From the Author: I've lived in Nashville for 12 years, and my wife was born here. Alex worked downtown for five years. We love Nashville and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!
It seems like a new celebrity bar is opening on Broadway every week. Recently, Garth Brooks announced the newest one, “Friends in Low Places.” I heard it's great. There are some established bars, however, that have stood the test of time, consistently deliver high-quality experiences, attract top performers, and have a fun atmosphere. Yes, I'm talking about The Stage.
The Stage has a long history as a spot for celebrity performances and sightings. They focus mostly on country music with occasional rock ‘n roll. Three bands play on two floors and on the rooftop patio (with incredible views of Nashville).
Inside the front door is an original oil painting of The Highwaymen. The painting once belonged to Waylon Jennings and hung in his Nashville home.
What Locals Say
Not only have I visited The Stage many times, I got an inside scoop from a family member who used to work there. Here's what she said:
- There are bands on every floor.
- You can order almost anything, but it's standard liquors, beers, wines, and cocktails—nothing fancy.
- The food is basic bar food that is heated up in an oven. Again, it's nothing fancy.
- The bathrooms are well maintained.
- The servers are quick, even in busy times.
- It's open to all ages until 6 p.m.
Location, Ambiance, and Parking
The Stage has three floors, the top being a rooftop bar. There are bands on every floor. The decor is a basic dive bar that has guitars hung on the walls above the bar and on the stairs.
There is ample seating on every level and plenty of space to either sit and enjoy he music or get up and dance.
Upstairs on the rooftop you'll find it split between indoor and outdoor patio which is good for all seasons and temperatures. It's actually one of the roomier bars on Broadway, specially during the day.
I found the ambiance to be friendly. The servers are quick, the drinks are great and reasonably priced considering it's Broadway.
Does it feel a bit touristy? Yeah, but everything in Nashville is touristy nowadays. Every time I’ve been there I have been impressed by the quality of the singers and bands. They play mostly country and take requests.
The venue has great live acts all the time. In the past they've hosted huge names like Hank Williams Jr., Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Miranda Lambert, and many others.
If you have to drive to Broadway, there is a parking garage located underneath the 5th and Broadway development. It will cost about $40 max. I would avoid driving and either Uber or walk from your hotel. For more options check out the Nashville Downtown parking directory.
Is the Stage Worth It?
It absolutely is. I've seen people complain about The Stage door security, drinks, or the bands asking for money at the end of their set. Listen, that's just the way it rolls on Broadway. Bands at all the bars are paid a bare minimum base pay. They rely on your tips and goodwill. Security at the door can be pushy, like it is everywhere. If you end up feeling pushed around by a security guard, consider the job they are required to do. At times it's only elbow to elbow standing room.
The overwhelming sentiment from visitors (and me) is that it's a cool, Nashville experience. The bands are insanely good, the drinks are cold and well priced (just not fancy), and servers are friendly. If you're coming to Nashville or showing a visitor around, make The Stage one of your first stops on Boradway.
Pro tip: There is a back alley entrance. If you walk behind the club that goes alongside the Ryman, you can get in the back and might not have to wait as long in line.