Downtown

NYC transplant JOHN RAIH is setting down roots in his downtown digs despite just arriving in town this June. Even during the pandemic, he's managed to explore Nashville and find some favorite spots near his home in the 505 building. Here, the co-founder of influencer marketing and capital raising firm SIX DEGREES, LLC., says he’s never felt locked-down during the pandemic—with soaring views from floor to ceiling windows providing a constant connection to the city below. A social planner by nature, he's hosting his first fundraiser this year—and everyone reading this article is invited. Watch SPOTFUND for information and ticket details.

WHY DOWNTOWN: It’s the best entry point for any newcomer. It’s central with easy access to every other district. Instead of picking a more isolated spot blindly—I can explore all of them and be in the center of all the growth. I’m especially looking forward to the FOUR SEASONS HOTEL opening as well

FUELING THE MACHINE: The BOBBY HOTEL lobby serves the best coffee, and I often start the day with a smoothie from E+ROSE WELLNESS. Stocking up on sustenance is convenient with the new WHOLE FOODS nearby. When I want to indulge, tacos at BAKERSFIELD and pizza from DONATO’S are favorites. To serve my sweet tooth, PUCKETT’S deep-fried brownie sundae is a must. For a fun brunch, THE HAMPTON SOCIAL is a great spot— perfect for all the Instagram warriors, by the way.

E + Rose Wellness

WORKOUT WARRIOR: I run Capitol Hill or along the Greenway, over the river, around NISSAN STADIUM (go TITANS— unless they’re playing my brother’s teamthe Arizona Cardinals), and do wind sprints going up the Pedestrian Bridge followed by stretching to cool down at the top. The reward is a postcard view of the city from above the river. I’ve also found fitness help with ‘trainer to the stars’ TOMMY HUNKA, SHED workouts in the Gulch, and BOOTHCAMP.

FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC: I found a hidden treasure in the acoustic performances on the rooftop of OLE RED. For a date night, I love live music at THE LISTENING ROOM. Pre-pandemic, dancing would usually follow, but the current environment feels a little like Footloose (no dancing allowed)! Another perk of living downtown is being a block away from the RYMAN and within walking distance of another fantastic venue, ASCEND AMPHITHEATER. I’ve quickly learned how friendly and approachable people seem to be, and I have taken note that if someone is wearing cowboy boots, they’re probably a tourist.

Hotel Hotspots

Suppose you want to try something (anything) new. All that’s required is looking at the array of top-name hotel openings…or the amenities increasing at the existing hotels making improvements, such as the OMNI HOTEL. They are offering prime customer status to all visitors that extends to any Omni property, anywhere. Talk about an incentive! The FAIRLANE HOTEL is now home to the first location for the CHEESE GAL, the wildly popular tasting-board creator (we adore) that took Instagram by storm last year. This hotel is also boasting about the opening of the swoonworthy, pop-up dining experience from entertaining guru MOLLY MARTIN of JUNIPER GREEN through January. For private parties, GRAND HYATT

THE JOSEPH THE GULCH

it might just be your new go-to. THE JOSEPH HOTEL’S opening raised the bar in hospitality, bringing a globally renowned art collection, award level dining options, and a 5-star recognition in association with THE LUXURY COLLECTION. On Broadway, the GRAND HYATT is making waves with open-air spaces on multiple high-level decks and event spaces suited to host even the largest events. THE CONTINENTAL, SEAN BROCK’S latest brainchild, is reason enough to step into the gorgeous lobby for a peek at the hotel’s modern design. Just like John, we can’t wait for the opening of the FOUR SEASONS HOTEL. The residential units within the hotel are selling like wildfire, with prices increasing as demand builds. Downtown living options are also drawing well-heeled newcomers to BROADWEST, a development considered to be modern but traditionally tasteful with too many onsite bonuses to mention.

GRAND HYATT