Nashville Honky-Tonks Guide
Broadway's legendary honky-tonks offer free live music all day, every day. Here's your complete guide.
Free Live Music
All Broadway honky-tonks are free to enter with live music starting around 11am daily. Tips for the bands are appreciated—they're working musicians earning a living.
The Honky-Tonks
Tootsies Orchid Lounge
Est. 1960422 Broadway
The most famous honky-tonk in the world. Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and countless legends got their start here. Three floors of live music.
Known for: Historic legacy, rooftop bar, being the first stop for songwriters
Hours: 10am - 3am daily
Tip: The back door opens directly to the Ryman Auditorium's backstage—that's how performers would sneak over between shows.
Roberts Western World
Est. 1999416 Broadway
Many locals' favorite honky-tonk. Known for traditional country music, boot sales, and the famous Recession Special ($6 fried bologna sandwich, PBR, and Moon Pie).
Known for: Brazilbilly house band, traditional country, authentic vibe
Hours: 11am - 3am daily
Tip: The house band Brazilbilly plays traditional country—it's the most authentic sound on Broadway.
The Stage on Broadway
Est. 1990s412 Broadway
Multi-level honky-tonk with three stages of live music. Popular with tourists and bachelor/bachelorette parties.
Known for: Multiple floors, party atmosphere, rooftop
Hours: 10am - 3am daily
Tip: Each floor has different music—explore them all.
Legends Corner
Est. 1991428 Broadway
Named for the music legends on the walls. Great corner location with windows that open to Broadway.
Known for: Corner location, people watching, memorabilia
Hours: 10am - 3am daily
Tip: Grab a window seat for prime people-watching on Broadway.
Layla's Honky Tonk
Est. 1996418 Broadway
Classic honky-tonk vibe with solid live music. Less crowded than some neighbors, which means more room to dance.
Known for: Dance floor, less crowded, good sightlines
Hours: 11am - 3am daily
Tip: One of the better dance floors on Broadway.
Honky Tonk Central
Est. 2012329 Broadway
Three stories of live music and a rooftop bar with skyline views. Newer but embraces honky-tonk tradition.
Known for: Rooftop views, newer venue, three floors
Hours: 11am - 3am daily
Tip: The rooftop has great views of Lower Broadway.
Nudie's Honky Tonk
Est. 2016409 Broadway
Named after Nudie Cohn, the famous rhinestone suit maker. Features his legendary cars and suits on display.
Known for: Nudie suits and cars on display, great BBQ
Hours: 11am - 3am daily
Tip: Check out the vintage Nudie suits and his famous cars—they're museum quality.
AJ's Good Time Bar
Est. 2016421 Broadway
Alan Jackson's honky-tonk. Classic country from the man who wrote "Chattahoochee." Quality live music.
Known for: Alan Jackson memorabilia, traditional country focus
Hours: 11am - 2am daily
Tip: They take traditional country seriously here.
Luke Bryan's 32 Bridge
Est. 2018301 Broadway
Luke Bryan's multi-story entertainment complex. Modern country and party atmosphere.
Known for: Massive venue, modern country, party vibe
Hours: 11am - 3am daily
Tip: The silo bar on the roof is unique.
Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar
Est. 2018307 Broadway
Four floors of entertainment including a rooftop. Rock and country crossover.
Known for: Rooftop bar, full restaurant, modern vibe
Hours: 11am - 3am daily
Tip: The rooftop has one of the best views on Broadway.
Honky-Tonk FAQ
Do Nashville honky-tonks have a cover charge?
No! Nashville honky-tonks on Broadway are free to enter and enjoy live music. Tips for the bands are appreciated and encouraged.
What time do honky-tonks open?
Most Broadway honky-tonks open between 10am and 11am and stay open until 3am. Live music typically starts around 11am and goes all day.
What should I wear?
Anything goes! Cowboy boots and hats are popular but not required. Comfortable shoes are recommended—you'll be standing and walking a lot.
Which honky-tonk is the best?
For authentic traditional country, locals recommend Roberts Western World and Tootsies. For a party atmosphere, try The Stage or Honky Tonk Central. Each has its own character—bar hopping is encouraged!
Tips for Your Visit
- • Start early — Less crowded before 6pm, easier to find seats
- • Tip the bands — $5-20 per venue is customary; these are working musicians
- • Bar hop — Each place has different vibes; try several
- • Wear comfortable shoes — You'll walk a lot on Broadway
- • Stay hydrated — Nashville summers are hot, and the bars are warm
- • Weekdays are calmer — Less crowded than weekend nights
Beyond Broadway
Broadway is just the beginning. Nashville has amazing venues in every neighborhood.