Guide to Live Music

Lining both sides of downtown’s famous Broadway Avenue, these iconic bars keep the music flowing from sunup to sundown, no cover charge required.

Live music starts at 10am and doesn’t stop until 3am, creating an electric atmosphere where every stop brings you to another incredible band or artist. Feel free to bar-hop and soak in the sounds, but don’t forget to show appreciation by tipping the musicians—they’re the backbone of this legendary scene.

As you venture further down Broadway, you’ll discover some of Nashville’s most unique venues, where live music fuels the energy and great drink specials keep the party going. Whether you're looking for a classic honky tonk vibe or a more eclectic music scene, this stretch of Broadway delivers some of the best tunes in town.

Tucked between Broadway and 2nd Avenue, Printer’s Alley is a historic nightlife district where music of all genres—blues, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, and country—fills the air. Once a hub for publishing houses and speakeasies, it has transformed into a lively hotspot packed with bars, dance floors, and late-night energy.

Just behind the buzz of Broadway, SoBro (South of Broadway) offers a more laid-back yet equally exciting music scene. Here, you’ll find a mix of venues from an intimate listening room to a lively taproom featuring bands every weekend.

Some of Nashville's oldest and most iconic venues can be found in The Gulch. From the famous Station Inn that hosts a free Bluegrass Jam every Sunday night to a clothing store with a guitar room and stage and eclectic restaurants hosting live music every night, the Gulch is a full music experience with the added extras Nashville has come to love like fashion, food, and great atmosphere.

Extending up Broadway, Midtown is a bustling neighborhood packed with free live music, lively bars, and a high-energy atmosphere. From stages featuring incredible local artists to casual spots perfect for cheering on your favorite team, Midtown keeps the music playing and the good times going.

Demonbreun Street, just south of downtown, is a bustling strip packed with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors, offering a mix of free live music, great drink specials, and a fun, laid-back vibe.