Best Things to Do in 12 South Nashville
12 South is one of Nashville's most visitor-friendly neighborhoods — compact, walkable, and packed with things worth your time. It's less about nightlife and more about a great day out: a good brunch, some shopping, a coffee, a walk through a beautiful residential area. Here's what to do.
The 'I Believe in Nashville' Mural
The 'I Believe in Nashville' mural on 12th Avenue South is one of the most photographed spots in the city. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds — the late afternoon light is also great for photos. It's become Nashville's de facto landmark and deserves at least five minutes.
Biscuit Love
Biscuit Love's 12 South location is the second outpost of Nashville's most beloved brunch restaurant. The Bonuts are the star, but the full menu is excellent. Expect a wait on weekend mornings — they don't take reservations. Get there before 9am or after 1pm to minimize the wait.
Josephine
Josephine is the finest dining option in 12 South — seasonal Southern cooking, an excellent wine list, and a beautiful room. Dinner is the right meal here, though brunch is also excellent. Reservations are necessary for weekends.
Imogene + Willie
Imogene + Willie is a Nashville-born denim and clothing brand with a flagship store in a restored gas station on 12th Avenue. The jeans are made-to-measure and the brand represents everything that Nashville's independent retail scene aspires to be. Worth a browse even if you're not buying.
Sevier Park
Sevier Park is a beautiful neighborhood park at the south end of 12 South with a creek, open fields, and a community center. In warm weather it fills with locals and their dogs. It's the perfect place to sit with a coffee after brunch and watch Nashville neighborhood life.
12 South Taproom
12 South Taproom is a neighborhood bar with an excellent rotating beer selection and a low-key atmosphere. It's the kind of place where locals actually go, which makes it one of the better options in the neighborhood for afternoon drinks.
Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey is one of Nashville's best coffee shops with a full food menu, strong espresso, and an all-day vibe. The 12 South location is beautiful and consistently crowded on weekend mornings. Worth the line.
Staying Near 12 South? We'll Set Up Your Rental
12 South has excellent Airbnb options in a beautiful residential neighborhood. Music City Weekend Co. delivers pre-stocked fridges, grocery orders, and rental amenities to 12 South properties before you check in. Shop the full catalog at musiccityweekend.co/shop, or learn more about Nashville grocery delivery and fridge stocking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 12 South Nashville known for?
12 South is known for the 'I Believe in Nashville' mural, Biscuit Love, independent boutiques, Sevier Park, and a charming residential neighborhood atmosphere. It's one of the most photographed and visited neighborhoods in Nashville.
Is 12 South Nashville walkable?
Yes. 12 South is one of Nashville's most walkable neighborhoods. The commercial district runs along 12th Avenue South for about 10 blocks and most of the best shops, restaurants, and coffee shops are within easy walking distance of each other.
How far is 12 South from downtown Nashville?
12 South is approximately 2 miles south of downtown Nashville — about a 10-minute Uber ride or a 40-minute walk. It's also a reasonable bike or scooter trip from the Gulch.
What are the best restaurants in 12 South Nashville?
Biscuit Love and Josephine are the two standout restaurants in 12 South. Frothy Monkey is excellent for coffee and all-day food. The Silly Goose is a good neighborhood dinner option. Edley's Bar-B-Que is a solid BBQ spot on the strip.