Lower Broadway - a black and white street sign on a pole
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Lower Broadway

4.6
·491k reviews·Nashville, United States

Nashville's Lower Broadway: a legendary strip of honky-tonks pulsing with live country music, vibrant energy, and iconic neon lights.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe

CrowdMedium
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Lower Broadway - a black and white street sign on a pole

Lower Broadway

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Nashville's Lower Broadway: a legendary strip of honky-tonks pulsing with live country music, vibrant energy, and iconic neon lights.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Lower Broadway is the heart of Nashville's music scene, offering an unforgettable honky-tonk experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Entertainment

Lower Broadway is best explored on foot. Hop between honky-tonks and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

👢 Embrace the Boots

While not mandatory, cowboy boots and hats add to the fun. Find great deals at Boot Country! :boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Honky Tonk Hopping

Honky Tonk Hopping

Lower Broadway

Experience the iconic live country music scene, with bars like Tootsie's and Robert's Western World offering non-stop tunes.

Rooftop Views

Rooftop Views

Various Rooftop Bars

Enjoy panoramic city views and live music from elevated spots like Skydeck or Jason Aldean's Rooftop.

Live Music Stages

Live Music Stages

Numerous Venues

From emerging artists to established stars, catch incredible live performances day and night.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Energy (or Avoid It)

Lower Broadway is the pulsating heart of Nashville's music scene, famous for its lively honky-tonks. Expect crowds, especially on weekends, and a constant soundtrack of live country music. Plan accordingly if you prefer a more relaxed vibe.

Dress the Part, Feel the Vibe

While not strictly enforced, many visitors embrace the country spirit with cowboy boots and hats. It's part of the fun! Comfortable shoes are a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking and standing.

Best Times

When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, great people-watching
Crowd
High
When
Late Night
Why
The energy is at its peak
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

For those wanting to come to Nashville and hit Broadway this is what a Saturday night looks like from Skydeck, the highest rooftop in Nashville. #nashville #broadway #tipsy #skydecknashville #musiccity #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp
@ericalunn79
24.2K likes • 808.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Entertainment

Lower Broadway is best explored on foot. Hop between honky-tonks and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

👢 Embrace the Boots

While not mandatory, cowboy boots and hats add to the fun. Find great deals at Boot Country! :boot:

Your sign to go to the Honky Tonks! 🤠🎶 #nashville #nashvilletn #tennessee #nashvilleaesthetics #travel #countrymusic #broadwaynashville #countryaesthetic #traveltiktok
@melinajameh
121.1K likes • 980.1K views
I’d Rather Be The Ex ❤️‍🔥 #singer #songwriter #broadway #nashvillebroadway #kellymctigue #lowerbroadway #songwriters #music #musicians #independantartists #instagood #explore #discover #nashville #countrymusic #artist #taylorswift #kelseaballerini #avrillavigne #kaceymusgraves
kellymctiguee
357 likes • 9.3K views

🎶 Free Live Music

Most honky-tonks offer free entry and live music all day and night. Tip your bartenders! :musical_note:

⬆️ Rooftop Revelry

For stunning views and a different vibe, check out the many rooftop bars. :cityscape:

Thanks for having us @buscallnashville Song: GET IT RIGHT Video by : @livvyphoto #nashville #buscallnashville #broadwaynashville #lowerbroadway #whiskeyjam #nashvilleartist #nashvillemusicscene #nashvillemusic #poprockmusic #altpop #alternativerock
strangerboy
309 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Entertainment

Lower Broadway is best explored on foot. Hop between honky-tonks and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

👢 Embrace the Boots

While not mandatory, cowboy boots and hats add to the fun. Find great deals at Boot Country! :boot:

🎶 Free Live Music

Most honky-tonks offer free entry and live music all day and night. Tip your bartenders! :musical_note:

⬆️ Rooftop Revelry

For stunning views and a different vibe, check out the many rooftop bars. :cityscape:

🍻 Pace Yourself

With so many bars, it's easy to get carried away. Stay hydrated and enjoy the experience. :tumbler_glass:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lower Broadway is a vibrant, high-energy destination famous for its non-stop live country music and iconic honky-tonks. Visitors love the lively atmosphere, talented musicians, and the sheer fun of hopping between bars. However, some find it can be overwhelmingly crowded and loud, especially on weekends.

What People Like

Non-stop live music
Energetic atmosphere
Iconic honky-tonks

What People Dislike

Overcrowded
Very loud

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lower Broadway is easily accessible in downtown Nashville. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services or taxis, especially if staying in nearby hotels. Parking garages are available, but can be pricey. Walking is the best way to explore once you're there. TikTok

Absolutely! Lower Broadway is designed for walking. The main strip is packed with honky-tonks, making it easy to hop from one venue to another. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended. TikTok

Once you're on Lower Broadway, walking is the primary mode of transport. For longer distances or to get to the area, consider ride-sharing apps or local taxis. TikTok

While there isn't direct subway access, Nashville's bus system does serve the downtown area, which is a short walk from Lower Broadway. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing for convenience. Reddit

Parking is available in several garages around downtown Nashville, but it can be expensive, especially during peak times. Many visitors prefer to use ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no! Most honky-tonks on Lower Broadway offer free entry and live music. You're encouraged to tip the bands and bartenders for their performances. TikTok

The bars on Lower Broadway typically open in the morning and stay open late into the night, often until 2 or 3 AM. Live music usually starts early and continues throughout the day. TikTok

Most honky-tonks on Lower Broadway are 21 and up due to alcohol service. Some venues may have specific policies, so it's always a good idea to check their individual websites if you have concerns. TikTok

Reservations are rarely needed or offered for general entry to the honky-tonks, as they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some rooftop bars or specific venues might offer VIP options or table service for a fee. TikTok

The vast majority of honky-tonks on Lower Broadway do not have cover charges. The business model relies on drink sales and tips for the musicians. TikTok

🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience

Lower Broadway is synonymous with live country music! You'll hear everything from classic country to modern hits, often performed by talented musicians honing their craft. TikTok+1

Iconic spots include Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Robert's Western World, The Bluebird Cafe (though not on Broadway, it's a must-visit for songwriters), Kid Rock's Honky Tonk, and Jason Aldean's. TikTok

While bars are the main draw, you can also enjoy rooftop views, street performers, and the general lively atmosphere. Some venues offer line dancing lessons. TikTokReddit

Wander from bar to bar and listen to different bands. Tip generously, as the musicians rely on it. Some venues have multiple stages, so explore! TikTok

Like any busy entertainment district, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas, travel in groups, and be mindful of your belongings. Police presence is usually visible. TikTok

🎫 👢 Shopping & Souvenirs

Boot Country is a popular spot right on Broadway for a wide selection of cowboy boots and Western wear. It's a classic Nashville shopping experience. TikTok

Yes, you'll find numerous shops selling Nashville-themed souvenirs, t-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia. It's easy to find something to remember your trip by. TikTok

Beyond boots and t-shirts, consider local music memorabilia, hot chicken spice blends, or handcrafted items from nearby shops. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic neon signs of the honky-tonks, the general street scenes with musicians and crowds, and the rooftop views offer fantastic photo opportunities. TikTok

Yes, you can generally take photos inside the honky-tonks. However, be respectful of the performers and other patrons. Avoid using flash directly in front of musicians. TikTok

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for the streetscape. At night, the neon signs create a vibrant, energetic atmosphere for photos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lower Broadway can be a lively, sometimes overwhelming, experience for families with children. While the music is family-friendly in many venues during the day, the atmosphere can become more adult-oriented in the evenings. Consider visiting during daylight hours when the energy is still high but less intense. Some rooftop bars might offer a more relaxed environment with great views. TikTok

Look for venues that might have earlier live music sets or consider activities just off Broadway that are more geared towards younger audiences. While the iconic honky-tonk experience is a draw, it's important to gauge your children's comfort levels with loud music and large crowds. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Lower Broadway is surprisingly budget-friendly if you know where to look. The biggest draw is the free live music in most honky-tonks. Your main expenses will be drinks and food. Tip your bartenders and musicians generously, as this is how they make their living. TikTok

Look for happy hour specials and consider sharing appetizers or entrees to save on food costs. While there are many souvenir shops, focus on one or two meaningful items rather than impulse buys. Walking is free and the best way to experience the area, saving on transportation costs. TikTok

🎶 Music Enthusiasts

For true music lovers, Lower Broadway is a pilgrimage. You can spend days hopping between venues, discovering new artists and hearing classic country tunes performed live. Seek out venues known for traditional country, like Robert's Western World, or explore the newer, larger establishments for a taste of modern country. TikTok

Don't be afraid to strike up conversations with bartenders and musicians; they often have great insights into Nashville's music scene and recommendations for other venues or songwriters' rounds. Consider visiting during the week for a more intimate experience with the artists. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of Nashville: Honky Tonk Culture

Lower Broadway is world-renowned for its honky-tonks, the quintessential Nashville experience. These lively establishments offer non-stop live country music, often with no cover charge. The energy is infectious, with musicians playing everything from classic hits to modern anthems. It's a place where you can dance, sing along, and soak in the authentic spirit of Music City. Many of these bars have a rich history, with legendary artists having graced their stages. TikTok+1

When visiting, remember that the musicians work hard for tips. While entry is usually free, showing appreciation for the talent with tips is a crucial part of the honky-tonk etiquette. Bartenders also work hard to keep the drinks flowing, so tipping them is equally important. It's a communal experience, and contributing to the atmosphere makes it more enjoyable for everyone. TikTok+1

Some of the most famous honky-tonks include Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, known for its three stages and storied past, Robert's Western World, a purist's paradise for traditional country music, and The Bluebird Cafe (though not directly on Broadway, it's a vital part of Nashville's music scene for songwriters). Newer, larger venues like Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar and Kid Rock's Honky Tonk & Steakhouse offer a more modern take on the honky-tonk experience, often with impressive rooftop views. TikTok

Beyond the Bars: Exploring Lower Broadway's Vibe

While the honky-tonks are the main attraction, Lower Broadway offers more than just live music. The vibrant streetscape itself is an experience, filled with neon lights, bustling crowds, and a palpable sense of excitement. You'll see people dressed in their finest country attire, street performers, and vendors selling all sorts of Nashville memorabilia. It's a place to people-watch and immerse yourself in the unique culture. TikTok+1

For a different perspective, head to one of the many rooftop bars. These elevated spots provide stunning panoramic views of the Nashville skyline, especially beautiful during sunset or at night when the city lights twinkle. They often feature their own live music, creating a more relaxed yet still energetic atmosphere compared to the street-level honky-tonks. Skydeck is frequently mentioned as a top spot for these views. TikTokInstagram

Shopping is also a key part of the Lower Broadway experience. Boot Country is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic cowboy boots and Western wear, a quintessential Nashville souvenir. Beyond boots, you'll find numerous shops selling t-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia that capture the spirit of Music City. TikTok+1

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