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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Nashville

Unique historical sites

Made for those who prefer to spend their time exploring the unconventional stories behind the cityโ€™s oldest structures.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Printers Alley image 1
Printers Alley image 2
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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.

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

Offers a unique atmosphere distinct from nearby areas. Features a nice alley perfect for a casual stroll.

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.

02
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.

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

An intimate, super divey atmosphere sets this place apart with a bingo hall setup featuring tables. Musicians bring a unique touch with a raw, authentic feel unlike typical Broadway performers.

People are saying

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

"This historic venue has a rich Bluegrass legacy."

"The atmosphere here is unique, kind of like a divey bingo hall."

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.

03
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.

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.

Five floors offer lively country vibes and a neon steeple venue for intimate shows. Each floor has a unique atmosphere, with a 3rd floor balcony view and distinctive sauces upstairs.

People are saying

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

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

"Each floor has its own unique vibe, from live music to rooftop views."

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.

04
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.

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.

Tasting involves sampling several unique barrels of whiskey straight from the barrel. Visitors can participate in a hands-on bottling experience and explore many unique gift ideas related to whiskey.

People are saying

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

"I found the atmosphere and vibe here to be really cool."

"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.

05
Robert's Western World image 1

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.

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

A unique atmosphere sets this venue apart with an experience unlike any other. The vibe feels entirely authentic, making every visit stand out.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a unique place that feels like a dreamy, country-lovin' haven."

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.

06
Goo Goo Chocolate Co image 1

Bright, retro-inspired space with interactive candy-making kiosks and a window to watch chocolates being made creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Busy environment filled with colorful decor and playful vibes invites hands-on experiences and casual browsing.

An engaging history of candy unfolds with fun trivia and classes that teach how to make a classic chocolate treat. Walls display historic factoids featuring pop culture icons and moments from iconic films and TV shows.

Many options let you create a truly unique candy bar. The store offers unique flavors and interactive experiences like candy making classes and tasting sessions that stand out.

People are saying

"I loved making my own custom chocolate cluster!"

"I loved learning the history and making my own candy."

"You can make your own unique Goo Goo Cluster here!"

Good to know

1

Tickets for chocolate-making classes sell out quickly, so purchase in advance.

2

Cash is not accepted; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

3

Hands-on chocolate-making classes are available, offering a unique experience.

07
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 beautifully renovated space sits in the basement of a historic hotel. Staff share detailed history and offer tours revealing the place's past.

Appetizers stand out with unique flavors. Dishes like mushroom pizza, rigatoni, and sea bass offer distinct tastes. Bathrooms also feature a unique design.

People are saying

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

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

"The appetizers and sushi here are unique and fantastic."

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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Downtown, Nashville

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