contacts Sign In
image

Belmont & Hillsboro Village

  • Home
  • Belmont & Hillsboro Village

Belmont & Hillsboro Village

Discover Belmont & Hillsboro Village: College Vibes, Boutiques & Tree-lined Streets

Belmont & Hillsboro Village sit side by side just southwest of Midtown, nestled between Vanderbilt University and Belmont University. It’s a lively, walkable neighborhood with cafés, bookstores, galleries, and a friendly mix of student life and local charm.

The History of Belmont & Hillsboro Village

  • The land originally was part of the Acklen estate, including the Belmont Mansion, before being subdivided in the late 19th century.
  • The Belmont Mansion (also known as Acklen Hall) was built in the 1850s as a summer residence for Joseph and Adelicia Acklen.
  • In 1890, the Belmont Land Company began subdividing the surrounding lands. A streetcar line was established in 1901 along Belmont Boulevard, aiding growth and making the area more accessible.
  • Between 1890 and 1940, many of the homes you’ll see today were built — bungalows, cottages, Tudors, American foursquares, and revival styles.
  • In 1980, a large swath of this area was designated the Belmont–Hillsboro Historic District and added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Things to Do in Belmont & Hillsboro Village

Tour the Belmont Mansion & Gardens: The Belmont Mansion (Acklen Hall) is now a museum open for tours. It sits on the Belmont University campus, with gardens and historic interiors.

Catch a Film at Belcourt Theatre: Located in Hillsboro Village, this nonprofit cinema shows a mix of indie, classic, foreign, and curated films in an intimate setting.

Breakfast & Brunch Legends: Don’t miss Pancake Pantry, a longtime Hillsboro Village staple (open since 1961), known for long lines and sweet breakfast treats.

Shop Boutiques & Local Spots: Wander the Village’s streets full of independent shops, salons, bookstores, boutiques, cafés, and small creative businesses.

Nearby Attractions

  • Music Row and The Gulch are a short walk or ride away, giving access to studios, upscale dining, and nightlife.
  • Midtown / West End / Centennial Park lie just north, making the Parthenon and greenspace easy to reach.
  • Hillsboro-West End Historic District and nearby neighborhoods like Edgehill and Richland add deeper residential character.

Insider Tips for Visiting Belmont & Hillsboro Village

Best Time to Visit: Mornings for breakfast spots, late afternoon for bookstore browsing, and evenings for film or dinner.

Parking: Street parking is available but limited. Garages and lots near Vanderbilt or in the Village help when the area is busy. 

Walkability: Very walkable. The core is compact, and sidewalks and crosswalks are abundant.

Campus Events: Check Belmont University and Vanderbilt schedules — concerts, lectures, and performances frequently draw crowds in the area.

Why Belmont & Hillsboro Village Stands Out

  • It blends historic charm, academic energy, and a strong local-business vibe in one tight, walkable district.
  • The presence of both Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities makes the area culturally rich and vibrant.
  • Historic preservation efforts have helped maintain architectural character and resist wholesale redevelopment.
  • The mix of restaurants, galleries, cafés, and quiet residential streets gives both locals and visitors plenty to explore without feeling overrun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hillsboro Village primarily a student area?

Yes — it’s heavily influenced by the student populations of Vanderbilt and Belmont, which shapes many of its cafés, shops, and rhythms.

Yes — Belmont–Hillsboro is a designated historic district, and there is a Neighborhood Conservation Zoning Overlay in effect to regulate development.

Absolutely — they’re adjacent. Many walks and paths connect the campuses, cafés, and shops between the two zones.

Yes — Belmont evolved from a women’s college founded in 1890; the mansion and early campus structure carry historic significance.

While the neighborhood is more urban, nearby parks, campus greenways, and access to walking paths make for outdoor options.