Best Honky Tonks in Nashville Not on Broadway
The honky-tonks on Broadway run on cover bands and overpriced buckets of beer for the tourist crowd. The Nashville Palace has slung fried bologna sandwiches and country bands since 1977, just steps from the Grand Ole Opry House. Skinny Dennis brought a Brooklyn transplant's take on the two-step to East Nashville. Losers Bar and Riley Green's Duck Blind sit next door to each other in Midtown, same owners, same music-industry crowd inside, and Doc Holliday's keeps the noise going just a block off the strip.
The Nashville Palace
Classic country honky tonk near the Grand Ole Opry featuring live bands and a traditional Nashville music atmosphere. Known for line dancing, local performers, and an authentic country music vibe.
Santa's Pub
Christmas-themed double-wide dive bar known for some of the rowdiest karaoke in Nashville. A cash-only local favorite where you can sing your heart out and experience a piece of old Nashville.
Losers Bar & Grill
Divey Midtown honky tonk known for live country music and a mix of locals, industry regulars, and late-night crowds. A go-to spot for drinks, live bands, and never quite knowing who you'll run into.
Riley Green's Duck Blind
Casual Midtown bar known for live country music and plenty of TVs. A go-to spot for catching the game, live bands, and the occasional country artist drop-in.
Scoreboard Bar & Grill
Music Valley bar and restaurant known for live country music and a steady mix of locals and visitors. A casual spot for drinks, live bands, and a classic Nashville bar experience near the Opry.
Star Rover Sound
Restaurant and live music venue known for country and roots-focused performances in a unique, retro-inspired setting. A sit-down experience that blends dinner and live music in a more intimate space.
Bobby's Idle Hour Tavern
Legendary Music Row watering hole known for local songwriters, musicians, and a divey Nashville tavern feel. A laid-back spot for drinks and original songs in one of the city's most historic music neighborhoods.
Doc Holliday's Saloon
Downtown honky tonk known for live country music, cold drinks, and a fun bar atmosphere. A lively spot for catching live bands without stepping directly onto Broadway.
Skinny Dennis
East Nashville honky tonk known for country, Americana, roots music, and regular two-step nights. A casual spot for live music, line dancing, cold drinks, and a down-home feel on Gallatin Pike.
Wild Beaver Saloon
Downtown karaoke bar known for late-night singing, drinks, and a rowdy party atmosphere. A casual spot for grabbing the mic and leaning into the full Nashville karaoke experience.
Animatronic karaoke bar inside Graduate Nashville known for sing-alongs with a robotic backup band and a bit of Dolly-inspired flair. A quirky West End spot for karaoke, drinks, and a one-of-a-kind Nashville night out.
Madison neighborhood bar known for live country, roots music, classic cocktails, and a strong local following. A divey, music-first spot for catching bands outside the downtown scene.
Music City Bar & Grill
Music Valley country bar known for live music, late nights, and a mix of locals and visitors near Opryland. A casual spot for real country music without the Broadway crowds.
Is there a cover charge?
It varies by venue and night. Nashville Palace charges a $10 door cover on Fridays and Saturdays, and $10 to $20 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays depending on the dance instructor. Check each venue's page for current details.
Is there an age requirement to get in?
It varies by venue. Losers Bar and Riley Green's Duck Blind, for example, require guests to be 21 and up after 3pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. Check each venue's page for its specific policy.
What should I wear?
Nothing dressy. Jeans and boots work fine at every honky-tonk on this list.