Blended business trips boost demand for work-friendly stays in Nashville

More business travelers are mixing work and leisure, and a new report says that trend is reshaping demand for hotels that can support both productivity and downtime. Nashville’s East Bank redevelopment adds another layer, as the city’s growth pushes attention toward accommodations with strong internet, coworking space and neighborhood access.

Why it matters: - Business travel is shifting toward blended trips that combine work and personal time. - Hotels that can support both remote work and local experiences are better positioned to meet that demand. - Nashville’s ongoing growth, including East Bank redevelopment, is increasing the importance of stay options near new business and entertainment hubs.

What happened: - Navan and Skift’s 2026 State of Corporate Travel and Expense report found that 54% of business travelers surveyed took at least two blended trips in the previous 12 months. - The Global Business Travel Association forecasts worldwide business travel spending will reach $1.71 trillion in 2026. - Nashville’s East Bank is the focus of a long-term redevelopment plan covering 550 acres along the Cumberland River. - The East Bank plan envisions 22 million square feet of mixed-use development across four walkable districts. - The Fallon Company is the master developer for the first 30 acres of Metro-owned land. - Planned East Bank projects include a new enclosed Titans stadium and a new home for the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.

The details: - A recent Korn Ferry article said remote workers can struggle in public spaces such as airports when outlets are unavailable and loud music makes calls difficult. - Reliable internet, dedicated work areas and access to neighborhood dining can make business travel more comfortable. - Salt Ranch Hotel in East Nashville offers coworking areas, meeting rooms and high-speed internet for guests who need to stay productive. - The hotel also gives guests downtime options, including a poolside lounge and the property’s historic 1824 barroom. - Salt Ranch Hotel is located at 2914 Dickerson Pike. - The property includes guest rooms, dining, coworking and meeting spaces, a pool and a dog park.

Between the lines: - Nashville’s hotel market appears to be moving toward a hybrid model that serves both business needs and destination appeal. - As East Bank development draws more activity to the area, properties that blend work amenities with neighborhood character may stand out. - Salt Ranch Hotel is positioning itself around that overlap, with workspaces during the day and local experience after hours. - “Business travel can leave room to experience Nashville, too,” said Ben Spurlock, general manager of Salt Ranch Hotel.

What’s next: - East Bank redevelopment is likely to keep shaping demand for nearby hotels and short-stay business accommodations. - Travelers are expected to continue favoring properties that make it easier to work efficiently and explore the city in the same trip. - Salt Ranch Hotel is likely to market itself around productivity, local access and East Nashville character as business travel habits evolve.

The bottom line: - Business travel is no longer just about the meeting. In Nashville, the winning hotel formula is increasingly work-ready by day and experience-driven by night.