Vanderbilt University was founded in 1873 and named in honor of shipping and rail tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt has. As a prestigious private research university in Nashville, Tennessee with an enrollment of roughly 14,000 students. The Vanderbilt campus is located roughly 1.5 miles southwest of downtown Nashville. Vanderbilt is a founding member of the Southeastern Conference known as the SEC and has been the conference’s only private school since 1966. Whether you are a prospective student or a proud parent, visiting Vanderbilt University always makes for an exceptional trip whether for Family Weekend, Graduation, or just a special visit. Determining the right hotel in a city full of options is a key part of making for an unforgettable experience to maximize the annual Alumni and Families Weekend.
Not only does this guide cover recommendations for accommodation near the Vanderbilt University campus, but hits on the top local attractions, top rated dining options, and the local landmarks and attractions in Nashville, Tennessee.
Top Accommodation Options near Vanderbilt University
At Luxurious Getaways Co., we specialize in organizing bespoke travel arrangements for your trip to Vanderbilt University at no additional cost to you. Booking your stay with us not only grants you the privilege of experiencing the comfort and luxury of Nashville’s premier hotels but also ensures you receive VIP treatment from someone intimately familiar with Nashville. Additionally, you’ll enjoy a host of exclusive benefits at the following hotels through our exclusive connections in the city:
Located just a drive from the center of Vanderbilt University, The Four Seasons Nashville offers a memorable stay. After all, there’s no better choice than staying at one of the 130+ global Four Seasons Preferred properties. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy their rooftop pool during the scorching summer months. Throughout the years, we have recommended this hotel to our guests, and they have consistently shared glowing reviews about the unforgettable experiences they’ve had. When you use Luxurious Getaways Co. to book your stay at one of our Four Seasons Preferred Partner hotels, you can enjoy the following exclusive perks:
- Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room (A special perk to Four Seasons Preferred and not American Express)
- Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 for standard rooms/$200 for suites)
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
Situated in downtown Nashville, the luxurious JW Marriott Nashville offers unmatched hospitality and convenience, along with some phenomenal benefits through our exclusive partnership with Virtuoso:
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
- Hotel credit valued at $100
- Early check-in/late check-out**
- Complimentary room upgrade**
- Local welcome amenity and note
With panoramic views of the downtown Nashville skyline, the Grand Hyatt Nashville has one of the most popular rooftops in all of Nashville. You’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the Grand Hyatt Nashville, a Hyatt Privé hotel:
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
- Property credit valued at $100
- Early check-in/late check-out (confirmed within 24 hours of booking)
- Complimentary room upgrade (confirmed within 24 hours of booking)
- Local welcome amenity and note
The W Nashville is located in The Gulch, an upscale neighborhood known for its chic hotels, high-end fashion boutiques and trendsetting restaurants. When you use Luxurious Getaways Co. to book your stay at the W Nashville, you can enjoy the following exclusive perks:
- Daily full breakfast for two people
- Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100)
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
Situated in the heart of Music City, you’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the Conrad Nashville hotel, a Hilton Impresario hotel:
- Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room
- Double Hilton Points
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
The Joseph epitomizes refined luxury in every sense. With its opulent and inviting atmosphere, complemented by elegant furnishings and a serene ambiance, it offers a truly upscale experience. Similar to the Four Seasons, The Joseph boasts an exceptional rooftop pool and bar, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the campus. As a Luxurious Getaways Co. customer, you are able to get access to some of these exclusive perks by booking through us at no additional cost:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability*
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
- $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out*
Located in the loved neighborhood of Midtown, the Kimpton Aertson Hotel is the closest hotel to Vanderbilt University. You’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the Kimpton Aertson Hotel, an IHG® Luxury & Lifestyle luxurious hotel:
- Daily full breakfast for two people
- $50 value hotel amenity
- Bottled water, fresh fruit / snacks in room upon arrival
- Turn down service
- VIP status
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
*Terms & Conditions apply
**Perks and upgrades may be subject to availability. All perks will be confirmed prior to final booking.
Questions? Don't see the hotel you are looking for? Email us! Booking@LuxuriousGetawaysCo.com
Local Attractions
With no shortage of restaurants & attractions, Nashville offers something for everyone. If you’re a parent wondering what to do during Family Weekend, know that Nashville, Tennessee offers plenty to see and do outside of visiting your child’s school. The city is filled with attractions for parents and families alike.
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the evolving history and traditions of country music. Through exhibits, publications, and educational programs, the Museum teaches its diverse audiences about the enduring beauty and cultural importance of country music. The museum has been called the “Smithsonian of country music,” celebrated for its broad cultural impact, educational mission, and unrivaled collection of historically important artifacts related to country music.
- Grand Ole Opry: One of Nashville’s most famous attractions, the Grand Ole Opry the Opry continues to be the true home of country music. With an untouchable legacy of shaping and sharing the genre, be sure to catch a live recording while in Nashville.
- The Parthenon: The Parthenon stands proudly as the centerpiece of Centennial Park, Nashville’s premier urban park. The re-creation of the 42-foot statue Athena is the focus of the Parthenon just as it was in ancient Greece. The building and the Athena statue are both full-scale replicas of the Athenian originals.
College Landmarks
Vanderbilt University’s campus is rich in history and architectural beauty. Don’t miss these iconic landmarks:
- Landscaping: The entire Vanderbilt campus is designated as an arboretum. In 2013 the campus contained 6181 identified and geolocated trees and shrubs. Each year 150 to 200 new trees are planted to replace trees that die or as landscaping for new construction. Learn more here.
- Cohen Memorial Hall: With a vast and extensive collection of art, fascinating art exhibits can be found in various galleries and exhibition spaces on campus. These exhibits showcase works by famous artists as well as students.
- “MEMORIAL MAGIC”: Memorial Gym, which is home to the men’s and women’s basketball teams, is known for its unique design and exciting atmosphere, referred to as “Memorial Magic”. Built in 1952, the gym floor is raised above the ground, and the benches where students and other fans sit are underneath each basket, instead of along the sidelines.
Dining Options near Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University has an extensive list of culinary food options and Nashville is commonly known as a foodie city. With so many varieties of dishes and cuisines, you will have no shortage of options.
Student Favorites: Vanderbilt University students have plenty of quick food options and here are some Vanderbilt University Student Favorites: Wasabi for delicious sushi, San Antonio Taco Company for Mexican food, and Grins for Nashville’s oldest vegetarian and first certified kosher restaurant.
Must-Visit Restaurants: Explore restaurants like Pancake Pantry and Biscuit Love for loved Southern Cuisine, Butcher & Bee for some delicious Mediterranean food, and Hattie B’s for classic Nashville hot chicken.
Foodie Experiences: Nashville is a culinary treasure, known for meat-and-three diners, fiery fried chicken and fluffy biscuits as well as a strong farm-to-table community. Reach out to booking@luxuriousgetawaysco.com for any recommendations on a perfect itinerary for your trip.
Events around Family Weekend
During Family Weekend, Vanderbilt University’s organizes a variety of special events and gatherings that provide a deeper insight into campus life. Ranging from meet and greets with the faculty to special lectures, don’t miss out on a guided tour of the campus. Be sure to check the official Family Weekend schedule to make the most of your visit.
Travel Tips
Getting Around
Getting to Vanderbilt University is easy given the campus is in the located right outside of downtown Nashville. You have several options for getting around:
By Air: Getting to Vanderbilt University by air is quick and easy, with the sole airport being Nashville International Airport . See here for the nonstop flight options or speak to one of our advisors by calling (833) 217–7427 who will be able to advise with the best routing for your trip. Recently, JSX, a semi-private air carrier started flying to Nashville from New York (HPN) and Dallas (DAL).
By Car: With various options for getting to Vanderbilt University, we recommend you take an Uber, Lyft, or a taxi to make your trip as stress free as possible. See here for the best ways to get to the downtown Nashville surrounding area, including Vanderbilt University’s campus.
Other Things to Note
Weather Considerations: Be sure to look into the weather forecast for Nashville as weather conditions can change somewhat quickly. Be sure to pack accordingly and don’t worry if you forget something as Nashville has plenty of shopping options.
Pre Booking Reservations: Depending on the time of the year, we recommend to pre-book any tours and most importantly, dining reservations. With an increasing number of visitors each year to Nashville, this ensures peace of mind that you will be able to hit all your must visit destinations in Nashville.
Visiting a cherished friend or a loved family member at Vanderbilt University provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in all that Nashville has to offer, from its rich history to vibrant culture. Ensure that you secure accommodations at a top-notch hotel near Nashville to fully experience the nearby attractions. At Luxurious Getaways Co., our dedicated team is always at your service, committed to enhancing your journey.
Do you have more questions? Check our FAQs to get them answered. Don’t see what you are looking for, email us at booking@luxuriousgetawaysco.com
