The twinkle of lights, the scent of cinnamon, and the clink of festive glasses – Christmas pop-up bars have transformed Nashville into a winter wonderland of merriment. Whether you’re a local looking for a new tradition or a visitor eager to experience Music City’s holiday spirit, these yuletide hotspots are a must-visit.

Apres Ski at PROOF

This Christmas pop-up is located at the PROOF Rooftop Bar on the top of the W Nashville. Enjoy a winter village packed with cabins, couches, chic decor, and a rustic fireplace. The rooftop has been completely transformed into a cozy, festive escape where every corner tells a tale of holiday cheer. 

The Rink Above Broadway at The Grand Hyatt Nashville

Come enjoy a rooftop retreat with drinks, food, and skating on top of the Grand Hyatt in downtown Nashville. Come experience a one-of-a-kind evening perfect for date night or the whole family. Similarly to the Russell, The Rink Above Broadway has a mission of giving back, planting one tree for every sheet produced of their Glice synthetic rink. Encounter a winter wonderland that will leave you enchanted for the rest of the holiday season.

The Holiday Factory at Dream Nashville

Christmas pop-up bars are Instagram goldmines and The Holiday Factory at Dream Nashville is no different. Every corner is a photo opportunity from the meticulously decorated Christmas trees to the drinks in translucent ornaments. This pop-up bar encourages patrons to capture and share their festive experience. With a wide variety of drink and food options, The Holiday Factory is a must-see.

Miracle Bar at Pearl Diver

Miracle Bar serves Christmas cocktails and good vibes at Pearl Diver located in East Nashville. Filled with holiday decor, nostalgic energy, and professionally crafted libations, Miracle Bar is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. Just down the road from The Russell, come enjoy a miracle on Gallatin Ave while the holidays still last. 

Ralphie’s Christmas at Noelle

This pop-up bar pays homage to the iconic movie: A Christmas Story. Experience Ralphie’s ultimate Christmas hideaway tucked in the secret bar of the Noelle downtown. With timeless cocktails and festive small bites, we guarantee you will feel the excitement of A Christmas Story all around you. Don’t miss out on this once a year holiday experience.

Want to explore Nashville further? Book your stay with us today!

As the weather begins to chill, and the leaves begin to turn, we know this is the perfect time for patio dining and cozy nights on the town. Lucky for you, East Nashville is full of great bites and bars that ooze charm. East Nashville, a neighborhood known for its overwhelming creativity, abundance of allure, and eclectic vibes, has recently welcomed some culinary gems that are creating waves in the foodie scene. We have created a list of our top new restaurants that are sure to fill a spot in your heart, and stomach.

Bad Idea

Celebrating wine exploration and education, Bad Idea is East Nashville’s newest wine bar. The menu offers small plates and shareable entrees that pay homage to traditional Lao cuisine. On top of delicious food, Bad Idea features nearly 125 different wine options making the possibilities for flawless pairings endless. Built inside of a renovated church (just like us) we have a small bias towards the remarkable interior and top-notch experience that Bad Idea delivers.

Sabell’s

East Nashville is known for taking quaint properties and turning them into pieces of art, and that is exactly what husband and wife duo Matt and Stephanie Sabelli have done with Sabell’s. Nestled in a remodeled 1930’s bungalow, this new restaurant offers mezze plates, a full scale bar, and one of the best patios in East Nashville. With quality Mediterranean eats, Sabell’s is a new restaurant you won’t want to miss.

Schulman’s

Located just 6-minutes down the road from The Russell, Schulman’s embodies the definition of an unpretentious neighborhood bar and restaurant. Serving up solid eats, cold beer, and an incomparable atmosphere, this new eatery exemplifies the “come-one come-all” energy that is so prevalent in the culture of East Nashville. 

Cherries

Cherries is a new restaurant coming soon to East Nashville with a projected opening date of late 2023. This new eatery offers wood fired burgers, yakitori, and one of the finest outdoor spaces in East Nashville. Cherries provides a rock and roll atmosphere with a hint of fuzzy dice, vinyl records, and upscale cocktails. This exclusive restaurant is sure to be a new staple in East Nashville and we couldn’t be more excited for the opening. 

Once Upon a Time in France

Nestled in the heart of East Nashville, Once Upon a Time in France offers Nashvillians a true French experience. An interior filled with 1920s Parisian bistro decor, this restaurant offers the perfect amount of authentic French flair. In Nashville, where music and flavor collide, Once Upon a Time in France stands as a testament to the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Come check out an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends the romance of French gastronomy with the soulful spirit of Music City.

Want to hear more? Check out our recent features: Garden & Gun and Yahoo Life

Nashville is a vibrant and culturally rich destination known for its live music, southern hospitality and delicious food. While the weekends may see the city bussing with tourists and bachelorettes alike, the real adventure begins during the week. Nashville offers a host of activities to enjoy during the week from historic sights, to craft beer, to underground music. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we are here to provide you with the best weekday itinerary to make the most of your time in Nashville. 

Sunday

Start Sunday off right with the only way we know how: brunch! If you are looking to begin your weekday getaway with class, we recommend visiting The Southern Steak & Oyster. Found in the heart of downtown, The Southern is known for its upscale Southern brunch. After filling up on some of the best eats and coffee the city has to offer, head over to Arrington Vineyards for Music in the Vines from 1:00 – 5:00pm. Music in the Vines is the perfect place to spend a weekend afternoon. With beautiful vineyards, tasty food, and exceptional live music, you will not find a better place to kick back and relax. When you’re done sipping on some of the best wine in the city, make your way to the world famous Bluegrass Jam at Station Inn. Every Sunday at 7:00pm, musicians and singers from all over the world gather to make music together. With an intimate setting and extraordinary vibes, you never know who might show up to jam.

Monday

Kick off Monday morning with a laid back breakfast in the 12South neighborhood. We encourage you to check out Frothy Monkey and Ladybird Taco, both known for their good eats and local energy. Once you have recovered from a jam-packed Sunday with some caffeine, journey to one of the most interesting historical sites in Nashville: The Hermitage. The Hermitage is a 1000+ acre site that was once owned by Andrew Jackson, seventh president of the United States, up until his death in 1845. After a full day sinking into some of Nashville’s rich history, make your way to Broadway for a true local spectacle: Whiskey Jam. Any local will tell you that Whiskey Jam is THE place to be on a Monday night. Hosted at Whiskey Row on Broadway, Whiskey Jam has hosted some of music’s best writers and artists, often before they become household names. The event is a Nashville staple that is a must-go for a weekday trip. 

Tuesday

For a stellar Tuesday, we recommend a trip to the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. Located 6 miles southeast of Downtown Nashville, the zoo contains over 6,000 individual animals and over 339 species. A perfect attraction for families, friends, couples, or anyone riding solo, the Nashville Zoo is the ideal place for a chill Tuesday. For some entertainment in the evening, venture to Nashville’s premiere comedy club, Zanies. Open 7 days a week, Zanies features some of the best local acts and famous comedians in the country. A true Nashville hidden gem, this is a spot you will not want to miss.

Wednesday

For the final day of your weekday trip, take a stroll out to the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. For an added treat, if you are visiting in the winter months between November 18 and January 7 the grounds will feature a one mile walking path with elegant displays of holiday lights. Even if you visit outside of the holiday season, Cheekwood has plenty events both during the day and night for the girls and for the family. We highly encourage you to check out the utter beauty of the Cheekwood Estate grounds no matter the time of the year. For your evening activity, no trip is complete without a stop on Broadway. Grab a bite to eat at Assembly Food Hall downtown before jamming out at some honky-tonks to round out your perfect weekday vacation!

Want to hear more? Check out our recent features: Garden & Gun, Yahoo Life

Nashville isn’t just the heart of country music, it’s also a fantastic destination for a girls getaway. Whether you’re into music, food, shopping, or just relaxing with friends, Nashville truly has something for everyone. With this guide, you will find the perfect blend of culture, live music, fresh cuisine, and Southern hospitality. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Music City has to offer while creating memories with your girls. 

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Nashville

Start your adventure by arriving in Nashville and checking into The Russell Hotel. A hotel like no other located in the historic neighborhood of East Nashville, it is the perfect place to begin your trip! From there, kick off your day with mouthwatering Southern biscuits at Biscuit Love before diving into the history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Explore the fascinating exhibits, captivating memorabilia, and of course the legendary Hall of Fame members. For the evening, head on over to Lower Broadway for a taste of Nashville’s vibrant nightlife. Explore the honky-tonks, each with its own unique vibe and live music. From Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge to Whiskey Row, you and your girls are in for an unforgettable night of dancing and singing to some of the best tunes that Music City has to offer.

Day 2: Distillery Tours and Dining

Kick off Day 2 at the Nashville Farmers Market, where you can sample delicious local treats and shop for unique artisan crafts. After you have sampled every mini quiche and croissant you can take, dive into the world of Tennessee whiskey with a visit to distilleries like Jack Daniel’s and Nelson’s Green Brier. After learning all there is to know about the history and craftsmanship behind these spirits, head to The Gulch for some lunch and much needed shopping. A trendy neighborhood filled with boutique shops, art installations, and excellent restaurants; The Gulch is a great place for shopping and snapping Instagram-worthy pics. Once you’ve snapped enough photos to fill your entire feed, make your way to Husk. A renowned restaurant serving Southern-inspired cuisine with local ingredients; this is a culinary experience you and your girls will be talking about for years to come.

Day 3: Shopping, Culture, and Farewells

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast of tacos and coffee at Ladybird Taco before heading over to the charming 12 South neighborhood for a morning of stylish boutiques, beautiful murals, and unique cafes. After lunch, make the short drive to one of our favorite hidden gems; the picturesque town of Franklin, Tennessee. Come enjoy a leisurely morning taking in the historic streets, endearing shops, and lovely cafes that this quaint destination has to offer. Finally, end your girls trip on a relaxed note with a visit to Arrington Vineyards where you and your girls can sip on local wines and enjoy the serene countryside.

Want to see more of what Nashville has to offer? Book your stay at The Russell today!

Nashville, often hailed as the heartbeat of the country music world, pulsates with creative energy and a deep love for live music. In a place where art and expression take center stage, we wanted to compile a list of five live music venues that truly embody the creative spirit that Nashville has to offer. All five of the venues on this list are places where the beats and rhythms of the city’s creative heart are felt in every corner.

The Basement East

Located just a 3 minute walk from the Russell, The Basement East boasts a welcoming and intimate atmosphere that encourages a sense of community between the performers and the crowd. One of the most remarkable aspects of The Basement East is its commitment to musical diversity. It’s not just a country music venue; it’s a place where a wide spectrum of genres come together. From rock n’ roll to indie, from blue to folk, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you’re a devoted local, or just in town for the weekend, The Basement East is a must visit destination.

Music Makers Stage

Music Makers Stage is a hidden gem that defies the status quo and embraces the unconventional. A small, intimate event space with virtual capacities, Music Makers Stage is the perfect space for friendly concerts, album releases, or even special gatherings. In good weather, Music Makers Stage opens their bay window, adding to its inviting atmosphere and allowing guests to take in the crisp autumn breeze. The venue hosts a variety of artists and genres every Friday night, so make sure to get your tickets for an evening you won’t want to miss.  

The 5 Spot

Nestled in the heart of East Nashville, The 5 Spot is a musical gem that embodies the vibrant and diverse spirit of Music City. With its unassuming exterior and welcoming interior, The 5 Spot is the place for emerging and established artists alike, featuring performers from nearly every genre under the sun. From rock to indie to country, the weekly lineups are endless. The 5 Spot is a necessary venue to check out on your path to becoming a local.

Eastside Bowl

Located in the heart of the vibrant East Nashville neighborhood, Eastside Bowl is Nashville’s ultimate destination for a blend of music, entertainment, and bowling. The venue offers a unique and lively atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of Music City. Eastside Bowl takes the classic American pastime of bowling to a whole new level. On top of the state-of-the art bowling lanes, the venue also features local bands and nationally touring artists taking the stage to deliver unforgettable performances. Eastside Bowl truly delivers a one of a kind experience you don’t want to miss. 

Jane’s Hideaway

Taking a modern twist on Bluegrass and Americana, Jane’s Hideaway features virtuoso players nightly with an acoustic touch. Jane’s Hideaway is an establishment that lets you embrace the heartbeat of Nashville and unwind in moments of sophistication and serenity, all in one unforgettable experience. Experience a harmonious blend of delicious cuisine and live music, perfect for a date night or a girls night out. If you’re looking for an elegant escape from the lively streets of Music City, Jane’s Hideaway is the place to be.

Want to explore East Nashville further? Book your stay at the Russell today!

Weekends in Music City are more than a break; they’re a lifestyle. Whether you’re hitting the town with your girls, enjoying a staycation with your partner, or wanting to soak up some quality family time, Nashville has something for everyone. Come dive into the heart of this dynamic city with our list of 10 things to do in Nashville this weekend.

1. Hit Up Broadway

The heartbeat of Nashville’s nightlife, Broadway is a neon-soaked paradise full of live music and honky-tonk fun. Grab your cowboy boots and dance the night away to the sweet sounds of country music at Nudie’s Honky Tonk, Acme Feed and Seed, and Miranda Lambert’s just to name a few.

2. Sip Craft Cocktails

It’s no secret that we love our beer, but Nashville’s cocktail scene can’t be beat! Check out hidden gems like The Patterson House, The Fox Cocktail Club and Bar, or Old Glory for some craft cocktail magic. These places take cocktails to the next level and bring you an elevated experience that you won’t find just anywhere.

3. Explore the Gulch

As every local will tell you, Nashville’s charm extends far beyond the bright lights of Broadway. The Gulch is a neighborhood that exudes charm with its modern-meets-trendy flair. Explore the vibrant street art, indulge in a gourmet meal, or treat yourself to some goodies in the neighborhood’s cute boutiques. Don’t forget to snap a pic in front of the “What Lifts You” wings mural to refresh your grid. 

4. Get Artsy at Frist Art Museum

Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Frist Art Museum. Their ever-changing exhibitions promise a dose of creativity that’ll leave your mind inspired and your Instagram elevated.

5. Experience Nature at Percy Warner Park

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Head to Percy Warner Park for some of the best nature therapy that the city has to offer. From the beautiful trails, the most aesthetic picnic spots, and the lush greenery, Percy Warner Park truly is one of the best places to rest and reset during your busy getaway. 

6. Visit the Johnny Museum

Step into the world of the “Man in Black” at the Johnny Cash Museum. Here you’ll discover the legend’s life and legacy through memorabilia and interactive exhibits. Located just off the main Broadway strip, this is the perfect activity to do in the afternoon before hitting the town.

7. Enjoy Brunch with a Twist

In Nashville, we take our brunch almost as seriously as we take our country music. For this reason, there are trendy spots scattered all over the city, and new ones always popping up! You really can’t go wrong with any brunch spot in Music City, but we recommend Butcher and Bee, Cafe Roze, or Sky Blue Cafe.

8. Treat yourself to Vintage Shopping

As any local will tell you, Nashville’s vintage scene is like none other. Check out Starland Vintage & Unusual, Star Struck Vintage, or Hip Zipper for treasure troves of retro fashion and unique finds.

9. Take a Pedal Tavern Ride

One of our personal favorites, round up your best friends and enjoy the sights of downtown Nashville on a Pedal Tavern. Enjoy all that Music City has to offer while pedaling your way through the streets and sipping on cold bevs with good company.

10. Attend a Live Show at the Ryman Auditorium

A weekend in Nashville isn’t complete without visiting the historic Ryman Auditorium. Originally opened in 1892, this venue has hosted music icons for generations, all while preserving the building’s original charm and church pew seating. Whether it’s comedy, country, or rock, the Ryman’s acoustics are pure magic, and your Nashville visit isn’t complete until you experience them live.

Want to explore Nashville further? Book your stay at The Russell today!

Our team is always here to recommend fun things to do in Nashville.
Each month we will share the TOP 3 MUST DO’s when visiting!

1. Nashville Halloweekend Hangover Bar Crawl
   Get your favorite brews at all your favorite bars in Nashville! Go from bar to bar and enjoy all their low-drink specials.
   Bar crawling is super fun and exciting! For this event, everyone will be in their Halloween costumes dressed to impress and some costumes may give you a scare!
   
   ***Get tickets here.  
2. Cheekwood Harvest
   Celebrate all things fall during Cheekwood Harvest. The changing of the leaves is one of many garden highlights you’ll find as oaks, maples, dogwoods, and other trees greet you with their fall colors. Activities and experiences designed for kids, adults, and families alike, make this six-week celebration the perfect time to visit Cheekwood.
   
   ***Check out their calendar here. 
3. Arrington Vineyards
   The vineyard is located about 25 miles south of Nashville. They want to make your experience in Nashville’s Wine Country enjoyable and memorable for you. They offer plenty of outdoor seating areas for you to enjoy while you’re here. Their Pavilion is open daily, where you can purchase AV wines, wine-tasting flights, merchandise, and snacks.
   Come experience the beauty and tranquility of our vineyard while enjoying some delicious wine. 
   
   ***Plan your visit here.

Hannah Hart is the Lead Property Manager at The Russell Hotel.

How long have you been at MH?
5.5 years. 

What do you love most about your role as a Mission Hotels Lead Property Manager?
So many things! I love problem solving! Solving the most important issues that arise is very empowering and something I really enjoy! I also love the fact that we have some of the most unique hotels in Nashville and that we use a large portion of our profits to give back to those in need! It makes coming to work every day, mean so much more <3

Favorite things to do when you’re not working?
I love the outdoors (hiking, camping, traveling etc.), seeing live music, and most importantly, spending time with my perfect pup Toni and my amazing husband Harry!

If you were to win the lottery tomorrow, what would be the first thing you would do?
I would give some to my mom and sister, keep a decent portion in savings for my future kids/fam, and then travel the world for as long as I could with the rest! 🙂

The home of country music is also updating the blueprint on how hospitality impacts local communities. Holding up a corner of East Nashville, The Russell has set a new standard, converting a 1904 Cumberland Presbyterian Church into a 23-bedroom hotel. The hotel both host hosts fortunate travelers, also serving several local charities to ensure bed nights translate into community impact.

Opened in 2019, The Russell embraces original stained glass windows, old brick walls, and original pews to create a unique setting. The project from property developers Anchor Investments maintains a connection with the past, echoed through the hotel’s connectivity with local non-profits. By matching bed nights from paying guests, The Russell gives away a substantial portion of each night’s stay to local homeless ministries, with the average weekend stay providing one of:

16 beds nights

100 free showers

30 free meals

Local organizations include Nashville Rescue Mission, Shower Up, People Loving Nashville,
Room In The Inn, Nashville YoungLives, and MapleBuilt.

The Russell joins two other Nashville properties in its goal to support underserved communities. Mission Hotels includes boutique hotel The Gallatin as well as 506 Lofts, apartments in downtown Nashville.
A fourth is planned for 2023 – Tulip Street United Methodist Church.
Click here to learn more about their Giving Back Mission.

Read the article at Tendo.

Mission Hotels
As of early 2022, Mission Hotels has donated over 150,000 meals, showers, beds, and supplies to those experiencing homelessness in Nashville. At Mission Hotels, we build spaces that bring our guests joy and serve those who need it most. Through our Rooms for Rooms program, we give away the majority of our profits to Nashville’s underserved communities. Just one more reason to love your stay.

Nashville has all the lights and life of a big city with all the charm of a small, southern town – it’s what makes us one of America’s most desirable tourist destinations! But don’t take just our word for it, take theirs! Access our Nashville Guide. 

Welcome to the Nashville’s Greatest Give Back Hospitality!

My parents used to take me every Sunday when I was a kid,
so I’ve had some prior experience sleeping in church, but I never imagined
paying to sleep in a church, but here we are at The Russell.
A 115-year-old historic church turned boutique hotel in 2019.
It’s widely regarded as one of Nashville’s most distinctive hotels.
Many of the original structural features, such as stained glass windows,
church pews used as headboards, and old brick walls, were preserved.

You won’t find anyone at the front desk because there is no on-site concierge service.
They do, however, respond right away to cell phone inquiries. Their technology-driven 
hospitality is second to none and a true sanctuary in the heart of East Nashville.

As much as we were impressed by The Russell’s attention to every meticulous
interior design detail, we fell in love with The Russell because of its mission.
By staying at The Russell, you assist an unhoused person in Nashville through
the Rooms for Rooms program.

The average weekend stay provides one of the following:
16 nights in a bed
100 free showers
30 free meals

STAY HERE. CHANGE LIVES.

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Read the article at T+Co Spring Issue 2022 featuring 24 hours in “Music City” Nashville, Tennessee, Healthy Air Fryer Recipes, and more.

WKRN – Discover the article and full video coverage 

What does the word restoration mean to you? Perhaps it means to turn something old, maybe forgotten into something exciting and new?

That’s exactly what the team of Anchor Investments does with the properties they acquire. A few are old churches turned boutique hotels.

Why knock it down when you have the opportunity to pay tribute to beauty and history?

“We have loved buying these old churches, which are sadly closing down these days. Their congregants have moved out of the area and we wanted to repurpose these churches so they can still have a ministry impact but turn them into a commercial business,” says Lacher.

506 Lofts, The Russell, and The Gallatin are all part of that story and if you’ve had the chance of staying in one of them, then you know that they are anything but average.

“We try to honor everything we can,” says Lacher. “Like at The Russell, all the beds are made out of the old church pews. The stained glass, we redid all the stained glass windows.”

At The Gallatin, original photographs are on display, with a modern flair and neon lights.

But that’s not all.

“We give the majority of the profits away to underserved communities, mainly the homeless community in Nashville,” says Lacher.

All three properties make up Mission Hotels. Their mission: reimagine hospitality while restoring communities. They partner with local ministries like Nashville Rescue Mission, Shower Up, People Loving Nashville, Room In The Inn, Nashville YoungLives, and MapleBuilt.

“It’s been super impactful for people to think, ‘I’m laying here in this hotel tonight, there’s someone downtown who would not have had a bed to lay in otherwise.’” said Lacher.

And they are not slowing down! Announcements of a fourth hotel have been made. This time to bring restoration to another East Nashville church called Tulip Street United Methodist Church. Tentative opening date of 2023 has been made.”

Read the article at WKRN.