Can I just say how absolutely crazy awesome it was to be in Nashville during their first couple home games of the Stanley Cup Final! I didn’t even plan for it, but it worked out perfectly. With my hotel right next to Bridgestone Arena and Broadway, I was smack dab in the middle of all the action!
Bridgestone Arena
But first, I stopped by by Acme Feed & Seed for something to eat.
Acme Feed & Seed
The multilevel venue has live music, a rooftop patio, and serves creative Southern dishes and cocktails. I lined up at the register near the entrance where you place your order, grab a number, and seat yourself. I sat at the bar of course.
Bar
I tried the Redneck Lo Mein – lo mein noodles with smoked chicken, corn, collard greens, black-eyed peas, caramelized onions, and an andouille soy glaze. I liked it. It was an interesting combination of flavors.
Redneck Lo Mein
With some food in my system, it was time to join the masses for the game!
The Predators were the last team to make the NHL playoffs and what a run they had! They swept the Chicago Blackhawks in the First Round 4-0. They took the Second Round against the St. Louis Blues 4-2. They then defeated the Anaheim Ducks 4-2 to move on to the Stanley Cup Finals! It was Nashville’s very first Finals appearance in its 19-year history.
Game 3
To say the city of Nashville was excited is an understatement. They were absolutely ecstatic! The fan base had the opportunity to show their passion for their team and the sport of hockey, and the country took notice.
Lower Broadway
It was a Saturday afternoon and it was time for Game 3! The Pittsburgh Penguins won the first two games at home, but now it was time to bring the series to Nashville. It seemed like the entire city of Nashville and the neighboring towns were out to watch the game. Lots of roads were closed, people were everywhere, and Broadway became a sea of gold and navy.
Multiple Road Closings
You had to get there early if you wanted a spot near the large screens on the first couple blocks. It didn’t take long for the place to fill up and they couldn’t allow more people in.
They’re Ready
The atmosphere was filled with tons of eager fans and the energy was through the roof. It was amazing!
Not Getting In Anymore
The few blocks of Lower Broadway were packed. You couldn’t even get near the bars and restaurants. People were hanging out on packed balconies, looking out any window they could find, and the rooftops were swarming with more fans.
The Last Block
After walking around for a bit, I finally found a spot near the second large screen to hang out and watch the game. It took a long time just to walk half a block, so I was not moving!
Unreal
Nashville happen to win and score 5 games during Game 3. The city erupted with excitement for every single goal. It was crazy.
Nashville Scores 5 Goals
After Game 3, it was time to celebrate! Every bar continued to be packed to capacity and the enthusiastic fans celebrated late into the night.
Woot! Preds Win 5-1
The following day, I was getting ready to head to the airport. It was time for Game 4 and the shenanigans were already well under way!
Game 4
Smash Car
How Many Hits?
Near the Stage
The Preds ended up winning Game 4, defeating the Penguins 4-1. Pittsburgh went on to ultimately win the series and became the Stanly Cup Champions, so congrats to them and their fans.
I was rooting for Nashville and as disappointing as it was that they didn’t take any of the next couple games, it was such an incredible series. What an amazing run. Fans stood proud. I believe they will have another strong playoff run this upcoming season. To all the Preds fans, you guys are awesome and made my stay in Nashville so much more special!
Acme Feed & Seed
101 Broadway
Nashville, TN 37201
(615) 915-0888
Website
Bridgestone Arena
501 Broadway
Nashville, TN 37203
Capacity: 20,000
(615) 770-2000
Website
