The Holiday Lights at Cheekwood are truly one of Nashville’s most magical traditions, and for us, it’s a core memory that we’ll never forget. Imagine over a million lights draped across every inch of the gardens, transforming the entire estate into a glowing winter wonderland.
Bushes, trees, and flowerbeds shimmered in bold hues. Archways sparkled with twinkling lights. We found ourselves under glowing garlands, strolling past radiant floral displays that looked like cherry blossoms…only brighter, dreamier, more festive. A few steps later, we were standing under hanging poinsettia lights and watching them sway gently in the evening breeze. It was breathtaking.
The energy felt whimsical but still peaceful, like the holidays at their very best. Picnic tables dotted the walkways, inviting us to sit and take it all in. There were food trucks offering seasonal treats and s’mores kits, which we, of course, couldn’t resist. We grabbed a kit and some hot cocoa, then cozied up by a firepit to roast marshmallows under the lights. It was all incredibly romantic.
Inside the Cheekwood mansion, the magic continued. Every room was decorated top to bottom…from garlands wrapped around stair rails to fully adorned Christmas trees and mistletoe over doorways. A towering poinsettia tree stole the show, and the tables were dressed with such elegance it felt like stepping into a dream. We even got to explore an art exhibit called Snowbound by Walter Martin and Paloma Muñoz, which added an extra creative touch to the night.
From the glowing trees to the warm cocoa and s’mores, Holiday Lights at Cheekwood was more than an event…it was an experience that felt timeless. We soaked up every moment, and we still talk about it years later.
Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt: A Cozy Stay with a View of the Parthenon
After soaking in the lights at Cheekwood, we checked in to the Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt, right by Centennial Park. It was the perfect place to wind down after such a festive night. We could see the Parthenon from our balcony, lit up in bold red and green for the holidays. That alone made the room feel like it came with its own little piece of Christmas magic.
The hotel felt warm and welcoming. It wasn’t over-the-top or flashy, but it was clean, cozy, and just what we needed. The location was ideal. It gave us a quiet place to rest while still keeping us close to the heart of Nashville.
We settled in, kicked off our shoes, and reflected on the night with full hearts and happy bellies. It was the kind of peaceful ending that makes a good night even better.
Dinner at P.F. Chang’s: A Cozy Ending to a Festive Night
After checking in and settling into the hotel, we headed out for dinner at P.F. Chang’s. It’s a familiar favorite that always hits the spot, especially on a chilly winter night. We were still buzzing from the beauty of Cheekwood, and sitting down together with something warm and comforting felt just right.
The restaurant was softly lit, with that kind of low glow that makes everything feel slower and more intimate. We didn’t need anything fancy, just a moment to relax, share some good food, and talk about our favorite parts of the night.
It was the perfect way to wrap up a full, magical evening. Sometimes it’s not about finding the trendiest restaurant in town. It’s about the pause, the conversation, the familiar flavors, and the person sitting across from you.
Morning at Holiday Inn and a Quick Stop at Nashville West
We woke up to a quiet morning at the Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt, still feeling the glow of the night before. There’s something about waking up after a festive evening that makes even a simple hotel breakfast feel special. We grabbed a few things from the breakfast area and took our time, enjoying a slow start to the day.
Before heading out for more exploring, we made a quick stop at Nashville West Shopping Center. It wasn’t a major part of our trip, just one of those casual detours that ends up being surprisingly fun. We did a little browsing, stretched our legs, and enjoyed the relaxed pace of the morning.
It felt like a reset before jumping into the rest of our Nashville adventure.
Steadfast Coffee: That Time I Tried Coffee Soda
Next up was a stop at Steadfast Coffee, one of Nashville’s more unique coffee spots. We’re always on the hunt for fun new drinks to try, and this time I went for something bold…coffee soda. Imagine citrus, carbonated water, and coffee grounds all coming together in one fizzy glass.
I wanted to love it, but let’s just say it wasn’t quite my thing. Thankfully, the barista was incredibly kind and offered to make me something else. He even gave me a heads-up that coffee soda isn’t for everyone, which honestly made me feel better about it not being a favorite.
Trying something new, even if you don’t love it, is part of the adventure. And you know us, we never skip the chance to explore a good coffee shop.
Lunch at Le Sel: A Parisian Dream in the Heart of Nashville
For lunch, we made our way to Le Sel, a stylish French-inspired restaurant that had been recommended to us by Laura Gummerman. From the moment we stepped in, the atmosphere felt effortlessly chic…like stepping into a little corner of Paris.
We were seated in a space filled with soft light and elegant details. We sipped on refreshing still water, shared steak and eggs topped with velvety hollandaise, and ended the meal with a perfect crème brûlée that cracked just right with every spoonful. It was dreamy, memorable, and absolutely delicious.
Le Sel has since closed, and the location is now home to The Chef & I, a spot we’ve added to our list for a future visit. And fun fact: the building also houses Taylor Swift’s penthouse, which added a fun little twist to the experience.
Le Sel may be gone, but the magic of that lunch still lingers in our memories.
The Mall at Green Hills: A Familiar Finish
To wrap up our little getaway, we made one last stop at The Mall at Green Hills. This mall has become something of a tradition for us…a place we return to again and again. It’s not just about the stores, though those are always fun to browse. It’s the feeling of ease, the way we wander without any pressure or agenda.
After such a full couple of days, it was the perfect final stop. We walked through the familiar halls, talked about our favorite moments, and soaked in the last bit of Nashville before heading home.
It was a calm, comforting end to a magical little trip.
