NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Big cities like New York and Miami may have iconic cultural institutions and vibrant art scenes that often steal the spotlight, but there are countless smaller communities across the country — including several in Tennessee — with just as much character.
Artistic expression, innovation, and cultural vibrancy thrive in these creative suburbs, fostering a unique combination of collaboration and individuality. These areas attract artists, entrepreneurs, and free-thinkers with art galleries, music venues, independent boutiques, and one-of-a-kind eateries.
Brotherly Love Real Estate surveyed 3,021 people to determine the most coveted creative neighborhoods in the country. The following locations landed in the top 10:
1. Downtown Arts District in Las Vegas, Nevada:
The Downtown Arts District proves Las Vegas is more than just glitz and glamour. The district serves as a haven for local artists with its street murals, galleries, and studios. In addition, there are events like First Friday Las Vegas that draw large crowds to enjoy the art, live music, and performances in a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
2. Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island:
Hilo is known for its vibrant arts community and historic charm, which makes it a creative and cultural center on the Big Island of Hawaii. The East Hawaii Cultural Center and local galleries offer exhibitions, classes, and performances celebrating both traditional and contemporary art forms. There are also festivals like the Merrie Monarch Festival — which honors hula and Hawaiian culture — that keep the arts deeply rooted in the community.
3. Savannah Historic District in Savannah, Georgia:
Not only does Savannah’s Historic District blend Southern charm with a thriving arts scene, but the city is home to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), which influences the creative culture with student exhibitions, fashion shows, and public art installations. Plus, the cobblestone streets are lined with galleries, theaters, and artisan shops to provide endless inspiration for artists and visitors alike.
4. Beacon, New York:
Beacon, located in the Hudson Valley, is home to the renowned contemporary art museum Dia:Beacon. The New York town features a thriving arts community with galleries, studios, and artist-run spaces along Main Street. It also hosts events like the Second Saturday Art Gallery Stroll to draw visitors seeking a cultural escape from the city.
5. Phoenixville, Pennsylvania:
Phoenixville has transformed from an old steel town into a thriving creative hub known for its arts, culture, and community spirit. Its revitalized downtown features independent art galleries; music venues; and theaters, including the historic Colonial Theatre, which is famous for its annual Blobfest. In addition, street festivals like the Phoenixville First Fridays and the Firebird Festival celebrate local creativity and attract artists, musicians, and performers.
6. Deep Ellum in Dallas, Texas:
Deep Ellum is a historic Dallas neighborhood with a rich tradition of music and arts that attracts creatives from all over. It’s known for its iconic murals, live music venues, and galleries, as well as events like the Deep Ellum Arts Festival and local street markets that honor the district’s artistic heritage.
7. Downcity in Providence, Rhode Island:
Downcity is home to galleries, theaters, and public art installations, serving as the creative heart of Providence. The district features events like WaterFire, a mesmerizing installation of floating bonfires on the Providence River. In addition, the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) influences the area with frequent exhibitions and student showcases.
8. Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee:
Downtown Knoxville is a thriving arts district centered around Market Square. It features public art, live music events, galleries, and theaters like the Tennessee Theatre. The area also hold events, such as the Dogwood Arts Festival, to celebrate the city’s deep creative culture.
9. Downtown Greenville, South Carolina:
Greenville’s downtown area boasts a thriving creative scene, with the Peace Center for the Performing Arts, galleries, and public sculptures anchoring the district. In addition, events like Artisphere and Friday Night Jazz keep the arts alive while the Reedy River’s scenic beauty inspires both locals and visitors.
10. Warehouse Arts District in St. Petersburg, Florida:
St. Petersburg rounded out the top 10 with its a thriving arts scene, especially in its Warehouse Arts District. Home to the , The district — which is home to the Salvador Dalí Museum and the Chihuly Collection — showcases both world-renowned and local talent. There are also independent galleries, craft breweries, and murals adorning the area, making it a creative haven with a laid-back vibe.
The remaining 100 locations on Brotherly Love Real Estate’s list stretch across the U.S., but there were two other creative communities in the Volunteer State that emerged among the most sought-after in the country:
17. The Gulch in Nashville:
The Gulch is a trendy neighborhood known for its creative vibe, street art, high-end fashion, and music venues, making it a key spot for emerging and established artists in Nashville. Art walks, food festivals, and live music events are regular features of this cultural hotspot, which is also home to The Station Inn and numerous galleries.
72. South Main Arts District in Memphis:
The South Main Arts District is a historic Memphis area revitalized into a hub for art, music, and creativity. In addition to landmarks like the National Civil Rights Museum, galleries, and live music venues, the district has popular events like the South Main Music Festival and the Trolley Night art event.
Two Kentucky neighborhoods were also included in the list: Lexington’s Distillery District and Louisville’s NuLu (East Market District).
“Creativity isn’t just confined to major metropolitan areas—our survey shows that some of the most inspiring and innovative communities thrive in smaller cities and vibrant suburbs across the country,” said Alex Capozzolo, co-founder of Brotherly Love Real Estate. “These creative neighborhoods bring together artists, entrepreneurs, and free-thinkers, cultivating unique cultural identities that enrich their local economies and social fabric. Whether it’s through art festivals, independent galleries, or dynamic music scenes, these places prove that creativity knows no boundaries.”
For the full list of the 110 most creative neighborhoods in America, click here.
