When Nashville visitors were asked what the first place they head to after landing is, the answers were pretty telling — and honestly, a little hilarious.
Spoiler: a lot of people said the bathroom. (Long flights, you know.)
But once that's out of the way? Here's exactly where Nashville visitors go first — straight from the people who've done it.
Robert's Western World Is The Clear Winner
No surprise here. Robert's Western World on Broadway is the most mentioned first stop by a mile.
And it makes total sense. You can grab a famous fried bologna sandwich, wash it down with a $2.50 PBR, and listen to some of the best live honky-tonk music in the city. All before you've even checked into your hotel.
The Recession Special is a fan favorite — it's a bologna sandwich, chips, a Moon Pie, and a beer for just a few bucks. There's almost nothing better after a long trip.
Robert's is open early too. No waiting around.
Tootsies Orchid Lounge Gets An Honorable Mention
Right behind Robert's is Tootsies Orchid Lounge — another Broadway staple that visitors make a beeline for the moment they arrive.
It's been a Nashville institution since 1960. Live music runs all day, every day across multiple floors. It's loud, it's fun, and it's exactly what people picture when they think of Nashville.
If you're hitting Broadway, Tootsies is basically non-negotiable.
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Even visitors who don't have a specific bar in mind head straight to Broadway.
And once you're there, the options are endless. Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk gets a ton of love. So does Legends Corner, which has a more laid-back, locals-feel compared to some of the flashier spots. Chief's on Broadway (Eric Church's bar) comes up time and time again too.
Morgan Wallen's This Bar is also a popular first stop — especially for country music fans who want to start the trip on a high note.
Hotel First, Then Broadway
A solid chunk of visitors do the sensible thing — drop bags at the hotel, freshen up, and then head out.
It's actually not a bad strategy. Nashville can be a marathon, not a sprint. Getting settled first means you're ready to go all night.
Off-Broadway Spots Worth Knowing About
Not everyone heads straight for the neon lights. A few other first stops kept coming up in the comments.
Hattie B's Hot Chicken gets a consistent shoutout. Nashville hot chicken is practically a rite of passage, and Hattie B's is one of the best places to experience it.
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint came up more than once too. Big portions, real smoke, and the kind of BBQ that makes you glad you made the trip.
Pancake Pantry and Loveless Cafe are popular choices for visitors who land in the morning and want a proper Southern breakfast before doing anything else.
Printer's Alley is another area that comes up — a short strip of bars and live music venues just off Broadway that feels a little less touristy.
The Grand Ole Opry And Johnny Cash Museum
For visitors who are here for the music history, two places come up right away.
The Grand Ole Opry is a bucket list stop for country music fans. Shows run regularly and tickets can sell out, so booking ahead is a smart move.
The Johnny Cash Museum on 3rd Ave South is another top pick for first-timers. It's thorough, well put together, and genuinely moving — even if you're not a die-hard fan.
A Few Local Tips Worth Noting
Some visitors skip Broadway entirely on day one. The Gulch, 12 South, and East Nashville offer a very different side of the city — more local, less crowded, and easier on the wallet.
Milk and Honey in the Gulch is a popular brunch spot. Bar Taco in 12 South gets a mention for margaritas. And Monell's comes up for family-style Southern cooking that's hard to beat.
Whatever kind of trip you're planning — full Broadway immersion or something a little more low-key — Nashville has a first stop for you.
