Welcome to 12 South
One street, many options in this trendy Nashville neighborhood
Located south of downtown between Hillsboro West End and Historic Waverly is Nashville’s 12 South neighborhood. The leafy and walkable community wraps around 12 Avenue South, its bustling namesake. The area is both residential and entertainment-oriented. Charming bungalows and Victorians stand shoulder to shoulder with hip restaurants like Urban Grub and popular coffee houses like The Frothy Monkey.
The neighborhood is also home to the iconic “I Believe in Nashville” and “Nashville Looks Good on You” murals.
What to Love
- Close proximity to Belmont University and Nashville’s bustling Broadway
- Popular dining and shopping hub with stylish boutiques and gourmet eats
- A leafy, urban setting where residential and commercial mingle
Local Lifestyle
12 South skews young when it comes to population, with a median age of 28. The community is popular with young professionals and couples; though some families also call the area home. Aside from personal vehicles, the most popular mode of transportation in 12 South is walking — which is not surprising, considering just how walkable the charming neighborhood is.
A number of homes in the neighborhood pre-date the 1940s; however, the area’s growing popularity has resulted in a number of new construction projects, including sleek, contemporary apartments and single-family homes.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The incredible boutiques and restaurants along 12th Avenue draw in locals and tourists alike.
The area is known for popular shops like Imogene + Willie, the brainchild of husband and wife duo Matt & Carrie Edmonson, who set out with the simple mission of creating the perfect denim jeans for men and women.
The flagship store of Reese Witherspoon’s Southern home and apparel brand, Draper James, is located in 12 South. You can’t miss the iconic (and cheerful) blue and white striped awning.
Judith Bright, the handmade jewelry brand that’s graced the likes of J. Lo and Catherine Zeta-Jones, has its flagship store in 12 South, as well. A percentage of the sales at Judith Bright are funneled back into the community to organizations that help fight homelessness, support animal welfare, and empower victims of trafficking.
After a full day of shopping, it’s time to frequent one of 12 South’s chic eateries. Urban Grub serves up plates of fresh seafood and aged meats in a stylish and rustic interior. Josephine offers refined, yet inviting dining, with Pennsylvania Dutch-inspired meals prepared by James Beard-nominated Chef Andy Little. The Cookery is a relaxed cafe that features all-day breakfast and Australian-inspired bistro fare. The restaurant hires formerly homeless men, preparing them to enter Nashville’s food scene.
Things to Do
While 12 South is known for its food and shopping, the entertainment doesn’t stop there. Sevier Park is a sure bet if you’re looking for something to do. The park features Sunnyside, a historic 1852 manor, as well as a tree-lined walking path, community center, and playground. The 12 South GetDown Concert series features local community musicians and is held annually in Sevier Park. Sevier Park is also home to the 12 South Farmers Market that runs Tuesday evenings from May thru October.
Schools
A number of high-quality universities are located in or near the 12 South community. Top educational opportunities include:
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Belmont University, four-year university, private Christian university with a highly ranked music program
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Vanderbilt University, four-year university, highly selective private research university
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Lipscomb University, private liberal arts college, nationally ranked business and nursing programs
