A Local’s Guide to 12 South in Nashville
Nashville’s 12 South might not cover a huge area, but it’s packed full of some of the best that the city has to offer. And, it’s also walkable, which makes the experience even nicer.
As a Nashville local, I’ve put together a list of the things you shouldn’t miss while exploring 12 South. I love spending a leisurely morning browsing through the shops and trying out the restaurants.
Like always, I only recommend spots that I have personally been to! If you’re just looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat, make sure to read my guide to the best restaurants in 12 South.
Things to Do
Murals
Nashville has lots of beautiful murals, and some of the easiest ones to get to are in 12 South.
The ones you’ll see in photos most often are the I Believe in Nashville mural and the Blue and White Wall on the side of Draper James. Both are directly across from each other, so it’s quick to get a photo with each. The Looking Pretty Music City, which is on the side of Madewell, is also very popular.
As you walk around, you’ll see other murals as well!
Sevier Park
12 South has one of the best parks in Nashville! Sevier Park has two different playgrounds for kids, an area with picnic tables, and a walking trail.
On Thursdays from May until October, the park hosts the 12 South Farmers Market. The market has produce, meats, and dairy along with baked goods. Plus, there are food trucks and live music which makes it into an even more fun event.
Restaurants
Butter Milk Ranch
The wait to get a table at this bakery and cafe on the weekends is ridiculously long! I’ve only ever ordered from the bakery menu at the front and gotten a seat outside instead. However, that was still an enjoyable experience. The croissants are giant and absolutely delicious.
To get a seat inside and be able to order from the full menu, try to get on the waitlist at Butter Milk Ranch early. Based on what I’ve had from the bakery, I’m pretty sure it’s worth it!
Urban Grub
Urban Grub is one of my favorite restaurants for a date night. The atmosphere is romantic with cozy seating and fireplaces throughout the restaurant.
The food is mostly seafood and southern fare. It is on the pricier side, and you can expect to spend between $50 to $100 per person. It’s worth it every once in a while though.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Edley’s has several locations throughout Nashville including a location in 12 South. Everyone has opinions when it comes to barbecue, but I think that Edley’s does a good job.
The sides are especially good here. The banana pudding is one of my favorites! Edley’s also does a good job with the layout and decor of the restaurant. It just feels fun when you walk inside.
Hearts
If you think there’s nothing better than an all-day breakfast cafe, then you’ll love Hearts. The Australian-inspired spot does amazing breakfast dishes along with a few sandwich-type options.
The menu changes seasonally, and you can tell that a lot of care is taken to create food that surpasses expectations. There’s nowhere else quite like it anywhere in Nashville!
Read my full review of Hearts here.
Coffee Shops
Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey is a popular coffee shop with several locations around Nashville. It’s really more than a coffee shop because there are so many drinks available. Plus, an extensive breakfast and dinner menu.
My favorite thing about Frothy Monkey is their food selection. I love the breakfast sandwiches here.
Wanna Spoon
Wanna Spoon is technically a cereal bar, not a coffee shop, but it has a similar vibe. The main menu revolves around cereal, ice cream, and milkshakes. But, there’s also a drink menu with coffee, hot chocolates, teas, cocktails, and wine.
I love how playful and fun this space is. There’s an outdoor seating area with games that children can play, and the entire thing is fenced in, so it’s much easier to keep an eye on what they’re doing.
Bakeries
Five Daughters Bakery
I feel like everyone has heard of Five Daughters Bakery because it’s constantly recommended to people visiting Nashville. Their 100-layer donuts are unique though, so if you haven’t had one, you should give it a try. The 12 South location is their best location (in my opinion) because the shop is so colorful and bright.
As a person who loves donuts, I do have to admit that the 100-layer donuts are not my favorite because I prefer a more classic donut. Five Daughters also does a yeast donut. Plus, they have options for lots of dietary restrictions including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Christie Cookie Co
If you’ve stayed at DoubleTree by Hilton, you’ve had a Christie Cookie before because they make the delicious chocolate chip cookies you get when you check in! The shop smells amazing when you walk in. And, you can’t go wrong with any of the options in the case.
Shopping
Draper James
Shopping at Draper James is such a delightful experience. The flagship store for Reese Witherspoon’s clothing company is just as wonderful as you imagine it would be.
The prices are on the higher side. But since the style at Draper James leans toward classic Southern rather than trendy, you’ll get wear out of the items for years. It’s a fun spot to pick up a special piece for your wardrobe.
Imogene + Willie
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect blue jeans, Imogene + Willie is your answer. Besides jeans, the shop has incredibly cool clothing, accessories, and home goods. All of the clothing here is made in the USA, and the company is committed to reducing waste.
White’s Mercantile
White’s Mercantile is a modern-day general store, which basically means that they’ve got a little bit of everything and it’s all beautiful. You’ll find everything including books, clothing, candles, glassware, toys, and other interesting pieces that you’ll want to take home with you.
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Thanks for reading my guide to 12 South!
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