The 10 Best Honky Tonks in Nashville in 2023

No trip to Music City would be complete without heading to Broadway Street and taking in the spectacle of the Honky Tonks in Nashville. This main drag is lined with these lively bars and music venues, hosting live bands and singer/songwriters from 10 am to 3 am daily, many offering rooftop access as well. As you stroll the street, cheerful bouncers will you to come in and enjoy the show. It truly feels like one big party from morning, noon, and night—and into the wee hours.

One of the first Honky Tonks in Nashville were established in the 1960s by local icon Tootsie Bess. She purchased a bar next to the legendary Ryman Auditorium and opened Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge—the historic lavender building is still bustling with country music and line dancing today on Lower Broadway. Now there are more than 30 Honky Tocks in Nashville on this strip, pumping out music, welcoming crowds, and slinging drinks.

If you’re heading to Music City to explore the Honky Tonk Highway, it’s even more important that your lodging be quiet and comfortable. That’s where our bed and breakfast in Nashville, TN, comes in. The Belle Air Mansion is a spacious, historic home, impeccably remodeled into a boutique hotel with bed and breakfast amenities. You’ll have all the benefits of a private suite with the extra perks of a hosted stay and 24/7 concierge services. Check out our upcoming summer availability and book your room today!

Experience the Honky Tonks in Nashville this Year

Odds are, if Nashville is on your list of places to visit, you’re a music fan! From classic cowboy boots and rocking tunes to celebrity sightings and up-and-coming stars, you never know what might happen on an adventure out in Music City. The Honky Tonks in Nashville are a great place to start, you’ll quickly get a feeling for the atmosphere and into the party mood.

Here are ten Honky Tonks in Nashville not to miss:

Tootsies Orchid Lounge: Known as one of the first, Tootsies is iconic and the perfect place to immerse yourself in the music culture of Nashville. Many a famed musician has graced the stage at this most historic of the Honky Tonks in Nashville, including Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, and Patsy Cline.
Nudie’s Honky-Tonk: The party hasn’t stopped at this multi-level bar and lounge since they opened their doors in 1947. Head up to the rooftop for stunning views.
The Stage on Broadway: Known for its celebrity sightings, top country music stars Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, and more have all been spotted here over the years. Music tends to stay in the country genre, and the drinks are always flowing.
Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa: You’re bound to see a group of ladies out on a bachelorette party at this Tex-Mex-style Honky Tonk in Nashville. There are four floors to explore, with great food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Honky-Tonk Central: Three floors, three-band, and tons of fun! The extensive food menu has hearty burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. The roof offers incredible views of Lower Broadway.
Ole Red: Owned by famed country music star Blake Shelton, this is one of the best Honky Tonks in Nashville for a modern, authentic experience. The food menu leans toward Southern favorites with stick-to-your-ribs fare, and The Lookout rooftop bar is one not to miss.
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen and Rooftop Bar: Spanning four levels, another country music star offers a giant space to enjoy music, eats, and drinks on Lower Broadway.
Famous Nashville: Known for having one of the tallest rooftops in Nashville, this is one of the best Honky Tonks in Nashville to take in the beautiful cityscape views. And hear some rocking tunes while you’re at it!
AJ’s Good Time Bar: The motto here is “keepin’ it country,” and music superstar Alan Jackson’s spot was voted the number one Honky Tonk by Billboard Magazine.
Legend’s Corner: As one of the most classic Honky Tonks in Nashville, this iconic bar still serves up ice-cold drinks, live music, and a festive crowd each night on Broadway Street.

Book Your Stay at our Bed and Breakfast in Nashville TN

Beyond exploring the iconic Honky Tonks in Nashville and the incredible city beyond our doors, a visit to our Bed and Breakfast in Nashville, TN, allows you to experience the distinct charm and character of the antebellum South. This beautifully restored plantation home sits on a rare six-acre parcel near downtown and is the only historic bed and breakfast in Nashville. The space is designed with artistry and classic architectural features, and it retains many features of its original glory, including ornate fireplaces, impressive chandeliers, and the original heart pine floors.

There are ten luxurious guest rooms throughout the mansion, some on the main floor, others upstairs, with an additional five guest rooms in our Retreat House just off the back of the estate. Our expansive guest suites in the main house are thoughtfully decorated with various period furnishings. Inside, you’ll find our guest rooms come with multiple amenities. A few of our guest rooms have finer touches that are perfect for romantic getaways, like a jetted tub in our Bronze Tranquility room, a clawfoot tub in our Golden Suite, and a large soaking tub in our Turquoise Room. But all of our en suite bathrooms are well-equipped for relaxation!

Be sure to join us each morning for a hearty and traditional Southern breakfast. Always included for every guest with their lodging rate. You’ll love starting your day with our delicious coffee, authentic dishes, and welcoming hospitality. Our space is also ideal for hosting weddings, elopements, and company retreats. Reserve your room today!