Live Music
Downtown Nashville/ Broadway
Location
Why We Love It
Downtown Nashville and the honky tonks are a must visit with any trip to Music City. The majority of live music is FREE and every day new bars are popping up owned by country artists like Blake Shelton, Little Big Town and even Garth Brooks.
Local Tip
Though there are many newer bars on Broadway, be sure to hit the originals:
- Tootsies
- The Stage
- Robert’s Western World
The majority of bars are kid-friendly during the days. While dogs are not allowed in most bars, we find walking along Broadway with your pup and hearing the sounds from outside is still fun for fido.
Nearby Southbound Stays: Lonestar
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Country Cottage
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Little House
Nearby Southbound Stays: Vibe
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
The Listening Room Cafe
Location
Why We Love It
A more relaxed atmosphere where you can sit and enjoy a meal while listening to live music.
Local Tip
Much like anything in Nashville, reserve tickets as early as you can!
Bluebird Cafe
Location
Why We Love It
The best Bluegrass you’ll find in Nashville. We love this venue because while so many newer buildings have popped up around it, it has remained unchanged and true to its roots. This is a small venue that’s first come, first served.
Local Tip
This is a small venue that’s first come, first served. Be sure to go early!
Nearby Southbound Stays: Lonestar
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Country Cottage
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Little House
Nearby Southbound Stays: Vibe
The Basement & Basement East
Location
Why We Love It
If you’re looking for music other than Rock, alternative, country – and just about everything in between- these are the places to check. The Basement is located in the 8th Ave S/ Melrose neighborhood and The Basement East is located in East Nashville.
Local Tip
These are adult only venues so the kiddos will need to stay behind. Check their calendar(s) and book tickets well in advance.
Nearby Southbound Stays: Lonestar
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Country Cottage
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Little House
Nearby Southbound Stays: Vibe
Rudy's Jazz Room
Location
Why We Love It
Rudy’s has an underground feel (mainly because it is actually partly underground) with amazing jazz music. While there are some other jazz venues in town, this one is our personal favorite and a lot of that has to do with the atmosphere.
Local Tip
Check their site for their latest shows and purchase tickets well in advance for popular shows.
Nearby Southbound Stays: Lonestar
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Country Cottage
Nearby Southbound Stays: The Little House
Nearby Southbound Stays: Vibe
Kimbro's Pickin Parlor - Franklin
Location
Why We Love It
Formerly Puckett’s, Fox & Locke is back to its original roots with its name, Fox & Locke. One of the original live music venues, including open mic nights. You can also enjoy a “meat and three” style meal here while listening.
Local Tip
If you’re able to make reservations, do so but not all music is ticketed. Also, you never know who may be in the audience. Leiper’s Fork is chock full of famous songwriters and some of the biggest names in the music industry.
Nearby Southbound Stays: Lyric at Leiper's Fork
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
Music in the Vines @ Arrington Vineyards
Location
Why We Love It
During summer weekends, the vineyards open up their stage for Music in the Vines. Predominantly bluegrass and jazz but considering the owner of the vineyard is Kix Brooks (from Brooks & Dunn) there are various events where he will headline.
Local Tip
Arrington is a great place for a picnic – pack your own or enjoy food options they offer. Even if you’re not a wine drinker, you will enjoy spending a day here with live music and an amazing atmosphere.