Top 5 Rooftop Bars on Nashville’s Honky Tonk Row
Honky Tonk Row (also known as Broadway) is full of layered bars, live music and interesting people. However, my favorite attribute is a good rooftop.
That being said, in no particular order, I’ve narrowed down the top five.
Tootsies. This is a historic bar for country music. A lot of musicians spent their early days hanging out at this bar after playing the Ryman Auditorium. Get there early - it gets crowded fast.
Stairway to Ole Red’s rooftop. Very pretty, but you’ll want to take the elevator.
Old Red. Blake Shelton’s rooftop ended up being my favorite spot to hangout in the early afternoon. It’s multi-level with tons of different seating options (covered and uncovered), and it seemed to be relatively not busy - the stairway is a bit hidden, so I’m not sure many notice it’s even there. They’ve got live music (as all do), but it’s quiet enough that one can still converse. Also, this rooftop happens to be the highest on Broadway, so it has a great view (and dare I say, a great spot for photos).
If you’re like me, you prefer appetizer-hopping rather than a full meal. The food here is a must. You have to order - and I cannot recommend this enough - the jalapeno kettle chips and dip (incredible - an appetizer to remember). Great mojitos, as well!
Luke Bryan’s. This roof is a wrap around that connects with Jason Aldean’s bar. The area is more spacious for walking around, and the crowd appeared to be younger than some of the others. They’ve got several secluded couch areas and yard games. This was one of the more active rooftops.
AJ’s Good Time Bar. Alan Jackson’s roof sits at mid level, with the perfect night time view. There’s a few high-tops near the ledge with an unobstructed view - if you can grab one, you won’t want to leave. Make sure to eat before settling in, as they don’t serve food and you will be forced into watching the neighboring roof (Mellow Mushroom) serve up pizza.
The music here did seem to be sub-par compared to others, but that doesn’t make it any less fun (plus it was quieter, if you’re wanting to sit around and talk with your group).
The Stage. This was the first rooftop I visited, and maybe the best for live music (if you don’t plan on talking, it’s extremely loud). With a larger crowd, sitting the lowest to the ground, visitors feel very much apart of the action. This was a nice starter bar, for an evening out, with good drink deals.