Honky-tonks are a staple of Nashville’s downtown scene, and whether you love them or hate them, you’ll probably be visiting one at some point soon. Honky-tonks usually come with drinks and live country music, but these 12 locations offer much more than that. Here’s Nashville Guru’s guide to the must-see honky-tonks on and around Broadway.
Toothy’s Orchid Lounge
Toothy’s is just as famous as the Ryman Auditorium across the street, but it’s a lot louder. Since opening in the 1960s, it’s become a popular meeting place for music lovers and now includes a trendy rooftop bar. You can also find Toothy’s at Nashville Airport.
Click here for details
Robert’s Western World
This classic Lower Broadway honky-tonk, formerly home to a steel guitar manufacturer and a boot and apparel store, still stands on Roberts today. Live country music plays from open until close, and western boots line the walls. Get into the country spirit with a fried bologna sandwich and a cold beer.
Click here for details
stage
You might spot a famous face or two on The Stage: Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert. Many famous people have been in the spotlight here over the years, and even if you don’t see any “real” celebrities, the mural of country stars on the back wall still counts as famous, in a way.
Click here for details
Legendary Corner
For the best night out in Nashville, Legends Corner is the place to be. Whether it’s the strong drinks, the amazing live music, or the harmonious mix of old timers and bachelorette parties, it’s worth the wait.
Click here for details
Lippies
One of the more family-friendly honky-tonks, Rippy’s is a little quieter than its Broadway counterparts, but there’s still plenty of fun and food to be had, especially if you sip on their signature ribs and honky-tonk tea.
Click here for details
Leila’s
You’ll hear everything from country, rockabilly, western, Americana and bluegrass coming from Layla’s stage, and the crowd is even more diverse, as evidenced by the license plates the owner has collected and hung around the bar (bring back an old license plate and you’ll get a free beer).
Click here for details
Second Fiddle
The Second Fiddle is the place to be for great country music and friendly people. Located on Lower Broadway, this honky-tonk is steeped in tradition and features live country music from local Nashville artists seven nights a week. When you visit the Second Fiddle, you’ll feel right at home.
Learn more
Honky Tonk Central
Considering it spans three floors and occupies a corner piece of prime downtown real estate, it’s hard to miss Honky Tonk Central while walking down Broadway. The venue also stands out for having a different live band playing on each floor, amazing views of Lower Broadway, and a buzz of activity from top to bottom. (If you need any more convincing, it’s Kathie Lee and Hoda-approved!)
Click here for details
Nudies
Nudie’s calls itself the longest bar in Nashville, stretching over 100 feet and decorated with thousands of silver coins. But this honky-tonk has more to boast than that. Grab a drink and peruse millions of dollars of country music memorabilia created by Nudie Cohn, who also dressed megastars like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, and Elvis Presley.
Click here for details
Whiskey Vent
The place is small, but there’s plenty of space to swing dance, and if you want to sit down, there’s a generous selection of beer and whiskey to enjoy. Wherever you get to Whiskey Bent, don’t be scared of the giant stuffed bear looking down at the floor; it’s harmless.
Click here for details
Wild Horse Saloon
If you’re looking to line dance on one of the most visible dance floors downtown, head to the Wildhorse Saloon. This iconic Nashville spot on 2nd Street off Broadway offers live music daily, free line dancing lessons, and a curated menu featuring Wildhorse Saloon’s signature single barrel Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey.
Learn more
If you’re looking for celebrity-owned bars, be sure to check out our guide below, which lists options including Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, Kid Rock, and more.
reference:
Copyright notice:
© Nashville Guru, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
