Best Bars to See Live Music in Nashville

Nashville, aka Music City, is known for its live music scene. If you're a fan of catching live performances while sipping on some great drinks, you're in the right place. Whether you're into country, rock, jazz, or blues, Nashville's got a spot for you. Here are some of the best bars in Nashville to catch live music.

Skull's Rainbow Room

Skull's Rainbow Room is a legendary spot that’s been around since 1948, located in a cozy basement in Printers Alley. The small stage has seen performances from legends like Etta James, Paul McCartney, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. After a long hiatus, it reopened in 2015 and continues its tradition of nightly live jazz performances paired with an elevated steakhouse menu and top-notch cocktails. Reservations are recommended, especially if you want to catch the burlesque performances on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

The Listening Room Cafe

The Listening Room Cafe is where Nashville’s songwriters take center stage. This downtown venue offers multiple rounds per day, giving you the chance to hear the stories behind some of the biggest hits in music. Most shows have a food and beverage minimum, so plan to enjoy some pimento cheese and bacon jam crostinis, shrimp and grits, or a slice of Tennessee cheesecake. This spot is ticketed, so be sure to book ahead.

Acme Feed & Seed

Acme Feed & Seed sits at the end of Lower Broadway and offers nightly live music, a diverse menu, and a rooftop with amazing city views. The music spans genres and multiple levels of this historic building from the late 1800s. The food and drink options are equally diverse, featuring everything from Nashville hot chicken to sushi, beers on tap, and frozen cocktails. The best part? You don’t need tickets to enjoy the music here.

The Twelve Thirty Club

A collaboration between Justin Timberlake and restaurateur Sam Fox, The Twelve Thirty Club is a must-visit for live music and upscale dining. Located at the top of Lower Broadway, this chic supper club is decked out in Prohibition-era decor and features a central stage with multiple live sets per night. Enjoy a chilled seafood tower and classic cocktails while you listen to the house band’s soulful tunes. Reservations are encouraged if you plan to dine, but you can always find a spot at the bar.

Jane's Hideaway

Jane's Hideaway has moved from its old Printers Alley location to East Nashville, bringing its Americana, roots, and traditional bluegrass music with it. Every night at 8 p.m., you can catch some killer live performances. The new spot has a cool, eclectic vibe that matches its neighborhood, and the menu is just as unique. Think original cocktails, French bubbly on tap, and dishes like beet salad, okra fries, chicken pot pie, osso buco, and beef tenderloin. If you’re around on a Tuesday night, don’t miss the Americana and roots songwriter showcase hosted by Grammy-winner Melody Walker. No tickets needed!

Brooklyn Bowl

Brooklyn Bowl is a triple threat: bowling alley, music venue, and restaurant all rolled into one. Located in the Germantown neighborhood, this spot hosts ticketed shows featuring a mix of artists from rock stars to folk singers and country music favorites. Grab a fried chicken platter and a boozy milkshake at one of the lanes, or get up close to the stage to see your favorite artists perform.

Nashville’s live music scene is vibrant and diverse, with something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these bars offer some of the best live music experiences in town. So grab your friends, get your tickets (if needed), and enjoy a night out in Music City!