Exploring Nashville: A Fusion of Culture and Technology
The first time I visited Nashville, I was on a road trip from Chattanooga to New Orleans, and this city, with all of its music, food, and character, sat right in the center of our itinerary—a perfect gateway between southern cultural flavors—musical, culinary, architectural, and historic.
I returned recently and found that Nashville had changed, not just due to the pandemic, which affected every part of America. In fact, rather than being shuttered and quiet, I discovered it to be louder, busier, and filled with considerably more tourists than just a few years prior. The hotel where I stayed was bustling with guests.
Nashville’s “transportainment” industry, which was an occasional nuisance during my first trip, has now become ubiquitous. The parade of party vehicles—flatbed trailers, vintage tractors, beheaded school buses, retrofitted campers—filled with flashing colored lights, alcohol, and celebrating bachelor and bachelorette parties, seemed to pass every five to ten minutes, inviting anyone unfortunate enough to be walking down the street to join in with a cheerful hoot.
This time, my perspective on these tourist activities shifted as I wasn’t exactly just a visitor. My previous trip had revolved around barbecue and bar-hopping on Broadway, but this time was more about work. I was visiting a local office for the first time, a reflection of the significant changes in Nashville.
Nashville: A Transforming City
Music City remains, but it has undeniably evolved into a tech town. Legacy technology firms like Amazon, Dell, and Oracle have established offices here, alongside newer Internet companies such as Houzz, Eventbrite, and Postmates. This growth has spurred the rapid redevelopment of downtown-adjacent neighborhoods like The Gulch, where mirrored skyscrapers and luxury hotels overshadow the quaint, single-story venues like Station Inn, renowned for its bluegrass music. Simultaneously, conversations surrounding gentrification are alive and vital as newcomers flock here for job opportunities and the allure of living near an iconic American entertainment hub.
The Aertson Hotel
The Aertson Hotel, where I enjoyed my most recent stay, embodies the spirit of this Nashville moment. Clearly designed for two key demographics—country musicians and tech professionals—it strikes a balance between elegance and comfort. Ideally located just a few steps from Music Row, the hotel resonates more with the daily rhythm of work than the glittering distractions found on Broadway, where tourism often overshadows the essence of the music industry.
This hotel offers a luxurious stay without the extraneous rhinestones. Here’s a glimpse into what makes The Aertson a unique retreat—perfect for professionals and music lovers alike.
The Vibe and Atmosphere
The Aertson seamlessly combines elegance with warmth, featuring industrial designs like concrete ceilings and metal finishes while providing comfort through inviting seating, stitched leather, and wooden accents. Selecting a suite grants you additional space, complete with a soaking tub and a kitchenette for added convenience.
The Crowd
During your stay, expect to meet polished young professionals, many seeking business opportunities or weekend getaways. At Henley, the hotel restaurant, you will find this same refined crowd—well-heeled and discerning about food and drink, eager to enjoy a quality experience away from the more commercial attractions in the city.
Culinary Delights
Henley presents new American cuisine with a French influence. Favorites like burgers, wings, and meatloaf are elevated, showcasing upscale innovations (the meatloaf is duck; the wings are smoked). The intimate lighting provides a cozy ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day—ideal before you venture into the vibrant nightlife of Nashville. A refreshing option to try here is the house gin and tonic, featuring the French aperitif Suze paired with a salted grapefruit tarragon shrub and orange bitters for an invigorating touch.
Prime Location
Nestled between Music Row and Vanderbilt University, this quieter area keeps you close to the excitement while allowing you to escape the noise of party buses and neon lights. When you’re ready to dive into the action, a rideshare can whisk you away to the Country Music Hall of Fame or your next honky-tonk in about ten minutes.
Exploring the Neighborhood
While at The Aertson, exploring Music Row is essential. Look for banners and signs from music publishers, congratulating emerging songwriters on their recent hits and accomplishments. Centrally located is historic RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Chet Atkins recorded iconic music. Tours of the studio are available and provide an immersive look into Nashville’s rich musical heritage.
Affordability
Room rates at The Aertson typically range from $180 to $250 for entry-level options, providing an excellent value for such a prime location.
Accessibility Features
The Aertson Hotel ensures inclusivity with wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities. There are also adaptations available for guests who need them, including visual alarms, door knock alerts, Braille signage, and more. Service animals are welcome, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to providing a comfortable environment for all guests.
