Honky Tonk Highway

Your Guide to Nashville's Honky Tonk Highway

Find yourself mesmerized by the live music and neon lights of Broadway on Honky Tonk Highway – Nashville’s famous street. World-class live music plays 365 days a year on the city’s main drag.

What is Honky Tonk Highway?

Nashville's Honky Tonk Highway, located on Lower Broadway, is a row of honky tonks pumping live music into the streets from 10am to 3am. One of the best parts: it doesn't cost a thing. Meaning no cover charge. Meaning save your money for more important things like the tip jar! Because in Music City we understand music should be shared to all.

The Bars on Honky Tonk Highway

Band playing at Robert's Western World Honky Tonk

Stories Worth Tuning Into

A Weekend in Nashville

Discover the rhythm of Nashville and create lasting memories during your weekend escape. Immerse yourself in the iconic music scene, savor its authentic cuisine, and embrace the cityscape that surrounds it. Delve into the rich history and find hidden gems around every corner.

Speakeasies in Nashville

Want to know a secret? Nashville loves speakeasies and hidden bars. Luckily, we’ve got all the details to help you discover the perfect spot that fits your style that you didn't know existed.

Guide to Live Music

Nashville is known for its music scene, and the best part is that most music can be enjoyed for free. That’s right! Many Nashville venues offer free live music 365 days a year. There is no cover charge, just authentic and entertaining live music to enjoy. Even when the music is free, remember that tips to the band are always appreciated.

The Music Lover

Nashville, the city built on music, not only has a deep music history, it is also where music is created and, of course, performed every day. Every kind of music, from country and Americana to pop and rock, classical and blues can be heard around town. From concert halls to hole-in-the walls, experience what makes Nashville a music destination like no other in the world.

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Where the Legends Play

You never know who you’ll see in these Lower Broadway bars. Willie Nelson, Blake Shelton, Gretchen Wilson, Dierks Bentley and other stars began their careers on this amazing street. MEANING the person you see singing on the stage in Music City might be the next big thing.

Know Before You Go

Tips and Tricks for Honky Tonk Highway

Venture Off the Beaten Path

While the Honky Tonks on Lower Broadway might be the most visited, they are not the only ones in Music City. Check out Luke Combs' Category 10 around the corner on 2nd Avenue North, or Lainey Wilson's Bell Bottoms Up and Show Pony down Third Avenue South. Printers Alley is a local spot within walking distance of Broadway with fun speakeasies and karaoke. Or mix up your night by crafting your own cocktails at Liquor Lab before the Honky Tonk begins.

Pace is Key

The bars stay open until 3am. Remember: it's a marathon, not a race.

Multiple Levels

Many of the Honky Tonks have multiple bars and levels. If the first level or bar is busy, try the next one.

Get Out of the Crowd

Want to get out of the crowd for a minute? Check out Printers Alley between 3rd and 4th Avenue North and Church Street. Some of the popular bars in this area include Blueprint Underground Cocktail Club and Skull's Rainbow Room.

Try the Back Entrance

Did you know? Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Robert's Western World, The Stage on Broadway, and Legends Corner all have a second entrance? If the front is packed, head around back to the alley entrance.

The Crosswalks

The crosswalks on Lower Broadway do the Barnes Dance. Vehicular traffic stops so pedestrians can cross the intersection in any direction, including diagonally. Here’s how that works.

During the Day

If you head to Lower Broadway during the day, the Honky Tonks are not as packed and the music is just as good. That way, you get the full experience without the full crowd.

Tips are Loved

The bands on Lower Broadway play for tips. And the majority of places do not charge a cover. Please remember to bring cash so you can tip the band if you like the tunes.

Group Tip

Group tip - Have each person in the group buy a round throughout the evening. That saves the hassle of everyone going up to the bar at once. By the end of the night, everyone should be paid back.

Cowboy Boots

Did you purchase your boots in Nashville? Make sure to take it easy as you break them in!

Closed-Toe Shoes are Best

Wear closed-toe shoes to the bars. You don’t want people stepping all over your poor little toes all night long.