Dive Bars That are Not on Broadway: Your Ultimate Nashville Experience

Ever heard of Nashville's dive bars beyond Broadway? Yes, there’s life outside of honky-tonk heaven. Let’s get real—these aren’t your flashy, neon-lit spots on Broadway, but they’ve got character, cheap beer, and, oh, some unforgettable stories to tell.

1. Santa’s Pub

Kicking things off with one of Nashville’s true gems: Santa’s Pub. It’s like stepping into a karaoke wonderland that’s cash-only, quirky, and, well, inside a double-wide trailer. One visitor describes it as “amazing karaoke at night,” and don’t worry if you’re short on cash—they’ve thoughtfully placed an ATM right outside. And a heads-up from another visitor: “Santa’s was great, but beware, they only serve beer. No liquor.” Love it or leave it, this is Nashville’s dive bar royalty.

Multiple visitors also back Santa’s Pub as a must-visit. For one traveler, it’s the first stop when they’re in town, and let’s be honest, if you’re looking for pure Nashville soul, this is it.

  • Address: 2225 Bransford Avenue, Nashville, TN 37204
  • Website: santaspub.com

2. Springwater Supper Club and Lounge

Ever wondered what the oldest bar in Tennessee looks like? One visitor gives you the rundown: “Live music twice a day when they’re open. Lots of history. Cheap beer.” A place where musicians and locals mingle over affordable pints, Springwater Supper Club is where the Nashville music scene feels raw and real. Another visitor vouches for its authenticity, saying, “I second this… place was so cool.” And yet another enthusiast adds, “Springwater!!” Like you needed more convincing.

Photo Credit: Philip Pickles

3. Printers Alley

Dive bar mecca, anyone? Printers Alley isn’t just one bar; it’s a whole alley lined with spots that are as Nashville as it gets. One visitor calls it a go-to for great dives, while others back it up—”Printers Alley has many,” one notes. You’ll find hidden treasures, live music, and a good chance to stumble upon some true Nashville characters. If you’re feeling adventurous, this alleyway is your playground.

4. Music City Bar & Grill

For those looking to avoid Broadway crowds but still enjoy traditional music, Music City Bar & Grill is where it’s at. One visitor doesn’t mince words, saying, “Music City Bar and Grill is the best.” Another recommends it “for traditional music,” making it the spot if you’re in the mood for good tunes and a laid-back vibe.

This spot also has a loyal following, with multiple visitors giving it a shoutout. So, if you’re chasing an authentic Nashville dive with genuine music, it’s hard to go wrong here.

5. The Dive Bar Tour

Yes, there’s a tour just for dive bar lovers. One visitor booked it, and it was a hit. Just don’t expect a Broadway-style party bus. Another mentions, “it’s not like other tours… no drinking on the bus, and the bars aren’t close together.” It’s more like a trip with friends, only in a church van (minus the sermon). But according to another visitor, “this tour was the BEST!!” So, maybe grab your crew and buckle up for a divey adventure around Nashville.

Photo Credit: Bobby’s Idle Hour Facebook

6. Bobby’s Idle Hour

If you’re after a true hangout vibe, Bobby’s Idle Hour has it. One visitor loved the quirky touch here, noting, “the bartender makes jewelry—we bought earrings made out of guitar picks.” Another swears by it as the perfect recovery spot, saying they’d go “if I was hungover and couldn’t do Broadway.” This is one place to enjoy canned beer, laid-back tunes, and some fun souvenirs.

7. Dino’s

Over on the east side, you’ve got Dino’s, a true no-frills kind of place. One visitor backs it up with an enthusiastic, “Dino’s for sure!” Another agrees, placing it as their East Nashville go-to. If a classic burger joint vibe with a side of grit sounds like your thing, Dino’s might just be your new favorite.

Doc Holidays

8. Doc Holliday’s

Looking for a spot with a bit of grit? Doc Holliday’s has that divey, worn-in feel. One visitor puts it simply: “Bell bottoms or Doc Holliday’s or just do both.” Others also gave it their seal of approval.

9. Losers

Celeb sightings? Check. Local dive vibes? Double-check. One visitor recommends Losers, where you might even catch a famous face or two. Others also chimed in with a vote for Losers, proving it’s a favorite for those wanting a classic, no-frills dive bar experience.

  • Address: 1911 Division Street, Nashville, TN 37203
  • Website: losersbar.com

10. The Local and Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge

Last but not least, for those in the know, The Local and Dee’s are solid picks. One visitor mentions, “I go here when I come down.” It’s a low-key spot with a devoted following. Another fan specifically highlights Dee’s as their go-to for that down-home Nashville feel. If you’re looking for a place that has a bit of everything and feels like a home away from home, give these a try.

  • Dee's Country Cocktail Lounge
  • Address: 102 East Palestine Avenue, Madison, TN 37115
  • Website: deeslounge.com

So, there you have it. Nashville’s dive bar scene, straight from the locals who live it. Whether it’s Santa’s Pub for karaoke, Printers Alley for variety, or a laid-back beer at Bobby’s, Nashville has a dive bar for every taste (and budget).

5 thoughts on “Dive Bars That are Not on Broadway: Your Ultimate Nashville Experience”

  1. I’m a Nashvillian and I know where most of these places are, but since this is geared toward visitors/tourists, it would be a good idea to give the establishments’ addresses (and maybe phone numbers and websites as well).

    Yeah, I know they can google it but it would be nice if you provided some information.

    Reply

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