12 South Nashville
A vibrant, walkable Nashville neighborhood brimming with unique boutiques, iconic murals, and delicious eateries.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
12 South Nashville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, walkable Nashville neighborhood brimming with unique boutiques, iconic murals, and delicious eateries.
"Discover Nashville's charm beyond Broadway in the walkable, stylish 12 South neighborhood."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the shops and murals!
📸 Mural Photo Guide
Plan your mural stops to maximize photo ops. The 'I Believe in Nashville' mural is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Murals
Various locations along 12th Avenue South
Snap photos at vibrant, Instagram-worthy murals like 'I Believe in Nashville' and 'Bottoms Up'.

Boutique Shopping
Along 12th Avenue South
Discover unique fashion, gifts, and local designer finds at charming boutiques like Stoney Clover Lane.

The Salty Donut
2311 12th Ave S #105
Indulge in creative croissant-bagels (craigels) and delicious donut holes at this popular cafe.

Playdate Nashville
2405 12th Ave S
Experience an adult playground meets cocktail bar with slides, games, and unique drinks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Mural Hunting & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the shops and murals!
📸 Mural Photo Guide
Plan your mural stops to maximize photo ops. The 'I Believe in Nashville' mural is a must!
🛍️ Shop Local Gems
Explore unique boutiques for fashion and gifts. Stoney Clover Lane is a popular stop.
☕ Coffee & Treats
Grab a coffee at Frothy Monkey or try the unique craigels at The Salty Donut.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the shops and murals!
📸 Mural Photo Guide
Plan your mural stops to maximize photo ops. The 'I Believe in Nashville' mural is a must!
🛍️ Shop Local Gems
Explore unique boutiques for fashion and gifts. Stoney Clover Lane is a popular stop.
☕ Coffee & Treats
Grab a coffee at Frothy Monkey or try the unique craigels at The Salty Donut.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
12 South is celebrated as a charming and walkable neighborhood offering a delightful mix of boutique shopping, vibrant murals, and diverse dining options. Visitors love the unique finds in its shops and the photogenic street art. Some find parking challenging and can encounter crowds on busy weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
12 South is easily accessible by car, ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft), or a short drive from downtown Nashville. Many visitors find it convenient to park once and explore the walkable district on foot.
Yes, 12 South is known for its walkability. The main stretch of 12th Avenue South is about a half-mile long and packed with shops, restaurants, and murals, making it ideal for exploring on foot.
Street parking is available, but can be competitive, especially on weekends. Some businesses may have dedicated parking lots. Arriving early or using ride-sharing is often recommended.
12 South is generally considered a safe and vibrant neighborhood for walking, especially during daylight hours and early evenings. It's a popular area for locals and tourists alike.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, you can typically take a bus towards the general area and then complete the journey with a short walk or ride-share. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, 12 South is a public neighborhood and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the streets, murals, and public areas.
The murals in 12 South are free to view and photograph. They are part of the neighborhood's public art scene.
Shop hours in 12 South vary. Most boutiques and stores are typically open from late morning to early evening, with some staying open later on weekends. Restaurants and bars have their own specific hours.
Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Weekends are livelier but busier. For photos, consider early mornings or late afternoons to avoid harsh light and crowds.
12 South occasionally hosts local events, pop-ups, and seasonal activities. It's best to check local Nashville event listings or social media for any scheduled happenings during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'I Believe in Nashville' mural is a must-see. Other popular spots include the 'Bottoms Up' mural and various colorful murals found on the sides of buildings.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing great photos of the murals and street scenes.
Yes, some services like PhotoWalk Nashville offer professional photography sessions in 12 South to capture high-quality photos of you and the murals.
Many shops, like Stoney Clover Lane, have aesthetically pleasing displays and interiors that make for great photos.
Expect vibrant mural backdrops, stylish boutique interiors, delicious food shots, and charming street scenes. It's a very photogenic neighborhood.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular spots include The Salty Donut for unique pastries, Buttermilk Ranch for breakfast/brunch, and Mesero for Mexican cuisine. Playdate offers a fun dining experience with cocktails.
Frothy Monkey is a well-loved spot for coffee and light bites. The Salty Donut also serves coffee alongside their baked goods.
Yes, Buttermilk Ranch is highly recommended for breakfast and brunch, known for its delicious food and pastries. The Henry also offers a great brunch experience.
12 South offers a diverse culinary scene, including American comfort food, Mexican, pastries, coffee, and creative cocktails.
Playdate offers a unique cocktail experience. Other spots like The Filling Station serve craft beer and drinks.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping
Popular shops include Stoney Clover Lane for customizable bags, Love Shack Fancy, Page, and Lululemon. Y'all Come Back offers fun and bright apparel.
Absolutely! 12 South is renowned for its collection of unique boutiques showcasing local designers and makers, offering everything from fashion to home goods.
You can find a wide range of items, including women's fashion, accessories, custom bags, home decor, gifts, and more.
Yes, the unique boutiques and local artisan shops in 12 South offer great opportunities to find distinctive souvenirs and gifts.
Brunetta Accessories operates a cute jewelry truck in the 12 South Collection, offering unique pieces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For snacks, The Salty Donut offers sweet treats that kids will love, and Wanna Spoon Cereal Bar (mentioned in mural lists) could be a fun stop. The walkable nature of the neighborhood makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and many cafes offer casual dining options suitable for families.
🛍️ Shoppers & Fashionistas
Take your time to wander down 12th Avenue South and explore the diverse retail offerings. Many shops are beautifully merchandised, making the browsing experience itself a delight. Don't forget to check out Brunetta Accessories for unique jewelry from their truck.
📸 Instagrammers & Content Creators
Beyond the murals and shops, the aesthetically pleasing cafes and restaurants, such as The Salty Donut and Playdate, provide excellent opportunities for food photography and lifestyle shots. Consider visiting during golden hour for the best lighting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Murals of 12 South
To make the most of your mural tour, consider planning your route. Many of these artistic gems are clustered along 12th Avenue South and its side streets. Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, can help you avoid crowds and get unobstructed photos. Some creators even suggest hiring a local photographer to capture professional-quality shots against these unique backdrops.
Beyond the visual appeal, the murals contribute to the neighborhood's lively and creative atmosphere. They are a testament to Nashville's thriving arts scene and offer a fun, free activity for anyone exploring 12 South.
Shopping Delights in 12 South
Beyond Stoney Clover Lane, you'll discover a diverse range of shops catering to different tastes. From the chic offerings at Love Shack Fancy and Page to the athletic wear at Lululemon, there's something for everyone. Y'all Come Back adds to the vibrant retail scene with its fun and bright apparel, perfect for a night out.
Many of these boutiques are locally owned, providing an opportunity to support Nashville's creative community and discover items you won't find elsewhere. The walkable nature of 12 South makes it easy to hop from one charming store to another, making for a delightful shopping excursion.
Culinary Adventures in 12 South
For those seeking a memorable brunch experience, Buttermilk Ranch is a top recommendation, praised for its delectable food and pastries. The Henry also offers a popular brunch spot with a great atmosphere. If you're craving Mexican flavors, Mesero is a hidden gem that provides a delightful dining experience, perfect for date nights.
Beyond these highlights, 12 South features various other establishments, including Playdate, an adult playground with a cocktail bar, and The Filling Station, known for craft beer. This concentration of diverse eateries ensures that visitors can easily spend a full day exploring the neighborhood's gastronomic offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit