Within close proximity to downtown, but with an atmosphere all of its own, you’ll find the Gulch. The area began as the site of Nashville’s bustling railroad yard pre-Civil War and was sparsely occupied for the 50 years following World War II, until MarketStreet began its revitalization in the early 2000s.
Need to know
In 2001, Metro Nashville designated MarketStreet as the master developer of the Gulch, the only designation like it in the city’s history. Today, the district holds the title of the first LEED-ND certified neighborhood in the South and boasts 490 daily bus trips at 16 stops within a quarter-mile walk, seven art installations, and a portfolio of nearly 100 retailers and restaurants.
Eat + drink
From local stops to first-to-market national concepts, the Gulch’s diverse hospitality lineup makes it difficult to fault your group for responding, “I’m up for anything.” So, allow us to help you narrow down some options.
- Breakfast or lunch? Why not both. Vui’s Juice Café serves the two meals all day long. Land on a sandwich, salad, toast, or bowl — and don’t forget to grab the blue açaí bowl and a heart beet juice to bring home.
- If the group doesn’t want to settle on one thing, head to The Iberian Pig for Spanish tapas. Pro tip: We recommend making a reservation first.
- Happy hour at Marsh House (Monday-Friday, 5-7 p.m.) is a must with its $1.50 oysters.
- If your phone always eats first, get 270-degree rooftop views at PROOF.
- Try this: 16+ beers on tap and weekly trivia at Marble Fox Brewing Company
Shop
With a nearly perfect Walk Score, shopping really can be your cardio for the day when you choose to browse Gulch storefronts.
- Refresh your living by booking a complimentary design service with the Design Within Reach team, which includes one-on-one consultations, in-home visits, and 3D renderings of your spaces.
- Schedule a group bar experience at Rustler Hat Co. to customize your own unique piece.
- For a full day of relaxation and wellness, get a facial and stock up on products from Face Foundrié, squeeze in a manicure at VSL Nail Spa, and end the day with a blowout from The Blowout Co.
- In search of a last-minute, yet thoughtful gift? Stop into Sercy + Co for ready-to-ship curated gift boxes. Go the extra mile by selecting one filled with local products.
- Revamp your closet for the new season by flipping through the racks at e.Allen Boutique.
Entertainment
Whether you want to unleash your competitive side, put the music in Music City, or let your furry friend tag along on your adventure, you’ve got options.
- Challenge the group to 9-hole, tech-infused mini golf at Puttshack.
- There’s no need to leave Fido at home. Grab your pup a treat from Pet Wants before burning some energy on the Gulch Greenway or at the Gulch Dog Park. Then, cool off with a beer and some ping pong at Hi-Wire Brewing (it’s pet-friendly, even inside).
- Play arcade games, Foosball, giant Jenga, and more at Pins Mechanical Company. Pro tip: Kids bow free and get a soda on Shorty Sundays.
- Hear live tunes at Rudy’s Jazz Room, The Station Inn, and Cannery Hall.
Where to live
If you’re sold + looking to buy a home in the area, here are a couple housing options currently on the market:
- 1002 Division St., Apt. 405 | 1BD, 1BA | $449,900 | Condo with 10-ft ceilings, controlled-access garage, and fitness room
- 600 12th Ave. S., Apt. 302 | 2BD, 2BA | $799,000 | Condo with a large covered patio and artificial turf, California Closets, and two assigned parking spots
If you want to test the waters before the big purchase, here’s a look at some rentable spaces:
- VRBO: A cozy condo with a saltwater pool
- Apartments: 10 stories with open concept floor plans and amenities like a rooftop sky deck and podcast room (Aspire) + winner of the 2023 LIVE Award by Nashville Downtown Partnership and home to Prickly Pear Coffee Co. (Albion in the Gulch)
