Nashville isn’t called Music City for nothing – this town lives and breathes music 24/7. From sunrise to well past midnight, there’s always a guitar being strummed, a song being sung, and a crowd ready to listen somewhere in this city. Here’s a look at some of the best places to experience the sounds that make Nashville come alive!
The Grand Ole Opry
As country music’s most sacred stage, the Grand Ole Opry has been delivering live performances that define Nashville’s sound for decades. Since moving to the Opry House in 1974 (after three decades at the Ryman), this legendary venue has upheld its “no bad seats” promise—every spot, from the floor to the balcony, offers a front-row experience to unforgettable live music. The biggest names in country don’t just headline here; they often surprise the crowd with unannounced appearances, turning every show into a unique live moment. Pro tip: book a backstage tour before the performance to get insider stories and a behind-the-scenes glimpse that will have your friends wishing they were there.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
While the Opry showcases the legacy of country music, the heart of the scene plays out daily on Broadway—and Tootsie’s is right at the center of it. This iconic lounge has been the heartbeat of the strip for decades, offering live music nonstop from 11 am to 2 pm. With three floors and three stages, the soundscape shifts but never stops—from rowdy country jams and classic hits on the main floor to intimate sets and surprise performances upstairs and on the open-air rooftop. It’s a launching pad for both established artists and emerging talent, many of whom hone their craft through weekly Honky Tonk School auditions right on site. At Tootsie’s, every note, every song, and every space pulses with the heart of Nashville’s live music scene.
Ole Red
Just down the block, Ole Red takes that same high-energy vibe and layers in a more modern, curated feel. This isn’t just another bar with background noise—it’s a concert-quality space disguised as a honky-tonk, where tomorrow’s stars earn their stripes and today’s names pop in for unannounced sets. The intimate layout puts you just feet from the performers, turning every night into a close-up experience that feels personal and unforgettable.
The Bluebird Café
Beyond Broadway’s buzz, there’s a quieter kind of magic tucked inside a modest strip mall. The Bluebird Café may look unassuming, but inside, it’s all about the song. This 90-seat room has launched more careers than most people realize. For over 40 years, songwriters have gathered here to share their stories in the famous “in-the-round” format, where you’re not just hearing songs—you’re witnessing the creative process unfold. Taylor Swift, Kacey Musgraves, and Garth Brooks are just a few of the legends who’ve graced this intimate stage, focusing on what matters most: the story and the connection between artist and audience.
JBJ’s Nashville
If you’re craving that blend of rock anthems and country storytelling, JBJ’s brings it to life—Bon Jovi style. This five-story venue is packed with nonstop live music and pure entertainment. The main stage on the first floor commands attention from multiple vantage points, while rooftop patios offer a stunning backdrop for more laid-back performances. Bands bring power, strength, and showmanship to every level, delivering sets that feel polished but never stiff. Pair that with a Southern-inspired menu and lively crowd, and you’ve got a night to remember.
Chief’s
Down the street, Eric Church’s six-story venue takes that same immersive approach and filters it through a love letter to Nashville. Chief’s is all about live country music—no gimmicks, just real talent showcased every night. The Neon Steeple stage, made of reclaimed wood and framed by stained glass, sets the tone for memorable performances from emerging artists and special guests alike. With James Beard Award-winning BBQ from Rodney Scott and a layout built for both intimacy and spectacle, Chief’s hits all the right notes.
Friends In Low Places
Friends in Low Places brings the feeling of hanging out at a friend’s place—if that friend were Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood—with live music driving the experience. This four-story venue is all about the sound, featuring two main stages (including one of Broadway’s biggest) that host nonstop performances from up-and-coming acts to seasoned pros. On the lower levels, honky-tonk classics mix with high-quality acoustics and lighting, creating an authentic yet elevated show experience. Head to the Oasis Rooftop for more live sets in a breezy, tropical setting overlooking Broadway. No matter where you land, the music takes center stage.
The Listening Room Café
For those looking to reconnect with the roots of a song, The Listening Room Café delivers an intimate, acoustic-driven experience that’s all about the craft. Located in the SoBro neighborhood, this songwriter-focused venue brings lyrics and melodies to the forefront. Thanks to founder Chris Blair’s background in songwriting, the lineup is always strong—and the sound quality ensures that every vocal inflection and guitar string rings out with intention.
Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar
Shift gears and head into Printer’s Alley, where Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar brings the spirit of New Orleans to Nashville with nightly live music in a cozy, high-energy setting. For over 25 years, this neon-lit venue has hosted legends like James Brown and B.B. King and continues to spotlight blues, soul, R&B, and Americana acts seven days a week. With its Mardi Gras flair and authentic Cajun eats, it’s a true celebration of live music—raw, rhythmic, and rooted in tradition.
Legends Corner
To close out your musical journey, Legends Corner ties it all together with a tribute to Nashville’s past and present. From walls lined with memorabilia—like Johnny Cash’s 12-string and original Elvis Sun Records—to daily performances starting at 11 AM, this is where history and live music collide. Voted the number one country bar in town, it’s not just a stop on Broadway—it’s a living tribute to Music City itself.
End the Night on a High Note
After exploring Nashville’s standout music spots, there’s nothing like coming home to a place that helps you unwind and soak it all in. That’s where GoodNight Stay comes in—we offer thoughtfully designed spaces that let you relax, recharge, and get ready for whatever’s next. And with our Summer Sale running through August 31st, you can get 10% OFF on select homes using code HELLOTNSUMMER at checkout. Because the soundtrack of your trip deserves a stay that hits all the right notes!
