A Locals’ Weekend in Nashville: Hidden Gems & Easy Walkable Adventures
- tbilodeau
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Discover under-the-radar eats, indie shops, and creative corners just steps from The Countrypolitan - no car needed.
Experience Nashville Like a Local
Sure, Broadway's honky-tonks and neon lights are iconic, but if you’re staying at The Countrypolitan, you’re already in the perfect position to explore Nashville like a local. This boutique hotel sits in the heart of the action - not just near major landmarks, but within walking distance of the city’s more eclectic, laid-back side. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or looking to extend your trip, it’s easy to discover a whole new rhythm in Music City when you step off the tourist path.
Brunch Spots with Character
Start your Saturday with something special. While big-name breakfast chains line the main streets, locals prefer smaller, character-rich cafés tucked around the corner. Just a short walk from the hotel, you’ll find everything from upscale avocado toast to biscuit sandwiches that put Southern comfort on full display. The area around Printer’s Alley and Church Street offers a range of cozy options, ideal for a relaxed, lingering brunch before a day of exploring.
Shop Indie in the Arts District
Forget the typical souvenir shops - for a real slice of Nashville style, stroll through the nearby Arts District, where you’ll find independently owned boutiques, vinyl shops, vintage bookstores, and design-forward home décor stores. These aren’t just places to browse - they’re mini experiences, often run by local artists and makers who reflect the creative energy that fuels the city.
Whether you're hunting for vintage denim, locally printed posters, or handcrafted accessories, these hidden gems give you something far more memorable than a T-shirt.
Quiet Moments in the City
Even in a town known for its energy, locals know where to go when they want to slow things down. Grab a coffee to-go and wander toward the banks of the Cumberland River, where walking paths, scenic overlooks, and open-air seating offer space to pause and take in the skyline. It’s the perfect mid-afternoon reset - and just enough of a breather before evening fun.
Live Music Beyond Broadway
Nashville’s heartbeat may be music, but not all of it lives on Broadway. Just blocks from The Countrypolitan, you can find intimate live shows in speakeasy-style venues, rooftop lounges with acoustic sets, and jazz bars that attract both locals and traveling talent. These smaller spaces offer a more curated sound - and a less crowded scene - perfect for a chill Saturday night with a great cocktail in hand.
Late-Night Bites & Local Flavors
As the evening winds down, don’t miss the city’s local take on late-night eats. Nearby restaurants and walk-up windows serve up everything from gourmet burgers to spicy hot chicken, tacos, or vegan bowls. Many kitchens stay open well past midnight, making it easy to close out your night with something delicious and casual - just the way locals do it.
Stay at the Center of It All
The best part about a locals-style weekend? You can do it all without ever calling a rideshare. The Countrypolitan’s central location makes it easy to explore Nashville on foot - with the added bonus of a cozy, stylish space to come home to at the end of the day. With bold décor, boutique touches, and Southern charm woven into every detail, the hotel complements the city’s personality in all the right ways.
Whether you’re here for the first time or rediscovering Nashville from a new perspective, staying local is easier - and more fun - when your home base is The Countrypolitan.


