Hello, everyone!
With Christmas season bringing the sparkling white snow, I’d love to share the warm memories of our family’s winter vacation in Nashville. In particular, I’ll focus on our unforgettable experience at The Joseph Nashville Hotel, which added so much magic to our holiday getaway.
Fall in Love with Nashville’s Winter Charm
Known as the “Music City,” Nashville is famous for being the heart of country music. However, during Christmas, Nashville transforms into a whole new world of magic and charm.
After five years in Hawaii, my family was looking forward to experiencing winter, sparkling Christmas decorations, and the cozy warmth of the city. Among several candidate cities, we chose Nashville for The Joseph Nashville Hotel. As a part of the Amex Hotel Collection, this hotel promised a luxurious experience that raised my expectations.
The Joseph Nashville Hotel: Excitement from the First Encounter
As soon as we entered the hotel, the lobby, though small, exuded a warm atmosphere. Luxurious furniture and a Christmas tree by the fireplace immediately set the tone for the holiday season. The sleek lobby radiated elegance, and the art pieces on display were nothing short of impressive. The friendly bellboy and front desk staff greeted us with warm smiles, adding to the excitement of the trip from the very start. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff’s thoughtful attention left a lasting impression. Most notably, the welcome gift prepared for our family touched us deeply.
A Perfect Choice for Family Travelers: The Joseph Nashville
I can confidently say that The Joseph Nashville Hotel is an excellent choice for families. The spacious and comfortable rooms provided plenty of space for our children to play, while the cozy sofa and table were perfect for family time.
Thanks to the Amex Hotel Collection benefits, we were upgraded to a higher-floor room with a beautiful view of downtown Nashville. The sparkling city lights felt like a Christmas gift. When we returned after checking in, we found macarons waiting for us as a welcome treat, which we enjoyed as a dessert with the kids.
Moreover, the hotel’s restaurant had a kid’s menu, ensuring that everyone in the family could enjoy a satisfying meal. The variety of dishes kids love made mealtime a fun experience.
A Special Dinner in the Room: Room Service
After a long day, we wanted to unwind with dinner in our room. Using the $325 hotel credit from the Amex Hotel Collection, we ordered room service. The kids enjoyed chicken tenders, I opted for a smash burger, and my husband had a chicken dish.
The room service was excellent. The food was hot, fresh, and perfectly plated. The chicken dish my husband ordered had tender meat and a rich sauce that was absolutely delicious. It was my favorite! Watching Christmas movies in our room while enjoying a fantastic dinner made the evening feel both comfortable and special. I miss those moments as I write this.
The Joseph Nashville Hotel: Luxury Beyond Expectations
The Joseph Nashville Hotel was more than just a place to stay—it was a space where art, culture, and gourmet experiences came together. The art displayed throughout the hotel made it feel like a gallery, and the intricate, tasteful interior design was awe-inspiring. When traveling with kids, there are times when you spend more time in the hotel room. Sometimes, staying in the room can feel like a missed opportunity, but this hotel’s cozy and luxurious rooms made us feel like every moment there was worthwhile.
Additionally, the hotel’s restaurant, Yolan, offered a variety of dishes made with the finest ingredients. The hot chicken benedict and short ribs we had for breakfast were unforgettable. When we return to Nashville, I’ll definitely have the Nashville hot chicken sandwich here.
What stood out most about The Joseph Nashville Hotel was its ability to provide “true relaxation.”
- Comfortable and cozy rooms: The high-end bedding, amenities, and spaciousness helped us unwind and enjoy a perfect rest.
- Quiet and peaceful ambiance: Despite being located in the city center, the hotel is slightly away from the busy main road, offering a calm and serene environment.
- Friendly and attentive service: Every staff member made us feel welcome and ensured we had an enjoyable stay.
A Christmas Wonderland at Gaylord Opryland Resort
On the second day, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we headed to the Gaylord Opryland Resort, a must-visit during the Christmas season. The resort was beautifully decorated with a giant Christmas tree and dazzling holiday lights.
Under the warm glow of the lights and surrounded by the sounds of Christmas carols, the kids were overjoyed, feeling like they had stepped into a fairy tale world. We took photos by the massive Christmas tree and enjoyed browsing through the cute holiday decorations. The experience reminded me of a huge indoor theme park with a Las Vegas Bellagio hotel vibe.
A Special Lunch at Nashville’s Aquarium Restaurant
After having fun at Gaylord Opryland Resort, we went to a nearby aquarium restaurant for lunch. We had made reservations in advance, and it was wonderful to have the kids enjoy their meal while watching the fish swim by.
We ordered a large seafood platter, an appetizer sampler, and seafood pasta. The fresh seafood and delicious pasta were perfect for our kids’ tastes. Dining next to a massive aquarium created a unique and memorable experience for them. If you’re in Nashville, I highly recommend visiting this restaurant with kids!
A Relaxing Breakfast and Farewell on the Last Day
On the third day, we had a relaxing breakfast at the hotel. The soft short ribs, hearty signature bagel, and fresh berry bowl made for the perfect way to wrap up our trip.
After breakfast, we grabbed coffee to go from the hotel cafe and explored downtown Nashville. We passed the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and walked along the main road filled with Nashville’s rich music history. Even in the morning, live music echoed from many bars. I could imagine how this city would be full of music lovers and passion during the hot summer months.
After walking for about two hours, we craved something warm and ended our Nashville trip with a bowl of pho at Assembly Food Hall. I highly recommend you visit there! Carolers and live music filled the air, making our last moments in Nashville feel as romantic as the rest of the trip.
A Richer Experience with Amex Hotel Collection Benefits
Thanks to the Amex Hotel Collection, our Nashville trip was even more enriching and satisfying.
- $325 hotel credit: We were able to use this credit for room service, dining, spa products, and more, saving on travel expenses.
- Room upgrade: We were upgraded to a larger, better-view room for a more comfortable stay.
- Complimentary breakfast: Enjoying a delicious breakfast every morning set the perfect tone for the day.
- Welcome gift: The thoughtful welcome gift added excitement to our stay.
Unforgettable Memories from Nashville Trip
Our 2-night, 3-day winter vacation in Nashville gave our family unforgettable memories. It truly felt like a perfect holiday season Christmas trip. Spending Christmas in Hawaii was wonderful, but I had always dreamed of this kind of moment—bundled up in layers of warm clothes, huddling closer together as a family in the chilly weather.
Our oldest was mesmerized by the massive Christmas decorations he had never seen before. His eyes sparkled with excitement as he jumped up and down with joy. Seeing his big brother so thrilled, our youngest couldn’t help but join in, bouncing along beside him.
Watching our kids laugh and play in front of the Christmas tree, my husband and I felt that this was the greatest Christmas gift we could ever ask for. We looked at each other and squeezed each other’s hands tightly, quietly savoring this precious moment.
I’m already excited about where we’ll go next Christmas! If you’re planning a holiday trip next year, I highly recommend Nashville! Where is your favorite holiday destination?
Global Mom Diary 