Planning a trip to Music City in late 2025? The legendary neon strip of Lower Broadway in Nashville, Tennessee, is constantly evolving, making it the epicenter of country music nightlife and a must-visit destination for millions of tourists. The bar scene is more vibrant and competitive than ever, with new multi-story venues opening their doors almost monthly, offering everything from world-class BBQ to stunning skyline views and, of course, non-stop, no-cover live music.
To help you navigate this dazzling stretch of honky-tonks and high-rise rooftop bars, we've compiled the definitive, most up-to-date list. This guide goes beyond the classics to highlight the freshest, most unique, and most talked-about spots, ensuring your Nashville experience is truly unforgettable, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor chasing the newest celebrity-owned hotspot.
The New Wave of Celebrity Honky-Tonks: The 2025 Hotspots
The biggest trend on Broadway right now is the rise of the massive, multi-level celebrity-owned bar. These venues are more than just bars; they are entertainment complexes, offering multiple stages, full restaurants, and some of the best skyline views in the city. Here are the newest and most popular spots dominating the scene in late 2025.
- Chief's on Broadway (Eric Church): This six-story behemoth is arguably the most ambitious new addition. Unlike many others, Chief’s features a dedicated, ticketed music venue on its upper floors for a more intimate concert experience, a live broadcasting studio, and a distinct focus on original live music. Don't miss the Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ on the ground floor, a major culinary draw, or the unique stained-glass windows spanning the second and third floors that depict impactful influences on Eric Church's career.
- Category 10 (Luke Combs): Positioned as a "fan-first, next-level" entertainment venue, Luke Combs’ Category 10 is designed to make fans feel connected to the artist. Located near 2nd and Broadway, the bar offers a full restaurant, multiple live music stages, and a massive rooftop for line dancing and enjoying the energy of Music City. It embraces a rustic-meets-modern vibe that feels true to the singer's brand.
- Jelly Roll's Goodnight Nashville: A love letter to his hometown, Jelly Roll's new venue brings a unique aesthetic to Broadway. The bar features a rustic, tattoo-themed design, including a spectacular sculpture of his iconic City Skull. It boasts one of the highest rooftops on Broadway, offering industrial-style decor, high-end cocktails, and unparalleled views of the river and the Broadway skyline, all infused with Jelly Roll's unapologetic energy.
- Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa: The first female artist to open a bar on Broadway, Casa Rosa is a vibrant, pink-hued venue with a distinct Tex-Mex flair. It offers a refreshing departure from the typical honky-tonk, serving up Mexican-inspired food and specialty margaritas across its multiple levels and rooftop.
- Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink (Luke Bryan): One of the largest on the strip, 32 Bridge features six levels, eight bars, two restaurants, and three stages. It's a massive party complex known for its high-energy atmosphere and a great rooftop bar that overlooks the Cumberland River.
Broadway's Timeless Legends: The Must-Visit Classics
While the new celebrity bars are flashy, the heart and soul of Broadway lie in the legendary honky-tonks that have defined the Nashville experience for decades. These are the places where countless country stars got their start and where you'll find the most authentic, raw live music.
Tootsie's Orchid Lounge
No list of the best bars on Broadway is complete without Tootsie's. This iconic, three-story purple honky-tonk has been a Nashville institution since the 1960s. Legends like Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, and Kris Kristofferson are said to have played here. It features three separate stages, each with its own musical act, so you can bar-hop without ever leaving the building. The rooftop is a great place to escape the ground-floor crowds while still hearing world-class country music.
Robert's Western World
If you're looking for an authentic, old-school honky-tonk experience, Robert's is the spot. Known for its "Traditional Country Music" policy, you won't hear much pop-country here—it's all about classic country, western swing, and bluegrass. The atmosphere is unpretentious, with cheap beer, "Recession Specials" (like a fried bologna sandwich, chips, and a PBR), and a small dance floor that’s always packed. It’s a true Nashville gem and a favorite among locals and music purists.
The Stage on Broadway
The Stage is a massive, high-ceilinged venue famous for its large dance floor and for hosting some of the best up-and-coming talent in Nashville. It's known for its iconic mural of country music greats on the back wall, making it a popular photo op. The energy here is electric, and it's a perfect place to see a band before they hit the big time.
Legends Corner
Located on the corner of Broadway and 5th Avenue, Legends Corner is one of the most centrally located and consistently popular classic honky-tonks. Its walls are covered floor-to-ceiling with memorabilia, including guitars and gold records, giving it a museum-like feel. It’s a reliable spot for great live music, usually featuring bands playing cover songs that keep the crowd singing and dancing.
Chasing the Skyline: The Best Rooftop Bars on Broadway
For those who want to escape the street-level crowds and enjoy a cocktail with a breathtaking view, Broadway's rooftop bars are the answer. These venues offer a sophisticated (or at least elevated) experience, often with a different musical vibe than the honky-tonks below.
- Acme Feed & Seed: Situated at the end of Broadway right on the Cumberland River, Acme offers one of the most unique and expansive rooftop views, overlooking the river, Nissan Stadium, and the city skyline. The four-story venue features a casual dining experience on the first floor, a second-floor lounge/event space, and a third-floor music venue, making the rooftop the perfect capstone to your visit.
- Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row: This multi-level bar is a powerhouse of entertainment. While the lower levels are pure honky-tonk, the rooftop bar is a major draw. It offers a great view, premium cocktails, and a high-energy atmosphere, often featuring DJs or acoustic acts, providing a slight break from the traditional country bands downstairs.
- Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar: Located in the heart of the action, Jason Aldean's is a favorite for its prime location and its expansive rooftop. The bar features a menu inspired by Aldean’s home-style cooking and a massive video wall, ensuring there's always something to look at, whether it's the skyline or a music video.
- FGL House (Florida Georgia Line): Though the duo is on hiatus, their venue remains a popular, high-end option. FGL House is known for its modern, sleek design, and its "Cruise" rooftop bar is a favorite for bachelorette parties and groups looking for a more pop-friendly music selection and an excellent view of the city lights.
- The Twelve Thirty Club (Justin Timberlake): While technically just off Broadway on 5th Avenue, this venue is a must-mention for its elevated experience. Co-owned by Justin Timberlake, it features a swanky, high-end Supper Club and a more casual Honky Tonk, but its stunning rooftop bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and craft cocktails that stand out from the typical Broadway fare.
Essential Broadway Bar Hopping Tips for 2025
Navigating the best bars on Broadway requires a strategy, especially during peak seasons like summer weekends or major events. Keep these expert tips in mind to maximize your experience:
- Go Early for the Classics: The classic honky-tonks like Robert's Western World and Tootsie's fill up fast. Visit between 11 AM and 3 PM for a more relaxed atmosphere and better seating to enjoy the live music.
- Check for No-Cover Music: Almost all bars on Lower Broadway offer live music with no cover charge. The musicians work for tips, so be generous! Only specific, dedicated venues within the larger complexes (like a specific floor at Chief's) might require a ticket.
- Rooftop Lines: The lines for the popular rooftop bars (Acme, Jason Aldean's, Chief's) can get long after 6 PM. If a rooftop is a priority, try to hit it before the evening rush.
- Explore Side Streets: Don't limit yourself to just Broadway. Venues on 2nd Avenue and in the surrounding areas, like Category 10, offer equally great music and a slightly different vibe.
- Stay Safe and Hydrated: The energy on Broadway is infectious, but it's a long night. Pace yourself, drink water, and utilize ride-sharing services to get back to your accommodation safely.
From the six-story spectacle of Eric Church's Chief's to the timeless twang of Robert's Western World, the Broadway bar scene in late 2025 is a dynamic mix of old and new. Whether you're a devoted country music fan or just looking for a good time, this ultimate list of Nashville's best bars ensures you'll hit all the essential spots for an unforgettable Music City adventure.
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