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 Broadway and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!
Printers Alley. Have you never heard of it? That's because it's hidden in between the 3rd and 4th Avenues. It's a secret place that cannot rival any other part of Nashville.
As someone who frequents Printers Alley, I know too well that when planning a vacation to Nashville. In the words of a musical maestro, it's about knowing when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em. I want you to be prepared and take it from a local, Printers Alley is a piece of Nashivlle that can't be missed.
1. What is Printer's Alley?
Printer's Alley is a short, cobblestone street tucked away in downtown Nashville that was the entertainment hub of the city before the honky-tonks of Broadway became popular.
Originally, it was the home of many newspaper printers and banks. Later, they were converted into bars, restaurants, and live music venues, which have hosted the most famous artists and music dignitaries.
Today, Printer's Alley remains a popular spot and contains a lot of the original hot spots like Skulls Rainbow Room, the Climax Saloon, and the Brass Stables.
Understand that the cobblestones under your feet have been walked by actors, presidents, and musicians from all over the world.
Printers Alley has seen a huge number of music greats, including icons such as Jimi Hendrix and B.B. King, as well as country music luminaries like Waylon Jennings, Dottie West, and Hank Williams.
From a series of stables where men would hitch their horses up before they rode into the courthouse, it was the virtual heartbeat for the printing industry that served all of the Nashville region, including some thirteen publishers and a full ten printers by the turn of the 20th century.
In its heyday, it became a very boisterous neighborhood of hotels, restaurants, and speakeasies.
During the prohibition era in the United States it became a haven for illegal alcohol that was even supported by the mayor at the time.
The decade of the 1940s ushered in nightclubs, transforming the alley into a showcase for legendary performers.
Fast forward today, and Printers Alley stands as a proud descendant of speakeasies and nightclubs of the yesteryears. The cobbled streets that once welcomed United States presidents and global dignitaries now invite you.
2. Visit a Bar or Two (or Three!)
Printers Alley is famous for its incredible music bars, burlesque, karaoke, and restaurants.
Whether it be stopping in at the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar under its neon sign or tasting the bluesy sounds of a jazz band, every corner of the alley is alive with tradition mixed with contemporary entertainment.
Here are some must-visit spots:
- Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar (greats such as James Brown, B.B. King, John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, and even Jim Belushi have played here).
- World Famous Skull's Rainbow Room (opened in 1948). Skull’s Rainbow Room offers a mix of live jazz music, burlesque shows, and fine dining. The establishment pays homage to its speakeasy roots with a classic cocktail menu and elegant, vintage decor.
- The Climax Saloon. Opened in 1887 by George Dickel and Company, it became a primary outlet for the sale of their whiskey.
- The Brass Stables (former U.S. President Andrew Jackson maintained his horses at this location).
- The Whiskey Shot. The Whiskey Shot combines the drinking of alcohol with laser gun target practice. They offer an upscale dining experience with southern classics.
- Miss Kelli's Karaoke. This is one of the largest karaoke bars in the state of Tennessee. It's family-owned and operated and services 21 and over only with no cover charge. They have a long list of songs, beers, pub food, and space to dance.
- Alley Taps. Enjoy local craft beer and cocktails.
Click here for a full rundown of bars and restaurants on Printers Alley.
3. Get Something To Eat
As you stroll down the cobbled streets, you'll find many places to eat that provide a unique Nashville experience. Try some of the following spots:
- Fleet Street Pub. This was started by a couple of the UK who wanted to start an English style pub. It's cool! You'll fine decor suited to England the bands it produced. I wrote a complete review here.
- Daddy's Dogs. They have about a dozen different styles of hot dogs. Favorite menu items include the Music City Hotdog and the Mexican Coke. They claim to be the best hot dogs you've ever had.
- Bobby's Garage. Bobby's Garage is connected with the Bobby Hotel. The entrance to the bar is in Printers Alley. It follows a garage theme with neon lights, wall graffiti, and salvaged car parts. Staff wear denim work shirts and wipe down the concrete bar with mechanic rags.
4. Tips for Your Visit
- Printers Alley comes alive at night. You won't find much (if anything) open during the day. You should plan to arrive no earlier than 6 pm.
- The Alley is just a short walk from Broadway. Unless you're physically unable, I would suggest turning up 3rd Ave North from Broadway. Within a short walk up the hill you'll bump into Printers Alley, you can't miss it.
- There are many great hotels that are either on the alley itself or nearby. I've listed them in this blog post.
- The Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum acquired the stage Jimi Hendrix used to play on when he lived in Nashville. The building has since been torn down but the entire stage has been kept in it's original form. Well worth checking it out!