Sylvan Park is a cozy neighborhood with lots of trees, many sidewalks, lots of personality and lots of things to do within walking distance. Its proximity to downtown Nashville and Vanderbilt University makes it a popular area for students and professors to settle, as well as people from other cities.
The community is tight-knit and supportive of the locally-owned shops, restaurants and bars in the neighborhood, some of which were established before it became the popular hub for young professionals and families it is today.
So if you’re looking for a diverse, urban vibe married with a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, Sylvan Park could be for you!
Where is Sylvan Park?
Sylvan Park lies about 4 miles southwest of downtown, with Murphy Road as its main thoroughfare. It’s nestled right in-between the fashionable Nations neighborhood and West End and ends at McCabe Park’s border.
History
Founded in the late 1880s, Sylvan Park was designed to be a city independent from downtown Nashville. Some have said it’s Nashville’s first suburb. Whatever the case, it became entirely self-contained with its own businesses, homes, schools, grocery stores and churches.
Some of the most charming historic homes were built in this part of the city in the early 1900s. Some are still relatively well-preserved, but beginning in the 1990s, the neighborhood began to see new construction, resulting in a new and exciting time of activity and commerce.
Lifestyle
Sylvan Park has retained its residential feel. Quaint homes with larger, private yards line the side streets, and newer apartment home developments blend seamlessly into that atmosphere.
Things to Do
Sylvan Park is fortunate enough to have close access to Richland Park and McCabe Park, where you’ll find many jogging, walking and picnicking residents. The Richland Creek Greenway meets McCabe Park almost entirely around its borders and is an excellent hiking spot.
The McCabe golf course is another popular spot for outdoor fun. Still, suppose you’re looking at heading indoors. In that case, there’s always Climb Nashville and the McCabe Park Community Center, which offers plenty of group fitness classes.
You can also stroll the Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning for fresh, locally sourced produce.
Shopping
There are plenty of shops available in Sylvan Park for your shopping convenience, from fresh produce markets to goods for your furry friend!
There’s the Produce Place, a natural food store that provides fresh local foods and produce to the neighborhood, and Grand Cru Wines and Spirits will provide you with a great bottle of wine to go with it.
You’ll also find Wags and Whiskers, a holistic pet store offering food and treats, toys and pet supplies, and a DIY dog wash. A flower shop, women’s boutique and a home décor store are also within walking distance.
Where to Eat & Drink
There’s no shortage of well-established, locally-owned bars and restaurants in Sylvan Park to enjoy. In fact, you’ll find over 30 restaurants and cafes ready to feed you!
Starbagel/Dose
In the mood for a quick breakfast? Head over to Starbagel (it’s one of the oldest locally-owned bagel shops in Nashville), then hop on over to Dose for a great cup of artisanal joe.
Caffe Nonna
If it’s a hearty meal to fill your belly, the folks at Caffe Nonna serve up rustic, authentic Italian dishes in a friendly, intimate atmosphere. It’s also been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on Food Network for its legendary lasagna.
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McCabe Pub
If you’re working late and find yourself needing a nightcap and some good old-fashioned pub food, McCabe Pub offers late-night happy hour starting at 9.
Miel
Beautifully crafted dishes made with local farm-to-table ingredients are what you’ll find in an upscale yet comfortable atmosphere at Miel. The wine menu is well worth checking out as well!
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Nashville and hot chicken go together; it’s just a thing in this town. Probably because it’s delicious! It’s a jewel of the city, and it’s so popular, they’ve had to begin shipping the spicy chicken goodness around the country!
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Chaatable
Chaatable is a journey to India… in the heart of Nashville. Probably the most personal project for husband and wife duo, Morph Hospitality CEO Vivek Deora and celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan, Chaatable offers a complete sensory overload full of amazingly vibrant colors, flavors, aromas and sounds. When stepping through the doors, you feel like you’re experiencing an Indian bazaar at its finest. Chaat is the Hindi word for “lick” and the common term used for the flavorful, hand-held bites of Indian Street Food, so if you’re down for a one-of-a-kind adventure, then this is definitely the right place.
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Moving to Sylvan Park
Real Estate Snapshot
At $1,455, Sylvan Park apartments aren’t much pricier than the Nashville ones which average at $1,428… for now. With its rising popularity, the neighborhood is seeing considerable growth, and its average rent might follow suit.
Transportation
Public transportation is readily accessible to the residents of Sylvan Park, with routes to downtown and surrounding areas usually running every 15 minutes.
Schools & Employment
There are metro middle and high schools zoned for Sylvan Park as well as Sylvan Park Elementary school. Sylvan Park Paideia Design Center, a holistic magnet school for grades pre-k to 4th grade.
Since it’s mostly a residential area, employment usually stems from many of the corporate headquarters of large companies in Downtown Nashville or its more urban surrounding neighborhoods.