Loews Vanderbilt Hotel

This Loews hotel may not be located in the midst of Nashville’s exciting music scene downtown, but there’s no mistaking that it’s in the country music capital from the moment guests enter its sleek, spacious lobby. An immense mural of Hank Williams graces one wall, while other memorabilia is showcased in tasteful fashion throughout, including hand-written lyrics from Johnny Cash hits and even an old-style jukebox. This hotel often hosts Vanderbilt homecoming and reunion events so it can get busy, but the large, two-story lobby and expansive event space handles the action with ease. Designer-quality furnishings create many different gathering places around a gas fireplace or lovely, rough-hewn wood tables. The polished tan tile, large columns, and upscale, modern furniture in rich colors create a sophisticated space that’s a great place to relax or catch up with friends. The fine-dining restaurant and lounge are equally opulent and attractive. 

Vanderbilt University is directly across the street from this hotel, with the admissions office only a few blocks away and several restaurants within walking distance. Two major medical complexes -- Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital and Centennial Medical Center -- are also nearby, about a three- to five-minute drive or a 10- to 12-minute walk. Many of Nashville’s top attractions are within a brief drive as well, including Nissan Stadium (12 minutes away), Gaylord Opryland Hotel & Convention Center (20 minutes), and the Parthenon (seven minutes). Several other attractions are all about a 10-minute drive away, including Tennessee State Capitol, Bridgestone Arena, Music City Center, Printer’s Alley, Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, and Music City Walk of Fame Park. The Riverfront Station train station downtown is a 12-minute drive or 22 minutes by bus. Bus service is available between Vanderbilt and points downtown, and the hotel also offers a complimentary area shuttle. Nashville International Airport is a 16-minute drive away.

All of the Loews' guest rooms are fresh and clean thanks to a renovation in 2013. Their stylish contemporary decor features a sophisticated gray-and cream color scheme, and -- like the hotel’s public spaces -- walls are accented with country music-themed art. Guests rave about the comfort of the Stearns & Foster Tivoli Plush pillow-top mattress and 300-thread-count, Egyptian cotton linens. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, work desks with media plug-ins and gray leather ergonomic chairs, iPod docks, minibars, coffeemakers, electronic safes, magnifying mirrors, robes and slippers, and free Wi-Fi, plus Premium Rooms come with upgraded Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are a bit small, but feel upscale with chic travertine floors and walls as well as colorful, graphic accent walls. Sleek black vanities offer plenty of storage space and there are walk-in showers. The hotel has several different room categories, ranging in size from Superior and Deluxe Rooms (330 square feet) to Luxury (400 square feet) and Grand King (425 square feet) that have expanded sitting areas with armchairs. Suites range from 750 to 1,500 square feet and typically have a second bathroom and a separate living room with a sofa bed. Some suites have kitchenettes, wet bars, and dining areas. Premium and Club Level Rooms have access to the Concierge Lounge that serves a free breakfast buffet and afternoon appetizers with beverages. 

Mason's, the on-site restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers children’s menus. Breakfast is not included in room rates, but Club Level Rooms have access to the private Concierge Lounge, which serves a free breakfast buffet as well as appetizers and beverages (including alcohol) in the evening. Another dining option is the attached Ruth’s Chris Steak House. 

Other features include 24,000-square-feet of event space, plus there's a 24-hour business center with Internet access and free printing. The 24-hour fitness center is especially upscale with a full range of Lifecycle equipment and free weights as well as fresh fruit. Guests are offered the PressReader mobile app with free access to local and national newspapers during their stays. Teens can access a lending library with DVD players, Gameboys, and board games. Concierge services include pet sitting/walking and babysitting arrangements, appointments at a nearby preferred spa, and children’s activities. Free overnight shoe shines, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and laundry/dry-cleaning services are offered. A gift shop is on-site as well. Both self and valet parking are available, but they are expensive. Guests can also make use of the hotel's free shuttle, which operates within a three-mile radius.