Welcome to my neighborhood!
My family has lived here since the 60s, so we’ve watched it transform from a sleepy little suburb into a cool home base for an authentic Nashville vacation. We’re the Gateway to Nashville for a reason! You’re sitting just fifteen minutes from the airport terminals and downtown honky-tonks, but you get to sleep in a neighborhood with real heart. Even better, some of the city’s biggest attractions are right here in our backyard! You can catch a legendary show at the Grand Ole Opry, explore the massive indoor gardens at Gaylord Opryland Resort, or spend the day shopping at Opry Mills. You can soak some rays at one of our three waterparks or take a tour at one of our historic sites before picking out unique souvenirs at our many mom-and-pop boutique shops. This page is packed with insider tips to help you navigate the perfect Music City getaway!
Welcome to Nashville International Airport!
I looooove living close to the airport. It makes travel days a tiny bit less tiring since it’s so easy to get in and out of. The whole airport site is currently undergoing a massive “New Horizon” expansion, so excuse the mess! But it’s still one of the easiest airports to navigate.
The Quick “Need to Know” List
One Terminal, One Goal: Everything is in one main building. Once you pass security, you can walk between all concourses (B, C, and D) without breaking a sweat. Note: Concourse A is currently closed for a total makeover until 2028, so check your gate!
Arrive & Enjoy: Get there early and let the airport be part of your Nashville experience. There are live music stages everywhere so you can get one last shot of tunes before you head home. You’ll hear tunes every afternoon coming from various corners of the terminals, and can even sneak in one last round at a classic honky tonky, such as Tootsie’s and Ole Red (both located in Concourse C)
Eat Like a Local: Already missing the local flavors? Don’t fret! Grab hot chicken at Prince’s or Hattie B’s, a slice at Slim & Husky’s, fresh coffee at 8th & Roast, or a local brew at Fat Bottom.
Rideshare & Transit: If you’re catching an Uber or Lyft, follow the signs to the Ground Transportation Center on Level 1 of Garage 2. If you want to save some cash, the WeGo Route 18 bus costs just $2 and takes you straight downtown!
Cell Phone Lot: Do not have your friends or family circle the pickup arrivals loop! Tell them to wait at the Free Cell Phone Waiting Lot (1415 Murfreesboro Pike). The lot features live flight monitors so they can see exactly when your plane touches down before driving up to the curb.
Do You Know About the Carpet?
If you’ve lived in Nashville for more than five minutes, you probably know about The BNA Carpet. Believe it or not, our airport’s old swirly, brownish flooring gained such a cult following that it has its own Instagram account with over 28,000 followers! People were so obsessed with the “adorably tacky” pattern that they started a petition to save it when the renovations began. Since the airport moved to easier-to-clean terrazzo, they actually started selling off the leftover unused carpet as doormats and holiday ornaments. Talk about the ultimate Nashville souvenir!
Useful Links for Your Layover:
Interactive BNA Map (So you don’t get lost looking for tacos)
Real-Time Security Wait Times (Check before you leave the house!)
BNA Dining & Shopping Directory (Skip the fast food and eat local instead!)
Parking Rates & Availability (Check real-time lot capacity!)
Local Tip: If you have a few hours to kill and want to escape the terminal, Nectar: Urban Cantina and Phat Bites are literally fifteen minutes away. Just grab an Uber, sip on a margarita, and breathe some fresh Donelson air!
Parking Options
The Big Guys: Terminal Garages 1 and 2 are right across from the terminal. Super convenient, fully covered, but they’ll run you about $33 a day.
The Middle Ground: Terminal Lot A is a bit of a walk (no shuttle) but drops the price to $27 a day.
The Budget Pick: Economy Lots B and C are $21 a day. They have shuttles running every 10 minutes, so just factor in a little extra time for the ride.
The “I’m in a Hurry” Move: On-site Valet is $45 a day and honestly, sometimes it’s worth it just to walk straight to security.
Off-Site Secrets: If you’re going on a longer trip, check out The Parking Spot or Executive Travel & Parking on Royal Parkway. They are usually cheaper (around $12 to $19 a day) and their shuttles are super fast since they are literally right next to the airport.
Donelson has such a deep history that is preserved in these landmarks, and our arts scene is finally starting to catch up! If you want to see the soul of the 37214, start here.
The Murals
Who doesn’t love a good photo opp?! Donelson has a small but growing collection of selfie-worthy murals. They are the perfect backdrop for your vacation photos. For the truly dedicated mural hunter, there is even a hidden piece on the side of the Party Fowl building, though it can be a little tricky to access!
The Kitsch
Music Valley Village: For that classic Nashville kitsch, you have to explore this stretch! Between Cooter’s Nashville (a Dukes of Hazzard paradise) and the Willie Nelson and Friends Museum, there is so much to see. Visitors love this stuff, and honestly, it can be a fun trip down memory lane for us locals too.
Madame Tussauds: Located inside Opry Mills, this is the only wax museum in the world focused entirely on music icons. Cheesy? Yes, but also fun photos opps with everyone from Dolly Parton to Jimi Hendrix without ever leaving Donelson.
The Crown Jewels
Two Rivers Mansion: Built in 1859, this is one of the last great antebellum country estates in Nashville. The grounds are stunning and the mansion hosts regular community events, tours, musical performances, and summer teas!
The McCampbell House: This historic landmark is a quiet reminder of the area’s agricultural roots before the mid-century suburban boom. It shows just how much this land has evolved over the years from plantation and farmland to the vibrant community we have today.
Clover Bottom Mansion: This 1850s Italianate villa sits right near the Tennessee School for the Blind. For the history buffs, it is a fascinating look at the architectural past of the area. This is a must-do if you love historic homes and want to see a different side of Nashville’s history.
Buchanan Log House: Built around 1800, this is one of the oldest structures in Middle Tennessee! Home to James Buchanan (a cousin to the president!), this place gives you a real sense of what life was like for the early settlers in this area.
The Hermitage: Just east of Donelson sits the home of Andrew Jackson. Despite anyone’s personal feelings about this particular president (and how he treated the Native Americans), his home is one of the most visited historic sites in the country and it is literally minutes away from most spots in Donelson. Some even say it’s haunted!
Opryland USA History
While the theme park closed its gates years ago (and some of us are still a little salty about it!), the area remains the cultural heartbeat of the neighborhood. The site now houses the mall and the resort, but the legacy of the park is woven into the identity of Donelson -- and into my blood. I blame Opryland for my lifelong obsession with theme parks. It instilled a deep appreciation for interactive, immersive experiences in me. It was not just about the rides. It's everything: the music, the smells, the thrills, the snacks, the decor and atmosphere.
My mom actually worked at the park during its very first summer in 1972, so I grew up within those gates. I have such vivid memories of being way too small and honestly pretty terrified to even look at the Wabash Cannonball. Those double loops seemed like a giant metal monster back then. You can check out this vintage POV video of the coaster to see exactly what I mean. Learn more about what came after Opryland closed its gates.
North Donelson includes both Opryland and the Music Valley areas, meaning world-class entertainment is always just a five-minute drive away. (Or a ten-minute Uber if you’re doing it right!)
The Country Classics
The Country Classics- Grand Ole Opry: The show that made country music famous is practically in our backyard. Seeing a show here is a bucket list item for any Nashville visitor (and local, tbh).
- The Nashville Palace: Located on Music Valley Drive, this place is a total classic for authentic country music and a great dance floor.
- Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theatre: Think of this as a mini, charmingly off-brand Grand Ole Opry. It is a dinner show with a lot of character and plenty of local music.
- The Troubadour Nashville: This spot is all about country music and dancing. Plus they have pizza! It is always a good time with a very fun atmosphere.
More Than Just Country Music
- Turk’s Lounge at McNamara’s: This is a neighborhood favorite for a reason! Downtstairs in the pub, they have live Irish music and authentic food. Upstairs is an intimate listening room featuring Great Irish Folk, Americana, and Acoustic Country. It is the perfect alternative to a loud honky tonk.
- The Larry Keeton Theatre: Located within the FiftyForward Donelson Station, this intimate theatre produces high quality musicals and plays. It is a fantastic way to support local talent in a historic setting.
- General Jackson Showboat: You can hop on a music-themed cruise right next to Opry Mills mall. Themes range from country and holidays to Elvis and yacht rock. It is a fun way to see the river while enjoying some live entertainment.
- The 70mm IMAX Experience: If you’re a movie nerd like my husband and me, you need to know that the Regal at Opry Mills is one of the very few theaters in the world equipped to show 15/70mm film. (This is exactly how Christopher Nolan wants you to see his movies!) [need some fun facts about this one! ask justin!]
Gaylord Opryland Resort
Get ready for a massive celebration at the Opry Resort this year! Since it is the 250th anniversary of the country, they are throwing a big huge American summer fest. It is the perfect excuse to head over to the resort and soak in some of that classic Nashville magic. Best part? So much of this is totally free!
Delta Atrium Light and Water Spectaculars: The Delta Atrium comes alive every single night with choreographed water and light shows at 8, 9, and 10 p.m. It's a gorgeous, family-friendly way to see the fountains dancing to the rhythms of the American story!
Music and Stories: Head over to the Foundry Fieldhouse to hear Nashville's finest musicians perform and share the real stories behind your favorite country and bluegrass hits. It's a complimentary acoustic experience under the stars that perfectly captures the soul of the city!
BBQ, Brews, and Movies: Fridays in June are for movies under the stars at the District Yard, featuring live-action BBQ stations and cold brews for the adults. It's the ultimate summer night out for the whole family, so make sure you check the calendar for the full movie lineup!
Nashville might get the fame for the music, but in Donelson, it is all about the green spaces. These are the spots where we go to escape the noise and actually recharge.
📸 The Best Photo Ops:
Two Rivers Pedestrian Bridge: This is a major landmark for the Greenway! It offers a killer view of the Cumberland River and is easily the best spot for a “Welcome to Nashville” photo without having to fight the downtown crowds.
The Stones River Dam: This is such a great spot for bird watching or a quick nature walk. It feels like you are miles away from the city even though you are just minutes from Lebanon Pike.
⚓ Lake Life @ Percy Priest
Having a massive lake right on the edge of the neighborhood is such a luxury. You can go boating, fishing, or swimming without a long drive. It is also home to Nashville Shores, which is a total summer staple for families around here. (And for a great indoor “green” experience, don’t forget the nine acres of gardens at the Opryland Resort!)
🚴 The Stones River Greenway (Our Crown Jewel)
If you only do one outdoor thing, make it this. The Greenway is a gorgeous paved trail that winds through the woods and over the river, connecting Donelson to Shelby Bottoms and beyond. Start at the Two Rivers trailhead and head east, toward the Stones River Dam. Follow the path to — where does it go?It is a beautiful trek that feels miles away from the city.
🛝 Parks and Playgrounds
We have some of the best playgrounds in Middle Tennessee right here in our backyard. If you want to see my full breakdown of the best spots, check out my Best Nashville Parks and Playgrounds post.
Two Rivers Park: This massive park has something for everyone. It features our legendary skate park, a disc golf course, and a huge dog park. Plus, you actually get two different playgrounds to choose from here!
Ravenwood Park: This is the new kid on the block and it is spectacular. It sits on 800 acres right on the Donelson/Hermitage line. Phase 1 is open now and features a massive “destination” playground that kids go absolutely wild for. There are plenty of hiking trails and wide open green spaces too.
Pro Tip: Planet Playground (Mt. Juliet): If you have a free afternoon, take the 20-minute drive out to Charlie Daniels Park in Mt. Juliet. Planet Playground is an AMAZING, massive inclusive play ground with equipment for kids of all ages and abilities, plus a splash pad. It is always well worth the short trip. It is not touristy at all, so you’ll get to experience life like a local. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it!
⛳ Golfing in the 37214
I know nothing about golf, but I do know we have two courses right here in Donelson (not to mention another just to the east in Hermitage).
Two Rivers Golf Course: If you want to play a round without dealing with private club fees or snobbery, this is your spot. It is accessible, well-maintained, municipal golf course, right in our backyard. Apparently the 8th hole features a great view of the Downtown skyline!
Gaylord Springs Golf Links: This one is a bit spendier than Two Rivers, but it is worth it. It has been recognized as one of the best courses in the entire state! It is a stunning par 72 course carved right into the banks of the Cumberland River.
The Great Indoor Outdoors at Gaylord Opryland Resort
I know it sounds funny to list an indoor spot under "outdoors," but one of our best green spaces is actually inside! Walking through the nine acres of waterfalls and tropical plants is a must (especially when the Tennessee humidity is at its worst!). They even have a self-guided horticulture trek and a scenic boat ride on an indoor river!
Traveling with kids can be a lot, but the 37214 makes it easy to keep everyone happy. (Trust me, I have been navigating this neighborhood with my own son for seven years now!) Whether you need a place to burn off energy or a spot to hide from a rainy Tennessee afternoon, we have options for every age.
Relaxed & Low Cost Local Hangouts
Sometimes you just need a low-key afternoon that doesn’t break the bank. Fortunately, our neighborhood has plenty of ways to slow down and enjoy the day without spending a fortune.
The Donelson Library: Our brand-new library branch is absolutely stunning! The entire second floor is a dedicated children’s section packed with Duplos, trains, and puppets for the littles, plus Legos and a video game area for the teens. They always have cool events, classes, and story times going on, so be sure to check their event calendar before you visit.
Donelson Hermitage Farmers Market: If you are visiting between May and October, make sure to stop by the local market on Friday afternoons (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). It is a fantastic, free-entry way to listen to live music, grab dinner from local food trucks, and browse fresh produce and handmade crafts. The kids also really like playing in the wide open green space; I can’t tell you how often our kid asks to go roll down the hill into the pit. 🤣
A Day at the “Beach”: Yes, we have a beach! For a completely chill lakeside day, pack your towels and head over to the sand swim beach at the Anderson Road Day Use Area on J. Percy Priest Lake. It costs just $5 per vehicle to enter, making it the perfect budget-friendly spot to layout, swim, and watch the boats go by.
The Creativity Bar: Want to make something unique? You can get a group together, rent out this creative workspace, and spend a few hours getting crafty with their rotating lineup of projects.
Playgrounds Galore: If the kids just need to run off some energy, our local parks and playgrounds will definitely do the trick. You have plenty of great options between the two playgrounds at Two Rivers Park, the newer setups at Ravenwood Park, and the shaded play structures at the Hermitage Community Center.
The Catio: For the animal lovers in your family, a stop at this local cat lounge is a must. It is a super relaxing space where you can hang out, sip a drink, and play with adorable, adoptable cats all afternoon.
Water Parks and Cooling Off
We have three very different ways to get wet in the 37214. If you want the luxury experience, check out SoundWaves at Opryland. It is an upscale indoor and outdoor water park with some of the best slides in the city. For the classic “day at the lake” vibe, Nashville Shores on Percy Priest Lake is a massive park with a wave pool and even a treetop adventure course. It is a full day of fun just minutes away. If you want to go where the locals go (and save some cash!), Wave Country is our Metro-run wave pool. It is right by Two Rivers Park and is a total summer tradition. It is the perfect way to cool off on a humid Nashville afternoon.
Teens and Older Kids
Two Rivers Skate Park is one of the premier parks in the region and a massive community asset. Even if you don’t skate, it is a great place to watch some serious talent. Two Rivers Park is also home to a massive disc golf course!!
For something a little different, try Music Valley Axe Throwing where you can not just throw axes but also get out your pent up frustration in a rage room. It is surprisingly fun and sits right in the heart of all that classic Nashville kitsch!
Rainy Day Rescuers & Indoor Energy Burners
When the Tennessee weather doesn’t cooperate, head inside to burn off some energy. Altitude Trampoline Park, just over the line in Hermitage, is the place to go if the kids need to literally bounce off the walls (the foam pits will definitely wear them out). Strike and Spare Family Fun Center is our neighborhood staple for bowling and arcade games.
The best way to spend a rainy or cold day when you can’t play outside? Exploring the three unique Opry properties! See the box below called “Fun at Opryland”.
Fun at Opryland
You could easily make an entire day out of the three iconic Opry properties: the Grand Ole Opry, the Gaylord Opryland Resort, and Opry Mills. mall. Between the three of them, you can choose to splurge on big-ticket activities or spend next to nothing and still keep a whole family entertained for hours! You could probably spend a whole day at Opry Mills Mall alone since it's an entertainment hub: Dave & Busters, the Big Game Show, Slick City Action Park, Cosmic Golf, Escape Room... not to mention the many places adults can sip on tasty adult beverages (Smith Creek Moonshine Distillery, Amber Falls Winery, and Bavarian Bierhaus to name a few.) And don't forget the aquariums you can see for free in the Rainforest Cafe store, the waiting area of the Aquarium Restaurant, and inside Bass Pro Shops!
If you are looking for a generic “Nashville” t-shirt, you can find those anywhere. But if you want to shop like a local (or just find some unique gifts), the 37214 is where it’s at! We have a mix of massive outlet stores, antique and collectible shops, and tiny, quirky shops that you won’t find anywhere else.
Botanicals
If you head down Donelson Pike (through South Donelson, towards the airport), you’ll find AromaG’s Botanica. It is a fascinating shop full of handmade soaps, herbs, and teas. Right nearby is JVI Secret Gardens. Even if you aren’t buying a tree to take home on the plane, it is a beautiful place to walk through and get some garden inspiration!
Just want the basics?
I dont know about you, but on nearly every single trip — whether I’m staying in a place 2 days or 2 weeks — one of the first places I stop is a grocery store or convenience store. I’m a snack fiend, and must always have backup food so I don’t get hangry, and when you travel with kids it’s always better to have more snacks than necessary. Plus, visiting a local grocery store gives you insight into the local culture from the brands and the types of products on the shelves to the flavors of potato chips.
So don’t worry: Donelson is full of convenient places to grab some snacks, breakfast items, toiletries you forgot, more diapers, or some beer.
Our two biggest grocery stores are Kroger (corner of McGavock Pike and Lebanon Pike) and Publix (corner of Fairway Drive and Lebanon Pike, just behind the fire station).
Pro tip: at Kroger, get a discount on your purchase by asking someone in line to let you use their Kroger card; you save a few bucks, and they earn more points. Win-win!
Remember: You can’t buy hard liquor at the grocery store! You have to visit a dedicated liquor store for hard alcohol and THC beverages. Vape shops will sell THC and nicotine products.)
The Nashville Souvenir Hack
Avoid the overpriced souvenir shops on Broadway. Head to Music Valley Drive instead. Places like Nashville Souvenirs have all the boots, hats, and shirts you want at much better prices. (You can also find two souvenir stores inside Opry Mills.) And this might sound strange, but go to the Kroger on McGavock Pike – they have a whole Nashville souvenir section back near the Pharmacy.
The Treasure Hunter’s Map
If you love the hunt, you have to check out Music Valley Antiques and Marketplace. It is a maze of cool history. For the toy and pop culture nerds, Totally Rad Collector’s Emporium is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a total trip down memory lane! While you’re there, stop by Smart Art + Craft Supplies if you’re a maker. It’s a creative reuse center that is full of unique finds.
Donelson Plaza is a Hobby Heaven!
We are a neighborhood of enthusiasts, that’s for sure. All three of these spots are nestled in the center of Downtown Donelson.
Rick’s Comic City is a legendary local comic shop.
The Game Cave is the spot for tabletop gamers.
Swaggie Records has the vinyl you’ve been looking for.
Unique Finds
You’ll be sure to find a non-touristy souvenir, the perfect gift, or a one-of-a-kind outfit at these small, locally-owned businesses.
Ugly Duck Vintage is run by three different curators of style, so you’ll always find unexpected gems here.
Troll House Cottage is such a cute little spot specializing in a tea service. It’s both a cafe and a gift shop; you’ll want to try all of the treats and buy all of the knick knacks. Oh, they sell plants too!
Analog Your Life is a great spot for those who appreciate the slower side of things.
The Plus Closet offers trade opportunities, private after hours shopping, and styling session in addition to their curated plus-size inventory.
- Ten Thirty Five is a non-profit upscale thrift store that lets young women in enrolled community partner programs shop for free! The coolest part? By shopping there, your dollars help someone in need!
Opry Mills... obviously.
This is the largest outlet destination in Tennessee and it is massive. Over 200 stores and nearly 40 eateries, including 13 full-service restaurants (and that's not to mention the moonshine distillery or winery). Stores range the gamut from design outlet to bargain buys: Five Below, Nike Outlet, Express, H&M, Kate Spade, Crocs, Hot Topic, It's Sugar, Bass Pro Shops, the Lego store, Toys R Us -- I bet you could get all of your holiday shopping done just by doing the loop at Opry Mills. (Just wear comfortable shoes because you will be doing a lot of walking!)
You don’t need to scroll through a hundred reviews to find a good meal. While I have a massive dining guide here (where you can see every single option), this page features the “don’t miss” spots that I always recommend to people visiting my neck of the woods in Donelson!
Click on the name of one of our favorite eateries to reveal its location on the map.
Bagelshop
2708 Old Lebanon Pike STE 105, Nashville, TN 37214Phat Bites
2730 Lebanon Pike B, Nashville, TN 37214Nectar Urban Cantina
206 McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37214Darfon's
2810 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37214Homegrown Taproom & Kitchen
2720 Old Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37214Red Door Saloon Donelson
2715 Old Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37214🧡 Our Family Favorite
Nectar Urban Cantina: This is the absolute best spot for a group hang. The patio is legendary and has a vibe you just can’t beat. Honestly, the owners provided parents of young children with a massive gift by putting in that fenced-in yard and play equipment. More restaurants need to adopt this brilliant idea so everyone can eat (and drink!) in peace. We’ve spent countless hours here, and while the prices are a touch high, we are happily paying for prime Donelson real estate and “free childcare” 😀 Grab a taco, order the amazing queso, or try one of their killer smoothies. They also have a fantastic lineup of cocktails and botanical mocktails. (Fun fact: The folks who own Nectar also own Tennfold Brewing right down the street!)
Local Tip: If you head out east, to Mt Juliet, check out Hillside Hangout. They’ve got the same bright idea!!
🍴 The Visitor’s “Must-Eat” List
The Bagelshop: This is my favorite go-to for a solid breakfast and great coffee. Their bagels are phenomenal, and the seasonal lattes are always a treat. It is the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. (Try the Benny if you want a classic with a twist!)
Phat Bites: You might recognize this one from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Guy Fieri is a fan, and for good reason! It is quirky, colorful, and serves up some of the most creative sandwiches and salads you’ll ever eat. (The vibe is pure Donelson soul!) They have a massive sandwich selection; offer fries, pizza, and tacos; and are famous for their weekend brunch. My favorite menu item is Julie’s Caesar Salad (hold the peppers) with Pesto chicken. It comes with a side of hummus (ask for the pesto!) and pita, and brings me such joy every time I eat it.
Darfon’s Restaurant & Lounge: If you want something a bit more upscale, Darfon’s is the local crown jewel. We have been coming here since 2012, and it is hands down the most consistent restaurant in Nashville. It is a total crowd-pleaser that has been around since 1989. During the pandemic, we ordered from them so much that they completely memorized our favorite items. The owners would even surprise us with extra desserts when they delivered our orders! You are guaranteed a spectacular meal every single time.
Homegrown Taproom & Kitchen: Welcome to your home away from home! This friendly LGBTQ+ & female-owned establishment moved into the neighborhood just before we did, so we’ve gotten to watch them grow into one of our community touchstones. They have an amazing selection of on-tap drinks and focus on scratch-made local ingredients. Plus, our besties head over there for trivia all the time. It is the perfect place to hang out if you want to feel like a local!
Red Door Saloon: If you want a cool, unpretentious neighborhood bar, head straight here. Just keep in mind it is strictly 21 and over! Now, the food is admittedly nothing special, but it is an East Nashville staple that brought its awesome spirit right over to our side of town. Go for the friendly bartenders, a game of shuffleboard, a late-night hang, or a drink with neighbors on the great patio.
Food at Opryland
I'm going to be real with you: the food onsite at the Opryland Hotel is....not worth the cost. We have staycationed there twice and attend holiday events there every year, not to mention the number of people we have taken to visit there. We have eaten all around the resort, and I always feel like I have overpaid and didn't really get anything special. When we find ourselves there around a meal time, our go-to affordable and crowd-pleasing choice is to get a pizza (or a slice!) from Paisano's Pizzaria & Vino.
Pro Tip: Take your own food when you walk around the hotel. Like any Vegas hotel, they host many visitors who are not overnight guests. And there is no restriction on having your own snacks. My purse always has something in it just in case one of us gets hangry!
Between our massive range of hotels, quiet neighborhood Airbnbs, and lakeside campgrounds, you’ll definitely find the perfect spot to crash while you explore the best neighborhood in Nashville.
With everything from 1-star budget spots to 4-star luxury, there are way too many hotels in Donelson to list them all here. If you’re hunting for deals, I recommend checking Hotels.com or Booking.com. If you prefer to book direct or use your points, Marriott, IHG, and Sonesta all have multiple options right here in the neighborhood.
The Airport Hilton: This is the big one for travelers! It is the only hotel located right on-site at the terminal. If you have an insanely early flight, this is the move.
AirBnBs: If you want a true neighborhood feel, we have tons of local AirBnBs tucked away on our quiet streets. It is a great way to feel like a local for a few days.
Camping and RV Resorts: Believe it or not, you can even camp here! We have some fantastic options if you are traveling with a rig or just want to sleep under the stars.
We love a good staycation! We’ve stayed all over Nashville, in AirBNBs and hotels alike. One summer we even stayed right here in our own backyard at a local Sheraton using points just for the pool access. But my favorite hotel memory has to be from the 90s. Every Sunday, my dad and I had a ritual. We would grab the NY Times and the Wall Street Journal, hit the Waffle House on Elm Hill Pike, and then head to the Marriott on the hill (it is a Sonesta now!). It had this amazing indoor-outdoor pool that we definitely weren’t supposed to be in. (I am still not entirely sure how we pulled that off, but security must have been a lot more relaxed back then!) I actually plan to book a real stay there one day just so I can finally use that pool legitimately.
Would I stay at the Opryland Resort?
I am a card carrying Marriott Bonvoy member, and I love walking around the hotel. I can't tell you how many miles I have trekked touristing around that resort and convention center. The botanical gardens are stunning, and they are unrivaled in holiday decor: we go every year to take family Christmas photos. I am also a big fan of water parks, and SoundWaves is the most upscale water park I've been to, and the only hybrid indoor/outdoor one. However, I would not personally stay at the hotel again unless they had some wicked local special (which they do occasionally run) or if I had a bunch of points to burn. If I were on a tight budget, I'd stay nearby in Music Valley and walk or Uber across the way to spend the day at Opryland.
Quick Navigation
Get Involved
See something missing? Neighborhood resources change fast. If you know of a local group, club, or service that belongs in the 37214 Directory, let us know!