Welcome to Sylvan Park
Cottages and tree-lined streets make for a cozy urban oasis
Established in 1887, Sylvan Park is a quaint residential area located southwest of downtown Nashville. The community is South of the trendy Nations + Charlotte Park area and directly east of swiftly growing Sylvan Heights.
The community was originally conceived of as a city independent from Nashville. While today its proximity to Music City is celebrated and embraced, Sylvan Park still manages to feel like a distinctive, self-sufficient entity, complete with its own thriving restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
Stone cottages and bungalows, many of which were built in the 1930s and 40s, are nestled between established trees and extensive sidewalks. A walk through this quiet, charming neighborhood quickly reveals why it’s one of Nashville’s most sought-after areas.
What to Love
- 7 minutes from Vanderbilt University
- 15 minutes from downtown
- A quiet, family-friendly neighborhood
- Walkable and tree-lined
Local Lifestyle
Sylvan Park has an urban feel. Its proximity to downtown, numerous restaurant options, and status as the home of Nashville’s Ballet and Opera House contribute to a sense of city living.
The neighborhood is home to young professionals, families, and retirees — making for a diverse population. Only seven minutes away from Vanderbilt University’s campus, the neighborhood also attracts a number of university students and professors seeking a quiet retreat.
Dining
Have we mentioned the food in Sylvan Park? You may have trouble deciding where to eat, but here are a few places you can’t go wrong with.
Park Café is sure to be on your date night rotation; enjoy a glass of wine and a locally-sourced meal in this chic, dimly lit bistro. Take your meal on the string-lit patio to up the romance.
When it’s comfort food you’re after, Hattie B’s is sure to hit the spot. You’ll be happy to know that this popular Nashville Hot chicken chain has a store in Sylvan Park. Sit in one of their signature red chairs and enjoy your meal in a setting that feels both retro and industrial.
For comfort food of a different persuasion, McCabe Pub is another great choice. Pair a Guinness with one of the “Best Burgers in Nashville.” When only some vino and pasta will do, Caffé Nonna is the perfect option. This family-run restaurant has been serving up authentic Italian cuisine to the Nashville community for over twenty years.
After dinner, make a stop at Bobbie’s Dairy Dip — where you can choose from a variety of cones, shakes, and sundaes, served in a retro 1950’s ice cream parlor.
Things to Do
Sylvan Park is an active community, offering up a number of different activities to keep you entertained. McCabe Park offers a playground and Community Center, and just across the road is the beautiful McCabe Golf Course, a 27-hole course that also contains a driving range. Richland Creek Greenway is a 5-mile multi-use trail that actually loops around the golf course and connects the neighborhoods of Sylvan Park and Cherokee Park.
Located at the Northern edge of the Sylvan Park neighborhood is Richland Park, home to Richland Park Farmers’ Market — which hosts over 70 local vendors every Saturday morning. Bring a tote bag and stock up on all manner of fresh fruit, veggies, and baked goods.
The Barn at Miel Restaurant is a rustic stand-alone event space at the popular farm-to-table restaurant that often hosts different events and classes that are sure to take you on a culinary journey. Host your own event at the Barn and wow your guests with a menu designed by chef Andrew Coins.
Schools
Sylvan Park is served by the Metro Nashville Public School District. Private schools and prestigious universities are also nearby. Top educational opportunities include:
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Sylvan Park Paideia Design Center, K-4, a magnet school with high test scores
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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
