After a long day of exploring Nashville, you deserve to take a break and relax. Luckily, Nashville has many bars to suit any budget and whatever experience you’re looking for. We list our favorite bars in Downtown Nashville for a drink in this lively Tennessee city.
Located across from the Ryman Auditorium, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge has a a long history; the lounge has been around since before 1960, but was renamed Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in 1960. Famous customers include Willie Nelson, Hank Cochran, and many more. In addition to its famous patrons, many songs and movies have been recorded here. They also host live music performances, and anyone can audition through their online website.
The modern and retro interior of Ms. Kelli’s Karaoke Bar, contributes to the lively and social atmosphere, and this bar is one of the best in Nashville with its extensive list of songs. Don’t feel like singing? The dance floor is all yours…Be sure to try their beers on tap and great pub food, plus, be on the lookout for some of the famous musicians who are known to walk through their doors.
Located across three floors, Honky Tonk Central is one of the biggest live music venues. The large size contributes to an active and social atmosphere, and live country music plays during all hours of the day. The venue also serves food and drinks, and is usually pretty packed. Come here for a night of socializing and dancing.
Robert’s Western World is located in the heart of historic downtown Nashville, near the Ryman Auditorium. Their building used to be the home of the Sho-Bud Steel Guitar Company where many famous musicians hung out, and in the 1990s the building became what it is today. Today people can enjoy some cold beer and pub eats like bologna sandwiches while live country music plays around them.
Located next to the Capitol Grille restaurant is the Oak Bar, which has won many “best bar in Nashville” awards. The bar has been meticulously restored, and the atmosphere is private and elegant, with an extensive wine and cocktail list.Be sure to check out their award-winning restaurant next door for a special night out; both offer fine dining in with great décor.
Bailey’s Sports Grille is a safe haven for sports aficionados, offering a social atmosphere with great food and drinks. In addition to coverage of sports games, they also offer multiple billiard tables. Come here for a casual night out with friends and to meet new people, and be sure to try their seasonal drink specials.
Riverfront Tavern has beer taps hanging from the ceiling, which adds to the quirky atmosphere. In addition to their coverage of sports games, they also offer traditional pub food and a wide variety of beers on tap, plus they have pool table and dartboards for those looking to play. Many locals frequent this bar, and it is the perfect place for a casual night out.
The Tin Roof is the place to come to listen to local live musicians while enjoying their great food and drinks; be sure to checkout their daily specials for great deals. They also host special summer concerts in their parking lot, so check out their schedule before you go.
Located about two miles outside of downtown Nashville, No 308 is worth the short drive. Featured in the New York Times, Southern Living, and numerous other publications, No 308 has certainly made a name for itself. Come here for great cocktails and a very casual setting. The bar includes an indoor area with a retro-modern setting and an outdoor patio, and is a great destination for meeting new people because of their open atmosphere and setting. Another plus to this bar is that it is open late every night of the week.
Just one block away from the Ryman Auditorium, Rippy’s Bar and Grill is spread out over three separate areas. Their main dining area hosts live music, the east side has flat screens that show sports games, and their rooftop patio has great views.
