If Nashville isn’t on your travel bucket list yet, it’s time to put it there. With an iconic live music scene, excellent restaurants, and a long list of new hotels that offer high design and comfort in equal measure, Nashville has never been more ready for its closeup. Recently, we stayed in one of its newest hotel offerings, Noelle, which puts travelers in the center of the action—and offers a stylish way to stay in Music City.
The Basics
Budget Level: Upscale ($150-$300/night)
Lodging Type: Medium-Size Hotel (50-100 rooms)
What You Need to Know
The Look
Less is (much) more at the Noelle, where gleaming white sheets, brass fixtures, and local art are the most important room elements—along with a dramatic geometric ceiling pattern that had us staring (and snapping photos). The public spaces, too, are so eye-catching that you’ll be tempted to eschew your sightseeing plans to just hang out. Have a drink at the bar with its high-arched windows and curved leather barstools; shop in the meticulously curated boutique for anything from stationery to Stetsons; or get your morning caffeine jolt at Drug Store Coffee in the lobby. (We loved the latter so much that we bought a set of their attractive, vintage-inspired mugs.)
The Vibe
The hotel draws young professionals in droves, and you’ll definitely see musicians, digital nomads, and other arty types both staying at the hotel and enjoying its public spaces. The rooftop bar, Rare Bird, has views of the skyline and breezy, tropical decor. Note that this space is trendy at the moment and it can get busy—and definitely loud—in the evenings, especially on weekends.
Who Will Love It
If you want to stay in a hotel where you expect, say, the hottest country star of the moment to randomly stroll by, this is a good place for you. It’s also a fantastic place to stay if you’re seeing a show at Ryman Auditorium. It’s just a few blocks from the hotel and an easy walk.
Who Might Not
If you need lots of space, a basic room, and don’t care enough about good design to pay for it, other hotels in Nashville will suit you better.
Best Amenity
The hotel’s restaurant, Makeready Libations & Liberation, is a winner with unfussy, ultra-flavorful fare. Overflowing charcuterie plates, salads, and vegetable dishes are must-tries here. Charred carrots were accompanied by pea shoots and yogurt, while trumpet mushrooms got a boost from truffle and graham cracker crumbs. House-designed cocktails like the Bandera, which has mezcal, ginger, lime, and Miller High Life, give you a sense of the restaurant’s cheeky-yet-sophisticated style. Veggie dishes cost from $10-$18 while meats range from $12-$42. Cocktails all cost $13.
Money Matters
What’s Included
Just the room is included in your rate, but you will enjoy two small but stellar perks—unlimited still and sparkling water courtesy of a spout in the hallway just outside your room, and freshly brewed coffee delivered directly to your room within ten minutes of your order. On your checkout day, the coffee will be neatly packaged to go.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About
Local taxes will be included in your final bill.
How to Get a Deal
In the winter, spring, and fall, when Nashville enjoys comfortable weather, you can expect to pay upwards of $300 per night at the Noelle. Stay in summer when things heat up—especially on weeknights—and you’ll find rates from $200-$250. Also, Nashville hosts a number of major music festivals and events throughout the year, which can cause prices to jump. Check out what’s happening in town before you book.
Getting There
In the Neighborhood
With a stellar location in Downtown Nashville, the Noelle gives travelers options if they want to ditch their car for at least part of their stay. Besides Ryman Auditorium, other sites within walking distance are the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Tennessee state capitol, all of the live music bars on Broadway, and Martin’s Barbecue—a Nashville classic.
Nearest Airport
Nashville’s airport is an easy 20-minute drive from the hotel. A taxi will cost you a flat $25 while a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft will cost about $15.
The Bottom Line
For a perfectly fashionable option in a can’t-be-beat Nashville location, the Noelle delivers.