Magnolia Portico

Hello, fellow Tennesseans! When we talk about iconic destinations in our state, the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville is undeniably at the top of the list. It's not just a hotel; it's an expansive world of lush indoor gardens, cascading waterfalls, diverse dining, and premier entertainment, all under one roof. Within this sprawling resort lies a particularly notable area known as the Magnolia Portico, which serves as a central hub for various experiences and events.

The Magnolia Portico isn't a standalone "hotel" in the traditional sense, but rather a significant and highly functional part of the immense Gaylord Opryland Resort. It's often referred to in relation to event spaces, dining, and distinct architectural features within the larger complex. This area, recently enhanced, brings new life and activity to what was once an underutilized space, creating a vibrant destination within the resort. This article will guide you through the various facets of the Magnolia Portico, providing factual insights into its offerings and highlighting why it’s a crucial and impressive part of the Opryland experience, whether you're attending a major convention, enjoying a family vacation, or just exploring the resort's many wonders.

The Magnolia Portico is located within the prestigious Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, at 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of Nashville's vibrant Opryland district, a hub of entertainment and hospitality. Its location offers unparalleled accessibility, making it a prime destination for both locals and out-of-state visitors.

Getting to the Magnolia Portico and the wider Gaylord Opryland Resort is remarkably convenient. It's just a short drive from Nashville International Airport (BNA), making arrivals and departures straightforward for air travelers. For those driving, the resort is easily accessible via major interstates, including I-40 and Briley Parkway (SR 155), which connects directly to the Opryland area. The sheer scale of the Gaylord Opryland means that ample parking is available, though it's important to note that resort fees and parking charges are additional to any room rates or event tickets. The Magnolia Portico itself is often highlighted as the main Convention Center entrance, making it a key entry point for large-scale events and conferences held at the resort.

Beyond its central location, the Magnolia Portico provides seamless access to the numerous attractions surrounding the Gaylord Opryland. The world-famous Grand Ole Opry is just a stone's throw away, often within walking distance or a very short shuttle ride. The sprawling Opry Mills shopping and entertainment complex is also directly adjacent, offering a vast array of retail, dining, and entertainment options. Additionally, the General Jackson Showboat, offering scenic cruises on the Cumberland River, is easily accessible from this area. The well-planned layout of the resort ensures that guests can effortlessly navigate between the Magnolia Portico and other key areas, including the resort's famous indoor gardens, diverse dining establishments, and recreational facilities like the SoundWaves water attraction.

As an integral part of the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, the Magnolia Portico is supported by and contributes to the extensive range of services offered by this premier Nashville destination. While "Magnolia Portico" itself refers to a specific area and its associated venues, the services available to guests and event attendees within this area are part of the broader resort experience. Here are some of the key services provided:

• Event and Conference Support: As a primary entrance and hub for the convention center, the Magnolia Portico facilitates seamless registration and access for large-scale events. It is supported by a dedicated events team that assists with planning, setup, and execution for various gatherings, from business seminars to social functions.
• Dining and Beverage Options: The area is home to various dining and bar experiences. For instance, the "Sports Bar" within the Magnolia District offers a full menu and beverage service, including a full bar. There's also often a "Tasting Room" that may feature a walk-up window for convenient ordering.
• Customer Service and Concierge: Guests attending events or staying at the resort have access to the Gaylord Opryland's comprehensive concierge and guest services, ensuring assistance with directions, event schedules, booking tours, and addressing any needs that arise.
• Food Truck Events: The Magnolia Portico often hosts special events, such as appearances by local food trucks, adding a unique and diverse dining option for guests and visitors to the area.
• Seasonal Activities: During special times of the year, like Christmas, the Magnolia Portico becomes a focal point for themed activities. For example, it has featured "FREE hot chocolate" and served as a starting point for activities like the "Reindeer Games™ Scavenger Hunt."
• Accessibility and Navigation: As a major portico, it provides clear signage and pathways for guests navigating the immense resort, often serving as a key drop-off and pickup point.
• Private Event Spaces: While part of the larger resort, dedicated event spaces like the Event Pavilion within the Magnolia District offer private venues for a range of functions, supported by the resort's catering and event coordination teams.

These services ensure that whether you're there for a conference or leisure, your needs are well-catered for within this vibrant section of the resort.

The Magnolia Portico, as a dynamic part of the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, features several impressive highlights that contribute to its unique character and appeal. These elements are designed to enhance both the functionality for events and the overall guest experience:

• The Magnolia District Development: Recent enhancements within the Magnolia District, including a 73,000 square foot project site, have transformed this area. It now features a 29,200 square foot Sports Bar and a 5,550 square foot Event Pavilion. This revitalization has brought a vibrant hum of activity to what was previously an underutilized outdoor space.
• Two-Story Sports Bar with Double-Height Video Wall: A standout feature is the state-of-the-art Sports Bar, boasting a two-story volume with an impressive double-height video wall. This makes it an ideal spot for viewing a variety of sporting events in a lively atmosphere. Smaller dining areas flank the main space, connected by garage doors that can open to the outside, creating an indoor/outdoor experience when weather permits.
• Tasting Room with Indoor/Outdoor Bar: A separate Tasting Room borders the existing hotel and includes garage doors that open onto the Magnolia Lobby, along with an innovative indoor/outdoor walk-up window at the bar. This provides a versatile and inviting space for casual drinks or gatherings.
• Versatile Event Pavilion: The stand-alone Event Pavilion mirrors the aesthetic of the Sports Bar but offers a more refined interior, suitable for a range of events from corporate functions to more formal gatherings.
• Extensive Outdoor Amenities: The Magnolia District extends its appeal outdoors with a Beer Garden, covered porch dining, and a large event lawn complete with fireplaces. There’s also an intimate garden designed for private events and weddings, providing diverse options for relaxation and celebration.
• Architectural Aesthetic: The buildings within the Magnolia District pay homage to Nashville's late 19th and early 20th-century printing industry warehouses. They feature weathered brick and blackened metal-framed windows and doors, along with exposed steel structures, contributing to a distinctive industrial aesthetic that is both modern and historically resonant.
• Central Location for Convention Access: The Magnolia Portico is recognized as a key entry point for the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center, making it a central hub for attendees of large conferences and exhibitions.

These features collectively create a dynamic and impressive destination within the already grand Gaylord Opryland Resort.

As a key component of the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, the Magnolia Portico itself does not typically have standalone "promotions or special offers" separate from the resort's overarching deals. However, guests and visitors can take advantage of various promotions and packages offered by the Gaylord Opryland that often include access to or benefits within the Magnolia area. Given the resort's vast offerings, these promotions are designed to enhance the overall experience.

• Gaylord Opryland Resort Packages: The resort frequently offers themed packages, such as the "SoundWaves Experience Package" which includes access to the upscale indoor/outdoor water attraction. While not specific to the Magnolia Portico, booking such packages can provide a comprehensive stay with access to various resort amenities.
• Seasonal Events and Activities: During special events like "A Country Christmas," the Magnolia Portico often features unique, limited-time offerings. For example, it has hosted "NASHVILLE NIGHTS" with free hot chocolate and served as a starting point for scavenger hunts, which are promotional activities integrated into the larger resort experience.
• Marriott Bonvoy Offers: As a Marriott Bonvoy property, Gaylord Opryland guests can leverage Marriott Bonvoy™ Offers, which include member rates and various benefits when booking direct. This loyalty program allows guests to earn and redeem points for stays and experiences.
• AAA/CAA, Senior, Local Resident, First Responder, and Teacher Offers: Gaylord Opryland frequently provides discounted rates for AAA/CAA members, seniors (62+), Tennessee residents, first responders, and teachers. These can offer significant savings on room rates, making a stay at the resort more accessible.
• Meeting and Event Promotions: For those planning conventions or events, the resort's sales team may offer specific package deals or discounts on meeting spaces, which often utilize the Magnolia Portico's convention facilities.
• Food and Beverage Specials: The Sports Bar and other dining venues within the Magnolia District may run their own daily or weekly specials on food and beverages, providing localized promotions for guests enjoying the area's culinary offerings.

Always check the official Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center website or contact their reservations team for the most current and specific promotions that align with your visit.

If you're interested in exploring the events, dining, or convention facilities at the Magnolia Portico within the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, here's the primary contact information for the resort:

Address: 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, USA

Phone: While a direct line for the "Magnolia Portico" isn't typically provided as it's a section of a larger resort, the main contact number for the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is: (615) 889-1000.

When calling, you can specifically inquire about events, dining options, or convention services related to the Magnolia Portico. The resort's central reservations and concierge services are well-equipped to provide information about all areas of the property, including this impressive district. For specific event-related inquiries, looking up the event details online will often direct you to the relevant department or contact person within the convention center operations.

For us Tennesseans, the Magnolia Portico, as a vibrant part of the Gaylord Opryland Resort, represents an exceptional and highly suitable destination for numerous reasons. Firstly, it provides an incredible local resource for large-scale events and conventions. If you're involved in business, industry, or professional organizations, the enhanced Sports Bar, Event Pavilion, and surrounding outdoor spaces offer world-class facilities right in our backyard, saving travel time and expense. This makes it ideal for local businesses to host impressive gatherings or for individuals to attend major industry events without leaving the state.

Secondly, beyond business, the Magnolia Portico area adds significant value for our leisure and family time. Imagine catching a Titans game on the massive video wall at the Sports Bar, followed by a relaxing evening on the event lawn with fireplaces. For families, the seasonal activities hosted at or near the Magnolia Portico (like hot chocolate during Christmas events) add unique local traditions to our calendars. It also provides a fantastic option for a local "staycation" or for showing off Nashville's grandeur to out-of-town guests. The combination of its convenient location near the Opry, diverse dining options, and the sheer architectural beauty of the Magnolia District makes it a true highlight within the Opryland experience, perfect for enjoying all that Music City has to offer without venturing far from home.