Nashville | Broadway St.
Honky Tonk Highway
Lat. 36.174465 | Long. -86.767960
Location: Broadway runs east to west, intersecting downtown Nashville. The most famous section, "Lower Broadway," spans a few blocks from 1st Avenue near the Cumberland River to about 5th Avenue.
Honky-Tonk Highway: Lower Broadway is lined with honky-tonk bars and live music venues that feature performances throughout the day and night. These establishments typically have no cover charge and showcase local talent alongside rising and established stars.
Landmarks:
Ryman Auditorium: Known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," this historic venue is just off Broadway and has hosted countless legendary performances.
Bridgestone Arena: Located at the corner of Broadway and 5th Avenue, it’s a major venue for concerts, sporting events, and conventions.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: A short walk from Broadway, it celebrates Nashville’s rich musical heritage.
Johnny Cash Museum: Located on 3rd Avenue, it honors the life and legacy of the "Man in Black."
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Broadway Street in Nashville, Tennessee, is one of the most iconic and vibrant areas in the city, celebrated for its rich history, lively music scene, and cultural significance. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Early History
19th Century: Broadway Street began as one of the main thoroughfares in Nashville, connecting the city’s commercial and transportation hubs. It became a focal point for trade and commerce due to its proximity to the Cumberland River.
Union Occupation: During the Civil War, Nashville was occupied by Union forces, and Broadway was part of the bustling city under their control. Its strategic location contributed to its importance during the war.
Development as a Cultural Hub
Early 20th Century: Broadway evolved into a center of entertainment and commerce. Several theaters, shops, and restaurants opened along the street, making it a gathering place for locals and visitors.
1925: The Grand Ole Opry began broadcasting from the Ryman Auditorium, located just off Broadway. The Opry cemented Nashville’s reputation as the home of country music, and the area around Broadway became known as a hub for performers and fans.
Honky-Tonk Era
Mid-20th Century: Broadway became famous for its "honky-tonk" bars, where live country music was performed daily. These venues offered a platform for aspiring musicians to showcase their talents.
Iconic bars and music venues, such as Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge (opened in 1960), became landmarks. Tootsie’s is particularly renowned for its association with country music legends like Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, and Kris Kristofferson.
Urban Decline and Revival
1970s–1980s: Like many urban areas, Broadway experienced a period of decline, with businesses closing and the area losing some of its luster.
1990s–2000s: Efforts to revitalize downtown Nashville included restoring historic buildings and promoting Broadway as a tourist destination. The opening of Bridgestone Arena in 1996 brought new energy to the area.
Modern Broadway
Today: Broadway, often called "Lower Broadway," is a lively entertainment district known for its neon lights, live music, and bustling nightlife. It attracts millions of visitors each year, offering a mix of honky-tonk bars, restaurants, shops, and music venues.
Landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame are within walking distance, further solidifying its place in Nashville’s cultural landscape.
Events such as the annual CMA Fest bring thousands of music fans to the street, celebrating Nashville’s enduring legacy as "Music City."
Broadway Street has transitioned from a commercial hub to an entertainment hotspot, embodying Nashville’s evolution as a center of creativity and music.
MUSIC CITY
Film by VisitMusicCity.com
WALK OF FAME PARK
This public park is situated on the lawn of the Hilton Nashville Downtown, directly opposite the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It features the Music City Walk of Fame, showcasing granite stars embedded in the ground to honor legendary music industry figures. The Gateway Commons parking garage is conveniently located beneath the park.
You simply can’t say you’ve been to Downtown Nashville if you didn’t visit Tootsies! With all the incredible local talent we have providing live music for your entertainment, the fun never stops! Plus, you never know who you’ll run into at Tootsies World Famous Orchid Lounge.
Music Museums & Guide
Discover priceless treasures, including countless recordings, photographs, stage costumes, musical instruments, and more, at Nashville's music museums. Step back in time to explore the lives of musicians from various genres who have played a pivotal role in shaping Nashville into the iconic Music City.
The Bankers Alley Hotel
This one-of-a-kind, art-filled hotel in downtown Nashville is just steps from the honky-tonks and live music of Broadway. Guests can enjoy drinks and dining at Gray & Dudley, a fitness center, on-site art galleries, and 11,000 square feet of flexible event space. Nestled in Bankers Alley, the hotel is within a mile of top attractions like Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena, and the Ryman Auditorium.
Street Level…
A haven for whiskey enthusiasts and music lovers, their bar captures the vibrant essence of Nashville. Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance as live music creates the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable evening. With an extensive whiskey selection, we highlight the best of Tennessee and beyond, offering local favorites alongside rare and exclusive labels. Take a seat at their rustic yet welcoming bar, where skilled bartenders craft expertly mixed cocktails, serve your favorite whiskey neat, or pour some of the coldest beer on Broadway.
Searching for a hotel in Nashville? Overlooking the vibrant downtown scene, Placemakr Premier SoBro offers a unique experience with its contemporary studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments. More than just a place to stay, it’s a welcoming home away from home for the duration of your visit.
Get ready for the country-lovin' fun you’ve been craving!
With delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music that’ll have you dancing all night, Ole Red is the ultimate spot for a Shelton-style good time. The hottest artists are performing right in your area, and you never know who might make a surprise appearance.
Come on down—you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
Situated directly across from Bridgestone Arena and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Rippy’s Honky Tonk is a must-visit destination in the South for barbecue and live music. Known as the go-to “pre-party” spot for concerts and downtown events, it offers an energetic and welcoming atmosphere.
With two levels, three stages, and private dining spaces, Rippy’s is perfect for hosting large groups or catering your next event.
Step into their historic hideaway on Broadway in Nashville, where the spirit of the Prohibition era and the tales of bootleggers come alive. Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance as live music sets the stage for an unforgettable night. At Bootleggers Inn, a dedicated moonshine bar, you’ll discover an impressive selection of moonshines, bourbons, and whiskeys, all celebrating Tennessee’s rich distilling heritage.
AJ’s
Since its debut in 2011, Honky Tonk Central has redefined the Nashville honky-tonk experience, becoming a cornerstone of the city's vibrant music scene. This dynamic venue combines traditional charm with a modern twist, featuring multiple stages that come alive with the sounds of live bands. From heartfelt classic country to upbeat contemporary hits, there’s something to keep everyone dancing. Strategically placed TVs ensure you can catch the big game without missing a beat of the high-energy atmosphere. It’s the ultimate destination for a night of great music, good vibes, and unforgettable memories.
