The 10 Best Blues Bars In Nashville

Tennessee‘s pride has been officially coined the United States‘ “Music City,” making it rather unsurprising that Nashville would be home to some of the country’s finest blues bars. Here are our 10 favorite spots in the city.

1. Tootsies Orchid Lounge

Bar, American

Part blues dive bar, part honky-tonk, the Tootsies Orchid Lounge is the watering hole for an eclectic blend of live music. There’s usually two bands that play on separate levels, and big crowds are there for both. They’ve also got a storied food & drink menu; the drinks are a bit pricier, but the music makes it worth every penny. Tootsies Orchid Lounge | © Thomas Hawk/Flickr

12th & Porter

This is locally known as one of the best venue bars because of its small setting. 12th & Porter has been in business since the 1980s, hosting a variety of bands, from Kings of Leon to Run-DMC. This is an affordable spot that offers some of the greatest acoustic settings in the city.

Price: Mid-range
Hours: 5:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Can’t miss: The venue’s schedule
Address: 12th Porter, 114 12th Ave N, Nashville, TN, USA, +1 615-320-3754

2. Wildhorse Saloon

Bar, American

The Wildhorse Saloon is a watering hole that serves Southern food (mostly barbecue), and offers free line dancing. It’s a three-level structure that hosts multiple bars and live acts. The Saloon’s drinks are on the pricier side, but there are good happy hour deals available. The bar draws a large number of tourist, but the music makes it worth the visit.