(1/24/2024) after Expo at Tootsies
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Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

4.4
·7k reviews·Nashville, United States

World-famous honky-tonk on Nashville's Broadway, offering continuous live music across three floors and a rooftop bar.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more room to dance

CrowdLow
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(1/24/2024) after Expo at Tootsies

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more room to dance

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

World-famous honky-tonk on Nashville's Broadway, offering continuous live music across three floors and a rooftop bar.

4.4
(7k reviews)

"A staple in Nashville that you have to experience at least once."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Three Floors of Music!

Don't stop at the first floor; explore all three levels for different bands and vibes.

💰 Drinks Can Add Up

Be aware that drinks on Broadway, including at Tootsie's, can be pricey. Budget accordingly.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.4 · 7,097 reviews

Type

Bar

♿ Wheelchair accessible🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Orchid Lounge

The Iconic Orchid Lounge

Broadway, Downtown Nashville

World-famous honky-tonk with live music across three floors and a rooftop bar. A true Nashville institution.

Rooftop Views

Rooftop Views

Rooftop Bar

Enjoy live music and great views of Broadway from the lively rooftop, a perfect spot for people-watching.

Live Music on Every Floor

Live Music on Every Floor

Main Stage, Second Floor, Rooftop

Experience continuous live country, rock, and blues music from talented local artists all day and night.

Historic Memorabilia

Historic Memorabilia

Throughout the Lounge

Walls adorned with photos and memorabilia from country music legends who have graced its stage.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Broadway Buzz

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is a legendary honky-tonk on Nashville's bustling Broadway. Expect live music from morning till late, a vibrant atmosphere, and crowds ready to party. Arrive early or be prepared for a lively, packed experience.

Dress Code & Vibe

While generally casual, some visitors have reported being turned away for dress code violations like tank tops. It's best to err on the side of smart casual to ensure entry and enjoy the iconic Nashville honky-tonk experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more room to dance
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Peak live music & vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
During CMA Fest
Why
Unmatched energy & celebrity sightings
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

In downtown Nashville, across the alley from the Ryman on Broadway is Tootsies Orchid Lounge — a world-famous honkey-tonk. Enjoy live music and the rooftop bar. A must-experience for any downtown Newbie. #tootsies #nashvillebars #downtownnashville #broadway #honkeytonk #countrymusic #livemusic #thingstodonashville #nashvilletn #rooftopbars #nashvillefood #ryman #rymanauditorium #CapCut #fyp #fypシ...
@nashvillenuggets
538 likes • 60.3K views

🎯 Three Floors of Music!

Don't stop at the first floor; explore all three levels for different bands and vibes. Instagram

💰 Drinks Can Add Up

Be aware that drinks on Broadway, including at Tootsie's, can be pricey. Budget accordingly. Reddit

Taydee Marie at Tootsies Orchid Lounge in Nashville, TN singing ‘I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll’ #nashville #livemusic #countrymusic #iloverocknroll @Taydee Marie
@chrisjtravels
27 likes • 486 views
Totally normal to have the window from @tootsies_orchid_lounge in your house, right? Holler and Swaller! #CountryMusic
terriclarkmusic
3.4K likes • 36K views

🚶‍♀️ Alley Entrance Hack

For a potentially quicker entry, try the alleyway entrance behind the Ryman Auditorium. TikTok

🎶 Catch a Rising Star

Many future country music stars got their start here; listen closely! TikTok

Throwback to @lukebryan singing on @tootsies_orchid_lounge rooftop for the @predsnhl #stanleycupfinals #2017
frontrowfan3737
212 likes • 6.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Three Floors of Music!

Don't stop at the first floor; explore all three levels for different bands and vibes. Instagram

💰 Drinks Can Add Up

Be aware that drinks on Broadway, including at Tootsie's, can be pricey. Budget accordingly. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Alley Entrance Hack

For a potentially quicker entry, try the alleyway entrance behind the Ryman Auditorium. TikTok

🎶 Catch a Rising Star

Many future country music stars got their start here; listen closely! TikTok

👕 Dress Smart Casual

Avoid tank tops to prevent dress code issues and ensure entry. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is a legendary Nashville honky-tonk celebrated for its continuous live music across three floors and a vibrant rooftop bar. Visitors love the iconic atmosphere, the talented bands, and the historic memorabilia, making it a must-visit spot. However, some find the drinks to be expensive and have encountered issues with dress codes.

"Always a fun time! Every visit to Nashville must include a stop. Inside and out, a great place with a super staff. Did not eat here. Great views and a perfect place to meet new people and 'people watch'...some crazy good times happening all around you!"

richard teolis jr

"Yes the staple you know it to be. We were fortunate to be able to get a table. Usually there is a long wait. Very friendly staff and great service here too. Great live music as you would expect. 🎵 🎶 Another must see bar when in Nashville 😁"

Eva Munch

"A staple in Nashville that you have to experience at least once. Multiple floors, live music, and a rooftop section that gives you an amazing view of Broadway. I’m not a fan of overly crowded bars, but we had an absolute blast here. The vibe was great and it didn’t matter your age, we were all there for a good time! Just wish I bought a Tootsies shirt because it was a fond memory of our trip!"

Kristen Duska

What People Like

Iconic atmosphere
Live music on multiple floors
Historic memorabilia

What People Dislike

Expensive drinks
Dress code issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is located right on Broadway in downtown Nashville, making it easily accessible on foot if you're staying nearby. If you're coming from further out, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are a convenient option. Parking downtown can be challenging and expensive, so public transport or ride-sharing is often recommended. TikTok+1

While there are several parking garages and lots in the downtown Nashville area, they can be quite expensive, especially during peak hours or events. It's often more practical to use ride-sharing services or public transportation to reach Tootsie's. Reddit

Absolutely! Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is famously located just across the alley from the Ryman Auditorium, making it a very short and easy walk between the two iconic Nashville landmarks. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no cover charge to enter Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, especially during regular hours. However, for special events or during major festivals like CMA Fest, there might be ticket requirements or cover charges. It's always best to check their official website or social media for any event-specific information. TikTok

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge typically opens early in the morning and stays open late into the night, with live music playing throughout the day. Hours can vary slightly, so checking their official website or social media is recommended for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

While Tootsie's is a honky-tonk, some visitors have reported being denied entry for dress code violations, such as wearing tank tops. It's advisable to opt for smart casual attire to ensure you can get in and enjoy the experience. Reddit

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge operates on a first-come, first-served basis for most of its space, especially on the main floors. While you might be able to find a table if you arrive early or are lucky, reservations are generally not taken for general admission. Reddit

🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience

Tootsie's is renowned for its live country music, but you'll also hear rock and blues performances. There are bands playing on multiple floors simultaneously, offering a continuous stream of live entertainment throughout the day and night. TikTok+2

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge boasts three floors of live music, plus a rooftop bar. Each floor features its own band, providing a diverse musical experience. InstagramReddit

Yes, Tootsie's is a very popular spot and can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and during events like CMA Fest. Arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday can offer a less packed experience. Reddit

While you'll primarily see talented local artists, Tootsie's has a legendary history, with many country music icons like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton having performed there early in their careers. Celebrities like Jimmy Fallon have also been spotted there. TikTokInstagram

The vibe is energetic, fun, and quintessentially Nashville honky-tonk. It's a place where people come to enjoy live music, dance, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Broadway. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍻 Food & Dining

While Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is primarily known for its drinks and live music, they do offer a limited food menu, often featuring classic bar fare. However, many visitors focus on the music and drinks, with some choosing to dine elsewhere on Broadway. Reddit

Broadway and the surrounding downtown area offer a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Popular choices include Hattie B's Hot Chicken, Acme Feed & Seed, and The Southern Steak & Oyster, all within walking distance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic purple exterior of Tootsie's is a must-have photo. Inside, capture the vibrant atmosphere, the live bands, and the walls covered in memorabilia. The rooftop also offers great shots of the Broadway streetscape. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you are generally allowed to take photos and videos inside Tootsie's Orchid Lounge to capture the memories of your visit. However, be mindful of the performers and other patrons, and avoid obstructing views or using flash excessively. TikTok

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