Are you planning to visit Nashville and looking for the best live music bars to experience the city’s vibrant music scene?
This guide will help you explore the top live music bars in Nashville, where you can enjoy some of the best live performances by talented musicians and artists.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the Best Live Music Bars in Nashville, so you can enjoy the game with great food, drinks, and company.
Best Live Music Bars in Nashville Key Takeaways
- Nashville is home to some of the best live music bars in the world, with a rich history of music and talented musicians and artists.
- From honky-tonks to jazz clubs, there is something for everyone in Nashville’s live music scene.
- Some of the top live music bars in Nashville include Roberts Western World, The Basement East, The Flamingo Cocktail Club, The Exit/Inn, and Tootsies.
Quick Fire Roundup Of The Best Live Music Bars in Nashville 2023
Here are our top picks for the Best Live Music Bars in Nashville
- Roberts Western World
- The Basement East
- The Flamingo Cocktail Club
- The Exit/Inn
- The 5 Spot
- The East Room
- The End
- Tootsies
- AJ’s Good Time Bar
- The Station Inn
- 3rd & Lindsley
- The Ryman Auditorium
- The Bluebird Café
- Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge
- Bobby’s Idle Hour
Best Live Music Bars in Nashville: Where to Experience the City’s Vibrant Music Scene
Best Live Music Bars in Nashville
Nashville is known as the “Music City” for a reason. With live music performances happening every night, it can be overwhelming to choose which bar to visit. Here are some of the best live music bars in Nashville that you should definitely check out:
Roberts Western World
If you’re looking for a genuine honky-tonk experience in Nashville, Roberts Western World is the place to be. Named the “Best Honky-Tonk” in Nashville for the last eight years by The Nashville Scene, Roberts Western World has a long history and is a staple in the downtown Nashville music scene.
Jesse Lee Jones, originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil, is the owner of Roberts Western World. Passionate about country and gospel music, Jesse transformed the western clothing store into a honky-tonk and has made it what it is today with a lot of hard work and dedication.
Roberts Western World has hosted some of the best pickers and players in Nashville who have gone on to great things, such as Don Kelley, Guthrie Trapp, JD Simo, Daniel Donato, and guitarist of the year Brent Mason. Today, the staple bands include Kelley’s Heros and Brazibilly. The band schedule can be found here.
In addition to great country music, Roberts Western World is known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious food. If you’re looking for a truly authentic Nashville experience, be sure to stop by Roberts Western World for a bologna sandwich and beer while enjoying some of the best live music in town.
Overall, Roberts Western World is a must-visit for anyone looking for a true honky-tonk experience in Nashville.
The Basement East
If you’re looking for a prime music venue for live music in Nashville, The Basement East is a great option. Located in East Nashville, it’s known by local musicians as one of the top places to see live music in Nashville. Since 2015, the club has hosted popular artists such as Dashboard Confessional, Alice Cooper, Dawes, Cage The Elephant, Lukas Graham, Brandy Clark, Maren Morris, and Chris Stapleton, among others.
The Basement East offers a spacious dance floor and a balcony for seating. The club has a full bar with a great selection of drinks and a food menu featuring items such as burgers, tacos, and salads. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the sound system is top-notch.
The club has a diverse selection of live music throughout the week, ranging from rock and roll to indie to country. Check out their website for the latest schedule of upcoming shows.
If you’re looking for a lively music venue with great energy and a variety of music genres, The Basement East is definitely worth a visit.
The Flamingo Cocktail Club
The Flamingo Cocktail Club is a trendy cocktail bar and coffee shop located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. As one of the top-rated music bars in Nashville, the club offers a diverse selection of live music throughout the week, showcasing local bands and artists. The club has a cool vibe with disco balls, lights, and music that creates a unique atmosphere.
The Flamingo Cocktail Club is also known for its renowned cocktails. The cocktail menu is extensive, and you can choose from a variety of drinks like the Flamingo Margarita, the Blueberry Lavender Fizz, and the Pineapple Express. The club also serves plant-based food, and you can enjoy a meal while listening to live music.
The club is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 5 pm to 3 am. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy live music and cocktails in a trendy atmosphere, the Flamingo Cocktail Club is the perfect spot.
Overall, the Flamingo Cocktail Club is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique live music experience in Nashville. With its diverse selection of live music, renowned cocktails, and cool vibe, it’s no wonder the club is one of the top-rated music bars in Nashville.
The Exit/Inn
If you’re looking for a legendary music venue in Nashville that has been supporting alternative music acts since 1971 despite the city’s strong country music scene, then look no further than The Exit/Inn. This venue has hosted acts from a variety of genres, including Kings of Leon, Sheryl Crow, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Steve Martin.
The Exit/Inn was the first place in Nashville to host songwriters’ nights, and it remains a treasure and an important part of Nashville’s music scene. It’s a small venue with a capacity of only 500 people, which makes for an intimate and unforgettable experience. The sound quality is top-notch, and the atmosphere is electric.
The venue has a rich history, having been a part of Nashville’s music scene for over 50 years. It has seen many famous musicians pass through its doors and has been a launching pad for many up-and-coming acts. The Exit/Inn is a must-visit for anyone looking for a genuine, live music experience in Nashville.
If you’re planning to attend a show at The Exit/Inn, make sure to check their website for upcoming events and ticket information. The venue is located in the Elliston Place neighborhood, just a short drive from downtown Nashville. Parking can be a challenge, so it’s best to arrive early or take a ride-sharing service.
In summary, The Exit/Inn is a legendary music venue in Nashville that has been supporting alternative music acts since 1971. It’s a small venue with a rich history, top-notch sound quality, and an electric atmosphere. If you’re looking for a genuine, live music experience in Nashville, The Exit/Inn should be at the top of your list.
The 5 Spot
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy live music in East Nashville, look no further than The 5 Spot. This venue has live events every night of the week, including Motown Monday, Country, Urban Music Writers Rounds, 80’s dance parties, Funky Good Times, Topo Tuesday, and more. The diverse range of events means there’s something for everyone.
The 5 Spot is a popular Nashville music venue that has hosted many talented musicians and bands. It’s a great place to see live music and experience the local music scene. The venue has a cozy atmosphere and a great sound system, making it a top choice for music lovers.
Whether you’re a fan of country, rock, or any other genre, you’re sure to find something you love at The 5 Spot. The venue’s schedule is always packed with great acts, so check out their website to see what’s coming up.
In addition to the live music, The 5 Spot also serves up tasty food and drinks. The menu features classic bar food like burgers and fries, as well as more upscale options like shrimp and grits. There’s also a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails to choose from.
Overall, The 5 Spot is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best live music bars in Nashville. With its great atmosphere, talented musicians, and delicious food and drinks, it’s easy to see why this venue is so popular.
The East Room
If you’re looking for a place to see up-and-coming local and touring talent, The East Room is the place to go. This music and comedy venue in East Nashville is known for its diverse range of acts and welcoming atmosphere.
The East Room is a great spot to catch a free open mic comedy show on Tuesday nights or enjoy a monthly dance party. The shows start at 8 pm, and the club is only open to those 18 and older.
The venue is located in the heart of East Nashville, making it a convenient spot to grab a drink and catch a show. The East Room is a popular spot among local musicians, so you never know who might show up to perform.
Overall, The East Room is a great option for those looking for a laid-back atmosphere and a chance to discover new talent. Check out their website to see their upcoming schedule of events.
The End
The End is a rock n roll dive bar located in Midtown Nashville that has hosted iconic bands such as R.E.M., The White Stripes, and Sleater-Kinney. This venue provides a small club experience with all kinds of music genres. The bar has a capacity of 250 people and is known for its intimate atmosphere and great sound system. The End is a major stepping stone for many up-and-coming local and touring acts.
If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy live music, The End is the perfect spot. The venue has a full bar and a small stage that is perfect for up-and-coming bands. The End is also known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.
The End is open six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday, and features a variety of music genres, including punk, metal, and indie rock. The venue has an impressive lineup of local and touring acts, and tickets are usually affordable, ranging from $5 to $15.
If you’re looking for a unique live music experience in Nashville, The End is definitely worth checking out. With its intimate atmosphere, great sound system, and diverse lineup of music genres, it’s no wonder why so many up-and-coming artists choose to perform here.
Tootsies
When it comes to the best live music bars in Nashville, Tootsies is undoubtedly one of the most famous and beloved. Located on Broadway, Tootsies is where artists, songwriters, and pickers want to earn their chops by playing on this hallowed ground. It’s a place where musicians can network and practice before hitting the bigger stage.
You’ll find three live music floors, including a rooftop bar with a view overlooking Nashville. The venue is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 3 a.m. You can feel the history of Nashville within these hallowed walls.
Tootsies is a breeding ground for talent, and it’s the most famous bar in Nashville. Today, it would be a crime to visit Nashville without visiting Tootsies. Ask any local which bar you should see; this is one of the first to roll off the tongue.
Tootsies is a fun, loud, and colorful venue, located in the heart of downtown Nashville, right next to the Bridgestone Arena. It’s a Nashville staple, and you must not leave Nashville without experiencing this place at least once.
If you want to experience the best live country music in Nashville while eating a bologna sandwich and drinking a beer, you must stop by Tootsies. The venue is a seriously good time, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves live music.
AJ’s Good Time Bar
If you are looking for a great honky-tonk experience in Nashville, AJ’s Good Time Bar is a must-visit. This bar has been voted the number one honky-tonk in Nashville by Billboard Magazine, and it’s not hard to see why. As the name suggests, the bar is all about having a good time, and that’s exactly what you’ll have when you visit.
AJ’s Good Time Bar was founded by country music legend Alan Jackson, and each floor of the building represents a part of Jackson’s career. You can feel the history of country music within these walls. The bar is located just a step away from the Ryman and Tootsies, so when you’re done checking out those iconic venues, swing into AJ’s for a night of live country music.
The bar features live country music on every floor, every night of the week. They even have karaoke every night of the week starting at 7 p.m., so you can get up and sing your favorite country songs. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and the drinks are reasonably priced.
If you want to experience the best live country music in Nashville while having a great time, you must stop by AJ’s Good Time Bar. It’s a Nashville staple and a seriously good time!
The Station Inn
If you’re looking for an authentic Nashville pickers experience, then The Station Inn is the place for you. For over 40 years, The Station Inn has been the hub of bluegrass and American roots music for fans worldwide. It’s a listening room set up like a theatre, unlike bars on Broadway, where attendees are asked to be quiet and appreciate the show.
The Station Inn is located in the Gulch in downtown Nashville, and it’s a different model compared to the honky-tonks and bars on Lower Broadway. The doors open at 7 pm every night, and the show starts at 9. Also, unlike bars on Broadway, they have a charge at the door with no tip jars passed around.
You may know the names of Dierks Bentley, The Time Jumpers, Sturgill Simpson, or Alison Kraus, who used to play here and had their start and early success here. You’ll also enjoy the tribute nights they host to honor all the bluegrass greats.
The bar opens two hours before the show, serving pizza, nachos, hot dogs, and other snacks. The Station Inn is a must-visit for anyone who loves bluegrass and wants to experience live music in a more intimate setting. To learn more or see the show lineup, click here.
3rd & Lindsley
If you’re looking for a live music venue with great music, food, and drink, 3rd & Lindsley Bar & Grill is a must-visit. Located just a few blocks from the Country Music Hall of Fame, this venue is a perfect spot to enjoy live music without the rowdiness of the downtown district.
Each week, 3rd & Lindsley has a packed schedule of live bands ready to go. The venue is located in an old building in Nashville, and the staff is well-organized. You can expect to hear a variety of music genres, including rock, blues, country, and more.
The venue has a full bar and restaurant, so you can grab a drink or a bite to eat while enjoying the music. The menu features classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. They also have a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Overall, 3rd & Lindsley is a great spot to experience live music in Nashville. With its convenient location, great food and drink, and diverse music lineup, it’s no wonder why this venue is a local favorite.
So, if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere to enjoy live music in Nashville, head over to 3rd & Lindsley and experience the best of what the city has to offer.
The Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium is a legendary music venue in Nashville, Tennessee, that has been a staple of the city’s music scene since it opened in 1892. Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” it has hosted some of the biggest names in music history, including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley.
The Ryman Auditorium is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Nashville music experience. The venue has a rich history and has been restored to its former glory, complete with wooden pews and stained-glass windows. The acoustics are exceptional, and the atmosphere is intimate, making it the perfect place to see a live performance.
The Ryman Auditorium hosts a variety of events, including concerts, comedy shows, and even weddings. The venue has a seating capacity of 2,362, and there’s not a bad seat in the house. The venue also has a museum that showcases the history of the Ryman and its place in Nashville’s music scene.
If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, make sure to check out the Ryman Auditorium’s event calendar. You won’t want to miss the chance to see a live performance in this iconic venue.
Overall, the Ryman Auditorium is a must-visit for anyone who loves live music. Its rich history, exceptional acoustics, and intimate atmosphere make it one of the best music venues in Nashville.
The Bluebird Café
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy dinner and drinks while listening to a wide variety of music or a venue to catch a show by some of Nashville’s best artists, The Bluebird Café is the perfect spot. From up-and-coming songwriters to Grammy winners, the café has seen it all and continues to be a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.
Located in a strip mall outside of downtown Nashville, The Bluebird Café is a small, unassuming bar that packs big-time musical talent. Unlike the noisier bars downtown, this venue has a strict “Shhh” policy designed to let both the guests and musicians focus only on the live music.
The Bluebird Café is Nashville’s best-loved live music venue, featuring up and coming as well as hit songwriters. The food is good, too. It’s a listening room where the music is the most important thing. The café has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban.
If you want to experience the best live music in Nashville, you must stop by The Bluebird Café. It’s a Nashville staple, and you don’t want to miss it. The café is a seriously good time!
| Attribute | Description |
| Location | 4104 Hillsboro Rd, Nashville, TN 37215 |
| Price | $$ |
| Reservations | Recommended |
| Group Capacity | 40 |
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, The Bluebird Café should be on your list of must-visit live music bars in Nashville.
Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge
If you’re looking for a time-traveling country bar from the 1970s, Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge is the place to be. Located in the Nashville suburb of Madison, Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge has been gaining a large following since its opening in 2016. Regulars can be spotted there every night of the week, and the bar has even gained national attention by being dubbed one of the best hidden hangouts outside of downtown Nashville by Rolling Stone magazine in 2020.
The bar exudes a classic country aesthetic with its retro decor and artists covering country legends such as Waylon Jennings and Hank Williams Jr. But residents don’t just come for the music and decor; the food is a must-try. Some popular menu items include the Chicago-style Italian beef, Frito pie, and shitake mushroom bao buns. The bar also specializes in classic and signature cocktails, such as the old fashioned, Parton Me (a spin on a martini), and Dee’s Margarita.
Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge is a neighborhood bar and small music venue located in Montague, Nashville-Davidson, Davidson County, Tennessee. It is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and great company. If you’re in the mood for some live music, Dee’s has got you covered. The bar hosts live music events regularly, and the artists are always top-notch.
Overall, Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a classic country experience and some great food and drinks.
Bobby’s Idle Hour
If you’re looking for an authentic dive bar experience with live music in Nashville, Bobby’s Idle Hour is the place to be. Located on Music Row, this iconic establishment has been a favorite of both up-and-coming and established songwriters since 1978. It’s a place that embodies the gritty, raw, and untouched music scene that Nashville is famous for.
As a dive bar, Bobby’s Idle Hour has a bluesy and gritty atmosphere that’s perfect for live music performances. The establishment is known for its cheap beer, and you can expect to hear local songwriters and musicians perform on the small stage. It’s a cozy and intimate venue that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a solo adventure.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, Bobby’s Idle Hour doesn’t have a full menu, but they do offer a few snacks like chips and peanuts. The focus here is on the music, and the establishment is all about providing an authentic dive bar experience.
Bobby’s Idle Hour is a must-visit for anyone looking for a true Nashville dive bar experience with live music. The atmosphere is authentic, the beer is cheap, and the music is top-notch. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Nashville’s raw and untouched music scene.
Overall, Bobby’s Idle Hour is one of the six best bars in Nashville with live music that you should check out. It’s a place where you can experience the true essence of Nashville’s music scene and enjoy some great live performances in an intimate setting.
Final Thought:Best Live Music Bars in Nashville
Nashville is a city that is well-known for its live music scene, and there is no shortage of bars and venues where you can enjoy some of the best music in town. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you are sure to find a bar that suits your taste.
Throughout this article, we have explored some of the best live music bars in Nashville. From the legendary Bluebird Cafe to the historic Ryman Auditorium, each venue offers something unique and special.
If you are a fan of country music, you will find plenty of honky-tonk bars that offer live music every night of the week. If you prefer something a little more low-key, there are plenty of intimate venues that showcase up-and-coming artists and singer-songwriters.
No matter what type of music you love, there is a bar in Nashville that will cater to your tastes. So grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy some of the best live music that Music City has to offer.
