Stepping onto Lower Broadway in Nashville is like tuning into a live country track. This iconic strip, with its neon lights and rich music history, welcomes visitors into the heart of the Music City. Whether you’re eager to feel the bass line of a live honky-tonk band or navigate a shopping spree, our guide provides the essentials.
The Best Bars on Lower Broadway
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- Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge – This lavender-hued lounge, known far and wide, has welcomed countless country music icons through its doors. While the whole of Broadway is a haven for live music, Tootsie’s stands out as a historical gem.
- Honky Tonk Central – Spread across three levels, each with its unique energy and live band, this venue is Broadway distilled into a bar.
- The Stage – Beyond its captivating ambiance, The Stage is a spotlight for Nashville’s rising stars in the country music scene.
- Robert’s Western World – Often termed the quintessential Nashville experience, Robert’s combines classic country tunes with some of the most reasonable beer prices on the strip. For those seeking authenticity without the hefty price tag, it’s a must-visit.
- ACME Feed & Seed – A multi-story treasure, ACME offers a diverse musical experience. The first floor often reverberates with the sounds of classic honky-tonk, while the upper levels provide other genres, from rock to electronica. Like Robert’s, ACME is also known for its reasonably priced drinks, especially its beer.
Things to Do on Lower Broadway
While the beats and bars are enthralling, there’s more to Broadway:
- Explore the story of the Man in Black at the Johnny Cash Museum.
- For those passionate about the strings, the Songbirds Guitar Museum showcases vintage guitars, each with its own tale.
- Take a break at the Riverfront Park with views of the Cumberland River.
- Catch The Nashville Predators for a hockey game live performances such as concerts at the nearby Bridgestone Arena.
- Dive into the sporting spirit by attending a Tennessee Titans’ NFL game at the Nissan Stadium, where you can also catch a concert. Taylor Swift recently played to a sold out crowd until 3 in the morning.
- Take a short walk over to Printers Alley and take in Nashville’s best kept secret
Dressing the Part
Contrary to popular belief, most locals don’t regularly don cowboy hats and boots. While they’re not a requirement, if you’re eager to embrace the Nashville spirit fully, go ahead and flaunt them! And if you’re in the mood for shopping, Broadway boasts several stores where you can snag a quality pair of cowboy boots or a stylish hat.
Shopping and More at 5th and Broadway
The new kid on the block, 5th and Broadway, is a shopper’s haven. From local boutiques to global brands, this district is a refreshing urban shopping experience amidst the historic vibes of Lower Broadway.
Accommodation Tips
- Stay in the Action: Hotels like the Renaissance Nashville Hotel and Noelle, Nashville are in the heart of the excitement. The convenience is unparalleled, but so might be the price.
- Find Value a Bit Further Out: Opting for accommodations slightly removed from the Broadway stretch, whether a boutique hotel in The Gulch or an Airbnb in Germantown, can provide significant savings. The serenity and the savings might be worth the short Lyft or Uber ride to downtown.
Transportation Tidbits
Parking on or near Broadway can be a challenge. If you’re staying a tad away from the hubbub, consider relying on Lyft or Uber. They offer a convenient mode of transport and ensure you get back safely after soaking in the nightlife.
Final Notes
Nashville’s Lower Broadway is more than a destination—it’s an experience. With its eclectic mix of history, music, shopping, and Southern hospitality, it’s a place where memories are just waiting to be made. Whether you’re a country music aficionado or just here for the vibes, Broadway has a tune for every traveler. Also, keep in mind that last call eventually comes for us all.