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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Nashville's best

Historical site bars

Made for those who prefer their drinks served in spaces that have stood the test of time.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Robert's Western World image 1
Robert's Western World image 2
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Honky-tonk bar with authentic character and traditional country music creates a lively, nostalgic vibe. Walls display memorabilia under iconic neon lights, inviting a crowd that enjoys top-quality live bands and affordable drinks. Seating is ample but reflects the venue's historic, older style.

Offers great live music and friendly bartenders with table service. Drinks cost less here and the atmosphere feels authentic compared to other bars on Broadway.

Country music history fills the atmosphere, visible in the decor and vibe. Servers share stories that bring the landmark bar's past to life.

People are saying

"You have to try the fried bologna sandwich; it's delicious."

"This bar has amazing live country music."

"It's a historic place with authentic country and western music."

Good to know

1

Robert's Western World serves a recession special: a beer and a full meal for $6.

2

Live music starts at 6:30 PM, featuring traditional country acts.

3

The venue hosts a band every hour, with a tip bucket for donations.

02
Chief's on Broadway image 1
Live music bar

Six floors offer distinct personalities with curated memorabilia and furniture. Live music energizes the space, featuring dueling pianos and a DJ spinning hits. Rooftop provides a busy seating area with views of Broadway.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and consistent quality, this bar stands out on Broadway. It offers a memorable experience that many consider unmatched in the area.

Rich hidden history and memorabilia fill the venue, including a WWI confessional on the fourth floor and a balcony with pews. The space honors its past with Easter Eggs from songs and a detailed history tour.

People are saying

"This bar's atmosphere is calm and relaxing, a great escape."

"The live music here is top-notch with great sound and high energy."

"I learned so much about the building's history and unique features on the tour."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure seating.

2

Expect a cover charge for live performances, typically around $10.

3

The venue hosts live music every weekend, starting at 8pm.

03
Nashville Barrel Company Downtown Whiskey Distillery - Bourbon & Wine Bar image 1

Rustic distillery space includes a large speakeasy-style room and a secret back bar for intimate tastings. Atmosphere blends cozy friendliness with classy decor, creating a welcoming yet refined vibe. Visitors often engage in whiskey blending sessions and enjoy the presence of a legendary dog, adding unique character to the experience.

Whiskey takes center stage with Bourbon experts behind the bar offering deep knowledge and friendly service. The back room bar setup creates a cool, low key vibe that stands out from typical downtown spots.

Guides provide an immersive journey through barrels and the history of whiskey. They share informational stories about the company and the craft, making the history accessible to those unfamiliar with it.

People are saying

"The whiskey knowledge and passion of the staff made the experience stand out."

"The bar staff here are so knowledgeable and friendly."

"I learned a nice history lesson about the place and whiskey."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for tastings, especially on weekends.

2

The distillery offers wine and whiskey tastings throughout the day.

3

Private tastings can be arranged for groups; inquire in advance.

04
The Hermitage Hotel image 1

Historic hotel showcases elegant architecture and luxurious rooms with mountain views. Bar offers a lively atmosphere with creative cocktails and a live piano player. Ambiance blends classic charm with a vibrant social scene.

A National Historic Landmark with a stunning main entrance and lobby. The veranda and balcony hold rich history, while the communal areas show opulent and fascinating historical details.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's attentive service and friendly attention to detail made it magical."

"The bar's cocktails are proper and have a fun vibe."

"The staff's attention to detail made my visit to the historical sites feel so special."

Good to know

1

Afternoon tea is available, but it can be pricey at $30.

2

The hotel is centrally located near Broadway and other attractions.

3

Expect some noise from the bathroom fan during your stay.

05
Alley Taps image 1

Intimate, dark basement bar with a cave-style design and an authentic back alley vibe. Live music focuses on classic rock and features local performers in a laid-back atmosphere where conversation flows easily.

A quaint pub with proper Guinness and low key vibes sits off the main drag. The owner often steps behind the bar, adding to the great service atmosphere.

Rich haunted history defines this spot, with detailed stories shared by knowledgeable guides. The place holds a strong sense of its historic past that adds depth to the visit.

People are saying

"I found the live music here to be amazing and versatile."

"This bar has awesome live music and great beers."

"The Historical Sites have a cool, laid-back vibe."

Good to know

1

The entrance to Alley Taps is through an alley.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during live performances.

3

Customers can request songs during live performances.

06
The Station Inn image 1
Live music venue

Small, historic venue with intimate stage proximity and excellent sound quality creates a warm, divey atmosphere. Passionate local musicians perform authentic bluegrass music in a close, personal setting. Cold beer and good pizza complement the experience, with no wine or liquor served.

Service at the bar is great and the atmosphere feels intimate with no-frills surroundings.

Old stone walls hold a rich Bluegrass legacy here. The venue stands as a historic music spot with deep roots in its community.

People are saying

"The music here is authentic bluegrass, just incredible."

"I found this bar had great live bluegrass music."

"This historic venue has a rich Bluegrass legacy."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure a good seat, especially for popular performances.

2

Entrance fee varies by performance; check ahead for pricing.

3

Children under 12 can enter for free with an adult.

07
Printers Alley image 1
Tourist attraction

Narrow alley lined with small, loud bars and vibrant blue lights creates a lively, scruffy atmosphere. Music ranges from mellow jazz to live piano and karaoke, offering a distinct vibe from nearby Broadway. The area buzzes with energy and rich history, making it a unique spot for nightlife and exploration.

Dive bars and live music spots line the alley, offering a mix of chill vibes and energetic performances. Karaoke bars and blues clubs add variety to the bar scene here.

A historic alley with a rich history and many hidden bars and restaurants. It features live music and entertainment alongside its historical significance.

People are saying

"I loved the bars; they had a great vibe and amazing music."

"It's a cool historic area with amazing hidden bars and music."

"I found it to be a unique and nice alley to stroll into."

Good to know

1

Printers Alley features a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

2

The area is quieter than Broadway, making it a nice alternative for nightlife.

3

Many bars in Printers Alley offer live music, especially jazz.

08
Stationairy image 1
Restaurant

Dining takes place inside a historic train station building with gorgeous architecture and steel windows. The atmosphere feels cozy and lively, enhanced by live music performances that add a classy touch. The setting combines bright brunch vibes with a pleasant, elegant environment.

Weekends feature a Bloody Mary bar with great drinks and small bites. The bar is small with a plain stainless steel counter and limited ambiance, making table service often preferable.

Historic architecture and design fill the building, making it feel like dinner and a show. The walls literally ooze history and beauty, reflecting its past as a train station and hotel.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and fresh."

"Paddy's intuition made the Historical Sites experience unforgettable."

"The bartenders at the bar are fabulous and terrific."

Good to know

1

Only valet parking is available, and it is validated for two hours.

2

Expect high prices, with entrees averaging around $50.

3

Auto gratuity is added to the bill without prior notice.

09
Sinatra Bar & Lounge image 1

Steak house with swanky 50s decor and live Sinatra-style music creates a classy, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and high-quality steaks in a setting that honors timeless elegance. Upstairs lounge offers exclusive, intimate seating despite limited space.

The bar offers a classic vibe that feels like stepping back in time. Staff provide excellent service, making it a spot for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.

Renovated Southern Turf building offers exclusive lounge access and rich history tied to Printer's Alley. Bartenders share fascinating stories and historical insights during visits.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The bar here is super fun and the bartender is so knowledgeable."

"I loved the personal tour and fascinating history of the building."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance due to high demand.

2

Restrooms are located two flights up, which may be challenging for those with disabilities.

3

Live music starts after 7:30 pm, enhancing the dining experience.

10
Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges image 1

Restaurant occupies a beautifully renovated basement space with historic decor and intimate bar setting. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet lively, with a high noise level similar to a bar. Guests often enjoy exceptional cocktails and unique dishes in a setting that blends elegance with casual energy.

A side bar offers a more intimate setting with full service dining and an emphasis on bourbon. The extensive wine list complements the excellent service and creates a perfect romantic hideaway.

A beautifully renovated space sits in the basement of a historic hotel. Staff share detailed history and offer tours revealing the place's past.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredible food, especially the shrimp salad."

"The food at the bar was exceptional, especially the beef tartare."

"The Historical Sites here are amazing, especially the shrimp salad."

Good to know

1

Valet service costs $30, despite claims of being complimentary.

2

Expect to pay $9 per glass of water for large groups.

3

Brunch is offered on Saturdays with a great menu.

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