If you're in Nashville for the first time, Broadway is a must-see, and this is one of our favorite bars there. It's an iconic Nashville staple. Jake recommends the "recession special": A fried bologna sandwich with a bag of Lays potato chips, a moon pie, and a PBR/Busch Light for $6. It's the best deal on broadway!
The Station Inn is a legendary, intimate listening room in Nashville, Tennessee, famous for bluegrass, roots, and Americana music since 1974, known for its no-frills atmosphere where fans sit close to the stage to hear top-tier musicians, including surprise appearances by major stars. If there is a show or a bluegrass jam while you’re in town, we highly recommend you go!
This is a great spot to catch an authentic Nashville writers round! Writers' rounds in Nashville are intimate, acoustic concerts where 3-4 songwriters sit in a circle or line on stage, taking turns performing original songs and sharing the stories behind them. As a cornerstone of Nashville’s music culture, they emphasize songwriting craft over performance, often held in quiet "listening rooms."
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville is a premier, comprehensive repository of country music history, often called the "Smithsonian of country music." It is worth visiting to explore over 2.5 million artifacts, including iconic instruments, costumes, and recordings, spanning from folk roots to modern hits. It offers a deep, immersive, and educational dive into American music culture.
Visiting the Grand Ole Opry is a must for music lovers to witness "the show that made country music famous," featuring a live, multi-artist radio broadcast with legends, superstars, and rising stars in one night. Celebrating 100 years, it offers an intimate, historic, and high-energy experience in Nashville with, usually, 8+ performers per show.
An authentic, all-you-can-eat Southern comfort food served family-style in a historic Germantown setting. Famous for fried chicken, skillet meals, and communal dining where you pass dishes to strangers, it offers a welcoming, "Sunday dinner" atmosphere.
Peg Leg Porker in Nashville is a premier, award-winning BBQ destination known for its authentic Tennessee-style, dry-rubbed ribs and pork, offering a, casual, and high-quality dining experience. Pitmaster Carey Bringle’s spot stands out for its unique, in-house,, cooked-daily meats and a, vibrant rooftop patio in the Gulch. Jake loves Rudy's jazz room right down the street, too.
Do not wait in the hour long line for Hattie B's on Broadway! This is Jake's favorite. Red's Hot Chicken, located at the historic Springwater Supper Club, is a top-rated Nashville spot known for 36-hour buttermilk-brined chicken, offering a, juicy, and crispy, flavorful experience. Run by a veteran chef, it offers unique items like a Hot Chicken Crunchwrap, creamy pimento mac & cheese, and heat levels from mild to Nashville Fire, making it a must-visit for authentic, high-quality, and creative hot chicken. Fun fact: Springwater supper club is Tennessee oldest bar, making it a classic dive. Right across the street from centennial park! If you must get Hattie B's, remember there are other locations other than the broadway one!
Dino's in East Nashville is a must-visit for its reputation as the city's oldest, most authentic dive bar, offering legendary, affordable cheeseburgers and a gritty, intimate atmosphere. It's a premier spot for late-night food, featuring iconic, seasoned fries ("Joe's Style") and a divey, red-lit environment that attracts locals.
White Limozeen is a vibrant, Dolly Parton-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant at Graduate Nashville. Think over-the-top, pink-themed, "vintage glam" aesthetic, stunning city views, and creative cocktails like the "Queen of the Rodeo". Perfect for photos, it features a pink onyx bar, a large Dolly bust, and a rooftop pool.
Centennial Park in Nashville is a premier 132-acre urban oasis, best known for its full-scale replica of the Parthenon, making it a must-visit for history buffs and photographers. It offers a 1-mile walking trail, Lake Watauga, sunken gardens, and live music at Musicians Corner. It's ideal for relaxing, picnics, and family fun.