Andrew Jackson was nicknamed 'Old Hickory' for his toughness as our nation's seventh president. Drivers in Nashville need to be tough as Jackson to navigate a city where two streets carry his nickname and neither connects to the other.

By Jamison Rotch

So you’ve listened to your adventurous muse and rented car for a little mobility around Music City. You’ve picked out a destination, you’ve got your map and you’ve even asked a native Nashvillian for directions. If at any point during the instructions you hear the words "Old Hickory Boulevard," unfold the map and get ready ask a follow-up question.

Old Hickory was the nickname of President Andrew Jackson, who lived in Nashville on his estate, the Hermitage. The town is so proud of its famous former citizen that it named not one but two streets after him. Nashville is home to two Old Hickory Boulevards, and they are not connected in any way. One is located north of town; the other is on the south side. Make sure you have a complete understanding of the general direction and area you are trying to reach. Don’t be surprised if the local gets confused. Even longtime Nashvillians are befuddled by the mystery of Old Hickory.

Go to Nashville City Guide