Small in size but big in impact, 12 South is a destination for foodies from Nashville and beyond. As its name suggests, the neighborhood stretches along a half-mile (0.8 kilometers), surrounded by quiet residential streets. Especially on the weekends, the neighborhood is alive with activity. Bring a pair of walking shoes and an empty stomach, and make your way slowly between its restaurants, shops, cafés and bars, stopping often to refuel.
Arrive just before brunch to take advantage of quieter stores and browse for vintage clothing or Nashville-sewn jeans at the boutiques that line both sides of the street. Dig into brunch at Edley’s Bar-B-Que, then pose for a classic picture in front of the I Believe in Nashville mural right next door. Stay until the evening to take in a performance or art exhibit at Halcyon Bike Shop, which, of course, also sells bicycles.
Move off 12th Avenue itself and go for a walk in Sevier Park, whose lush greenery and tall trees make it a worthy destination year round. Admire the graceful architecture of the antebellum Sunnyside, a mansion that once formed part of the battle lines during the 1864 Battle of Nashville. Join in some of the activities and performances that take place regularly at the Sevier Park Community Center, a hub of activity for the whole neighborhood.
The 12 South neighborhood is located in southern Nashville, just north of Green Hills, a 20-minute drive from Nashville airport. Reach the area in about 15 minutes from downtown by car, or take the bus in 25 minutes. 12 South is small and walkable, so park the car nearby and explore the neighborhood on foot. There is a mix of metered and free street parking located on 12th Avenue South itself and the surrounding residential district.
Though 12 South is most popular on the weekends, come on Tuesday afternoons in the summer to take advantage of the produce, local products and food trucks of the 12 South Farmer’s Market.
