Sharing an honest review of Kimpton Aertson - a boutique hotel in Nashville, Tennessee
If I’ve learned anything from nearly a decade of extensive weekend travel, it’s that where we stay matters. Not just from a safety and comfort standpoint (though those are obviously immensely important!), but from an experiential one, too. When we treat every hour as an immersive part of our journey, we stand to gain more from our experience – even when we’re sleeping.
This is why I’ve started seeking out boutique accommodations any time I’m away. These properties are smaller than their big-name counterparts, offer much more personalized service, and are usually steeped in the local culture.
This post is in partnership with Kimpton Aertson, but as always, all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links (at no additional cost to you!).
One hotel brand that has remained loyal to its boutique roots is Kimpton – and it’s no coincidence that I’ve been staying at Kimpton properties for as long as I’ve had a say.
So when choosing where to stay for a recent trip to Nashville, Michael and I halted our search at Kimpton Aertson, located in Midtown. Now that we’re back, I thought I’d bring you a review of this unique property:
ABOUT KIMPTON
Kimpton has been redefining boutique luxury in the hotel industry since 1981, and today there are over 75 Kimpton properties around the world. Kimpton hotels are known for their distinctive design, exceptional service, and emphasis on creating a sense of community for guests. But what sets the brand apart is its ability to foster a sense of laid-back luxury while remaining true to the local culture and environment. Each property feels unique, from the choice of decor to tailored amenities, but the Kimpton Experience retains the same high standards across the portfolio. Additionally, the brand partners with and gives back to organizations under the pillars of diversity and inclusion, health and wellness, and the environment.
ABOUT KIMPTON AERTSON
Kimpton Aertson is a distinctive and upscale hotel located away from the hustle and bustle (and bachelorette parties!) of Nashville’s Broadway, but still in the heart of it all.
Situated near Vanderbilt University (the name pays homage to Jan Aertson, a Dutch immigrant and ancestor to Cornelius Vanderbilt, whose generous donation laid the foundation for Vanderbilt University) in the vibrant and walkable Midtown neighborhood, this Kimpton property operates as both a haven of relaxation and launchpad for urban exploration. And since it was only built in 2017, the hotel feels new and fresh, blending upscale hospitality with Nashville’s laidback charm.
KING ESSENTIAL MIDTOWN VIEW ROOM
Believe me, no one would love covering all of the available room types at Kimpton Aertson more than I would (there are twelve styles in all!), but I have sort of made it my thing to only cover what I know or have experienced. Our stay at Kimpton Aertson landed us in a corner room with a beautiful view of Nashville, a luxurious king bed with Frette linens, and a spacious marble bath. Also tucked in this room is a minibar, flatscreen TV, a seating area, and a wardrobe.
AMENITIES AT KIMPTON AERTSON
The amenities at Kimpton properties are always top-notch – but the amenities at Kimpton Aertson take the cake.
There’s truly something here for every type of traveler (and I say this as someone who often feels like she doesn’t make use of the amenities in most hotels!). For parents, there are stroller rentals. For pet parents, water bowls and loaner beds are provided, and all breeds are allowed. And for plant parents, you can even request a plant for your room. The fashion-forward will appreciate the Kimpton x Anthropologie collab, which allows you to check out chic accessories for your trip and travel light. The wellness-minded will appreciate all of Kimpton’s offerings a fitness center, pool, on-site spa, and bikes to borrow. Musically-inclined folks will enjoy the Nashville-exclusive Pickin’ Library, stocked with a guitar, mandolin, ukelele, and Appalachian dulcimer. Forgetful much? (hi, yes, hello from someone who has left her makeup bag behind on two major trips now). There’s an entire menu of free replacements for commonly left behind items like curling irons, phone chargers, toothbrushes, and more.
And the lobby turns into the place to be several times each day, with coffee (hot and iced!) in the morning, candy in the afternoons, and social hour in the evenings. I’ve always made a point to head to the lobby for wine and beer during the social hour at each Kimpton I’ve stayed in, but this was my first time having the option of a snack and cocktail, too. Yes, please.
DINING AT HENLEY
Henley doesn’t feel like a “hotel restaurant” – it feels like it’s a restaurant that just happens to be in a hotel.
Billed as a modern American brasserie, Henley sources local and specialty ingredients and prepares them with a French touch, yet never loses its down-to-earth sensibilities. The menu is refined without being pretentious (have you ever read a restaurant menu and found yourself feeling like you were handed a menu in another language entirely? This is not at all like that – although the staff do have a deep knowledge of the menu and are happy to guide you).
With seasonally-inspired fare, the offerings during your visit may look different than ours, but if you spot the Grilled Ruby River Trout on the menu, you’ve found your entree. Tender, juicy, and grilled to perfection, this trout is the perfect example of elevated Southern fare. For a richer dish, you might consider the Westholme Brisket, which is served with pillows of gnocchi in the most savory sauce (Michael would like me to share that he thinks this is the winning entree on the menu).
And cocktails are non-negotiable here (teetotalers can consult the “Makes You Drive Better” section of the menu) – the Quinceañera was the fave of the night, but I can’t imagine you would go wrong with any of the others. With a bar and restaurant so good, it’s easy to see why Henley is just as popular with locals in the neighborhood as it is with travelers! Reservations recommended.
MY REVIEW OF KIMPTON AERTSON
From start to finish, my stay at Kimpton Aertson was pure delight.
With a flight arriving in Nashville first thing in the morning, I didn’t expect a room to be ready for us, so I was pleasantly surprised when my quick stop to drop off my bags resulted in an early check-in (this doesn’t always happen, of course, but it is wonderful that they offer it when available). A quick rundown on parking, social hour, and access to amenities was provided, and soon we were riding the elevator up to the fifth floor.
We were quick to get settled in our room, unpacking our suitcases into the wardrobe and drawers provided, and with everything in its place, moved comfortably throughout our stay in the spacious room. Though the room’s ceiling and support column were made of industrial concrete, the furnishings lent enough warmth to the space to counteract the cold, aided by the downy bed with its rich leather headboard. The bathroom had more than enough counter space to get ready for the day, and we had more towels and toiletries than we could possibly use in a weekend. And the robes were put to good use around the clock. My one small complaint with the room is one I frequently have with properties of this era, and it’s the sliding barn door. I get it, they’re cute and space efficient, but you have to be really comfortable with your travel partner(s).
Outside of the room, we took every opportunity to indulge in all of Kimpton Aertson’s amenities*, from a morning by the pool to attending both the Candy Hour and Social Hour. And I couldn’t not choose something from the Kimpton x Anthropologie collab, since it aligns so perfectly with my mission to always travel light. For minimalists and carry-on travelers, it’s the perfect opportunity to try a new trendy style without committing (though you can have your item ordered and shipped to your home, if you wish!). After careful deliberation, I landed on this pretty green Faux Leather Twist-Handle Satchel, which packed a big, bold punch. And Michael walked away from the desk with an accessory, too: an acoustic guitar from the Pickin’ Library. I’m used to hearing his strumming around our house, so having that soundtrack to our Nashville stay was really the sweetest touch of home.
Coming and going from the hotel was fairly easy; valet is offered, but with a crowd always outside the door waiting for rideshares, we chose to self-park in the attached garage each time. Although you can reach the garage from your hotel floor, you can’t return the same way because the door locks behind you; to reenter from the garage, you have to head outside and pass through the lobby. This proved to be excellent for my caffeine consumption thanks to the always-full coffee station, however, the uncovered path to the entrance left us caught in the rain (twice).
Visiting Nashville with an electric vehicle? The garage offers three EV charging stations at no charge to guests. We were glad to be able to charge up the Tesla we rented before checking out and flying back to Charlotte – also feeling fully recharged.
*well, almost all - I confess I skipped over a visit to the fitness center!
KIMPTON AERTSON FAQS
Where is Kimpton Aertson located?
Kimpton Aertson is located at 2021 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203.
Does the hotel offer parking?
Yes, parking is available at a rate of $46 per night for valet and $36 per night for self-park (note, these rates are valid as of August 2023 and do not include tax).
Is breakfast included?
Breakfast is not included in the regular nightly rate, but is available at a reasonable price from Henley, located in the lobby. Complimentary hot and iced coffee is provided throughout the morning, and additional snacks can be purchased from the front desk or mini bar.
What types of rooms are available?
From standard King rooms to suites, there’s a room to fit everyone’s needs.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes! Kimpton is one of the most pet-friendly hotel chains, and they’ll go above and beyond to make your best friend feel at home.
Are there any sales or deals at Kimpton Aertson?
Kimpton runs sales fairly frequently, head here to review current offers at Kimpton Aertson.
Can I host an event at the hotel?
Yes, and what a great space to host a gathering!
What is there to do nearby?
Kimpton Aertson places you just steps away from Nashville essentials like live music (we loved the set at Live Oak, and of course, you’re only blocks away from Music Row), hot chicken, and cold ice cream. You’re also just minutes away from downtown attractions and rowdy Broadway, which just might make you appreciate Kimpton Aertson’s peace at quiet even more.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON STAYING AT NASHVILLE’S KIMPTON PROPERTY
So, would I book a stay at Kimpton Aertson next time I’m in Nashville? Wholeheartedly, yes.
The rooms offer a comfortable refuge for a good night’s sleep, the numerous amenities enhance the experience more than any other property I’ve stayed at recently, and most noteworthy of all, each and every member of the staff we encountered went above and beyond to ensure we could make the most of every moment in Nashville. I can’t wait to see what surprises are in store for our future stays with the brand!
Thank you to the team at Kimpton Aertson for your generous hospitality!
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Questions for you
Do you usually take advantage of hotel amenities, or do you spend all your time exploring a destination?
Which of the Kimpton x Anthropologie collab items would you choose to borrow during your visit?
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