country artists bars in nashville

Nashville’s Country Artist Bars: A Guide to Honky-Tonk Highway & Beyond

Nashville is synonymous with country music, and its vibrant bar scene is a testament to that. Many country artists have established bars in the city, offering fans a unique experience beyond just listening to their music. These bars often feature live performances, memorabilia, and themed drinks, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors.

Honky-Tonk Highway: The Heart of the Action

Broadway, affectionately known as Honky-Tonk Highway, is the epicenter of Nashville’s country music bar scene. This stretch is packed with bars featuring live music from morning till night, and many of them are owned or associated with famous country artists. The atmosphere is electric, with music spilling out onto the street and people dancing everywhere.

While Honky-Tonk Highway is famous, it’s not the only place to find country artist bars. Other areas of Nashville, like The Gulch and Midtown, also boast establishments with a country music focus.

Popular Country Artist Bars in Nashville

Here are a few notable country artist bars you might encounter in Nashville:

• Blake Shelton’s Ole Red: This bar offers a lively atmosphere, Southern-inspired food, and plenty of live music, often featuring up-and-coming artists.
• Luke Bryan’s 32 Bridge Food + Drink: A multi-level bar with different themes on each floor, offering everything from a rooftop patio to a sushi bar alongside country music acts.
• Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk Rock N’ Roll Steakhouse: This venue combines classic honky-tonk vibes with a rock ‘n’ roll edge, serving up steaks and live music.
• Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row: Another popular spot on Broadway, featuring a wide selection of whiskey and live country music acts throughout the day and night.
• Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar: A large venue with multiple bars, a rooftop patio, and live music stages, offering a vibrant atmosphere and good food.

Before visiting, it’s always a good idea to check the bar’s schedule online, since artist appearances are rare but special events happen frequently. Honky-tonks are central to Nashville’s identity.

Beyond the Music: What to Expect

Country artist bars offer more than just music. Many serve food, often with a Southern or American cuisine focus. You can also find themed drinks, merchandise related to the artist, and a generally celebratory atmosphere. It’s a great place to soak in the Nashville culture and enjoy the energy of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there cover charges at country artist bars in Nashville?

Most bars on Honky Tonk Highway do not have cover charges. However, some may have a cover charge for special events or later in the evening.

Do country artists actually perform at their bars?

While it’s rare, country artists do occasionally make surprise appearances at their bars. However, the primary focus is on showcasing local and up-and-coming talent.

What is the dress code for country artist bars in Nashville?

The dress code is generally casual. You’ll see people in everything from jeans and t-shirts to cowboy boots and dresses.

Are country artist bars family-friendly?

During the day, many bars are family-friendly. However, after a certain hour (usually around 9 or 10 PM), they become 21+ only.

Is it easy to get around to different bars on Broadway?

Broadway is easily walkable. However, parking can be difficult and expensive. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation.

In Summary

Nashville’s country artist bars provide a unique and exciting experience for fans of country music. From the lively atmosphere of Honky-Tonk Highway to the themed drinks and memorabilia, these bars offer a taste of the Nashville culture. Be sure to check out some of these iconic establishments during your visit to Music City.