Nashville, TN- Travel Diary
My southern-style suitcase is fully packed, peppermint tea in hand, I’m about to head to Nashville for a week of sun, southern shopping & style, and a little mindset magic. Between exploring the city, indulging in chic cafés, discovering hidden boutiques, and attending a workshop on beliefs, the brain, and connecting with the universe, this trip promises to be packed with inspiration. Rather than a traditional guide, I wanted to share it as a travel diary — day by day, capturing the energy, the outfits, the moments, and the little discoveries that made each day feel so alive. Consider this your front-row seat to a jam-packed week in Nashville City. This is my Nashville Travel Diary…
I’ve never really explored this part of the United States before. Nashville, of course, is famous for its Music City energy and country tunes — not all of which are my vibe — but there’s a rhythm to the city that’s just magnetic. Beyond the music, the restaurants are incredible, and the cafés… well, discovering chic cafés is honestly one of my favourite parts of any trip. I’ve linked my master list of must-visit spots — maybe some of Nashville’s hidden gems will make it in. And, of course, I can’t resist a little southern-style shopping, which I already know is going to be unforgettable. I have a rough itinerary planned, but I always leave room for spontaneity, and a little divine nudge of course! I can’t wait to write out my Nashville travel diary throughout this trip..
At the end of this post, I’ve put together a curated roundup of all my favourite moments, must-visit spots, and my list for next time. If you’re just skimming or looking for a quick guide, scroll down to the bottom—you’ll find everything beautifully highlighted in stylish call-out columns for easy reference to help you effortlessly plan your trip with the best spots.…
Nashville Travel Diary
Day One: Arrival + Dinner in the Gulch
We landed in Nashville around 4 p.m., and our friends, who live a few hours away who came to spend the weekend with us, picked us up from the airport. Our Airbnb was right in the heart of downtown, which immediately gave me all the city energy I’d been dreaming of! First stop was cocktails at Proof, a Rooftop Bar at the top of W Nashville Hotel which is an iconic Hotel downtown! Loved this spot, stunning views, great vibe! That evening, we had plans to dine at The V Modern Italian in the Gulch — a spot I’d been anticipating for weeks and had booked a month in advance.
Proof Rooftop Bar & V Modern Italian
Truthfully, it was a bit of a letdown. The service was chaotic, the noise level was overwhelming, and while it’s meant to be lively and fun, it just didn’t land at all. I probably wouldn’t return or recommend it, but sometimes even the hypeiest spots can miss the mark.
That said, I’m choosing to move past it because tomorrow promises a southern shopping day, and I can already feel the Southern style and chic finds calling my name. For now, it’s early to bed, a deep sleep, and all the excitement for a day full of exploration, boutiques, and a little style work tomorrow which of course I will share all of.
Day Two: Brunch, 12 South Shopping & Dinner at Harpers
We started off the morning with breakfast at Liberty Common, a cute, popular brunch spot that did not disappoint — solid food, cozy vibes, I had a delicious avocado toast. Afterward, we made our way to 12 South, which quickly became one of my absolute favourite little shopping districts.
12 South is a charming street stretch packed with chic boutiques, stylish cafes, and perfect little spots to grab a coffee (or two) and do some southern shopping in style. Of course, I couldn’t resist Reformation, where I did a little haul that I’ve already shared over on the blog — everything I picked up is linked here if you want the full scoop and haul. Beyond that, we popped into Suzanne, Buck Mason, Georgiana’s, and LoveShackFancy, soaking in all the Southern style and charm. Honestly, 12 South was the highlight of the day — a mix of style, charm, and all the good finds you could ask for. If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, this is absolutely the spot I’d recommend first.
Reformation Try on & Haul 12 South
Buck Mason 12 South
That evening, we wrapped up with dinner at Harper’s Steakhouse, a highly rated spot downtown, and it truly lived up to the hype. The vibes were perfect, the service impeccable, and the food absolutely delicious. I had one of the best tuna tartars I’ve ever tasted, and the whole experience was just so much fun — the perfect ending to a full day of shopping and exploring. I would totally go back to Harper’s again!
Harpers Steakhouse
Day Three: Hermitage Hotel, The Gulch, and a Whole Foods Haul
Monday morning was a bit bittersweet — our weekend friends were heading home — but we squeezed in one last magical experience together. We met them at The Hermitage Hotel, which is honestly a must-visit whether you’re staying there or just exploring. This first million-dollar hotel in Nashville is absolutely stunning — the architecture, the lobby, the details in every corner, just breathtaking. I even spotted the cutest stuffed animal of my Cavaliers in the gift shop — it’s divine how I always seem to find them everywhere, even in Italy!
The Hermitage Hotel
Breakfast was at The Pink Hermit, a whimsical pink café inside the hotel. Picture pink tea mugs, healthy, delicious options, and — wait for it — pink toilets in the girls’ bathroom. It was a little slice of heaven and an Instagram dream. They also do an incredible happy hour where all three restaurants have each a signature cocktail and appetizer called Hour 1969…
The Pink Hermit Cafe
After our chic morning, we headed down to The Gulch, another iconic Nashville district packed with cute boutiques, trendy restaurants, and just a wonderful downtown vibe. I scored a pair of earrings and a few other finds while enjoying the easy-to-navigate mix of shops, including Urban Outfitters, and even found a smoothie and juice bar to keep fueled.
By the late afternoon, we returned to our Airbnb for a little rejuvenation — the last few days had been full-on, and a quiet evening felt perfect. Later that afternoon we headed out for a whole foods haul, veggies, fruit, and steak to make a cozy dinner at home! Which was just what we needed to recharge for another day of cafe exploring, shopping, and a luxurious dinner reservation that I am so excited about…
Whole Foods Haul, Downtown Nashville
Day Four: Café Babu, Green Hills Shopping, and the Dreamiest Dinner
We started the day with a visit to Café Babu (this was on my list to checkout), a sun-drenched, Mediterranean-style retreat tucked away in Chestnut Hill. The adobe-inspired design creates a welcoming, desert-chic ambiance—rustic rocky walls, cozy minimalism, and space curated for conversation and slow mornings. I tried what may be the best matcha I’ve ever had—its vibrant, verdant hue and unmistakably authentic flavour made every sip feel indulgent and intentional.
Cafe Babu
From there, we wandered through The Mall at Green Hills, Nashville’s refined shopping destination. The rain made it the perfect afternoon to stroll through luxury boutiques, discover unique pieces, and soak up a little retail therapy.
But the real highlight of the day was dinner at the Restoration Hardware Courtyard Restaurant. Imagine stepping into a grand, glass-ceilinged atrium where natural light pours in by day and soft glows take over by night. A literal fountain anchors the space, surrounded by lush trees, greenery, and elegant chandeliers overhead. Dining here feels like being inside the courtyard of a European mansion—completely transporting. The food was just as dreamy as the setting, but honestly, the ambiance stole the show. It was one of those experiences where you don’t just eat—you savour, you linger, you’re inspired. I love that they have the showrooms open to walk through and see all the furniture and interior designs, it’s such a cool concept!
Restoration Hardware Courtyard Cafe
We left feeling full, inspired, and in awe that a furniture gallery could create such a magical dining moment. Definitely one of my favourite dinners so far and I can’t wait to go to another RH Courtyard Restaurant.
Day Five: Café-Hopping and Franklin Charm
Today was all about chasing beautiful spaces and savouring new flavours. We started at Café Lola, and let me just say—I was instantly obsessed. It’s a European-inspired café with a gelato bar by day and cocktail lounge by night—the kind of place that transforms with the hours. Next door is One Garage, a membership-only co-working space that is as chic as it is serene. High ceilings, thoughtfully designed interiors, and endless natural light made me think, If I lived in Nashville, I’d definitely have a membership here. It just felt like the perfect balance of productivity and style.
Cafe Lola
From there, we headed about 25 minutes out of the city to explore Franklin—and I can officially say it’s one of the most charming little towns I’ve ever visited. Rolling farmland surrounds it, but the downtown is full of character: tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and darling boutiques. I picked up the most stunning perfume at Anthropologie that felt like the perfect keepsake from this stop.
Franklin, TN
But the highlight of Franklin was lunch at Perenne—an effortlessly chic riverside café that I’m already planning to return to (and spoiler: I did). We ordered Turkish eggs, which were divine, and a cinnamon bun croissant that might just live rent-free in my mind forever. Sitting there I was just so inspired by everything that Perenne was, surrounded by so much charm and chicness. It felt like one of those this is why I travel moments, to see places like this done so well-it really inspires me!
Cafe Perenne
After wandering Franklin’s adorable downtown, we wrapped the day with a group dinner for everyone attending the Mastermind. It was the perfect way to transition into the next chapter of this trip—shifting from exploring southern style to diving into mindset, beliefs, and big-picture conversations about life and purpose. An early night in was in order, because tomorrow the real work (and magic) begins for the first day of the event.
Day Six: Shifting Perspectives
We were up super early this morning, making the 25-minute drive from our downtown Nashville Airbnb back into Franklin. Funny enough, we didn’t realize when booking that the entire event would be hosted in Franklin—but honestly, I didn’t mind one bit. The drive itself was beautiful: rolling farmland, morning light stretching across the hills, and that quiet stillness that only comes before the day really begins. It felt like the perfect reset before diving into such a full day.
And full it was. From morning to evening, the sessions were packed, thought-provoking, and honestly a lot to take in. I’ll probably be processing and implementing these lessons for weeks to come. But if I had to distill my biggest takeaway from today it was this…
It all comes down to perspective. Your perspective shapes your beliefs, and your beliefs shape the reality you create. Realizing that perspective is power—that the way you choose to see something directly impacts the life you’re living and what your creating—this is everything! Your perspective controls your position in life, and when you control your perspective, that is power. Shifting how you see things literally shifts where you stand, and it made me realize just how much influence we have over the way our lives unfold and how we see everything.
Day Seven: Redefining Failure
The final day of the event. Naturally, it started with another stop at Perenne Bakery—because I couldn’t head back to Canada without one last perfect Perenne matcha and yes, another cinnamon bun croissant!
Cafe Perenne
Today, the main message that landed for me was all about failure. Failure will always seem scary, but it’s also an upgrade. It doesn’t fact check you; it means exactly what you believe it means. If you think failure means you’re a failure, then that’s what you becomes. But if you see it as a step closer to success, then that’s exactly what it is. The lessons we pull from failure are priceless—they’re the very blueprint for success.
One thing that really struck me: if you take guilt from failure too far, it turns into shame. Shame is one of the lowest frequencies to live in, because it carries the belief that something is wrong with you. Recognizing that difference felt like such a powerful shift. There should be no shame felt from failure.
The event was incredible – so much to take in, integrate and work on internally! But that’s what life is all about, the ever lasting game of leveling up! I really do believe that life can be looked at as a game, you can reach new levels, and achieve incredible things all through self work and the advancements made internally within your own conciousness.
Tonight we are shifting gears a little bit and heading to a comedy show back in downtown Nashville! Tomorrow is our last official day here, so one last cafe and lunch stop is on the agenda for tomorrow before the flight!
Day Eight: Eastside Ease & Heading Home
For our last morning in Nashville, we tucked into Dawn Café in East Nashville—a vibey little spot tucked inside a boutique hotel. With its cozy lounge seating and calm, stylish energy, it was the perfect place to settle in with a matcha and spend a few hours working before our flight. I caught up on my writing (including my Sunday Love Letter—where I gave you a sneak peek into this very trip) while letting the last two days of the event really sink in.
Dawn Cafe
By early afternoon, we headed back to our Airbnb to pack up and make our way toward the airport. On the way, we stopped in the Gulch one final time, grabbing a smoothie to go before calling our Uber and heading out.
This trip was exactly what I needed—equal parts inspiration, exploration, and indulgence. I’d absolutely come back to Nashville & Franklin in a heartbeat. Below, I’ll share my must-dos, highlights, and what I still have on my list for next time—because this city has a way of pulling you back in.
Below is a full list of my top Nashville picks- shopping, restaurants, drinks, cafes & more!
Nashville Highlights & Recomendations
Cafe Lola – completely obsessed; the gelato bar and European café vibes were unmatched.
Exploring Franklin – such a beautiful little city just outside Nashville; charming shops, greenery, and overall peaceful energy. Downtown Franklin & the Factory at Franklin were so chic!
Perenne in Franklin – riverside café perfection; Delicious menu and that cinnamon bun croissant… need I say more?
Green Hills Mall – a beautiful luxury shopping destination, especially perfect for a rainy day + visit the RH Courtyard Cafe located in the shopping centre.
12 South – absolutely a must; chic boutiques, cafes, and my personal shopping heaven. Reformation, Love Shack Fancy, Suzanne, Buck Mason, Mejuri, Gorjanna
The Gulch – trendy downtown vibes with the perfect mix of shopping and food spots. Urban Outfitter, Anthropologie, so many more! Great lunch spots – a great smoothie/juice bar (really good salad rolls)
Restoration Hardware Courtyard Café – divine; the fountain, skylights, and trees made it feel like a modern-day mansion courtyard. Food was incredible! Those truffle fires and that kale Cesaer salad…
The Hermitage Hotel – jaw-droppingly beautiful; the pink hermit café, the lobby and staircase, and even the gift shop were total highlights. Do the 1947 Happy Hour
Restaurants & cafés in the Hermitage – a dream for both foodies and aesthetics lovers.
Proof Nashville – a super vibey and beautiful rooftop bar in Nashville, stunning views. Great vibe and fun!
Restaurant Experiences – Harper’s Steakhouse, Perenne, RH Courtyard, 888 Nashville, Sheraton Sky Lounge, Kosho
On My List for Next Time
Grand Ole Opry – experiencing a truly iconic Nashville concert is non-negotiable; I want to see someone legendary perform live. We entirely skipped the Broadway Street crowds (the tacky music bar party street), I want something real, intimate, and soul-stirring
888 Nashville – the sushi lounge and bar that’s on every local’s list of faves dining spots; excited to indulge in this experience.
Sky Lounge at the Sheraton Hotel – 360-degree views, chic vibes, and the perfect spot for sunset cocktails.
Additional Franklin exploration – I’d love to wander more of the quaint streets and boutiques we didn’t get to see this time.
More Authentic Concerts – Skip Broadway tourist traps and dive into genuine music experiences.
Hidden Cafes & Neighborhood Gems – More quiet, stylish spots for coffee, matcha, and brunch moments.
Luogo – A chic Italian coastal restaurant in The Gulch, offering upscale pasta and Italian inspired dishes
