The Songwriting Capital of the World

Nashville: A Guide to the Songwriting Capital of the World
Nashville goes by many names, but whether you’re here for the legends or the lyrics, this city lives up to every bit of the excitement. This is a place where every street corner feels like a stage and music isn’t just entertainment, it’s a way of life. Today, you can find live music 365 days a year across more than 250 venues. From tucked-away dive bars in East Nashville to honky-tonks on Lower Broadway, every performance is an invitation to not only come and listen, but to be a part of the song.

Explore the honky tonks along Broadway.

The Honky Tonk Highway, located on Lower Broadway, is home to a row of honky tonks pumping live music into the streets from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. for free. This legendary strip offers a virtually non-stop, high-energy soundtrack to the city's nightlife and many bars proudly operate with no cover charge. This includes legendary clubs like “Tootsies’ World Famous Orchid Lounge” or “Robert’s Western World” or visit honky-tonks owned by some of the world’s most popular country music artists like Luke Combs’ “Category 10” or Dierks Bentley’s “Dierks Whiskey Row”. For those who want to stay at the heart of Lower Broadway, the Renaissance Nashville Hotel offers a convenient home base just steps away from the neon lights of Honky Tonk Highway. For a quieter and more off the beaten path stay, but still within walking distance of Lower Broadway, consider Noelle, a creative gathering place for adventurous people seeking a true Nashville encounter.
For those seeking a classic, more structured and less frantic visit to Music City, the possibly most well-known place to go is the Grand Ole Opry. Known as 'The World’s Biggest Stage,' the Opry preserves the core traditions of country music on its famous wooden circle. For nearly a century, it has been the venue that artists dream of playing on. Getting to share the same stage that once hosted performances from country music icons like Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks and Johnny Cash. Next door to the venue, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, allows the opportunity to stay in the direct vicinity of this legendary atmosphere, with its massive glass atriums and sprawling indoor gardens. But the history of Nashville's music doesn't stop, or start, with its most iconic country stage.
Image of jazz saxophone
Image of jazz saxophone

Celebrate and learn about the voices that gave birth to gospel, jazz, blues and hip-hop at the National Museum of African American Music.

Nashville’s story is about every sound that has shaped America. While country music plays a fairly major role in its history, just a few blocks away, the National Museum of African American Music celebrates the voices that gave birth to gospel, jazz, blues and hip-hop. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum tells the story of the world-renowned artists who turned small-town songs into national anthems, and features inductees like Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, and Jimmy Dean, there is something for everyone. To stay within walking distance of both of these cultural landmarks, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville Downtown provides the ideal urban home base. Margaritaville Hotel Nashville is another great option, located in the vibrant downtown neighborhood of Southern Broadway or SoBro for short. Nestled near popular restaurants, cocktail bars, and within walking distance of the Bridgestone Arena.
Image of the Nashville cityscape at dusk.
Image of the Nashville cityscape at dusk.

Explore all Nashville has to offer!

The energy of Music City isn't found just in the music venues or the museum walls, but in the experience of the traveler. Nashville excels at making someone feel like more than a spectator; travelers are an essential part of the story, joining the thousands who have come before to listen, clap and contribute to the song. And who knows, you might just discover an artist or band early on in their career that turns into the next big thing. 
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About the Author: This piece was written by Jake Sauerbier, an avid country music fan who has traveled to Nashville multiple times, and works on the Domestic East and Theme Parks Buying Team at Costco Travel.