One of Nashville’s biggest tourist attractions is Broadway, the most well-known street spanning the downtown sector from 2nd to 5th Avenue. And with good reason, as there are so many fantastic things to do on Broadway in Nashville! This is where the iconic brightly painted and neon-sign adorned Honky Tonks line the historic strip—pumping out live music until all hours of the night.
Visiting this landmark street is always one of the must-do activities in Music City. Also referred to as Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway, this vibrant stretch is renowned for its lively atmosphere and rich musical heritage. This iconic district is lined with flashy bars offering live music from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m., 365 days a year, without any cover charge. Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic country tunes while being a part of the community of music lovers that defines Nashville’s nightlife.
As you begin to plan your itinerary for your next trip to Tennessee, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our historic mansion is one of the best places to stay in Nashville. Our 16-room retreat offers a lovely array of rooms and suites; no room is the same, so you may even want to stay with us more than once! A beautiful breakfast is included each morning of your stay, and we’re known for having a friendly staff ready to welcome and pamper you. Book your lodging today!
The Best Things to Do on Broadway in Nashville
When planning your trip to Music City, you’ll want to start filling out your itinerary with the best things to do on Broadway in Nashville and the surrounding areas. There are some unique and notable stops that you really shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re a lifelong country fan or a curious traveler, the energy and authenticity of downtown Nashville are memorable!
Here are the best things to do on Broadway in Nashville:
- Tootie’s Orchid Lounge: Established in 1960 by Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess, this legendary honky-tonk bar is located on Lower Broadway in Nashville, Tennessee. Renowned for its vibrant orchid-colored exterior, Tootsie’s has been a nurturing ground for countless country music legends, including Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, and Kris Kristofferson.
- Honky Tonk Central: Head to 4th and Broad to this three-floor music emporium with bars and stages on each level, known as the largest Honky Tonk in the world. Pro tip: if one floor feels too crowded, head up to the next!
- AJ’s Good Time Bar: Founded by country music icon Alan Jackson in 2016, this spot is one of the best things to do on Broadway in Nashville, with four diverse floors offering visitors a different experience on each.
- Tin Roof Broadway: For more than two decades, this lively Honky Tonk has been a popular place for musicians to play on stage and enjoy themselves! The 3rd level rooftop patio is the perfect spot for happy hour.
- Acme Feed and Seed: This vibrant four-story venue blends the city’s rich history with its dynamic present. Housed in the historic Acme Farm Supply Building, established in 1890, it offers a unique Nashville experience with live music, diverse dining options, and panoramic views of the Cumberland River from its rooftop bar.
- Johnny Cash Museum: For those with an affinity for the “Man in Black” and his music, this museum has the most extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia covering his impressive career.
- Ryman Auditorium: Affectionately known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” this historic 2,362-seat live-performance venue is a lovely place to see a show in Nashville.
- Frist Art Museum: Located in Nashville’s historic 1930s post office building, this non-collecting institution presents a rotating schedule of exhibitions from local, regional, national, and international artists. It is one of the best things to do on Broadway in Nashville for art lovers!
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: Nashville has many fantastic dining options, but one must-do is experiencing the popular hot chicken! At Hattie B’s, you can pick your spice level from “Southern,” aka mild, to “Shut the Cluck Up!” which is fiery hot.
- Robert’s Western World: While this is also a lively Honkey Tonk, many visitors head to Robert’s for the merch. Be sure to stop into the store and get fun souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
One of the Best Places to Stay in Nashville
After you’ve explored all the best things to do on Broadway in Nashville, you’ll be ready to relax, and Belle Air Mansion is consistently ranked as one of the best bed and breakfasts in Nashville. It is a meticulously restored Greek Revival antebellum mansion that offers guests a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Constructed in 1832, the mansion has seen many iterations over its long life but has now been thoughtfully preserved and designed to maintain its historical integrity while providing contemporary comforts.
Each guest room is uniquely decorated and features period-appropriate furnishings that exude romance and elegance. Modern amenities such as luxurious bedding, private en-suite bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. Our team of hospitality professionals is always on hand to offer personalized recommendations.
Guests can enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning, served in the formal dining room or on the expansive veranda, offering a delightful start to the day. The mansion’s common areas, including beautifully landscaped gardens and inviting parlors, provide peaceful spaces for relaxation and socializing, enhancing the overall guest experience. Book your lodging today!
