Seeing a famous person in Nashville is more likely now than ever. Music bars are named after stars like Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, and Blake Shelton. Going to one of these bars gives you a good chance to see a celebrity in Nashville.
Country music stars are not the only people that love Nashville. The city has attracted actors, singers, sports, reality TV, and movie stars.
Nashville is also a place where celebrities choose to live. Suburbs like Franklin and Brentwood are hot spots for the mansions of the rich and famous. You might see Keith Urban, Taylor Swift, or Dolly Parton while shopping at Trader Joe's.
This post will uncover the top ten bars and restaurants to spot a celebrity.
We'll also share some local tips about where celebrities like to go privately that most people don't know about.
Key Things to Know
- Your best chance of bumping into a celebrity is on Lower Broadway.
- There are dozens of bars and restaurants that Nashville celebrities frequent.
- The best place to hang out with celebrities is Kid Rock's Honky Tonk on Broadway.
- Most star's homes are located in Brentwood and Franklin.
- The Hutton Hotel is Nashville's best-kept secret to spot celebrities.
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Do Celebrities Go To Nashville Bars?
Yes, celebrities go to Nashville bars. It is expected to find artists performing at the bars that they own. About half the bars on Broadway are owned by country music stars. Our advice is: show up on a weekend on Broadway; there's a good chance you'll recognize a star.
If you want to see a celebrity in Nashville, here's the best advice: Hang out inside or outside Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk on Broadway.
Kid Rock's Honky Tonk is in the middle of the “honky-tonk” highway and is becoming really well known for celebrity sightings.
- Kid Rock himself can be regularly seen partying and singing.
- Social media went crazy when Morgan Wallen made a surprise appearance.
- Famous people seen include Jon Pardi, Montgomery Gentry, Travis Tritt, and Kane Brown.
Let's be real: a country music star probably isn't going to announce their presence in a bar; they will show up unannounced.
The last time Luke Bryan announced he would be performing on the street on Broadway when he opened his bar, they had to shut down the entire street!
Where Are You Most Likely to See a Celebrity in Nashville?
1. Celebrity Bars in Nashville: Over the years, several music stars have opened their bars on Broadway in Nashville. Places named after the likes of Luke Bryan, Eric Church, and Blake Shelton are not just venues to enjoy live music; they often see appearances from the celebrities themselves. Pop into Dolly Parton‘s or Garth Brooks‘ spot, and you might just get lucky!
2. The Famous Restaurants of Nashville: Dining in Nashville is an experience in itself. Not just for the food but also for the chance of a celebrity sighting. The best restaurants in Nashville often attract the likes of Miley Cyrus or Ryan Reynolds.
3. Music Studios & Music Row: Given its reputation, it's no surprise that many celebrities frequent recording studios in Nashville. If you're near Music Row, keep your eyes peeled. It's not uncommon to spot Nashville celebrities heading into a session.
4. The Suburbs – Franklin and Brentwood: These aren't just regular suburbs; places like Franklin, TN, and Brentwood are the go-to residential areas for many celebrities. From Tim McGraw‘s estate in Leiper's Fork to the homes of stars in Brentwood, these areas ooze luxury. Don't be surprised if you bump into Taylor Swift (like I have) while wandering around Franklin or catch Keith Urban grabbing a coffee.
5. Exclusive Events and Concerts: Keep an eye on the schedules for concerts in Nashville 2023 or events like the Grand Ole Opry. While attending, you're getting a musical treat and a high chance of spotting a star, either on stage or enjoying the show from the audience.
Specific events to watch would include the Walk of Fame Ceremony or any event at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. They recently hosted Ringo Starr, so you never know who you’ll bump into!
6. Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: While well-known venues have their charm, often, it's the lesser-known spots where celebrities like to hang. Places like the Bluebird Cafe or Tootsies Nashville might not always be in the limelight, but they are indeed beloved by many celebrities.
7. Shopping Havens: Have you ever wondered where celebrities shop? In Nashville, places like Reese Witherspoon's shop or the upscale boutiques in The Gulch Nashville are where you'll find stars indulging in some retail therapy.
Insider Tip: While spotting celebrities in Nashville is exciting, remember the city's unwritten rule. It's a place where celebrities come to escape the paparazzi frenzy of LA or NYC. So, if you happen to see them, a discreet nod or smile will be appreciated more than a flurry of camera flashes.
Now that you're armed with this guide, your next trip to Nashville could be filled with not just the city's musical notes but also a touch of stardust! Whether it's this weekend or next, the chances are high for celebrity sightings in Nashville today. So keep your eyes open and enjoy everything Nashville offers, from its music to its stars!
Where Do A Lot of Celebrities Live in Nashville?
Celebrities in Nashville live in the most affluent and luxurious communities. The highest density of Nashville stars live in Brentwood and Franklin, where there is room for their luxury mansions in private and secluded places. Other celebrity neighborhoods include Green Hills, Forest Hills, Williamsport, and Hendersonville, to name a few. Still, others prefer the more urban lifestyle and like to stay downtown with easy access to recording studios, shops, and entertainment venues.
If you would like to see the homes of Nashville's biggest stars in a 2-hour, narrated sightseeing bus tour, you should check out the popular “Home of the Stars” tour where you can see over 30 celebrity homes. It's a chance to see Nashville's most scenic, upscale and private neighborhoods where superstars past and present live. Not only do you learn about the home but the driver provides great stories and experiences. Learn more here.
What Hotel Do Celebrities Stay at in Nashville?
Could you know where a celebrity will pop up? Well, we know that there are up to two luxury hotels where celebrities are known to stay in Nashville. They are the JW Marriott, Hutton Hotel, and The Hilton Hotel.
JW Marriott
The JW Marriott is the top venue, located just a short walk from Lower Broadway, Nashville's live music, and a party strip. The building is now the tallest in Nashville, with incredible views of the Nashville skyline. It's occupied by Reba McEntire's personal manicurist within Nashville's largest spa. The lobby and Bourbon Steak restaurant attract crowds of VIP's. Learn more about the JW Marriott here.
Hutton Hotel
The Hutton Hotel is located on West End and is a hidden gem for celebrity sightings. It has been known to be a favored location for Gwyneth Paltrow. The hotel offers a spa, dining, bars, high-end amenities, and an on-site live music venue. It's located in Nashville's Midtown neighborhood, only 10 minutes from Music Row and 8 miles from the Nashville Zoo. It is only a 12-minute drive from the Nashville airport. Learn more about the Hutton Hotel here.
The Hermitage
The Hermitage is another favored (and famous!) hotel of celebrities and touring pop stars. It's a five-star, luxurious hotel in a prime location in Nashville. It has previously hosted names like Hank Williams, Owen Bradley, Patsy Cline, and Johnny Cash. Learn more about the Hermitage here.
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Loved the insights in this post! I’ve always wondered where to spot my favorite stars. Can’t wait to check out some of these places on my next trip to Nashville! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for reading!