Do not go to Nashville and expect to not be consumed in Country Music. Everywhere you go from the airport to Broadway you will hear some of the best live music. And it is absolutely my favorite part of the city. As a die hard Country Music fan I catch myself singing along to all my favorite songs from eating dinner and hearing it over the speakers to right in front of the stage at a classic Broadway Honky Tonk.
But if you haven’t been to Nashville there is more than the bars on Broadway where you can listen to live music. So if you are planning a trip and want the full experience I suggest you check out some of these famous music venues.
Nissan Stadium
If you are fortunate enough to see a big time country act in Nashville you will likely be heading over the river to Nissan Stadium. On my last trip to Nashville I got to see my favorite artist of all time, Kenny Chesney. With appearances by other notable country music stars, this was a concert for the books. And with the prime location of Nissan Stadium the walk from Broadway before and after was super easy to start the party early and continue long into the night.
Bridgestone Arena
Another sporting venue that houses famous country artists regularly. You can likely see one of your favorite artists while on tour. Located right on Broadway, you can once again head to the bars to continue your night of live music.
Ryman Auditorium
Located a block off Broadway, this is an iconic music venue. It was formally a church specifically designed to hear music in its purest form. You can see small acts to big name artists perform at the Ryman, most of which will play some of their set with no band so you can really hear how talented their vocals are. I highly recommend you plan your trip around a show at the Ryman, but if the timing doesn’t work out, they offer daily tours that I also highly recommend.
Grand Ole Opry
Dating back to the 1920s, The Grand Ole Opry is a weekly American country music stage concert. From new acts to classics, you never know who you will see at the Opry. If you can’t make a show, The Grand Ole Opry also offers tours of this iconic music venue.
The Bluebird Café
Another legendary music venue that gives space to song writers. There are two shows a night, seven nights a week so there is plenty of opportunity to catch an up-and-coming songwriter or future country music star. This venue is at the top of my bucket list.
Bars on Broadway
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Nashville without listening the live music at every bar on Broadway. It’s incredible the amount of talent in this city and how you can pop into 20 something bars with multiple bands playing all day. Who knows you might just see a future star!
