In the heart of downtown Nashville, where the echoes of country legends and the hum of a city rich in culture seamlessly blend together, stands the Noelle Hotel. A beacon of independent spirit and artistic flair, Noelle has, since its opening in December 2017, set a standard for experiential hospitality. This review unfolds my journey through its doors, exploring the allure that has positioned Noelle as a distinguished name in one of America’s top hubs for hospitality.
Noelle’s transition to independence, announced as it celebrated its fifth anniversary, marks a pivotal chapter in its story. Moving away from Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, the hotel now thrives under the autonomous stewardship of Makeready and ownership by Rockbridge. This strategic shift isn’t merely administrative; it’s a bold embrace of freedom, allowing Noelle to deepen its roots in Nashville’s creative soil and broaden its horizon with new programming, special events, and amenities.
Architectural Elegance and Artistic Soul
Upon arrival, Noelle’s Art Deco façade transports guests to the glamor of 1930s Nashville, a nod to its predecessor, the original Noel Hotel. This architectural marvel, once the tallest building in Nashville, has been reborn, weaving together the city’s past and present into a tapestry of cultural and aesthetic delight.
Noelle Hotel’s 1930s vibe
Inside, Noelle transcends the typical hotel experience. Each corner, from the lobby to the guest rooms, is a canvas showcasing the work of Nashville’s finest artisans. The hotel’s deep connection to the local art and maker community isn’t just displayed; it’s lived and breathed, making Noelle not just a place to stay but a place to experience.
A Symphony of Flavors and Experiences
With five food and beverage concepts, Noelle offers a gastronomic journey that mirrors the city’s eclectic taste. Drug Store Coffee provides the perfect morning ritual, while Hidden Bar offers an intimate escape. Makeready L&L serves as a culinary cornerstone, and the Rare Bird rooftop bar presents stunning city views paired with innovative cocktails. The Trade Room, with its sophisticated ambiance, completes the ensemble—ensuring every palate is catered to and fulfilled.
February 2023 saw the launch of Noelle’s Nashvillians of Note—a dinner series that brings community innovators to the forefront, fostering meaningful conversations over meticulously crafted meals. This initiative exemplifies Noelle’s commitment to not just being in Nashville but being part of Nashville, creating a platform for dialogue and discovery.
Rare Bird Rooftop Bar at Noelle Hotel in Nashville
The Independent Edge: Curated Amenities and Personalized Service
Embracing independence means more than a label for Noelle; it’s a philosophy that permeates every aspect of the guest experience. The hotel’s 222 rooms, including 75 spacious studios and 12 luxury suites, have been thoughtfully refreshed, offering comfort entwined with local Nashville flair. Amenities like record players for vinyl lovers, a wellness pass for local gyms, and evening turndown service are touches that make each stay uniquely personal.
Guests can indulge in a curated local retail experience at Keep Shop, discover music legends through Noelle’s partnership with the National Museum of African American Music, or participate in the First Saturday Art Crawl, a testament to Noelle’s role as a cultural incubator.
Suite life at Noelle Hotel
Legacy and Community: The Heartbeat of Noelle
What sets Noelle apart is its unwavering commitment to Nashville’s legacy and community. The hotel stands not just as a property but as a patron of the arts and a gathering place for the creative and the curious. Its walls tell stories of a bygone era, while its initiatives look forward, forging connections and inspiring guests.
Noelle’s story is one of transformation and renaissance. From its 1930 origins to its present-day incarnation, the hotel has remained steadfast in its dedication to honoring Nashville’s heritage while fostering a space for innovation and creativity.
Noelle as Nashville’s Creative Sanctuary
Noelle Hotel is more than a destination; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Nashville. Its transition to independence has allowed for a deeper dive into what makes a hotel truly special: the ability to connect, to tell a story, and to leave a lasting impression on those who walk through its doors.
Nashville’s premier hotel experience
For travelers seeking an encounter with Nashville’s vibrant culture, artistic soul, and independent spirit, Noelle offers an unparalleled journey. It’s a hotel that not only provides a place to rest but a place to feel, learn, and engage with the city’s heartbeat.
My time at Noelle was an exploration of senses, a series of encounters that bridged past and present, and a testament to Nashville’s enduring charm. Noelle isn’t just a hotel; it’s a curator of experiences, a story of revival, and, most importantly, a home in the heart of Music City. As Nashville continues to evolve, Noelle stands ready to welcome guests with open arms and a spirit as vibrant as the city itself.
For more information on the Noelle Hotel and its offerings, visit www.noelle-nashville.com
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About the Author/s
Tom is a lifelong New Jersey resident, Rutgers and FDU alumni and the publisher of The Digest.
