The last of a dying breed of downtown hotels, the
Hermitage Hotel (231 6th Ave., 615/244-3121, www.thehermitagehotel.com, $300–800) has been the first choice for travelers to downtown Nashville for almost 100 years. The 123-room hotel was commissioned by prominent Nashville citizens and opened for business in 1910, quickly becoming the favorite gathering place for the city’s elite. Prominent figures including Al Capone, Gene Autry, and seven U.S. presidents have stayed at the Hermitage.

In modern times, its roll call includes some of country music’s biggest names. You don’t have to be famous to stay at the Hermitage, but having plenty of cash will help your cause. Rooms start at $300 a night, but check for last-minute specials on its website when rates will dip to $200. Guests enjoy top-of-the-line amenities, including 24-hour room service, pet walking, valet parking, and laundry services. Rooms are furnished in an opulent style befitting a luxury urban hotel, and have CD/DVD players, refreshment centers, marble baths, and high-speed wireless Internet access. Many rooms have lovely views of the Capitol and city.

Courtyard by Marriot (179 4th Ave. N., 615/256-0900, $200–250) is a 181-room renovated hotel set in a century-old downtown high-rise. It is located right next to Printer’s Alley, and is set midway between the downtown business district and Broadway’s entertainment attractions. Guest rooms are tastefully decorated, with web TV, wired Internet access, coffeemakers, ironing boards, cable TV, voice mail, and super-comfortable beds. There are two restaurants on-site, and guests can take advantage of valet parking for $20 a day.

Located just steps from the Tennessee State Capitol and near dozens of downtown office buildings, the Doubletree Hotel Nashville (315 4th Ave. N., 615/244-8200, $190–250) is a popular choice for business travelers. Rooms are spacious and bright, and even basic rooms have a comfortable desk and chair, coffeemaker, free Internet access, voice mail, and ironing boards. The hotel boasts a beautiful indoor swimming pool, business center, above-average fitness center, and on-site restaurant and coffee shop. Parking at the Doubletree is valet only and costs $20 per day.

The Sheraton Downtown Nashville (623 Union St., 615/259-2000, $200–270) is a city landmark. The 476-room hotel stands tall above neighboring buildings, providing most guest rooms with views of the city below. Located in the middle of Nashville’s bustling downtown business district, it is another good option for business travelers. The hotel is 100 percent smoke-free, and has a fitness room, business center, indoor pool, and laundry and concierge services. Internet access and on-site parking is available for an additional fee.