Twenty years ago, few people would have guessed that Five Points could be the thriving, happening place it has become. Now filled with foodie-friendly restaurants, antique stores and galleries, it is probably the hottest place in the city. One vacation is probably not enough to fully appreciate all of the neighborhood’s bars and restaurants, but it’s always worth it to try. Otherwise, take a trip out to see what all the fuss is about and bring home some truly unique souvenirs.
Bring an empty bag to store all of the clothing and goods on sale from the eco-friendly shops. Start at The Shoppes on Fatherland, a hip cluster with some of the coolest threads on offer in the city. Go to Rusty Rats Antiques & Vintage to browse as much as to buy, since one of the owners also works in Nashville’s props department. Get unique artwork by local creators at the Art & Invention Gallery, or see what the upcoming new Nashville businesses are going to be at the IDEA Hatchery.
All that shopping works up an appetite, so grab a bite at local institutions like Bongo East or the chic-but-trendy Margot Café. If a drink is on the menu, visit the bars on 11th Street, which give the establishments of Lower Broad a run for their money on weekend nights. For a more relaxed atmosphere, go admire the neoclassical exterior of the Nashville Public Library East Branch, then sit back and relax during the summer’s Grassy Knoll Movie Nights.
Five Points is the beating heart of East Nashville. Drive from downtown in about 10 minutes. Bus connections provide transport to downtown Nashville in about 20 minutes. Though Five Points itself is fairly compact and walkable, East Nashville in general is best explored by car. A variety of metered parking is available on the main arteries, or limited free parking on back streets.
The neighborhood’s community spirit is most on display during its annual events, from July’s Hot Chicken Festival, showcasing the city’s most favorite food, to August’s Tomato Art Fest and its celebration of all that is creative.
