Rooftop Bars in Nashville: 14 Places to Drink with a View
The nightlife in Nashville is as vibrant as any in the world, with bachelor and bachelorette parties sauntering down almost every street. Luckily, Nashville has just about every kind of bar and nightclub you could ever want. Whether it’s a Country Western bar, charming dives, craft breweries, famous live music venues, or flashy nightclubs, Nashville has you covered. But drinking outdoors is a Nashville pastime. With comfortable weather just about all year round, Nashville is perfectly set up for outdoor drinking. While the Honkey Tonk Bars get all the headlines, Nashville has a sneaky-great scene for rooftop bars. With an evolving (and expanding) cityscape and the gorgeous Cumberland River, Nashville is perfectly set up for rooftop lounges and outdoor terraces with skyline views.
Grabbing some cocktails and enjoying the view is a great way of capping off a successful day spent visiting all the best shopping areas in Nashville or starting a night on the town. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time in the city, just remember to stop by one of Bounce’s luggage storage locations to free up those arms for cocktail sipping and sightseeing. Here are the best rooftop bars in Nashville:
Acme Feed & Seed
What's it like:
This downtown rooftop restaurant boasts one of the absolute best locations in the city. Situated on the fourth floor on Broadway next to the water, Acme’s views of the Cumberland River alone are worth visiting. If the weather isn’t right, there are three other floors of Acme Feed & Seed that are covered from the elements. The views are incredible, but the charming decor and atmosphere are what really set this downtown favorite apart.
Our recommendation:
Their signature cocktail program serves refreshing drinks that fit the vibe of the rooftop terrace, but they also serve delicious bourbon creations. The food? As exciting as any traditional southern menu gets, with reimagined country classics that will appeal to barbecue purists and foodie city slickers.
Location:
101 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
Denim
What's it like:
This pool deck at the Joseph Hotel does require swimmers to be guests, but the Denim's stylish rooftop bar is open to anyone who wants to sip on a cocktail, eat a delicious meal, and enjoy an incredible view of the Nashville skyline. The southern country vibe is on full display. The decor is decked out in selvage denim, and the tunes pulsing from the DJ booth skew country.
Our recommendation:
The food menu takes a left turn, with traditional Italian dishes being provided by celebrity chef Tony Mantuano. But there are plenty of options that feel appropriate in a jean-covered bar. Their decadent double Smashburger is one of the best in Nashville, and bartenders serve several signature cocktails that showcase their excellent selection of bourbon. Come for the Instagrammable view of the river, stay for the delicious food and drinks, and even a selfie in front of a jean-lined wall you’ll have to explain.
Location:
401 Korean Veterans Blvd Floor 21, Nashville, TN 37203
Florida Georgia Line House
What's it like:
Located south of Broadway in the fittingly-named SoBro neighborhood, this tiered entertainment complex is another brainchild of a country music artist. Florida Georgia Line brings their rowdy nostalgia to the Nashville skyline with a bumping sound system, southern bar bites, and stiff cocktails.
Our recommendation:
Expect live music on weekends (curated by a country music industry insider) and on gameday, Florida Georgia Line House is the perfect pre-game before heading to Nissan Stadium or Bridgestone Arena, even if the Georgia Bulldogs or Florida Gators are in town to face off with Vanderbilt. You'll definitely want to look into reservations if you have a larger group.
Location:
120 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
Ole Red / The Lookout
What's it like:
This open-air hangout, located on the edge of SoBro and the Arts District, is presented by none other than country music dynamo Blake Shelton. Located at the corner of all street corners, 3rd and Broadway across from The Grand Ole Opry, Ole Red epitomizes Nashville Cool. The bar and live music portion of the establishment, The Lookout, curates a killer lineup of local artists, making this spot a must-hit destination for country fans that serves some of the best bar food in Nashville.
Our recommendation:
The cocktail menu features traditional Tennessee offerings along with a heavily-local beer menu. The Bless Your Sweetheart boozy cherry lemonade is a standout, but anyone looking for a quick beer won’t be disappointed by the down-to-earth menu. The food is incredible, with bacon-wrapped meatloaf, Velveeta-soaked Redneck Nachos, and southern favorites like fried green tomatoes. Anyone looking for a quintessential Nashville experience in an upscale setting will do well to stop by The Lookout.
Location:
300 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
White Limozeen
What's it like:
The Graduate Hotel’s bespoke brand doesn’t end with its stylish lobby and Dolly Parton statue. White Limozeen's pastel-tinged pool bar creates a pleasant atmosphere that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Our recommendation:
Pink umbrellas and purple cabanas line the rooftop, with a chic bar that serves French-inspired cocktails as well as caviar and snacks perfect for enjoying poolside.
Location:
101 20th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203
Luke’s 32 Bridge
What's it like:
Luke Bryan could be the mayor of Nashville if not for his legendary run as the pinnacle of modern country music. So he’ll content himself as a restaurateur and tavern-keeper with Luke’s 32 Bridge rooftop bar. Jason Aldean also owns a restaurant that's literally next door to 32 Bridge. They might be different establishments, but they are situated next to each other with an understanding that makes it easy to jump back and forth between bars.
Our recommendation:
While sushi might not be an obvious complement for country music, Luke’s 32 nonetheless serves some of the finest in Nashville, along with some sleek fusion options as well. If you’re in the mood for something a little more Tennessee, stop by next door. Jason Aldean’s rooftop restaurant and bar serve all the best southern cuisine. Both Aldean's spot and Luke Bryan's bar serve superb barbecue and bourbon offerings, along with local craft beers.
Location:
301 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
Tootsie's Orchid Lounge
What's it like:
One of the rooftops with character that best fits Nashville’s iconic southern charm, this third-floor rooftop bar has stunning views of Lower Broadway. Set in a three-story purple house on one of downtown Nashville’s busiest streets, Tootsie’s is hard to miss. The vibe perfectly encapsulates the town’s country roots, with live music almost every night.
Our recommendation:
The menu features southern comfort food, no-frills cocktails, and draft beer from the best local breweries. Tootsie’s is also located next to Bridgestone Arena, making it the perfect place to head before a Predators hockey game or a concert.
Location:
127 9th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203
The Pool Club
What's it like:
The Virgin Hotel in Music Row offers a fittingly-upscale rooftop pool bar. The lush greenery they've decorated the terrace with strikes a nice juxtaposition between the industrial-chic Music Row neighborhood. But this place is hardly a wellness retreat.
Our recommendation:
Whether it’s the shareable punch bowls or the lively DJ sets, just about every aspect of The Pool Club encourages partying. They even offer “bro bottle service” in the form of Igloo coolers packed with beer. You can definitely picture Richard Branson courting up-and-coming rock stars at one of the private cabanas.
Location:
1 Music Square W, Nashville, TN 37203
Rare Bird
What's it like:
The Arts District’s Noelle Hotel presents one of the most colorful rooftop bars in Nashville. The tropical decor and vibe-heavy atmosphere of Rare Bird are perfect for anyone looking to change it up from the Country Western and southern branding that permeates throughout Nashville.
Our recommendation:
The refreshing tiki drinks and prominent foliage (we can’t use the word ‘tropical’ enough) really flush out the theme and are complemented by the fashionable music pulsing from the DJ booth. Expect a lot of cocktails featuring rum and citrus fruit on their drink menu. Rare Bird’s impressive food program also serves elevated bar food like truffle french fries and “Nashville Hot” cauliflower bites.
Location:
200 4th Avenue North Top Floor, Nashville, TN 37219
Rooftop Lounge at the Bobby Hotel
What's it like:
This is one of the best rooftop bars in Nashville and thankfully not exclusive to hotel guests. The Bobby Hotel is a trendy downtown destination, and its upscale bar has perfect views of the Nashville skyline. The sleek design complements the trendy theme, but the most noticeable character comes from the 1956 Scenicruiser Bus, which was craned up to the rooftop when they built the lounge. The Instagram pics coordinate themselves at the Bobby Hotel. Between the pool, the bus, and the view, there’s a reason for its reputation as one of the best rooftop bars in Nashville.
Our recommendation:
Reserving a cabana for a group is one of the quintessential nightlife experiences in Nashville. The comfortable seating allows groups to lounge in the sun for an entire afternoon. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or bar-hopping in downtown Nashville, this one is a can't-miss destination.
Location:
230 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219
L27 Rooftop Bar
What's it like:
The Westin’s luxurious rooftop bar and pool deck are located on the hotel’s 27th floor, so the panoramic views are absolutely phenomenal. Downtown’s SoBro neighborhood’s explosion has resulted in several upscale spots like L27, but this has to be one of the best. The rooftop pool itself is reason alone to stop by, as it has a glass side that allows swimmers to enjoy the view of Downtown Nashville without leaving the water. If you’re looking for an upscale experience on one of the best rooftop bars in Nashville, L27 is your spot.
Our recommendation:
The pool lounge serves a variety of specialty cocktails that fit the sunny, refreshing theme of L27. Expect citrus-forward creations that highlight seasonal fruits. The rotating food menu is globally-minded, with a nice selection of fusion options, like a Caprese-inspired avocado toast, that pair well with a lemon yuzu cocktail.
Location:
807 Clark Pl, Nashville, TN 37203
L.A. Jackson at the Thompson Hotel
What's it like:
Tucked away in the trending-upward Gulch neighborhood, the Thompson Hotel is one of Nashville’s most stylish places to stay. Although it’s only a short walk from Downtown Nashville, the Gulch has a more laid-back atmosphere, and the Thompson’s L.A. Jackson rooftop bar reflects that with a leafy outdoor terrace with excellent views of the city and surrounding hills. There’s a VIP patio vibe at L.A. Jackson, but that doesn’t mean it’s exclusive or overly luxurious; anyone can get into the bar.
Our recommendation:
The menu of specialty cocktails has frozen and shareable options, and they serve legitimately great food like their double steak burger. Because of the relaxed crowd, this rooftop terrace is a perfect place for a small group or romantic getaway.
Location:
401 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Lou/Na
What's it like:
Another new addition to Downtown Nashville’s stacked nightlife scene, this stylish rooftop restaurant and bar is located on the 25th floor of the Grand Hyatt Towers. You’ll have views of the Gulch and Music City neighborhoods as well as the surrounding greenery. Private cabanas, tables, couches, and even fire pits make this a suitable spot for every occasion.
Our recommendation:
After you’ve fortified your courage with a few of their specialty cocktails (the Strawberry Sunburn might be the best), head over to Music City for line dancing and honky tonk! Or, if that’s not your speed, lounge on their comfy couches by the firepit with a nightcap.
Location:
1000 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Zeppelin
What's it like:
This 7th-floor rooftop lounge has incredible views of both the Cumberland River and Nissan Stadium, but it’s most famous for its epic Sunday brunch. The food is exceptional at Zeppelin, with a trend-forward focus and superb oysters. This open-air patio has plenty of seating for a big crew, which might explain the boisterous but friendly atmosphere every weekend. The decor is high-energy, with neon lighting and a sleek, modern design. While Zeppelin isn’t precisely a hipster hangout, you can see where the trendy vibes come from. The downtown skyline is visible from most vantage points, creating unbeatable photo opportunities.
Our recommendation:
The fashionable crowd is treated to DJ sets almost every weekend, and the cocktail menu features bright, fizzy creations that are designed for outdoor enjoyment. The food program is social as well, with a tapas menu made for sharing.
Location:
505 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
Conclusion
There are thousands of reasons to visit Nashville. The shopping, the friendly locals, the live music, the food; the list goes on. Nashville’s nightlife is a huge part of why this city is such a prominent travel destination, and the many rooftop bars are a key part of the city’s scene. Whether you’re hitting up a rooftop lounge, seeing some live music, or a Honky Tonk dive bar, drop the bags at a Bounce luggage storage location so you can line-dance, take a dip at a rooftop pool, or both!
