Away Game Guide: Vanderbilt
If you’re headed to Music City this year to cheer on the Dawgs when they meet the Vanderbilt Commodores on Oct. 14, here’s a guide from fellow Bulldog David Fabozzi (AB ’09) for where to stay, eat, and sightsee.
Where to stay
David suggests renting houses or condos in the 12South area, a walkable neighborhood with many local boutiques and restaurants. If you prefer a boutique hotel experience, The Joseph is in the heart of downtown, just a block from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, David recommends staying at one of the two Hampton Inn locations in the West End area, near the Vanderbilt University campus.
Where to eat
Jack’s Bar-B-Que is a Nashville institution, with award-winning sauces, smoked meats and sides served out of their three locations around downtown Nashville. Another favorite of David’s is Assembly Food Hall, a multi-story space with over 30 bars and restaurants.
Jack’s Bar-B-Que on Broadway is one of the city’s most recognizable restaurants. (Photo: Jack’s Bar-B-Que)
“This is great for indecisive eaters with an appetite,” he said.
For dinner, David likes heading to Kayne Prime Steakhouse, grabbing a slice at MAFIAoZA’S or trying tapas and fine wines at Barcelona Wine Bar.
For brunch the day after the game, David recommends any of the omelets at Noshville, a New York style delicatessen.
On game day
The Nashville Chapter of the UGA Alumni Association hosts their own BYOB tailgate in the Holiday Inn parking lot next to the stadium.
David said that watch parties are located at two bars in town, The Valentine on Broadway and Party Fowl in Cool Springs.
The Valentine has three floors and a rooftop patio, each with their own themed decor. (Photo: The Valentine)
Nashville attractions
Nashville is known around the globe for its legendary music scene, and there are plenty of attractions in the city to immerse visitors in the city’s music and culture. David suggests paying a visit to Robert’s Western World, an old-fashioned country music bar, the Johnny Cash Museum and a few of the Broadway bars.
“Broadway will get crazier as the day goes on,” he advised. “Go early, enjoy it, then branch out.”
Beyond its music scene, the city has beautiful parks and historic homes to explore. Tourists can wander the Parthenon in Centennial Park, stroll around Percy Priest Lake, tour Andrew Jackson’s home, The Hermitage, or enjoy a wine and bourbon tasting at Belle Meade, a historic home and gardens.
The Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens. (Photo: Metro Parks Nashville)
Fans of Tennessee whiskey can tour a number of Nashville distilleries, including Nelson’s Green Brier, Jack Daniel’s, George Dickel and Pennington Distilling Company.
Not making the trip to Nashville and looking to connect with Dawgs in your own area? Find your local UGA alumni chapter and cheer on the Dawgs with fellow alumni at a game-watching party near you.
