We landed in Nashville at 7 PM on Independence Day – as we rode the quick ten minute drive from the airport to our hotel (The Thompson – HIGHLY recommend!) we saw evidence of just how deeply the south feels about our country.  And once we got to the rooftop deck of the Thompson, with a cool craft cocktail in each of our hands, the forty minute fireworks spectacular unfolded before us, and we were already in love with the city.

The Thompson Nashville is located in the Gulch, an up and coming area adjacent to the craziness of downtown.  The five minute ride from the buzz and noise of Broadway is just enough to give you a serene and calm feeling that is well needed after an afternoon of day drinking and live gee-tar!  The hotel is beyond chic, the bathroom was over the top and the common space including swanky lobby, five star restaurant and rooftop bar are impeccable – as is the service.

There was SO much to do – we visited the Musicians’ Hall of Fame and saw a Rolling Stones exhibit so cool it gave me shivers.  We dropped in on a bunch of live music at The Stage, Tequila Cowboy, and Tootsie’s.  We ate the most exquisite locally sourced meals at Husk and Kayne Prime – I couldn’t say enough good things about either of them!  We took a “Nash Trash” tour and got to hear all the inside gossip about the recording artists and business on Musicians Row aboard a hot pink school bus – narrated by a musician playing guitar while we drove around the city and sipped frozen drinks.  And while we’re on the subject of drinks – the Greenbrier Distillery tour and tasting is an absolute must do.

Wrapping it all up with a final late night of piano cabaret and burlesque at Skull’s, brunch at Le Sel and a visit to the studio where Elvis recorded “Are you Lonesome Tonight” (where his piano sits to this day) – and we were sorry to leave, but ready to sleep on the plane.

It’s no wonder why this destination has been such a hot request this year – I can’t wait to send you!