While Broadway’s neon lights and melodic sounds are one of the Music City’s big draws, Nashville’s Noelle hotel is the welcome respite from the cacophony. Balancing a nod to the past with all the luxurious amenities today’s luxury traveler desires, the boutique hotel is a top choice for the guest who appreciates style, function and a slightly quirky approach.
After opening the weighty door, you’ll be met with a lobby where old school vibes and a contemporary boutique feel converge. The welcome desk feels as if it could be part of an old-world hotel, which is a nod to the building’s history, and the elegant minimalism feels more streamlined than an attempt to ooze ultra-modern. To the right of the entrance, a bustling coffee spot offers a place to plan the day or a respite before heading out for another adventure, and to the left, a luxe little shop gives a glimpse into the city’s eclectic scene when it comes to style.
Why stay at Noelle?
The hotel is a step above without the stuffy vibe. For the traveler who longs for storytelling as opposed to another cookie cutter hotel experience, Noelle is a perfect place to lay their head. Even though the older elevators might harken to a day where a steward helped guests arrive at the correct floor, the historic notes are more welcoming than kitschy and that sense of authenticity is real—not just an attempt to curate a particular aesthetic.
It’s the minute details that distinguish this hotel. It’s easy to picture somebody placing a handwritten note down the letter shoot, but at the same time, the modern-day artworks give a glimpse into Nashville’s evolving identity as a creative hub. Rooted in the past but always evolving is the harmonious element that makes Music City great, and that’s reflected at Noelle.
What are the rooms like at Noelle?
Simple, sophisticated and sumptuous. Across the 224 rooms and suites, the uncomplicated touches make the stay special. From the hotel’s name embroidered on the sheets to the well-plumped pillows, nestling into the bed at the end of a long night is a relaxing cocoon inviting the sweetness of dreams.
The blackout shades plunge the room into absolute darkness, and after enjoying Nashville’s nightlife, this element is appreciated. Just be mindful to set a second alarm if an early morning meeting is on the agenda.
The bathroom? It’s not just well appointed and spacious, but the luxurious feeling pours over you in the form of delightfully strong water pressure and lavish bath products—it’s easy to linger as the water pounds away the day’s tensions.
What is the food like at Noelle?
Curious interpretation of familiar flavors. Whether the day starts with cold brew or a latte from Drug Store Coffee or an afternoon respited with some small plates at The Trade Room, the on-site food options are varied and inventive. While a few items can feel a little pedestrian, one restaurant stands out as a particularly alluring dinner spot.
Lona, by Chef Richard Sandoval, is a scrumptious celebration of Mexican gastronomy. While Nashville Hot Chicken and other Southern favorites might be the default for plenty of menus in this city, this exceptional Mexican restaurant captures what Noelle does best, heritage balanced with innovation.
Visually, the plates are stunning and worthy of allowing the camera to eat first, but more importantly, the flavors capture the complexities of Mexican cuisine, and from appetizers at the bar to a quiet dinner for two, this dining experience has everyone singing its praises. Think lobster quesadillas or baja-style fish tacos.
What are the bars like at Noelle?
From a rooftop bar to a hidden speakeasy, the dichotomy of Noelle’s popular bars ensures every thirst is quenched. Perched on the roof, Rare Bird soars with its trendy beverages. Even though the view is stunning, the complex cocktails will definitely draw your eye, and highlights include the fresh Skyline Flamingo (empress cucumber gin, select aperitivo, prickly pear, lemon), the tingly Hot Havana (hard truth toasted coconut rum, creme de menthe, pineapple jalapeno), and the moreish Salty Duck (don fulano blanco tequila, blue pea flower, white grapefruit, simple syrup).
In contrast, Hidden Bar is the speakeasy for a more seductive and mysterious atmosphere. After finding the secluded door, the intimate space reveals a sophisticated cocktail menu littered with classic options and imaginative twists like the Latest Word, a zesty, mezcal-filled take on the original Last Word.
What is the service like at Noelle?
A first impression always sets the tone for a hotel stay, and more than just another casual question, the check-in staff at Noelle captured what this property embodies. Warm, welcoming and customized are just a few of the many adjectives that started the experience, and the attention to detail without feeling stuffy added to the experience.
Notablably, the staff is ready and willing to make every aspect of a stay better. When my room was a bit chilly one night, staff quickly brought extra blankets and delivered them while I was enjoying a late afternoon cocktail at the Trade Bar. Efficient and thoughtful epitomized the staff’s approach to the hotel’s hospitality.
What is the area like around Noelle?
It’s a pleasantly quick walk to iconic landmarks and Nashville’s highlights, like The Ryman, Printer’s Alley and the numerous bars that line Broadway, and along with the many iconic restaurants and the delightful Assembly Food Hall. Basically, Noelle is on the doorstep of lots of places that will be on the agenda of first-time visitors to the city.
The only downside is the noise that comes along with being in such a prime spot. Depending on a room’s location, guests who need complete silence may want to bring their noise canceling headphones—something to be aware of if you’re an early riser.
Why should you book a stay at Noelle?
Finding creative hotels that are not cliche is often a fruitless task, but Noelle finds a way to balance the old school charm while providing the modernity and luxury that make for a distinctive and memorable stay. And whether you’re after quiet moments, embracing exuberant excess or being swept away in the moment, the hotel is a pretty good spot to do it.
DETAILS
Address: 200 Fourth Avenue N., Nashville, TN 37219
Price: Rooms’ average starting price is between $300 to $500 depending on the category
Closest transport: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is approximately 20 minutes away by car
Book now: via Booking.com
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