Nashville Music Scene Guide: Where to Hear Live Music
Nashville, Tennessee, is a city that loves music. From the honky tonks of Lower Broadway to the intimate listening rooms of Music Row, there's live music happening all over town, every night of the week.
If you're planning a trip to Nashville, be sure to check out some of the city's many music venues. Here's a guide to some of the best places to hear live music in Nashville:
Honky Tonks on Lower Broadway
Lower Broadway is the epicenter of Nashville's music scene. It's home to dozens of honky tonks, which are bars that feature live country music. Honky tonks are typically free to enter, and they often have drink specials.
Some of the most popular honky tonks on Lower Broadway include:
Listening Rooms on Music Row
Music Row is the heart of Nashville's music industry. It's home to recording studios, publishing houses, and artist management companies. Music Row is also home to many listening rooms, which are small, intimate venues where songwriters and musicians perform their songs.
Some of the most popular listening rooms on Music Row include:
Concert Venues
Nashville has many concert venues that host major touring acts. These venues range in size from small clubs to large arenas.
Some of the most popular concert venues in Nashville include:
Other Music Venues
In addition to honky tonks, listening rooms, and concert venues, Nashville has many other places to hear live music. These include:
Restaurants: Many restaurants in Nashville feature live music, both inside and outside.
Bars: Many bars in Nashville have live music, especially on weekends.
Hotels: Some hotels in Nashville have live music in their lobbies or bars.
Parks: During the summer months, there are many free outdoor concerts held in Nashville parks.
Nashville Music Scene Tips
Here are a few tips for enjoying the Nashville music scene:
Be prepared for crowds. Nashville is a popular tourist destination, and the music venues can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Purchase tickets in advance, especially if you're planning to see a popular show.
Dress comfortably. You'll be doing a lot of standing and dancing, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
Bring cash. Many of the honky tonks and listening rooms on Music Row are cash only.
Be respectful of the musicians. Don't talk over them or make requests during their sets.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Nashville for Music
Nashville is a great place to visit for music at any time of year. However, if you're looking to catch some of the biggest names in music, you may want to visit during the spring or fall, when many major tours come to town.
Nashville Music Scene for Families
Nashville is a great place to visit with kids, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city's music scene with your family. Here are a few tips:
Choose family-friendly venues. Many of Nashville's music venues are family-friendly, but it's always a good idea to check ahead of time. Some family-friendly venues include:
The Bluebird Cafe
The Listening Room Cafe
The Station Inn
3rd & Lindsley
Musicians Corner
The Ryman Auditorium (for matinee shows)
Go to a matinee show. Matinee shows are typically shorter and less crowded than evening shows, which can be a good option for families with young children.
Take breaks. If your kids start to get restless, take a break from the music venue and walk around outside or grab a bite to eat.
Let your kids have fun. Music is all about having fun, so let your kids dance, sing, and enjoy themselves.
Here are a few specific family-friendly music events in Nashville:
Musician's Corner: TroubadourCorner is a free outdoor concert series held in Centennial Park on Saturday afternoons from May to October. The concerts feature a variety of music genres, and there are also activities for kids, such as face painting and balloon animals.
Live on the Green: Live on the Green is another free outdoor concert series held in Public Square Park on Thursday evenings from May to September. The concerts feature a variety of music genres, and there are also food trucks and vendors on-site.
Grand Ole Opry Family Night: The Grand Ole Opry hosts a special family night show on the first Tuesday of every month. The show features family-friendly music and comedy, and there are also special activities for kids before the show.
In addition to these specific events, many of Nashville's music venues offer family-friendly programming throughout the year. Be sure to check the websites of your favorite venues for more information.
Making Music Fun for Kids
Here are a few tips for making music fun for kids at a music venue:
Let them choose the music. If possible, let your kids choose the music they want to hear. This will make them more likely to enjoy the experience.
Get them involved. If the venue allows it, let your kids get involved in the music. For example, they could dance on stage with the band or play a tambourine.
Take breaks. If your kids start to get restless, take a break from the music venue and walk around outside or grab a bite to eat.
Make it a special occasion. Dress up your kids and make a night of it. This will help them feel special and excited.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your family has a fun and memorable time at a Nashville music venue.
Nashville is a city that loves music, and there's something for everyone in Nashville's music scene. Whether you're a fan of country, rock, blues, jazz, or anything in between, you'll find it in Nashville.
If you're planning a trip to Nashville, be sure to check out some of the city's many music venues. You won't be disappointed!
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Book your stay today and experience the best of Nashville's music scene!
