, publishing houses, and offices of record labels. It's a quiet suburban neighborhood that has converted houses into recording studios and offices. Downtown Nashville encompasses areas like The Gulch, Lower Broadway, and significant Nashville attractions like The Ryman Auditorium and Musicians Hall of Fame.