A sign for The Hermitage Hotel graces a building under a blue awning in Nashville. In the background, the cityscape showcases both towering skyscrapers and historic architecture, blending old-world charm with modern elegance.

A Whimsical Weekend in Nashville

Published On : March 6, 2025 | Last Updated : March 29, 2025

Nashville, Tennessee, USA

Y’all, I just had the most magical birthday weekend in Nashville with my bestie Maddi! Let me tell you all about our adventures filled with sweet treats, amazing food, and the cutest spots around town.

View of Nashville city buildings through a window, showcasing a prominent skyscraper with distinctive spires under a cloudy sky. Rooftops and ventilation systems create an intricate foreground.

Golly G’s Coffee, Ice Cream, & Sweets in Pleasant View

Our journey kicked off at this absolute hidden gem – Golly G’s Coffee, Ice Cream, & Sweets in Pleasant View. Rich went for this incredible Affogato (I mean, ice cream and espresso? Name a more perfect combo!). I stuck with my go-to iced coffee, and honestly, it was just the perfect way to start our adventure.

Two people smiling and holding iced drinks topped with whipped cream and cherries in a charming Nashville cafe.

The Bankers Alley Hotel Nashville

Okay, can we talk about how amazing The Bankers Alley Hotel Nashville is? If you’ve ever stayed at a 21c Museum Hotel before (which is what it used to be), you know exactly what I’m talking about! The whole place is literally a 24/7 free contemporary art museum with the coolest designs everywhere you look. And y’all, our view? The iconic Batman building (AT&T tower) right from our window! It was absolutely perfect.

A man in a brown shirt and jeans stands with arms crossed in a well-lit Nashville hallway, accented by sleek geometric lighting.

A modern Nashville bathroom features a rectangular illuminated mirror, a sink with fresh towels, a shower-tub combo, and chic black hexagonal floor tiles. A person is faintly visible in the mirror reflection.

In a Nashville hotel bathroom, a lighted mirror reflects the essentials: sink, toiletries, and a hint of someone adjusting their hat. To the left, the bathtub awaits behind its shower curtain.

Brick alley with large black planters filled with lush greenery adds a touch of Nashville charm. Colored poles extend from the planters, while a rustic barrel decorates the cobblestone walkway. Adjacent buildings add to the picturesque scene.

A cozy Nashville bedroom features a bed, an armchair, and a large window that frames the city's skyline. A landscape painting adds charm to the decor, providing a serene contrast to the vibrant urban scene outside.

The Nashville hotel room features two beds, a desk with a chair, a TV, and a large window adorned with curtains. A person stands near the window, gazing at the vibrant cityscape.

This Nashville hotel room features two neatly made double beds, a cozy bedside table with a lamp between them, and a dark carpeted floor.

In a narrow Nashville alleyway between two brick buildings, metal scaffolding intertwines with ventilation pipes.

Gaze through the window to a stunning Nashville skyline, with a sleek gray chair perfectly positioned in the foreground.

Cityscape view through a window, showcasing Nashville's skyline with various buildings and a cloudy sky. The foreground includes rooftops and an air conditioning unit outside the window.

A brightly colored painting in a dimly lit alcove, depicting an abstract figure in a Nashville room with patterned walls, under a spotlight in a hallway.

An illuminated circular sign proudly displays the number 512 against a dark Nashville backdrop.

A close-up of a Nashville hotel room's interior featuring a bed with white pillows and a tall headboard with a mirror. A window with curtains and a wall-mounted picture are visible in the reflection.

Joyland Restaurant – East Nashville

We just HAD to take Maddi to Joyland Restaurant – Chef Sean Brock’s fast food spot that’s seriously next level. Those crustburgers and curly fries? Divine! Yes, it’s a bit pricier than your typical fast food, but trust me when I say it’s worth every penny.

The highlight of our evening was heading to Springfield for this incredibly meaningful benefit concert at Mystic Picnic Wine & Whiskey Bar. Sucre, Cory Hale Williams, and Teddy at Night absolutely killed it! The sweetest moment was when our friend Roy showed up to thank everyone for supporting Wendy’s cancer battle.

A Nashville twist on classic comfort: Enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich stacked with a juicy beef patty, served up with crispy curly fries in a red basket lined with white paper.

Smiling man in a grey shirt holds a glass, standing against a dark floral wallpapered background in a chic Nashville venue.

A dimly lit restaurant in Nashville features a large monstera plant in the foreground. Tables and people are visible in the background under colorful lighting.

Two musicians perform on stage with a keyboard and microphones, enveloped in Nashville's vibrant energy, surrounded by purple lighting and a gold tinsel backdrop.

Four sewer covers in Nashville painted with Pac-Man game elements, showcasing Pac-Man, a blue ghost, and dots. A person's feet in sneakers can be seen to the left.

Four Nashville musicians perform on stage with purple lighting, featuring guitarists and keyboard players. A decorative backdrop with gold fringe and arched wall panels completes the vibrant scene.

Night view through a window reveals a dimly lit room with a chair, while Nashville's bright city lights create an inviting glow outside.

The night view of Nashville's AT&T Building dazzles, showcasing its iconic twin spires brilliantly illuminated against the dark sky, surrounded by glimpses of the city's architectural marvels.

D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe

The next day started with the most amazing breakfast at D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe – their 2024 James Beard Awards Semifinalist status is totally deserved! Everything from their pastries to their breakfast sandwiches was absolutely perfect.

Rooftop view of an urban area with brick buildings and multiple exposed pipes, reminiscent of Nashville's skyline. A tall, pointed skyscraper stands proudly against the clear blue sky in the background.

A chair by the window offers a view of a distant building shaped like a tower, reminiscent of Nashville's skyline. Sunlight filters through, casting playful shadows on the curtains and floor.

Display of assorted pastries, including Nashville chocolate-covered, blueberry-topped, and cream-filled options, each labeled and priced in a glass case.

The hand holds a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and bacon on a round roll, reminiscent of Nashville's hearty morning fare, over a white plate on a wooden table.

A delightful selection of pastries graces the Nashville counter, featuring raspberry croissants at $5.95 alongside the famous DA Fritter for $4.75. Clear signs display each tempting treat's name and price.

A smiling man and woman snap a selfie inside a modern Nashville cafe, with the menu visible in the background. She sports a red polka dot top, while he dons a green shirt, capturing their fun outing in Music City.

A delightful Nashville twist on pastries features a croissant with egg, a raspberry pop tart, and a pink grapefruit cruffin, each elegantly priced.

A sugar-coated doughnut, reminiscent of a Nashville treat, sits on a white paper plate with another doughnut partially visible in the background.

Nashville bakery display featuring an array of pastries: sugared donuts, double butter croissants, and Meyer lemon loaves with glaze. Each treat is elegantly labeled with a price tag, inviting you to savor a taste of Southern charm.

A Nashville bakery display boasts an array of tempting pastries, featuring golden croissants, a rich chocolate delight, and a blueberry-infused treat topped with cream.

A Nashville-inspired pastry features thin layers, topped with green icing, fresh blueberries, powdered sugar, and a swirl of purple and white cream, all elegantly presented on a pristine white plate.

A sugar-coated doughnut rests on a plate alongside a blue coffee cup adorned with "da" letters, all set on a rustic wooden table indoors. This cozy Nashville setting invites you to savor every bite and sip.

A pastry on a white plate, topped with Nashville's finest blueberries and dollops of purple and white cream. The treat flaunts a green and golden-brown striped design.

The Hermitage Hotel Nashville

Then we wandered into the Hermitage Hotel and y’all, I literally gasped! It was so gorgeous that Maddi wanted to book us a room right then and there (how sweet is she? ). Check out our dedicated blog post for more details on our stay at the Hermitage. The opulent decor and lavish ambiance made it clear that this was the perfect place for a luxurious anniversary weekend experience. We strolled through the grand lobby, admiring the intricate designs and stunning artwork that adorned the walls. Each detail seemed to whisper tales of elegance and hospitality, making me even more excited for our upcoming adventures.

The elegant interior of a grand Nashville dining room features an ornate stained glass ceiling, decorative arches, chandeliers, and classic furnishings.

An elegant room in Nashville features an ornate ceiling with stained glass panels and decorative moldings, flanked by arched windows and chandeliers.

A vintage rotary phone with a brass receiver and dial sits charmingly on a marble surface, resembling an artifact from old Nashville, accompanied by a yellow notepad.

A vintage rotary telephone with brass accents sits on a marble surface next to a yellow notepad, evoking the charm of Nashville's timeless elegance.

A woman holding a coffee cup strolls past a marble staircase in an ornate Nashville building, adorned with arched ceilings and stained glass.

A man in a green shirt beams in front of a wall adorned with framed artworks, capturing the essence of Nashville with images of a musical instrument and a bird.

A marble-topped console table features an antique telephone, a modern lamp, and three framed art pieces on a gray wall: a giraffe, musical instruments, and a piano keyboard. This eclectic setup brings a touch of Nashville's vibrant charm to any room.

Ornate vintage U.S. Mail letter box with brass detailing and a lion padlock, mounted on a wall with Nashville marble accents.

A silver plaque featuring a pineapple design and the text "LEGEND Preferred Hotels & Resorts" is elegantly mounted on a marble wall with gray, white, and gold veining. This exquisite piece captures the essence of luxury reminiscent of Nashville's renowned hospitality.

The hotel hallway in Nashville features beige walls and carpet, softly illuminated by ceiling lights. Doors line both sides, guiding you to your destination, while a prominent red exit sign glows above the door at the end, assuring safety and ease of navigation.

A vintage rotary telephone with a brass and wood design, adorned with an eagle emblem, sits elegantly on a marble tabletop—perfect for adding a touch of Nashville charm to your decor.

The ornate interior, reminiscent of Nashville's grand charm, features a stained glass ceiling, decorative arches, chandeliers, and a large mirror above the fireplace.

A woman in a red polka dot shirt and a man in a green shirt stand smiling in a grand room with large windows and decorative plants, exuding the warm charm often found in Nashville's finest venues.

The elegant Nashville hotel lobby features an ornate stained glass ceiling, chandeliers, and classical architectural details. Plush seating alongside decorative plants enhances the sophisticated ambiance, making it a luxurious retreat in the heart of Music City.

The Tennessee state flag waves proudly outside The Hermitage Hotel entrance in Nashville, with red and white cars parked on the street below.

Nashville's historic building boasts a stunning stained glass ceiling with intricate patterns nestled within a white, ornately decorated coffered structure and archways.

Triple Crown Bakery – Franklin, TN

You know Maddi and I couldn’t resist hitting up Anthropologie in Franklin (our shared obsession!). But the absolute highlight? Finally experiencing tea time at Triple Crown Bakery! Little Abigail would be absolutely squealing right now – it was everything I dreamed it would be and more. For just $18 for Tea for 2 (and Rich even got to join in!), it was the most whimsical, magical experience. The charm and aesthetics were just chef’s kiss.

Because we’re slightly Anthropologie obsessed (okay, maybe more than slightly), we had to hit up the Hill Center Green Hills location too. No regrets!

In a warmly decorated Nashville room adorned with framed pictures, a woman with long hair sips from a gray cup, wearing her vibrant red polka dot shirt.

Mini cake with white frosting and blueberries on top, placed on a decorative plate, evokes a touch of Nashville charm. Next to it, a gray teapot and a partially visible cup with milk invite you for a cozy moment. A tray with a pastry rests in the background, completing this delightful scene.

A person in a red polka dot shirt sits at a table with a teapot and dessert topped with blueberries in front of them, evoking the cozy charm of a Nashville café. Framed pictures adorn the wall behind, capturing stories in glimpses.

In a cozy Nashville cafe, a woman in a red polka-dot shirt savors a cookie at her table. Behind her, a teapot, cup, and picture frames add to the charming ambiance.

A Nashville bakery display case boasts an array of cakes, cupcakes, and pastries across multiple shelves. Delicate glass domes cover some treats, while a menu board peeks out from the right side, inviting locals and visitors alike to indulge in southern sweetness.

A display case in Nashville showcases assorted cakes and cupcakes, featuring chocolate and vanilla varieties. Each treat is neatly labeled with a price and description, capturing the Southern charm in every bite.

A layered cake with blueberries sits elegantly on a decorative plate, reminiscent of a charming Nashville café setting. Nearby, a ceramic white teapot and a small dessert on a tray with a spoon complete the inviting scene.

A wall clock is surrounded by decorative teacups, echoing the charm of a Nashville café. Below, a wooden surface displays various candles in jars, teapots, and potted plants. A window to the right bathes everything in natural light.

A display case in Nashville showcases a variety of pastries, including muffins, lemon bread, and cinnamon roll bread pudding, all neatly labeled behind a clear barrier.

A cozy Nashville corner features a floral-patterned armchair and table. Decorative plates and framed pictures adorn the light pink walls, while a small flower arrangement adds charm to the scene.

A cozy corner with a white table, surrounded by elegant chairs reminiscent of Nashville charm. Walls adorned with framed photos and decorative plates, set against a soft pink backdrop. Sunlight filters through lace-curtained windows, creating a warm Southern glow.

A person in a green shirt smiles warmly, holding a lavender teapot while seated at a table in Nashville, surrounded by decorative plates adorning the walls.

Ceiling light fixture with a circular design echoes the eclectic spirit of Nashville, crafted from metal spoons surrounding three exposed bulbs, viewed from below.

In a cozy Nashville café, a person in a green shirt humorously sips from a teapot at a table set with dishes and cups. Decorative plates adorn the wall, adding charm, while a server stands in the background.

Decorative plates arranged above a mantel with various teapots, a tiered cake, and antique lamps create a charming Nashville-inspired display. Butterfly ornaments accent the decor.

A red velvet chair sits by a round marble table with a small flower vase, evoking the charm of Nashville. Decorative plates are displayed on the pale wall.

A fireplace mantel adorned with a cake, candlestick holders, and assorted decorative items evokes a touch of Nashville charm. Plates with floral and scenic designs are arranged on the wall above in a swirling pattern.

Tea is served in a blue cup and saucer set, accompanied by an hourglass and cookies on a tray, capturing the charming essence of a Nashville afternoon.

In a cozy corner of the room with pink walls, an assortment of framed photos and decorative plates tell stories. A small marble table, floral chair, and vase with flowers complete the scene, echoing the eclectic charm reminiscent of Nashville's artistic soul.

Amidst the floral decor of a Nashville café, a person in a green shirt sips tea. A slice of cake and cookies tempt from the table, alongside a charming teapot and pink flowers.

This cozy Nashville corner features a white round table, assorted chairs, and decorative plates adorning pink walls. A small vase with pink flowers adds a charming touch to the scene.

A small layered cake with white frosting, topped with blueberries and white pearls, sits on a decorative plate beside a Nashville-themed teapot.

A distinctive chandelier crafted from spoons and teacups adds charm, while decorative plates don the pink walls, creating a unique ambiance reminiscent of Nashville's eclectic style.

Pink flowers in focus on a table by a window, overlooking a bustling Nashville street scene. Two people stroll along the sidewalk, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

In a Nashville clothing store with wooden floors and brick walls, a man in a green shirt stands beside a woman in a red polka dot shirt holding a shopping bag.

True Food Kitchen – Green Hills

We wrapped up our weekend at True Food Kitchen, and wow – talk about fresh! This physician-founded spot serves the most amazing farm-to-table dishes. Their menu changes all the time, but everything is just so fresh and delicious.

Y’all, this weekend was absolutely everything. Getting to share these moments with my bestie Maddi made it even more special. Nashville never disappoints, but experiencing it with your best friend? That’s pure magic! ✨