Category: Hotels

  • Stay in the Company of Trailblazing Women at The Germantown Inn

    Stay in the Company of Trailblazing Women at The Germantown Inn

    Featured image: Nicole Harger

    Nashville is known for its music, but if you know where to look, you’ll also find a melodious convergence of history, art, and charm playing in perfect harmony. Enter The Germantown Inn, a boutique hideaway nestled in the heart of the city’s historic Germantown neighborhood. It’s a historic property beautifully transformed into an intimate, stylish retreat. 

    And for those who appreciate a little history with their hospitality, this gem takes things up a notch: Each guestroom in the Inn’s Carriage House is named after an influential woman from U.S. history. As we celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month this March, read on about this female-forward boutique hotel perfect for your next visit to Nashville. 

    Image: Emily Dorio

    A Staycation with Stories

    I recently enjoyed a solo staycation at The Germantown Inn—a night of rest, rejuvenation, and reconnection with myself. I filled my evening away with gratitude journaling, leisurely reading (The Nightingale this time), and sipping wine during the Inn’s delightful evening happy hour (charcuterie included, of course!). 

    Mornings were equally lovely, as I chatted with fellow guests over a light breakfast. One couple from Wisconsin even invited me to visit their hometown—proof that the warmth of this place extends beyond its cozy decor.

    Image: Germantown Inn

    A Toast to Influential Women

    Beyond the inviting ambiance and stellar hospitality, what makes The Germantown Inn stand out is its dedication to celebrating trailblazing women. While the six rooms in the Main House honor former U.S. presidents, the Carriage House—a four-bedroom addition completed in 2018—proudly pays tribute to iconic women who shaped the course of American history.

    The Adams Room

    Named after Abigail Adams, a fierce advocate for women’s rights and one of America’s original First Ladies, this room honors her intellect, political involvement, and—fun fact—her love of a good party.

    The Parks Room 

    A tribute to civil rights icon Rosa Parks, this space reflects the quiet strength of the woman who, by refusing to give up her bus seat in Montgomery, Alabama, ignited a movement for justice and equality.

    The Roosevelt Room

    Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt, the longest-serving First Lady of the United States and a passionate human rights advocate, this room celebrates her legacy as the “First Lady of the World.”

    The Anthony Room

    A nod to Susan B. Anthony, the suffragist and social reformer whose tireless efforts helped pave the way for women’s right to vote. Appropriately, she was the first woman to have her portrait placed on U.S. currency.

    Image: Nicole Harger

    Feminine Touches in Every Detail

    The Germantown Inn’s commitment to honoring women doesn’t stop at the room names. The interiors, designed by Nashville-based McLean Barbieri, seamlessly blend modern elegance with the building’s 1860s charm. 

    Throughout the Inn, you’ll find custom pieces commissioned from talented female artists and entrepreneurs, including drapery fabric by Andra Eggleston, wallpaper installations from New Hat Projects, and bold, vibrant art by Caitlin Mello. It’s a space designed by women, inspired by women, and meant to make every guest feel at home.

    Image: Minnie Morklithavong

    Nashville’s Germantown Neighborhood

    The Germantown Inn is perfectly situated in one of Nashville’s most vibrant and stylish neighborhoods. Germantown is where locals go to experience the city’s best dining (this food writer says with authority), charming boutiques, and a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Food lovers will find themselves in culinary heaven, with standout spots like Pelato for Italian comfort food, The Optimist for fresh seafood, Tailor for an intimate chef-driven experience, Rolf and Daughters for innovative pasta dishes, and Monday Night Brewery for a relaxed drink with friends in a stunning outdoor setting. 

    Whether you’re strolling past the historic brick buildings, popping into a cozy coffee shop, or indulging in an unforgettable meal, Germantown’s blend of old and new makes it one of the most exciting corners of the city.

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  • Experience Mayan Wellness at Etéreo in Riviera Maya

    Experience Mayan Wellness at Etéreo in Riviera Maya

    For Southern travelers looking to swap Spanish moss for swaying palms, Cancun offers a seamless escape with nonstop flights from many major Southern cities. But if you think Cancun is all spring breakers and mega-resorts, think again. 

    Just a short drive from the airport, nestled along the white-sand shores of Riviera Maya, lies Etéreo, an Auberge Resorts Collection property that redefines luxury while honoring its deep Mayan roots. It was awarded two keys by the MICHELIN Guide in 2024, and after experiencing it, it’s not difficult to see why. 

    Serenity and Style

    Etéreo, meaning “ethereal” in Spanish, lives up to its name with an intimate, nature-immersed setting that feels worlds away from the bustling tourist hotspots. The property is intentionally designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, with pathways winding through lush mangroves and suites positioned to maximize ocean views.

    The moment you land, Etéreo rolls out the VIP treatment. A private transfer (stocked with chef-curated treats, naturally) whisks you through the lush jungle, setting the tone for a stay that’s anything but ordinary. As you pull up to the resort, you’ll realize—you’re not just checking in; you’re stepping into a dream. 

    An Etereo room key

    Guests arrive on property one car at a time, and are greeted by a conch ritual and a wellness shot before even stepping foot inside check-in. There, you’re presented with your bracelet that doubles as a room key, your activities and experiences are confirmed, and you’re offered a refillable water bottle to use during your stay. 

    Accommodations here are anything but ordinary. Every suite boasts expansive terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, private plunge pools, a standalone tub, and a massive cozy bed facing out, offering a front-row seat to the Caribbean’s breathtaking beauty. 

    Culinary Delights with a Cultural Twist

    Dining at Etéreo is a journey in itself, celebrating Mexico’s rich flavors and culinary traditions. The signature restaurant, Itzam, is a standout, offering elevated regional cuisine that highlights indigenous ingredients and time-honored techniques. 

    For a more casual bite, Che Che (which translates to something ‘cool’) blends Japanese and Mexican influences in a menu that surprises and delights. If sinking toes in the sand is of interest, the beach cafe, El Changarro, slings ceviche, tacos, tortas, and more during the day. 

    And if you’re craving something extra special, the Abuela Dinner is an experience not to be missed—think heirloom recipes passed down through generations, served family-style in an intimate setting.

    A Spa Rooted in Mayan Wellness

    Etéreo’s SANA spa is more than a place to relax—it’s a portal to ancient Mayan healing traditions. Treatments here go beyond the typical massage, incorporating sacred rituals and indigenous ingredients. Every spa service begins with a cleansing ceremony, where guests are smudged with copal smoke to release negative energy. From there, the options range from deep-tissue massages to immersive hydrotherapy experiences centered around a man-made cenote.

    For those looking to fully embrace the resort’s wellness offerings, I thoroughly enjoy sound baths on suspended nets over the ocean and beachfront HIIT workouts.

    Adventures on Land and Sea

    It may be a tough sell to peel you away from the resort pool or beach chairs in the name of adventure, but rest assured, it’s worth it. Guests can grab a paddleboard or kayak for a quick trip to nearby cenotes, where crystal-clear waters reveal an underwater world teeming with marine life: get ready for your up-close encounter with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.

    On property, curated workshops like bracelet making—where guests select beads representing different energies—or hands-on cooking classes offer opportunities to dive deeper into local culture (I’m now a tortilla-making pro). And, of course, there’s always the option to simply lounge poolside in a private cabana, margarita in hand, watching the sun slip below the horizon.

    Every element of a stay here is designed to make guests feel not just welcomed, but truly at home—a reflection of the warm, community-centered spirit that defines both Mayan and Southern hospitality.

    A final toast to Etereo

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  • The Perry Lane Hotel: Savannah’s Most Art-Forward Stay

    The Perry Lane Hotel: Savannah’s Most Art-Forward Stay

    Featured Image: Perry Lane Hotel

    When it was time to form the concept of the Perry Lane Hotel in Savannah, developers decided to tell a story. They created a fictional Savannah native, Adelaide Harcourt, living in New York as a dancer and falling in love with the world through travel. 

    Walking through the hotel gives a glimpse of this muse, from the performance of a grand piano in the library to the collection of over 3,600 pieces of art throughout the hotel. The space is warm and slightly feminine with a taste of the cosmopolitan, a reflection of Adelaide, but also of Savannah, as any local will tell you.

    Image: Perry Lane Hotel

    The art pieces are whimsical and often like a keepsake. The items crowding the library shelves look like mementos of an interesting life. Andrea Locorini, Perry Lane’s Director of Marketing, sees symbolism in the creativity.

    “A lot of our art represents travel and breaking free, so you see a lot of birds throughout the hotel,” she said.

    Image: Perry Lane Hotel

    The hotel’s signature restaurant, The Emporium, is designed to foster connectivity. It achieves that with an open space where diners can find a large, well-set table with friends or pull up a chair in a nook to get some reading time. While the restaurant began with a French concept, they are stepping into the idea of reflecting their Lowcountry roots, combined with international flair. The menu will soon be updated throughout the property, offering Southern fusion in the bar, restaurant, and catering spaces.

    Image: Perry Lane Hotel

    A city known for exceptional weather, Savannah’s hotels focus on rooftop experiences, and Perry Lane is no different. A short trip up an elevator gets you to Peregrin, which has incredible sunset views and a verdant garden conservatory. Behind the bar, liquor and glassware is nested in bird cages with green plants trailing vines over the backdrop. A floral mural stretches across the wall while gargoyles sit, gazing over any celebrations. The handcrafted cocktails are botanical, fresh, and ready to enjoy in spring with a dip in the adjacent pool.

    “I find a lot of places, not just in the house, have greenhouses on the end of their homes and we went with that. We usually have fresh flowers and the mural has birds. The peacock represents growth and transformation, which is what you experience when you travel,” said Locorini.

    The hotel is in two parts, with a driving lane and attentive valets dividing the buildings. On the left, near the river, is the check-in area, while the South Tower on the right is home to Wayward—a dark, moody lounge where talented bartenders create custom cocktails inspired by your favorite flavors. If you need a late-night snack, the popcorn machine offers a salty treat right as you come through the door, and there’s a game room (complete with Skee-ball) to further fuel the nostalgia.

    “People will tell you that we have the best espresso martini in the city. We have a local collaboration with Savannah Bee where we’re going to be putting their hot honey in our drink,” said Locorini.

    Image: Perry Lane Hotel

    If you’re exploring the South Tower during the day, you’ll find a boutique ready to furnish your next outfit. Muse draws inspiration from the story of Adelaide Harcourt to bring her luxurious, international style to life.

    Like the entire hotel, art covers the walls of the South Tower, making each hallway a museum experience. Just outside of the doors of Muse, a piece by Marcus Kenney is hung. “Exiled (in Reverse)” is made entirely of canceled checks, portraying a boy on a dock playing a trumpet with a flock of ducks flying into his instrument rather than away from his tunes.

    A Southern belle from Savannah is always social, as the city is known for its numerous parties and active entertainment scene. Perry Lane couldn’t accurately reflect a story if they didn’t follow suit: monthly wine dinners, movie nights, tea services, a Benedetto guitar factory experience, and even reindeer on the roof during the holidays. And this spring, there are plans for a live peacock to strut around the space in the spring to match the wall mural. At Perry Lane, the creative events keep flowing right alongside the sweet tea. 

    Perry Lane creates an atmosphere that echoes Savannah: welcoming, curious, and ladylike with a sense of mischief. Conversation flows naturally as guests use the comfortable spaces to relax. With ample room, a convenient location, and above all, downtown parking, the Perry Lane Hotel is a fantastic way to experience the Hostess City as both a tourist and a local.

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  • What to Expect at Southall Farm & Inn Near Nashville

    What to Expect at Southall Farm & Inn Near Nashville

    Featured image: Patrik Argast, Argast Photography

    Updated: January 7, 2026

    Franklin, Tennessee, has gotten a little more fabulous. Right next door, in the heart of Leiper’s Fork, Southall Farm & Inn opened its doors in late 2022 to offer an unforgettable homestead experience with a focus on luxury.

    The sprawling resort sits on 325 acres of rolling Tennessee hills, housing stunning guestrooms, secluded cabins, two onsite restaurants, an ultra-lux spa, a speakeasy, and stunning community spaces prime for relaxation. But, Southall is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s a working farm dedicated to sustainability, education, and exploration, pairing pastoral charm with indulgent amenities.

    Read on for a deeper dive into the Southall property. 

    Image: Southall Farm & Inn

    Grounds

    Leiper’s Fork is a bucolic small town that’s long caught the attention of celebrities and executives looking for a secluded spot to plant roots. Southall embodies that exclusivity and rural charm perfectly, with a working farm at its center. The property has more than 1,000 apple trees, both traditional and hydroponic greenhouses (including one dedicated entirely to citrus trees), formal kitchen gardens, and more. 

    Guests can explore this agricultural wonderland through tours and hands-on experiences like apiary visits, farm insights, and even jammery workshops, and the onsite restaurants utilize the property’s fresh produce whenever possible. These farmstead experiences are a chance to see (and taste!) sustainability in action–it’s truly “seed-to-fork” dining, and the freshness is palpable.

    Image: Southall Farm & Inn

    Dining

    Southall’s culinary program is a love letter to local ingredients, helmed by Executive Chef Andrew Klamar. Two restaurants are available onsite: the all-day cafe Sojourner, which offers everything from a gobsmacking breakfast spread in the morning to innovative craft cocktails at night (or in the morning, we’re not judging), and a signature dining spot, January. New in 2026, Sean Brock’s fast-casual burger joint, Joyland, is now available for ordering.

    The dining room impresses guests before they ever sit down, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the property, a cozy fireplace, an open kitchen, and even a group dining table fashioned from a fallen tree onsite. January’s dishes rotate based on seasonal ingredients, but might include Arctic char, short rib, and the best rolls I’ve had to date. The restaurant recently debuted a fantastic high tea service on weekends. 

    Whenever possible, dishes at both restaurants are crafted with items grown, raised, or foraged onsite. Farm-fresh doesn’t get any fresher than this.

    Image: Patrik Argast, Argast Photography

    Accommodations

    Southall’s accommodations are designed to pamper. The Inn features 62 guest rooms and suites, plus 16 standalone cottages, many with fireplaces and oversized soaking tubs.

    For next-level relaxation, The Spa at Southall spans 15,000 square feet and offers a range of treatments blending ancient healing practices with modern techniques—many of which use products derived from the farm itself (even the loofas).

    Image: Southall Farm & Inn

    The Activities

    Whether you’re into adventure or leisure, Southall delivers. Guests can traverse over five miles of trails through old-growth forests, paddle or fish on the seven-acre Lake Mishkin, up their cooking skills with classes and programs, participate in a one-of-a-kind falconry experience, or put on their boogie shoes for an evening at the home-turned-speakeasy, Dottie’s. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, fishing gear, and mountain bikes are all available for rental.

    Access to the property is only possible with reservations for guestrooms, the spa, or restaurants, but their farmstand, packed with jams, produce, and other goods, is open to the public. 

    Find more Southern hotels worth the trip.

  • Experience the Magic of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

    Experience the Magic of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

    Feature image: The Dollywood Company

    Image: © Curtis Hilbun/Dollywood

    Growing up in the heart of Franklin, I somehow never made the four-hour trip east to Dollywood. Though I’ve always been a fan of Dolly’s music and admire her generous spirit, the theme park never made it to the top of my list. However, my first visit quickly showed me I had been missing out on something truly special.

    The beauty of the Smoky Mountains is that, if you’re coming from Middle Tennessee, it doesn’t require much advance planning. Whether you’re thinking ahead for next year’s family vacation or looking for a spontaneous holiday getaway this weekend, here’s everything you need to know about Dollywood’s “Smoky Mountain Christmas” celebration.

    Image: © Curtis Hilbun/Dollywood

    Dollywood Delights All Ages

    Even though I recently turned 30, I’ll forever be a kid at heart. Dollywood was a playground for everyone, with rides and attractions that cater to all kinds of visitors. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ll find plenty of adrenaline-pumping rides and rollercoasters to keep you entertained all day.

    A highlight for me was the Wild Eagle, America’s first wing coaster. Sitting in the front row at night, soaring above the park’s twinkling lights, was an exhilarating experience that set the tone for my trip. Dollywood boasts eight rollercoasters, including some fantastic wooden ones and the charming Firechaser Express dedicated to volunteer firefighters. For younger guests or those who prefer a gentler experience, there are plenty of milder rides that are just as enjoyable.

    In addition to the rides, Dollywood offers a variety of shows and experiences. Fun fact: Dollywood houses the nation’s largest collection of non-releasable bald eagles in a spacious 30,000-square-foot enclosure. You can relax at a picnic table nearby to watch these majestic birds or catch them in action during the Wings of America show. And for Dolly fans, there’s the Dolly Parton Experience—a glittering museum dedicated to her life and career.

    The Parks from Day to Night

    While the Smoky Mountain Christmas setup is stunning during the day, the park truly comes alive after sunset. As you explore, you’ll be surrounded by rows of illuminated Christmas trees, including an orange and white section for Tennessee fans. Each area has its unique highlights: upon entry, you’ll encounter garlands with bright red bells, twinkling butterflies, and a pink tree in honor of Dolly. The park dazzles with light displays, a polar bear section, and much more.

    Dollywood also hosts a seasonal fireworks display at 8:45 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, accompanied by festive snacks and drinks (the hot chocolate is a must-try). Carolers at the chapel, holiday characters ready for photos, and the overall festive atmosphere will fill you with holiday cheer from the moment you enter until long after you leave.

    The Resorts

    Dollywood has two on-site resorts for your stay. The original DreamMore Resort pays tribute to Dolly with memorabilia and artwork throughout the property. The newer HeartSong Lodge offers a cozy, woodsy feel, inspired by the surrounding Smoky Mountains.

    Both resorts feature indoor and outdoor pools, playgrounds, firepits, park shuttles, and restaurants to fuel your adventures. Staying true to Dollywood’s family-friendly focus, rooms include bunk bed options and family suites to accommodate larger groups.

    During my stay, I opted for the “Christmas Tree Decor” package, which was a delightful touch. My room featured a decorated tree, holiday mugs filled with treats, a welcome letter from Santa’s elves, and milk and cookies. If you’re traveling with children, this package adds an extra dose of holiday magic.

    Dollywood Dining 

    While the resorts and rides exceeded my expectations, the food at Dollywood was a standout. I dined at both resort restaurants—Ember & Elm at HeartSong, an upscale steakhouse, and Song & Hearth at DreamMore, a casual eatery that also offers room service.

    Within the park, you’ll find a range of dining options, from Southern comfort food at Granny Ogle’s Ham ‘n’ Beans to smoky barbecue at Hickory House BBQ, and traditional pizzas at Iron Horse Pizza. And, as with any theme park, the snacks are not to be missed. Indulge in Icees, Dippin’ Dots, and tornado potatoes as you explore. But whatever you do, don’t skip the iconic cinnamon bread. The line may be long, but it’s worth the wait—I almost passed on it, and I’m so glad I didn’t.

    Between the festive lights, delicious food, and joyful atmosphere, I discovered a new holiday tradition I can’t wait to share with loved ones for years to come.

  • These Luxury Treehouses are Tennessee’s Ultimate Hidden Gem

    These Luxury Treehouses are Tennessee’s Ultimate Hidden Gem

    Feature image: Chad Dyar

    Image: Chad Dyar

    I’ve had my eye on these Middle-of-Nowhere, Tennessee, cabins since first hearing about them in 2018. I dreamed about the clawfoot bathtubs, the cabins that seem to disappear right into the wilderness, the premium luxury treehouses perched right on the cliffside. 

    So when I finally had the chance to visit Bolt Farm this spring, my hopes and expectations were high. I’m thrilled to share that they were all exceeded.

    Image: Levi Kelly

    The experience begins before you even arrive onsite. Driving up winding Tennessee roads, climbing up and up into the mountains, created a sense of anticipation that built with each turn. When I arrived on property, I was greeted by live music, a welcome glass of bubbles, and a community happy hour that drew visitors away from their respective cabins and into the central gathering hub. 

    Owners Seth and Tori Bolt built the treehouse for their own enjoyment, but after experiencing how special it was, they knew it needed to be shared with the world. Now, it’s a tucked-away destination where luxury and nature collide, drawing droves of couples seeking to recharge, individuals eager for an escape, and the occasional celebrity in need of a tranquil hideaway. 

    The treehouses themselves feel like the pinnacle of mountaintop living. Situated among towering trees, they instantly bring out a sense of wonder that makes you feel both royal and childlike at once. I stayed in a honeymoon treehouse, which was beautifully decorated and well-appointed. The fridge was stocked with prepared meals that could be easily heated in the outdoor pizza oven, but when I return, I’ll plan to grocery shop in advance and grill out all weekend long. 

    We settled in and explored the grounds for a bit, where we discovered a secret cliffside cove with two Adirondack chairs. It was the perfect secluded spot for deep conversation fueled by a glass of wine and unparalleled views. Conversation and connection are at the heart of Bolt Farm’s mission. They even leave a custom deck of cards with talking points in each cabin to foster meaningful conversation.

    That evening, while the casseroles and cobblers warmed in the oven, we poured some wine and built a fire in the outdoor pit, inching ever closer as the sun set and the cool night air rolled in. Eventually, the warmth of the hot tub sounded all too intriguing, so we doused the flames and enjoyed a soak while staring up at the stars. 

    While the treehouses are the crown jewel of Bolt Farm, they aren’t the only lodging option here. There are Mirror Cabins that blend seamlessly into the forest, with mirror-covered exteriors that reflect the lush surroundings so perfectly it feels as if the cabin itself is part of the woods. And for those who crave a taste of outdoor luxury, there are outdoor domes, each with its own private terrace, outdoor shower, canopy bed, fire pit, hot tub, and pizza oven. 

    Image: beSTR Marketing

    One of the resort’s newest additions is the Treehouse Spa, an ultra-relaxing oasis housed right on the cliffside. While there are a number of services available to book, the Founders’ Signature Couples Experience is the ultimate luxury. It’s an immersive spa journey that engages every sense, beginning with an herbal mud wrap and heated bamboo massage for the legs and feet followed by a body scrub and luxurious wrap that revitalizes the skin.

    The journey then continues with a turmeric treatment and hot stone massage, an aromatic mist, and a light facial massage using a chocolate mousse hydrating mask and strawberry rhubarb moisturizer.

    Whether you come to Bolt Farm to disconnect yourself from life’s stressors or to reconnect with a loved one, you’ll find it all and more on property. 

  • Immerse Yourself in Memphis Music at Central Station Hotel

    Immerse Yourself in Memphis Music at Central Station Hotel

    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!