I recently paid a visit to the Graduate Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee for the first time while in town to cover the Tornado Relief concert this week. Located in downtown, the hotel is just a short walk away from Vanderbilt University and Broadway, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the city. There are unique pieces of artwork and patterned upholstery filling Graduate and bringing to life Nashville’s charm including the Minnie Pearl tapestry that adorns the wall behind the front desk.
The hotel is currently decorated for Christmas, adding to its already maximalist decor and getting guests in the mood for the holiday season. On nearly every surface you’ll find pops of playfully colored pink decor and patterns reminiscent of Dolly Parton’s glamorous and girly style. The trees are even decorated with sparkling Dolly Parton ornaments.
Nestled conveniently off the lobby and boasting a distinct entrance on West End Avenue, Cross-Eyed Critters Watering Hole, inspired by an Eric Church song, stands as the world’s inaugural animatronic karaoke bar. At its heart is a trio of robotic musicians—a bear, pig, and fox—that serve as the backup band, entertaining patrons with renditions of classics like “Sweet Child of Mine” by Guns N’ Roses and “Islands in the Stream” by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton.
The robotic ensemble evokes nostalgic memories, reminiscent of childhood celebrations spent at Chuck E. Cheese with pizza and animated performances. Some Santa characters were added to the stage setup with all of the characters who were all dressed up for the Christmas Season as well.
The weathered walls of Cross-Eyed Critters are adorned with black velvet paintings featuring country-western stars currently all lined with tinsel for the holiday season, while timeworn wooden floors contribute to a rustic ambiance. The bar menu boasts revamped versions of nostalgic cocktails and shots, including the classic Flaming Dr. Pepper, complemented by a generous selection of cold beers.
Additionally, an outdoor taco trailer pays homage to the dearly missed late-night favorite, Taco Bell, which once occupied the site where Graduate Nashville now stands. Embracing the spirit of southern dive bars, the establishment draws its name from Eric Church’s tribute song to Merle Haggard, “Pledge Allegiance to the Hag.”
Eric Church’s influences can be seen all throughout the bar space with one wall where the word “YEAR” is spelled out with records in a tribute to his song “Record Year.” A different wall has “THESE” spelled out in boots as an ode to The Chief’s “These Boots.” There is even some of Eric’s CMA Entertainer of The Year memorabilia lining the walls.
The hotel has many great amenities such as a coffee shop, a bar, and a Dolly Parton themed rooftop bar and restaurant named White Limozeen. On the rooftop, you can check out an amazing panoramic view of Nashville and enjoy some creatively made cocktails. The bar is full of Christmas spirit with hanging mistletoe and ornaments hanging from the ceiling in addition to beautiful Christmas trees around the rooftop dining experience.
The theme of the food and drinks is French, which pairs well with the fancy living experience of this boutique hotel. You have to make a reservation to dine here, but the patio section offers walk-in dining. You may even catch a glimpse of the larger-than-life pink sculpture of Dolly herself while lounging on the bright pink and yellow floral seats by the pool. Dolly is even dolled up with a Santa hat to celebrate the holidays.
The Graduate Nashville features 205 guest rooms and is currently offering a Dolly Parton Christmas package. The special includes a stay in the Dolly inspired “9 to 5” suite which features a mirrored ceiling, shag carpet, a California King waterbed, and of course, multiple decorated Christmas trees topped with Dolly angels. The package also comes with your own personal vinyl copy of Dolly’s new Christmas album, “A Holly Dolly Christmas” and a personal concierge. Rates for this package start at $579. For more information on this gorgeous holiday suite, visit Graduate Nashville’s official website.