Welcome to Music City! If you’re moving to Nashville or simply exploring neighborhoods in Nashville, you can’t miss Music Row Nashville, the beating heart of the American music industry. Often referred to as both Music Square West and Music Square East, this famous street in Nashville is where the legendary Nashville sound was born and continues to thrive.
So, what is there to do on Music Row in Nashville? Plenty! This vibrant district is packed with world-renowned recording studios, historic publishing houses, and landmarks tied to some of the greatest names in music history. Step inside RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson all recorded hits that shaped modern country and rock.
Take a Nashville city tour to hear behind-the-scenes stories of these legendary artists, or visit nearby attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame for an even deeper dive into the city’s iconic past.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Music Row Nashville, whether you’re chasing a dream record deal, planning your next big move, or just enjoying the area.
Table of Contents
Getting to Music Row
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Where is Music Row in Nashville? You’ll find Music Row Nashville TN tucked just southwest of downtown, centered around 16th and 17th Avenues and stretching across several side streets. If you’re starting from Broadway and the honky-tonk strip, you might ask, “How far is Music Row from Downtown Nashville?” The answer is less than a mile! It’s an easy walk or a quick drive from key hot spots like The Gulch, Midtown, and even across the river from East Nashville.
The best ways to reach Music Row Nashville depend on your style. Adventurous visitors can stroll from Downtown to soak up the sights, while rideshare services and electric scooters make quick work of the short trip. Drivers will find convenient parking lots and metered street spots near the studios and coffee shops that line the district.
Music Row Nashville Map
Top Things to Do on Music Row
There’s no shortage of excitement on Music Row Nashville, the heart of Nashville’s music industry and birthplace of the legendary Nashville sound. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is there to do on Music Row in Nashville”, this is where the magic happens. Where country music, pop, and rock all blend together to create the soundtrack of Music City. From world-famous Nashville recording studios to charming parks, here’s how to explore the best of Music Row Nashville.
Tour Legendary Recording Studios
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A visit to Music Row Nashville wouldn’t be complete without stepping inside its iconic studios. Start with Historic RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, and even Bob Dylan recorded hits that defined modern country music.
Guided tours are offered through the Country Music Hall of Fame, making it easy to soak in the stories behind the songs. Don’t miss RCA Studio A, beloved for its timeless recordings of both country and pop legends. Other standout Nashville recording studios, like Ocean Way and Blackbird, continue to host today’s biggest artists.
Stroll the Iconic Music Row Roundabout
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For a perfect photo op, head to the Music Row roundabout, home to the dramatic “Musica” sculpture and peaceful Owen Bradley Park. Owen Bradley Park is a small but meaningful green space that is dedicated to producer Owen Bradley, a key architect of the Nashville sound, offering a scenic spot to relax with great views of Music Row Nashville.
Explore the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame
Discover the stories behind the hits at the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Exhibits rotate regularly, featuring memorabilia and behind-the-scenes tales of the city’s greatest lyricists who shaped both country music and pop culture.
Visit Music Publishers & Label Landmarks
Ever wonder where your favorite songs are born? Music Row Nashville is lined with record labels, publishing houses, and historic offices of industry giants like Sony/ATV and Warner Music. And keep your eyes open, celebrities often pass through for meetings or sessions!
Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour
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One of the best ways to explore Music Row Nashville is to lace up your shoes and venture out on your own. Stroll past the historic Quonset Hut, the first commercial studio in Music City, along with plaques marking legendary sessions and murals celebrating the city’s musical heritage. You can use the Music City Center’s interactive walking map to help guide you.
Food & Drinks Near Music Row
Exploring Music Row Nashville works up an appetite, and luckily, this iconic neighborhood is surrounded by incredible places to eat. From comfort food to artisan coffee to buzzing Music Row Nashville bars, these must-visit spots will keep you fueled during your day of adventures.
Classic Southern Eats
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You can’t experience Music Row Nashville without tasting true Southern flavor. Just a short walk or quick drive away, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken serves up Nashville’s signature spicy fried chicken along with delicious sides like grits and mac and cheese.
Another local legend, Arnold’s Country Kitchen, is a classic “meat & three” cafeteria where locals line up for roast beef, fried green tomatoes, and banana pudding.
Trendy Cafes and Coffee Shops
Need a caffeine fix? Head to Barista Parlor for expertly crafted lattes in a stylish industrial space, or grab a table at Fido, a well-known Nashville cafe known for creative drinks and all-day breakfast. Smaller neighborhood gems like Frothy Monkey are also worth visiting when spending a day in Music Row Nashville.
Live Music Bars & Lounges
When the sun goes down, the energy around Music Row Nashville kicks up a notch with nearby bars and lounges that showcase rising stars. Check out Riley Green’s Duck Blind or Losers Bar & Grill, two sister spots on Division Street that are favorites among locals
Over on Demonbreun Street, The Red Door Saloon and Tin Roof are must-visit venues for catching up-and-coming artists and enjoying an authentic Nashville vibe.
Music Row Nightlife & Events
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If you’re lucky enough to visit Music Row Nashville during a fun event, you’re in for a real treat. Here are a few events that capture the heart of the neighborhood.
Songwriter Rounds and Listening Rooms
One of the most magical experiences on Music Row Nashville is catching a songwriter round. These live acoustic sessions let the creators of your favorite hits share their songs and the stories behind them. While technically a few miles away, the legendary Bluebird Cafe is a must for any music lover. They frequently host songwriter rounds, with huge artists like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran known to stop by unannounced for an acoustic set.
Annual Festivals & Special Events
The calendar around Music Row Nashville is packed with celebrations that showcase the city’s creative energy. The massive CMA Music Festival draws fans from around the world every June, while the more low-key Americana Music Festival kicks off every September.
The Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival transforms local venues into storytelling stages where Nashville’s best songwriters take the spotlight. So, no matter what time of year it is, Music Row Nashville is the place to be.
Beyond Music Row
Once you’ve soaked in all of Music Row Nashville, there’s still plenty to explore just beyond the neighborhood.
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Dive deeper into Nashville’s music history with interactive exhibits, rare instruments, and iconic stage costumes.
- Midtown Nashville: Packed with casual bars, late-night eateries, and live music spots
- East Nashville: Known for its hipster shops, craft breweries, and eclectic restaurants.
- The Parthenon at Centennial Park: Visit this full-scale replica of the Greek original for art exhibits and stunning photo opportunities.
- Ryman Auditorium: Catch a concert or take a backstage tour of this historic venue.
- Johnny Cash Museum: Explore the life and legacy of the Man in Black.
- The Gulch: A trendy district nearby with upscale dining, rooftop bars, and the Instagram-famous “What Lifts You” mural.
Tips for First Time Visitors to Music Row Nashville
Make the most of your first trip to Music Row Nashville with these insider tips:
- Plan studio tours in advance. Popular spots like RCA Studio B often sell out, so reserve tickets early.
- Wear comfy shoes. Exploring 16th and 17th Avenues is best on foot.
- Go early for photos. Mornings offer the best light and fewer crowds.
- Use rideshare or scooters. Parking can be limited, and rideshare apps and electric scooters make short hops from Downtown easy.
- Check the events calendar. Festivals like Tin Pan South and CMAFest can change traffic patterns and studio availability.
- Respect the working studios. Remember, many buildings are active workplaces for musicians, producers, and executives.
- Pair your visit with nearby attractions. Combine your Music Row Nashville stop with Downtown, Midtown, or The Gulch to experience more of Music City in one trip.
- Don’t rush. Take time to linger in Owen Bradley Park, listen for live music spilling from studios, and soak in all of the creative energy the area has to offer.
Moving to the Nashville Area?
Music Row Nashville is a fun place to explore, whether you’re just visiting or already a resident. If you’re thinking about planning a move to Nashville, then let the experts at 6th Man Movers help you! Our Nashville movers are here to help you with anything you need, from storage to packing to Nashville moving costs.
To discuss your move and get started with a free estimate, give our team a call at (615) 434-8272.
