The Ryman Auditorium stands as Nashville’s most iconic music venue, drawing visitors from around the world for unforgettable performances. When you’re traveling for music events at this legendary venue, the experience extends far beyond the show itself. The surrounding downtown area offers an incredible selection of bars that perfectly complement your live music getaway.
Whether you’re grabbing pre-show drinks or celebrating after an amazing performance, the bars around the Ryman create the perfect atmosphere for music lovers. These establishments understand the rhythm of Music City and cater to the crowds that flock here for live music experiences.
Pre-Show Spots Worth Your Time
Tootsies Orchid Lounge – https://nashvilledowntown.com/go/tootsies-orchid-lounge sits just steps from the Ryman’s back door on Broadway. This honky-tonk institution has been serving drinks and hosting live music since 1960. The walls are covered with memorabilia from country music legends who once performed on this very stage. You’ll find three floors of entertainment, each with its own band and atmosphere. The rooftop offers great views of downtown Nashville.
Rippy Roost Bar & Grill occupies prime real estate right across from the Ryman. The multi-level venue features different vibes on each floor. The ground level serves as a sports bar with plenty of TVs and classic pub food. Head upstairs for live music and a more intimate setting. The rooftop deck provides excellent people-watching opportunities and views of the venue where you’ll spend your evening.
The Stage on Broadway delivers authentic Nashville nightlife with live music seven days a week. Multiple stages throughout the venue ensure there’s always something happening. The bar staff knows how to move quickly during pre-show rushes, making it a reliable choice when you’re on a tight schedule. To make a reservation, here is the website link https://www.thestageonbroadway.com/
Craft Cocktails and Elevated Experiences
Music City has evolved beyond its honky-tonk reputation, and several upscale establishments near the Ryman reflect this growth. These spots cater to travelers seeking sophisticated drinks and refined atmospheres during their live music getaways.
Skull’s Rainbow Room brings New Orleans flair to Nashville’s downtown scene. Located in the historic Printer’s Alley, this cocktail lounge offers expertly crafted drinks in an intimate setting. The bartenders take pride in their mixology skills, creating both classic cocktails and innovative house specials. The dimly lit atmosphere provides a perfect contrast to the high-energy environment you’ll encounter at most Broadway bars.
Acme Feed & Seed combines dining, drinking, and entertainment across four floors. The rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Cumberland River and downtown skyline. Their cocktail menu features creative takes on Southern classics, and the food menu goes well beyond typical bar fare. Live music happens regularly on multiple floors, making it feel like an extension of your music venue experience.
official website link : https://www.acmefeedandseed.com/
The Continental Mid occupies a beautifully restored historic building and serves as both restaurant and bar. The cocktail program emphasizes premium spirits and house-made ingredients. The atmosphere strikes a balance between sophisticated and approachable, perfect for music event travelers who want quality drinks without pretentious service.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Experienced travelers for music events know that the best experiences often come from venturing slightly off the beaten path. Several bars near the Ryman offer authentic Nashville experiences without the tourist crowds.
Robert’s Western World maintains the authentic honky-tonk atmosphere that made Nashville famous. This narrow bar serves cheap drinks and features live country music throughout the day and evening. The stage sits right in the middle of the action, creating an intimate connection between performers and audience. You’ll find working musicians, songwriters, and locals mixing with visitors from around the world.
Layla’s Honky Tonk provides a more spacious alternative to the cramped quarters of some Broadway establishments. The venue features live music nightly and serves reasonably priced drinks. The crowd tends to be a mix of locals and tourists, creating a welcoming atmosphere for anyone traveling for music events.
The Merchant’s Restaurant offers a quieter option for those seeking conversation-friendly environments. While primarily known for excellent food, their bar program deserves recognition. The wine list includes interesting selections from around the world, and the cocktails focus on quality over flashiness. It’s particularly popular with industry professionals and serious music fans.
Post-Show Wind-Down Options
After experiencing a memorable show at the Ryman, many visitors want to keep the musical energy flowing. Several nearby establishments cater specifically to the post-concert crowd.
• Nashville Underground features multiple bars and live music venues connected by underground tunnels. You can bar-hop without stepping outside, which is particularly appealing during Nashville’s hot summers or cold winters.
• Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk & Rock N’ Roll Steakhouse stays open late and maintains high energy well into the night. Multiple floors provide different experiences, from dining areas to dance floors.
• FGL House (Florida Georgia Line’s venue) offers a modern take on the traditional honky-tonk concept. The rooftop provides great views and often features live acoustic performances.
• Blake Shelton’s Ole Red brings the country superstar’s vision to Nashville’s music scene. Multiple levels ensure there’s always space to find your preferred atmosphere.
Practical Tips for Music Event Travelers
When planning your bar-hopping strategy around Ryman shows, timing matters significantly. Most venues get extremely crowded between 6 PM and 8 PM as concertgoers grab dinner and drinks before shows. Arriving slightly earlier or later can mean the difference between immediate service and long waits.
Many bars near the Ryman don’t accept reservations, especially on nights when major acts perform. Popular spots like Tootsies and Rippy’s operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re traveling with a large group for a music event, consider splitting up and meeting at a predetermined location.
Parking downtown can be challenging and expensive, particularly during major concerts. Many visitors find that staying within walking distance of the Ryman eliminates transportation stress and allows for more spontaneous bar-hopping. The area is generally safe for pedestrians, but basic city awareness applies.
Nashville’s music scene operates year-round, but 2025 brings several major touring acts to the Ryman that will draw larger than usual crowds. Planning ahead becomes even more important during these peak periods.
The Authentic Music City Experience
The bars surrounding the Ryman Auditorium represent different facets of Nashville’s musical personality. From traditional honky-tonks that preserve the city’s country music heritage to modern cocktail lounges that reflect its evolution into a diverse cultural destination, each establishment contributes to the complete live music getaway experience.
Many of these venues feature live music that extends your concert experience beyond the Ryman’s walls. You might discover your next favorite artist performing on a small stage at Tootsies, or hear a songwriter testing new material at Robert’s Western World. These spontaneous musical encounters often become the most treasured memories from music event travel.
The bartenders and staff at these establishments understand the rhythm of live music getaways. They’ve seen countless visitors celebrating special occasions, meeting fellow music fans, and creating lasting memories. Their expertise in managing pre-show rushes and post-concert celebrations makes your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
When you’re traveling for music events at the Ryman in 2025, remember that the venue itself is just one part of your Nashville experience. The surrounding bars create the perfect soundtrack to your visit, offering spaces to connect with fellow music lovers, celebrate great performances, and immerse yourself fully in Music City’s legendary atmosphere. Each establishment adds its own notes to the symphony of your live music getaway, creating memories that extend far beyond the final encore.
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