This week I wanted to share a spot that I hold very close to my heart! Before making my way back to Spokane almost 8 months ago, I attended University in Nashville, Tennessee. Now, Nashville might be quite different than you’d expect if you’ve never visited before. It’s such a fun city with so much to see and explore (And you’ll probably stumble upon a country star once or twice while you’re there if you’re lucky!)

Here’s my guide to exploring Nashville! They’re some of my favorite spots and I’m just itching to go back and visit this fall.

 

The Music

 Pilgrimage Music Festival

Last September, I went to my first music festival and it didn’t disappoint! When my all time favorite duo, THE Hall and Oates was headlining, you could bet there was no way I’d miss it! This festival takes place just 30 minutes outside of Nashville in Franklin. It’s a super close drive and also a super cute town I recommend taking time to explore too! This year’s lineup is pretty awesome, with headliners like Justin Timberlake ( I mean come on that’s enough to sell you right there!) so I recommend trying to get your last minute tickets and go this year!

 

The Listening Room Cafe

I had no idea what this place was like before visiting, but one night, I grabbed my Aunt and we hopped on over to The Listening Room–And I’m so happy we did! Not only does this place offer food to munch on while you listen, but the artist lineups are awesome too! It’s always fun to stumble upon new artists and this place is the perfect place for you to do just that! Spots like this are really what Nashville is all about.

 

The Food

 

 The Pancake Pantry

If you couldn’t already tell, us Graham Girls are all about great food and restaurants! Even if you’re not from Nashville, you might have heard of the Pancake Pantry! This place is always packed…And for good reason! My friends and I would wake up early on some mornings before class and have a fun breakfast at one of our favorite spots. Usually–on the weekends especially–there will be lines down the block just to get in to this place, but if you go early enough, there is no wait at all! I recommend going around 7:30 on a week day to try these delicious pancakes!

 The Flipside

Overtime Ashley came to visit, it was always “When can we go to the Flipside?” I don’t blame her for loving this place, it is not only so cute inside, but their food is so yummy as well! If you check out their menu, it might look a little different, but trust me… It’s delicious!  (So if you’re like me, order the Parm with a side of tots. It seriously doesn’t disappoint!)

The Pharmacy

Although the name might make you think otherwise, this place serves some of the yummiest burgers (or turkey burgers if you’re like me) that you’ll find in Nashville! My friends and I had been itching to go for months and once we finally waited the 2 hour wait (yes, I’m not kidding…they don’t take reservations!) we were so happy we did. Prepare yourself for the long wait time, but not only is the food great, the atmosphere is too!

 

12 South

12 South deserves a category of its own because it’s so special and unique. It’s a street full of so many wonderful boutiques, restaurants, coffee and ice cream shops, and there’s even a beautiful park as well! I’ve shared a few of my favorite places on this special street.

 

 Draper James

My sisters and I just love to shop and we’d basically wear everything in Draper James! And it’s no surprise that we love everything because it’s Reese Witherspoon’s Boutique! The clothes are beautifully made and it’s also fun to keep a lookout for Reese! Unfortunately I never had a chance to spot her, but a few of my friends got to meet her while browsing her beautiful clothes! Now, if you don’t have a chance to make it to Nash, don’t worry because her brand is also available at Nordstrom!

Frothy Monkey

I just love coffee, so exploring different coffee shops around Nashville was a favorite of mine to do! I found myself coming back many-a-times to Frothy Monkey because it was just so yummy! Their lattes are to die for.

Taqueria del Sol

Guys, this place is one of my favorite restaurants ever. I’m not kidding when I say I still think about it! (And I live over 2500 miles away). Order their chips & queso, enchilada, and a side of rice. Nothing else.

 

And, last but not least, just hop in your car and explore! Nashville has some of the most beautiful houses you can find and I recommend just taking a drive through all the neighborhoods! You won’t be sorry you did.

Kisses,

Abigail