12 South is one of the trendiest neighborhoods to visit when you are in Nashville. A refreshing small-town feel with amazing eateries, unique shops, fun murals, and the most adorable lodging options.
Located just a few miles away from Broadway, 12 South is an easy day trip from all the chaos of downtown Nashville.
We actually stayed in 12 South and had so much fun discovering the area. So, if you are looking to visit 12 South, or even stay here, let’s dive in!
12 South Neighborhood Nashville
Where to stay in the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville
Staying in 12 South is a real treat if you want to stay in a more relaxed area versus downtown. And even though there are no hotels in the area, there are plenty of options via Airbnb or VRBO.
Designer loft
We stayed in an amazing loft apartment that has all the comforts of home, is walking distance to everything, and even has a balcony/patio.
Another great perk of this apartment is that it is pet friendly if you wanted to bring your fur baby with you. Additionally, this complex also has multiple apartments available so you should have options if one isn’t available during your dates.
Guest House Airbnb
Another great option if you needed more bedrooms and didn’t need to bring your pup with you (no pets allowed here) would be to stay above Bartaco. Right in the heart of town and walkable to everything, this Airbnb would be a super fun stay.
Getting around the 12 South neighborhood
Within 12 South itself, you can easily walk everywhere as the main drag is only a half mile long.
However, if you are coming from other parts of Nashville, like Broadway, its best to take an Uber. Or you can drive your own car as well but note that parking could cost money or may be challenging on busy weekends.
Since we stayed in 12 South, we did the opposite and did a day trip to downtown. We had our Uber drop us off in The Gulch so we could try Biscuit Love (yum) and see the Wings mural. Then from The Gulch, Broadway is only a 20-minute walk.
Totally easy to do a day trip to these areas from 12 South or vice versa.
Where to eat in the 12 South neighborhood
Bartaco
You can’t go to 12 South and not go to Bartaco. Even if you stop for just ONE taco, you need to experience this place. The restaurant decor alone will transport you as it feels like a tropical oasis. And I mean, did you see that there are tacos here?! What more can you ask for?
12 South Taproom & Grill
It’s clear when you come to 12 South Taproom & Grill that it’s the neighborhood hang out spot. Scrumptious food and beers with an outdoor patio that just beckons you to hang out and stay awhile.
Edley’s Bar-b-que
Edley’s is the go-to for Barbeque in 12 South. As you would expect, the smoked meats are amazing here and the sides are incredible as well.
Mafiaoza’s Pizzeria and Neighborhood Pub
Mafiaoza’s Pizzeria is everything you want in a pizza place. I’m still dreaming of the cheese bread, “The Tony.” Crispy thin crust topped with parmesan, mozzarella, feta and mixed herbs. Super delicious.
And you might’ve noticed, their menu is really fun as they have their food items named things like, “Brass Knuckles” or “The Brando.”
Five Daughters Bakery
Five Daughters Bakery is another place you must visit. Famous for their croissant style 100-layer doughnuts, these truly are melt in your mouth amazing. Interestingly, they keep things fresh by rotating out their flavors throughout the year. However, they do have their standard flavors that they keep year-round as well. A must try!
Here are some more restaurants we have on our list for the next time we visit:
-
The Buttermilk Ranch -Breakfast place
-
Josephine-Upscale dinner
-
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
This is a very popular neighborhood for good eats and there are always new restaurants coming in. For the most up to date list check this site out.
Where to get coffee in the 12 South neighborhood
Of course the trendy 12 South neighborhood has some amazing coffee places:
-
Frothy Monkey- Which could really be considered a restaurant as there is an amazing food menu along with superb coffee choices.
-
White Bison- Delicious coffee and deli choices for food (try the avocado bagel). This also is connected to Twice Daily which is a convenience store (minus gas pumps) for any practical items you may need.
-
Portland Brew- As you would expect with Portland in the name, the coffee is amazing here. Try the homemade granola, it’s divine.
Shopping in 12 South Neighborhood Nashville
White’s Mercantile
As you can imagine, the shops in 12 South are beyond adorable. And there are over 20 shops available here for you to find that perfect treasure to bring home.
My favorite has to be White’s Mercantile. The shop is owned by Holly, the daughter of Hank Williams Jr. and it’s full of unique items that you’ll actually use once you bring them home.
Amelia’s Flower Truck
You’ll have a hard time not buying a bouquet of flowers when visiting this cute little flower truck… Seriously though, your Airbnb/hotel will be that much prettier with some colorful flowers in it!
This is one of three Amelia’s flower trucks that are in rotation at a select location on certain days. However, it’s only in operation from March to November. You can check their schedule here.
When we visited, the truck was located in front of Imogene + Willie, a cute shop that specializes in denim and other clothing items. Definitely worth checking out this store as well.
Draper James
Of course you need to check out Reese Witherspoon’s store.
As you would expect, it’s fun seeing what Reese puts in her store. And yes, some things are pricey, but I was able to find a T-shirt for under $30. Worth it for me!
12 South neighborhood murals
Speaking of the Draper James store, you might’ve noticed the blue and white striped wall with the cute bench at the beginning of this post? It’s also right across from the “I Believe in Nashville” mural. You can take your selfie at one and turn around and snap one at the other one. Easy peasy.
You also might’ve also noticed the yellow fox mural earlier in this post as well? It’s one of the easier murals that you’ll find as it’s along the whole side of a building. The Serendipity Boutique is in this building as well. Another cute shop!
Some of the others are a little more challenging to find as they may be in a more secluded area. But I’m here to help you!
Here are some of the other murals in town:
The “Make Music Not War” and the flower mural are also right across from each other as well. So, another dual selfie spot. I love it when things are easy! These are located about a block from the White’s Mercantile shop.
Here are a few more Murals:
-
Nashville Predators Mural – located on the side of the White Bison coffee shop
-
“Nashville Looks Good on You” – located behind the Frothy Monkey coffee shop
-
“Looking pretty music city”- located on the side of the shop Madewell
Sevier Park
If you need to be in nature for a bit, head to Sevier Park. Located on the edge of town, (close to the White’s Mercantile shop) this is the perfect place be away from the hustle and bustle and relax.
The park has a farmer’s market in the summer months, a historical mansion, a community center and tennis courts. Furthermore, it’s also a nice place to bring your kiddos and dogs as well.
Definitely go for a stroll in Sevier Park to get your nature fix!
Final thoughts on the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville
Be sure to visit this cute town on your next visit to Nashville. Even better if you stay here! I promise you will love it!
If you liked this post, be sure to save it to your social media or Pinterest for later!
To read more about the whole trip, read: Minneapolis to Nashville Road Trip
12 South Neighborhood in Nashville
