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

This is an intimate venue that has always been popular with locals but had a rise in fame when it debuted on the hit show, Nashville. This is a songwriters in the round type of experience.

Local Tip

I wish we had a secret to getting tickets but the reality is, these are hard for everyone! The best thing to do is know the ticket release schedule in advance and set your alarm. Tickets sell out FAST online- within a few minutes usually. If you do not get online tickets, plan to arrive early at the venue to wait in line and hope for a spot. Please always check their website for the most up-to-date instructions because they do change from time to time!

  • Friday, Saturday & Sunday shows – available online Monday of that week @ 8am CENTRAL TIME.
  • Monday shows – no reservations needed
  • Tuesday – Thursday shows: Become available a WEEK in advance at 8am CENTRAL TIME.

Nearby Southbound Stays: Lonestar

Nearby Southbound Stays: Lyric at Leiper's Fork

Nearby Southbound Stays: The Country Cottage

Nearby Southbound Stays: The Little House

Station Inn

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

Exactly as the name implies, Kimbro’s is known for its live pickin music. Unlike many other venues, they serve food – and it’s delicious.

Nearby Southbound Stays: Lyric at Leiper's Fork

Gray's on Main - Franklin

Location

Why We Love It

Gray’s is a restaurant in Downtown Franklin with amazing food – they also have great, live Music on the main stage on the weekends.

Local Tip

Check the link below to see who’s playing. Make reservations in advance if you can.

Nearby Southbound Stays: Lyric at Leiper's Fork

Fox & Locke Leiper's Fork

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.

Kid-Friendly

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