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We've compiled the best of the best in Tennessee - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This inviting downstairs addition to The 404 Kitchen offers up 14 pages of hard-to-find whiskies from around the world on its menu, many of which are proudly displayed as part of the decor. You'll find some bottles here, all hand-selected by chef Matt Bolus, that you'd be hard-pressed to find in even the most exclusive whiskey bars in New York. Every dish from the restaurant upstairs is also available to order directly from the bar.
At the top of the luxe Thompson Nashville is the city's premier rooftop bar, where the drinks are strong and the views are just as Instagrammable as the hip modern decor. Filled to the brim with friendly young professionals and travelers on the weekends, this is always a lively spot, especially when there's a local DJ spinning records. The Frozé is always a crowd-pleaser, and they offer a variety of small bites and cocktails along with brunch on the weekends.
Housed in an old steam-cleaning facility with most of the building’s original 1920s fixtures—all except the sign—drinks and company take center stage at Old Glory. There isn’t an expansive food menu, but there are craft drinks that highlight fresh and seasonally available ingredients. You’ll find this spot by looking for the large golden triangle accenting the entrance door.
One of Nashville’s long-standing speakeasy-style bars offers a Prohibition-era feel, which makes it one of the city's most popular nightspots. The amazing drinks, crafted by knowledgeable mixologists, enhance its popularity.
Teleport to Italy at this cocktail bar specializing in aperitivo cocktails, with an inventive selection of Negronis and spritzes. There's an inviting menu of antipasti and pastas, or move next door to their sister Italian restaurant, Osteria Stella.
This dark wood-paneled bar is a much cooler version of your parents’ basement from the ’70s. There’s live country music most nights, including a bluegrass jam every Monday. And when there isn’t a live band, the jukebox keeps the honky-tonk mood alive. It’s worth the trek north of East Nashville for a round of darts, a game of pool, and a few classic cocktails.
Enjoy some of the best cocktails in Nashville at this cozy hideaway tucked beneath Nicoletto's Italian Kitchen. Drinks are creative and fun, like the rotating selection of old fashioneds, with levels of adventurousness listed on the menu. The Fox is committed to sustainability, taking great pains to use local and seasonal ingredients. You'll likely want a reservation, as the small space fills up quickly most evenings.
Tucked away in East Nashville's Lockeland Springs neighborhood, this long-standing queer bar with a friendly community feel has all of your standard options, plus excellent brunch offerings like Bloody Marys on the weekend. Don't sleep on the food, which is better than your typical bar fare and has a Tex-Mex influence. Karaoke lovers, rejoice: The Lipstick Lounge offers up some of the best in town.
Order a tiki cocktail and step into the mid-20th-century at this throwback lounge with a Polynesian theme. The tucked-away courtyard out back is a cozy place to sip and smile.
Adjacent to the Urban Cowboy bed-and-breakfast, Urban Cowboy Public House is one of East Nashville's trendiest cocktail bars. Serving up high-end libations and a thoughtfully designed food menu in a cozy backyard setting, Urban Cowboy caters to hip younger crowds. Most seating is outdoors, so plan accordingly.
