The theme of the month is “GIVE.” Around the holidays, this word takes on many meanings. The gift of time or talents, monetary or tangible gifts, giving back to your community.
It’s a season to reach out, lend a hand, and create warmth in both small and big ways—whether that’s through a homemade dish, a thoughtful gift, or a gesture that lifts someone else’s day. This month, we encourage you to embrace giving as a way to deepen connections and bring kindness into every celebration.
Think of our November toolkit as your go-to resource for seasonal happenings, reminders, and ideas all wrapped in a nice bow.
We hope your month is filled with gratitude, gatherings, and giving in the way that resonates most with you.
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Around Town
Check out our monthly can’t-miss calendar of events around the South.
Welcome to your monthly events calendar, your guide to all the happenings, gatherings, and adventures waiting to unfold across the Southern United States. Whether you’re looking to explore local festivals or plan a trip around the region, this calendar is your key to staying connected and in the know. Be sure to also check out our full toolkit for the month!
Want to submit an event for our monthly roundup? Click here.
Muscle Shoals Songwriters Festival
November 1 – 3, 2024 | Muscle Shoals, Alabama
Musicians and songwriters from all over come to one of the nation’s premier songwriting destinations to perform, network, and collaborate. Attendees can enjoy live performances, songwriter showcases, and panel discussions, while emerging artists get an opportunity to learn from music industry veterans.
This ten-day festival honors peanut farmers and celebrates the importance of the peanut crop in the region. Expect rides, parades, concerts, agricultural exhibits, cooking contests, and, of course, a famous peanut boil-off.
This four-day festival showcases independent films from around the world, focusing on high-quality cinema through a curated selection of shorts, documentaries, and feature films, along with panel discussions and filmmaker Q&As.
This annual event sees local families, schools, and businesses designing creative scarecrows displayed throughout the downtown area. Typically taking place in early November, the Scarecrow Harvest includes live entertainment, fall-themed activities for kids, and a community market.
Celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana, Beignet Fest is a tribute to one of the city’s most iconic treats. This festival showcases creative beignet varieties from local chefs, and also supports the Beignet Fest Foundation aiding children with developmental delays.
The Nashville Christmas Village is one of Tennessee’s largest holiday-themed markets, attracting thousands of visitors each year at the Fair Grounds. This year’s event will showcase over 250 vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to seasonal decor and specialty foods.
We’ll always recommend roadtripping to a neighboring small town when visiting a big city, and this Washington, D.C. suburb is a vibrant destination when autumn rolls around.
With its colorful foliage, eclectic art events, lively outdoor festivals, and spine-tingling Halloween experiences, Alexandria, Virginia, offers the perfect fall getaway set to a riverfront backdrop.
Heading to the D.C. are this fall? Here’s how to make a perfect detour to Old Town Alexandria.
Image: Evan Michio / Visit Alexandria
Wander the Waterfront
With the Potomac River as your view, you can immerse yourself in Alexandria’s nautical heritage at the newly opened Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center. The Tall Ship Providence onsite serves as a “floating classroom” aimed at educating visitors about the American Revolution and Alexandria’s history as a whole. During your visit, you can learn what life was like on an 18th-century sloop with an engaging dockside tour, or set sail on a serene sunset cruise that offers unparalleled views of the river.
While strolling along the waterfront, don’t miss a photo opp with the public art installations on display until November. Also new to the city is the refreshed African American Waterfront Heritage Trails that showcase the city’s deep-rooted Black history.
Image: Will Niccolls / Visit Alexandria
Get Festiv-al
Fall in Alexandria brings a packed calendar of outdoor festivals, and if you’re planning a visit, these are certainly dates to consider. Kick off the autumn season with the annual Art on the Avenue take place October 5, a celebration of creativity featuring over 350 juried artists, tons of area food vendors, and live music that fills the streets of Del Ray.
If you’re a wine lover, head to the historic Mount Vernon October 4 through 6 for the Fall Wine Festival where guests are invited to sample some of Virginia’s finest wines. Also taking place onsite later in the month, the Fall Harvest Festival on October 19 and 20 brings 18th-century activities and historic demonstrations to life.
Image: Misha Enriquez / Visit Alexandria
Discover Spooky History
Let’s be honest: most cities rich in history have an underlying spookiness about them, and this town (founded in 1749, might we add) is no exception. This only elevates the fall experience, so if you dare, book a tour that dives into the city’s ghostly past.
The Ghost & Graveyard Tour by Alexandria Colonial Tours includes costumed guides that regale visitors with eerie tales from Old Town’s past, or for something truly chilling, embark on the Grief and Ghosts Tour at the Lee-Fendall House. This experience takes things a step further by diving into Victorian mourning traditions and recounting mysterious deaths and strange occurrences that may leave you haunted long after. Ye be warned.
Image: Evan Michio / Visit Alexandria
Fawn Over Fall Foliage
Did you know that Alexandria is home to some of the largest trees in the country? While beautiful all year long, fall foliage is a spectacle in Alexandria, thanks to the city’s tree-lined streets and historic parks that come alive with vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold when the weather turns chilly. A stroll through the city will showcase more than 100 champion and notable trees sprinkled throughout, offering the perfect autumnal backdrop.
Whether you’re up for a thrilling “tree-o-caching” adventure (think: Pokemon Go for nature lovers) or prefer a scenic drive along the Potomac, the city’s foliage offers endless ways to enjoy autumn’s beauty. For a list of Alexandria’s best leaf peeping spots, click here.
With its captivating mix of outdoor ambiance, cultural richness featuring new and noteworthy destinations, and slightly spooky historical intrigue, Alexandria is the ultimate fall destination. Whether you’re visiting as a D.C. detour or making the city the focal point, you’ll likely be left enchanged by the city’s magical charm.
Looking for more destinations to explore this fall? Check out all of our regional roundups.
Welcome, dear visitor, to your October toolkit, a most spirited collection of recipes, event listings, and to-dos to guide you through the eerie enchantment of the season. Whispering winds have carried to us the finest of festive dishes to warm your bones, mysterious gatherings you dare not miss, and a spectral to-do list to keep your haunted home in order.
Whether you’re brewing potions or planning spectral soirées, this toolkit will help you make the most of these hauntingly beautiful days.
Beware, though—once you open it, there’s no turning back…
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Tag us on Instagram as you complete your to-do’s for a chance to win a coffee on us!
Around Town
Check out our monthly can’t-miss calendar of events around the South.
Welcome to your monthly events calendar, your guide to all the happenings, gatherings, and adventures waiting to unfold across the Southern United States. Whether you’re looking to explore local festivals or plan a trip around the region, this calendar is your key to staying connected and in the know.
Want to submit an event for our monthly roundup? Click here.
September 5 – October 27
Oktoberfest | Helen, Georgia
You can get a taste of Germany in the heart of Georgia. This immersive town says “Prost!” with a nearly two-month long Oktoberfest celebration each fall.
You’d never know it was shoulder season on Alabama’s coast: Shrimp Fest brings locals and visitors out in droves each October celebrating all things Alabama seafood.
Charleston is consistently named one of the top cities to visit in the United States, and it’s no secret why. This pastel-hued lowcountry city dazzles with a vibrant culinary scene, a plethora of historic landmarks, and glistening waterfront views. There is much to see and do here, making it a daunting task for first-time visitors to narrow down their must-do list. But fear not, we’re here to help with a round-up of our standout spots–both iconic mainstays and hidden gems.
Check out seven of Charleston’s must-see attractions for first-time visitors.
Image: Sarah DillardImage: Kellie Walton
Waterfront Park
Downtown Charleston is a preserved piece of the past that backs right up to the Charleston Harbor and Cooper River, providing many access points to overlook the water. One of the most popular is the aptly named Waterfront Park, which features a serene riverwalk, a floating pier, and a massive park sprinkled with the region’s iconic Spanish moss-dripped oak trees. Whether you’re setting out on your morning hot girl walk with an iced coffee in hand or walking off a seafood dinner hand-in-hand with a loved one, this is the place to do it.
The Pineapple Fountain is a focal point of the park, serving as a magnet for photo seekers. On a hot South Carolina day, you’ll even find people kicking off their shoes and wading in the water, and little ones making memories one splash at a time. Pineapples have a history of representing Southern hospitality, so this iconic landmark is a fitting staple in this city.
Image: Sarah DillardImage: Sarah Dillard
Ravenel Bridge
When visiting Charleston, one of our key recommendations is to step outside of the downtown footprint. The best way to do that? Cross the iconic Ravenel Bridge, which leads to gems like Mount Pleasant and Shem Creek. To truly appreciate the iconic overpass, we recommend walking or biking (bonus points if you go at sunset). This is a favorite activity for Chucktown locals and a great way to get your body moving while taking in the scenery.
There are a few simple ways to access the walking path, the most popular being the Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant, near the Visitor Center. But we’ve got a pro tip! Directly at the bottom of the Mount Pleasant side of the bridge, there is a Shell gas station with extra parking spots specifically for bridge goers. Park at the Shell, grab a cold drink inside, and head on your way. The bridge is two and a half miles long, so you’ll knock out five miles roundtrip if you make it from end to end.
Image; Sarah DillardImage: Sarah Dillard
Morris Island Lighthouse
Charleston is first and foremost a coastal town, and any of its neighboring beaches are worth slotting into your itinerary. Folly Beach is a locally-loved laidback option that oozes with character and welcoming energy. Some of our favorite food in all of Charleston can be found here, but that’s not where the allure ends.
Tucked away on the northern end of Folly is a small beach nook where you can view the Morris Island Lighthouse. Make a left from Center Street onto Ashley Avenue, take it as far as you can, park, then follow the graffiti path all the way until your toes hit the sand. While you can’t actually tour the lighthouse, it’s a picturesque treat for those willing to make the journey.
Image: Magnolia Gardens Instagram
Magnolia Gardens
The South has a complicated past, and while there are lots of historical sites that are abundantly beautiful on the outside but hold an uncomfortable story on the inside, we’re proud of the work historians have done to tell the full story and honor those who were once wronged. These places are absolutely worth visiting and serve as an opportunity for education, understanding, and paying respects.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is nearly 350 years old, but today blends together heartbreaking history with spectacular landscaping and preserved historical elements, making it a frequent destination for history buffs and photographers alike. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn how the plantation and gardens began, and learn about its past surrounding slavery and the Civil War.
The 66-acre grounds also offer a peek at agriculture in the Carolinas, with alligators, egrets, and more navigating through the Audubon Swamp Garden with thousands of types of plants. Fuel up for exploring at the Peacock Café, which offers a menu of locally sourced bites. And, you can’t complete your visit without a stop at the Wildlife Center to check out rescued indigenous animals up close.
Image: Charleston City Market Instagram
Charleston City Market
Market Street is one of the most popular in all of Charleston, home to the Charleston City Market that operates daily (and nightly!). The strip is a lively downtown destination brimming with souvenirs and local goods, but it also radiates with cultural significance. The market has served as a place for suppliers to sell since the 1800s, keeping the city pulsing with shoppers. Today, you’ll find more than 300 vendors gathered in this open-air market, selling delicious treats and artisan goods, including sweetgrass baskets, one of the oldest crafts of Gullah makers.
There are also plenty of places to eat and shop on either side of the market and you’re placed in ideal walking distance of many other downtown Charleston attractions. The market is open every day except for Christmas, and on Fridays and Saturdays in March through December, the night market kicks off with music and even more food.
Image: Sarah DillardImage: Kellie Walton
Shem Creek
Leave downtown behind for a day and head into Mount Pleasant next door. Shem Creek is a waterfront oasis lined with bars and restaurants on both sides, all of which are reachable by both car amd boat. After grabbing a cold one from a local eatery, grab a spot waterfront spot to watch fishermen, shrimp boats, paddle boarders, and dolphins cruising up and down the water.
You can cross from one side of the creek to the other on a picturesque bridge, perfect for stopping to take in the view. You’ll find some of the freshest seafood in Charleston on Shem, ranging from Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits to modern twists like tuna nachos. Our top pick to eat? Saltwater Cowboys. Best place to grab drinks? Reds. No matter where you go, be sure to stay for a spectacular sunset.
Image: South Carolina Aquarium Instagram
Church and Union
One of the few drawbacks of an East Coast beach town is the borderline oppressive humidity. Charleston’s charm doesn’t make it exempt, unfortunately, but the city boasts a long list of indoor attractions where you can wait out a sticky day or a rainy washout. An excellent family-friendly option is to duck inside the South Carolina Aquarium.
Here, you can explore the various ecosystems of the entire state through multiple interactive exhibits, which includes a two-story Great Ocean Tank that bubbles with sealife from sharks to sea turtles. Turtles play a big part at this aquarium, with an entire Sea Turtle Care Center™ dedicated to rehabilitating sick and injured turtles (which, once rehabbed, are released back into the wild). There are learning opportunities for visitors of all ages, as the South Carolina Aquarium dives deep into the Palmetto State’s aquatic habitats. Keep an eye out for their unique events throughout the year!
Charleston is one of several cities across the south that is a treasure trove of essential experiences. Looking for more new and noteworthy Southern spots? We’ve got you.
The energy in Charleston is always laid-back. It’s a beach town, after all! Donning your best gingham or floral attire, then heading for shopping spree down King Street or a photo opp in Waterfront Park is a memorable way to spend a sunny day in CHS, but all of that slow-paced wandering will eventually work up an appetite.
While there are plenty of Charleston restaurants perfect for celebrating a special occasion, there’s also no shortage of casual spots waiting to welcome you for an afternoon cocktail and a light bite.
I spent a summer eating my way through the Holy City, and these are my favorite cute-yet-casual spots for lunch and dinner.
Henry’s On The Market
I despise the phrase “if you know me, then you know…” but if I ever were to use it, it would be to describe my love for Henry’s. There’s a first level restaurant with excellent food (get the she-crab soup), but the real magic happens on the rooftop. Skip the line and head to the stairs in the back, then make your way up to the second floor bar for an Aperol Spritz. On a nice day, climb one more floor for a turf-covered patio overlooking Market Street.
Location: Downtown Charleston, North Market Street
Vibes: Historic, casual
Perfect for: An outdoor afternoon cocktail
Important to note: Even if there’s a line out the door, you can skip it to head upstairs.
Reservation?: Nope!
Saltwater Cowboys
You may be battling a crowd of youngsters at Saltwater Cowboys during the summer, but you surely won’t mind after a frozen painkiller or two. This is the place to be for summertime day drinking thanks to its waterfront location along Shem Creek. It’s dining with a side of entertainment when the boats start coming in, you’ll enjoy watching everything from shrimpers to sunburnt partiers make their way in.
Location: Shem Creek
Vibes: Waterfront, casual
Perfect for: Waterfront cocktails and day drinking
Important to note: Check the events schedule for DJs or other parties-it’ll be a packed house.
Reservation?: Nope!
Blind Tiger
One of the city’s oldest bars is unsurprisingly one if its most charming. Bypass the indoor bar (which has a signature scent, but not like one you’d find in a boutique hotel) in favor of the expansive back patio. Blind Tiger is one of my favorite outdoor dining options in the city, lined with brick walls and bench-style seating plus large and small tables for groups.
Location: Downtown Charleston, Broad Street
Vibes: Casual, laid-back
Perfect for: Dinner and cocktails with friends, pre- or post- date drinks
After a day spent roasting on Folly Beach, wander over to Chico Feo to cool down like the cool kids: with a Samurai Sling. The signature cocktail here is a refreshing combination of cucumber, sake, and lemonade that’ll refuel you for a night out. While Chico Feo is a lively spot for beers and tacos in the summer, they’re also known to make a fantastic ramen when the weather cools.
Location: Folly Beach
Vibes: Casual, hipster
Perfect for: Lunch and a post-beach cocktail
Important to note: The outdoor dining is shaded with Charleston’s famous large trees, but I don’t believe there is indoor dining available
Reservation?: Nope!
Leon’s Oyster House
This famed Charleston restaurant may be outside of the historic district, but it’s worth the walk. You can’t leave Leon’s without trying an order of the chargrilled oysters they’re famous for or a plate of fried chicken. Despite its charmingly grungy interiors, there’s a really great wine and cocktail program here, complete with frozen G&Ts.
Location: Downtown Charleston, Bay Street
Vibes: Intimate, casual
Perfect for: An impressive date night or evening with a small group of foodie friends
Kellie’s Notes: The daily specials have never disappointed!
You’ll be surprised as I was to learn there aren’t many waterfront dining options in downtown Charleston despite it being a peninsula. Fleet Landing rights that wrong with a wraparound patio overlooking the harbor, as well as a huge indoor dining room that’ll fill up quick for weekend lunch. The stuffed hushpuppies, big salads, and sweet brunch dishes are favorites for my mom and me.
The ambiance at Charleston’s Church and Union only adds to the experience here. A more casual sibling to Tempest, C&U is situated in a historic church with vibrant stained glass windows still in tact. Food items range from pastas to steaks and an excellent poke bowl, and during brunch, they serve one of the cheapest mimosas in town.
Location: Downtown Charleston, Market Street
Vibes: Feminine, upbeat
Perfect for: A bachelorette brunch or dinner before a night out
Kellie’s Notes: You can get a whole carafe of mimosas for under $20
Charleston is home to stunning waterfront views, deep roots in American history, and classic Southern cooking. It’s also home to the College of Charleston in the heart of downtown, making many bars and restaurants a magnet for college students. While the nostalgia for your college days may be everlasting, your idea of a perfect night out has likely changed as you’ve navigated post-grad life.
These seven Charleston nightlife destinations are ideal for unwinding with a cold drink and an actual place to sit down.
Henry’s on the Market is a historical landmark as the oldest continuous restaurant in South Carolina. Start on the first floor for dinner with the rest of Charleston’s visiting tourists (the she-crab soup here is to die for), then head upstairs for the party.
If you make a left at the top of the stairs, you’ll find yourself immersed in a speakeasy-style ambiance with twinkling chandeliers, wooden banisters, and a bar that looks so old, it could be the original. A right will lead you outside to another bar that spills into a regularly-packed dance floor, expect lively music and an energetic crowd. Climbing one more set of stairs will bring you to the rooftop terrace with plenty of spots to take a seat and overlook the city.
Dispensary has all of the classic elements of a buzzing bar scene, but with one leg up for those of you who have been around the block. The minimum age to enter is 23 rather than 21, and while that may not sound like a big difference, it skips over the college crowd in favor of young professionals ready to throw back a few drinks and mingle.
Dispensary has a full bar inside with TVs and live music, and it wouldn’t be a Charleston classic without an outdoor patio. If you close down the bar on Wednesday through Saturday nights, they’ll help you recover with their brunch service.
It’s a perk of being in your 30s: you care significantly less about what other people think of you. And what better place to be unapologetically yourself than at a karaoke bar?! Bangkok Lounge is tucked away on King Street, born as the divey love child between a tiki bar and an amateur music venue.
The bar opens at 5 p.m. every night and the line forms fast–to secure your spot, get there as early as you can or prepare to wait for a one in, one out process. On the bright side, you can spend that time conjuring up the perfect crowd-pleaser to sing first.
Another historic gem in downtown Charleston is Blind Tiger, an homage to secret drinking establishments across the city during the “anti-alcohol” movement in the late 1800s. At this age, we know that a great night out starts with a great meal, and luckily Blind Tiger has a fantastic menu. Grab a bite on the back patio surrounded by twinkling lights and exposed brick before moving on to their signature seasonal cocktails.
You can typically find a crowd here that is a quintessential balance of laidback and energetic, a perfect recipe for millennials to settle in and have a good time.
You’ll have to trek shortly outside of downtown for this one, but it’ll be worth it. The Windjammer on Isle of Palms lets you take a break from the bar scene and sink your toes in the sand while jamming out, cold beer in-hand. While the live music venue itself may be unassuming from the outside, you may be surprised to find a lineup of recognizable names rolling through here. Seeing that Spotify artist you’ve long adored or your favorite 90s jam band backdropped with the Atlantic Ocean promises a memorable evening.
Turn your night at the Windjammer into a whole event, starting with dinner at any of the restaurants nestled in the quintessential beachfront Main Street nearby, or capping your concert with a slice from IOPizza Co. on your way out. Parking can be tough, so arrive early to avoid missing any of the action.
Back downtown we go to one of Charleston’s best bars for a girls’ night. Uncork Charleston is a wine bar where you serve yourself…sort of. After checking in, you’ll need to secure an Uncork card that allows access to a row of vino vending machines (it’s classy, I promise).
Simply insert your card and make your selection, then watch as the machine completes a perfect pour. There’s a menu for cocktails and bar bites, too, just expect less fanfare.
Spooky vibes are all part of the Charleston allure. When you’re ready to take a break from the bustling bar scene, get up close and personal with all of the city’s secrets through a guided ghost tour. There’s no shortage of tour operators to choose from, but we recommend starting with Bulldog Tours.
From jails to ships and graveyards, there are countless nooks and crannies crawling with spirits in Charleston. While some ghost tours include a bar crawl, there are beloved bar staples along the way on most tour routes to create your own. A few that we love to frequent are Tommy Condon’s, The Griffon, and The Rooftop at the Vendue.
Charleston is an extra special city. A waterfront Southern town with architecture dating back to the 1700s, countless Instagram-worthy landmarks and state-of-the-art food and drink? Say no more!
Maybe it’s because I’m in love with the city itself, but a visit to Charleston feels celebratory in its own right, and the impeccable culinary offerings only enhance the experience. Every decadent meal in the Holy City will be a memorable marker of a special occasion, but these are my favorite splurge-worthy spots in town.
A sister restaurant to Church and Union, Tempest is the elevated sibling known for expertly-cooked seafood, craft cocktails, and cozy ambience built for a celebratory toast. Plus, it’s in the perfect location to stroll the market before or after, or head to the harbor for a
Location: Downtown Charleston, North Market Street
Vibes: It’s historic and upscale, perfect for wearing a snazzy outfit en route to an evening on King Street.
Editor’s Notes: They close every meal by gifting a carnation and a pour of brandy
A Charleston newcomer, Costa has quickly made a name for itself as a premier destination for Italian-influenced seafood. It’s a little off-the-beaten-path for Charleston, as it’s situated on the westside instead of the heart of the historic district, but it’s a nice reprieve from the congestion that usually comes along with the weekend in CHS.
Location: Downtown Charleston, Westside
Vibes: Upscale, lively
Perfect for: Anniversaries, graduations, and other special occasions
Editor’s Notes: Everything I tried was fab, but the burrata and crispy potatoes (side item) were to die for.
Disclaimer: I’ve yet to try Sorelle, but it’s at the top of my list for the next time I venture to Charleston. My foodie friends maintain that it’s a must-visit, with the chef’s tasting menu being a universal favorite as opposed to a la carte (though that’s also spectacular). Also check out their events calendar, as they’re known to host interactive classes.
Do you have a favorite Charleston bar or restaurant that I’ve missed? Share your favorites in the comments!
The line wrapped around the block prior to opening will be your first indication that you’ve picked a good one for your next special occasion. I always worry that “institution”-type restaurants will be overhyped or beyond their prime (because let’s be honest, many in Nashville are), but Hank’s is well worth the hype. The shrimp & grits, she-crab soup, and crab cakes were standouts.
Location: Downtown Charleston, between King and Market
Vibes: Upscale but laid-backPerfect for: Group get-togethers
Kellie’s Notes: I’ve long been on a quest for the best she-crab soup in the low country, and Hank’s may top the list.
There’s multiple outposts of the 167 franchise in Charleston: 167 Sushi, 167 Raw, and Bar 167. You can’t go wrong with any of them, but something about the intimacy of the teeny tiny 167 Sushi Bar makes it all the more special. Sit at the bar to watch the chef carefully prepare maki and nigiri using incredibly fresh ingredients.
Location: Downtown Charleston, Bay Street
Vibes: Intimate, casual
Perfect for: An impressive date night or evening with a small group of foodie friends
Kellie’s Notes: The daily specials have never disappointed!
Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the coolest cities in the South. There, my Nashville heart said it! Rich in history, storied music and incredible food, Memphis truly has something for everyone.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Central Station, located in Memphis’ South Main district. Central Station is easily one of the coolest hotels I’ve visited in the U.S., and fully embodies all the things that make Memphis so unique. Not only is it walking distance (or a $1 trolly ride) from the iconic Beale Street, but the unique amenities outlined below make it one of the best hotel options in the city.
Spotlight on Memphis Music
Memphis music is transcendent. From B.B. King to Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley to Justin Timberlake, some of the most iconic artists of all time have called Memphis home.
Central Station proudly celebrates this legacy, curating a collection of more than 3,500 vinyl records tied to Memphis’ rich music history. These records play 24 hours a day, either spun by a live DJ or seamlessly piped throughout the hotel, even into your guest room. It’s like living in the soundtrack of Memphis—a soulful, immersive experience.
A Reimagined Train Station
The hotel itself is housed within a century-old transportation hub. While the tracks still operate with daily routes to and from Chicago and New Orleans, the footprint of the once-bustling station can still be found through old arrival and departure signs, heavily-trafficked floors and reimagined ticket offices.
The tracks create a unique backdrop for the hotel’s weekly live music, Live at the Tracks.
Fantastic Food
While Central Station’s accommodations are excellent, the food and drink options are even better. Both within the hotel and in the surrounding area, guests can enjoy the lively Eight + Sand lobby bar, the upscale French restaurant, Bishop, or venture across the street to the famous Arcade Restaurant, a café still honoring Elvis’ favorite booth.
All-in-all, Central Station is an excellent hotel option if you’re planning a trip to Memphis. Its central location, unique amenities and programming and nearby dining options will enhance your getaway to the Home of the Blues!
Nashville has quickly become a top destination for foodies, departing from the traditional heavy southern meals and hot chicken and arriving at a truly exceptional culinary scene.
From renowned steak houses to international fare to some of America’s best dive bars, Nashville’s Germantown district offers a dining option perfect for any palate.
Whether you’re catching a Nashville Sounds game or visiting the farmer’s market, these Germantown restaurants should be on your must-try list.
Image: Butchertown Hall Instagram
Butchertown Hall
Drawing inspiration from traditional Texas BBQ, Butchertown Hall is known for its smoked meats, tacos and margaritas – what more could you want?!
What to order: Butchertown Queso, Oak-Smoked Brisket Tacos and a house margarita.
Image: The Optimist Instagram
The Optimist
Get a taste of coastal living in Germantown’s city streets with a visit to The Optimist. Every seafood lover’s dream, the menu includes halibut, snapper, swordfish and more, alongside traditional seafood towers. Each table also receives an order of the Best Rolls Ever™ – which are worth a visit on their own!
What to order: Mahi Mahi, Blistered Tomatoes and all the wine.
Image: Jack Brown’s Germantown Instagram
Jack Brown’s
Arguably one of the best burgers I’ve ever had, Jack Brown’s Wagyu beef smash burgers are the perfect way to begin – or end – a night on the German-town. Nothing pairs with a burger better than a cold beer, and Jack Brown’s has you covered with an expansive selection of local and imported options.
What to order: Literally any of their burgers, fries, fried Oreos and your favorite IPA.
Image: Mother’s Ruin Instagram
Mother’s Ruin
Craft cocktails, elevated bar food and plenty of entertainment collide at Germantown’s Mother’s Ruin. Housed in a historic building, the bar offers plenty of charm alongside its expansive menu.
What to order: Designer Testosterone (habanero margarita) and the Human Style Fries (waffle fry nachos with chorizo) off the secret menu.
Image: Henrietta Red Instagram
Henrietta Red
Disclaimer: I’m not an oyster gal, but I would be remiss to exclude the popular Henrietta Red from the list. An elevated, contemporary oasis in Germantown, Henrietta Red is a decorated restaurant known for its daily oyster and cava happy hour.
Have a favorite Germantown restaurant not on this list? Let me know in the comments!
