Park the car and visit one of Nashville's most walkable neighborhoods, historic Germantown — which is just over one mile north of downtown. Whether you're watching the Sounds hit one out of First Horizon Park or grabbing produce from the Nashville Farmers Market next to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, this quaint neighborhood has a lot to offer.

Need to know

You’re not the only one with your eyes set on Germantown. According to Niche, the neighborhood is the No. 3 best neighborhood to buy a house in Music City. It scored an A+ rating on the Niche report card, specifically noted for being a good place for families and having a great nightlife scene.

Let's not forget the bragging rights. Germantown is recognized as Nashville's first suburb, became a registered Historic District in 1979, and was designated a city arboretum by the Nashville Tree Foundation for the 100+ species of trees that grow there.

Does this 1880-1885 version of Germantown look a little different? | Photo via the Tennessee State Library Archives

The early days

James McGavock and his son David came to the area in 1786 and purchased 2,240 acres of land on both sides of the Cumberland River. The land was later divided and the little slice of Nashville got its first taste of residential development — and we know how this story goes, it hasn't slowed since.

Germantown gets its name for the European immigrants who settled there in the 1850s. The neighborhood was built and developed, primarily consisting of brick style homes, many of which still stand and contribute to the neighborhood's lasting charm + rich history today.

Can't miss

Don't forget to pencil in this route. You can't take a stroll over to Germantown without first stopping at Von Elrod's outdoor patio for a midday brew on tap — we like the Wanderlinger Blackbeary Hug Sour from our friends in Chattanooga (hey, NOOGAtoday). From there, mosey over to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park to get your steps in, listen to the bells, and take in the fall colors as the sun sets. Cap off your evening with a concert just down the street at Brooklyn Bowl.

Shop

Unlike Green Hills, you may not initially associate Germantown as a Nashville shopping district. However, the quaint shops that line the neighborhood's streets are some of Editor Skylar's go-to stops when she needs a curated gift.

Shopping for someone new in town? The Golden Slipper is your one-stop shop for home goods, plus, consider creating a signature private label candle.
We wouldn't forget about the foodies. Spread, a new neighborhood market, offers a selection of wines, beers, ciders, and homemade jams.
Bits & Pieces makes being your neighborhood fashionista easy. Shop the boutique's fall collection now + don't forget to stock up on unique stationary for upcoming celebrations.

Take advantage of ample outdoor seating as the weather allows. | Photo by NASHtoday

Eat + drink

From James Beard Award-winning restaurants to outdoor patios with sprawling views, Germantown is a great neighborhood for a truly local dining experience.

Butchertown Hall boasts an aesthetically modern style while serving up the best of Texas-style barbecue and craft tacos — accompanied by a house margarita, of course.
Rolf and Daughters brings new American dishes to an industrially-chic environment.
Speaking of industrial vibes, Monday Night Brewing is housed in an abandoned factory, serving up 24 draft beer offerings — many of which you'll find in other taprooms throughout Nashville.
We're optimistic you'll fall in love with The Optimist. The restaurant offers all of the charm historic Germantown has to offer while giving you a taste of the coast. Expect seafood from lobster and snapper to chowder and hushpuppies.

Entertainment

Germantown offers a well-balanced mix of fairly-quiet suburban living with ample things to do and see.

Star Rover Sound is one of the area's newest additions, showcasing local talent in a listening room-esque environment. Forget basic bar food, chow down at the taqueria-inspired snack bar.
Home of the Nashville Sounds since 2015, First Horizon Park is a year-round destination outside of baseball season, boasting various events from festivals to shows. Pro tip: Get a bird's eye view of home runs from Tailgate Brewery Germantown's outdoor patio, which overlooks the stadium.
A history buff's dream, the Tennessee State Museum offers temporary and permanent exhibitions, featured events and programs + special kids activities along with a children's gallery.

Getting around

Did we mention just how walkable Germantown is? The neighborhood rates "very walkable" on Walk Score. If you are traveling by car, much of Germantown is street parking-friendly (just be sure you're reading street signs carefully). Additionally, here are some public parking lot options:

Tea Lot, 801 2nd Ave. N.
Eagle Parking, 95 Van Buren St.
State Lot East, 450 James Robertson Pkwy.

Where to live

If you’re sold + looking to buy a home in the area, here are some housing options currently on the market:

1070B 2nd Ave. S. #B | 2 BD, 2 BA | $517,500 | This 1,032-sqft townhome offers an outdoor living space on each floor + over $40,000 in upgrades.
1330 3rd Ave. N. | 4 BD, 5 BA | $1,740,000 | A brownstone with 2,255 sqft of living, two attached garage spaces, and a chef's kitchen.
601 Madison St. #101 | 1 BD, 1 BA | $600,00 | The Elliot School flat is located just across the street from Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park + offers a fitness facility, library lounge, and gated gardens.