Living in Donelson, Nashville TN: Homes Near the Airport and Opry

by Nik Shewmaker

What is Donelson in Nashville, TN? Donelson is an established neighborhood about 6 miles east of downtown Nashville along Lebanon Pike, next to Nashville International Airport. It is known for brick ranch homes from the postwar era, quick access to downtown and the airport, and nearby attractions like the Grand Ole Opry and Opry Mills.

See Donelson-area (37214) homes for sale right now →

What Donelson Is Like

Donelson is named for John Donelson, one of Nashville's founders. Its oldest section, Bluefields, began development in 1929 and is now a National Register historic district, but most of the neighborhood grew after World War II. The typical home is a single-story red-brick ranch on a good-size lot, with renovations and some newer infill mixed in.

Getting around is a strength. The WeGo Star commuter train stops in Donelson on its way downtown, I-40 and Briley Parkway are close, and the airport is next door. Two Rivers Mansion and park, the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Mills, and Percy Priest Lake are all nearby.

Donelson Quick Facts

Location	East Nashville area along Lebanon Pike, about 6 miles from downtown
ZIP code	37214
Built	Mostly postwar, with Bluefields dating to 1929
Home types	Brick ranches, renovations, and some new builds
Transit	WeGo Star commuter rail station
HOA	Most streets have none
Schools	Pennington Elementary, Two Rivers Middle, and McGavock High for the address checked (Metro Nashville Public Schools, 2026-27 zone finder)

Frequently Asked Questions About Donelson

Where is Donelson in Nashville?

Donelson is about 6 miles east of downtown along Lebanon Pike (U.S. 70), next to Nashville International Airport and just south of the Opryland area. Hermitage is to the east.

What kind of homes are in Donelson?

Most homes are single-story red-brick ranches built after World War II, many on generous lots. You will also find renovated homes, some newer construction, and the historic Bluefields section.

What schools serve Donelson?

On the Metro Nashville Public Schools 2026-27 zone finder, a Donelson address checked on Old Lebanon Pike is zoned to Pennington Elementary, Two Rivers Middle, and McGavock High. Donelson is large, and elementary zones in particular vary by street. Zones can change and some streets split, so confirm with MNPS for a specific address.

Is there a train from Donelson to downtown Nashville?

Yes. The WeGo Star commuter rail line, which began running in 2006, has a Donelson station with service to downtown Nashville. Check WeGo for the current schedule.

What is there to do near Donelson?

The Grand Ole Opry, Opry Mills, and Gaylord Opryland are close, along with Two Rivers Mansion and park, Shelby Bottoms, and Percy Priest Lake for boating and trails.

How much do homes in Donelson cost?

Prices vary a lot by street, size, and condition, so the most accurate answer is what's listed today. See current Donelson listings and I can walk you through recent sales.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Donelson?

I'm Nik Shewmaker, a fifth-generation Nashville native, and I help buyers and sellers across Davidson County. If you want a straight answer on what's selling in Donelson right now, or what your home could list for, call or text me at (615) 585-0022.

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