Bluebird Cafe

The Basics

The Bluebird Cafe features live music—and perhaps the next big thing—every day and night. There’s also an occasional open-mic night that often features special guests. As the Bluebird has become one of the most popular destinations in all of Tennessee, it can be tough to secure seats. In addition to hosting shows, the café serves food and drink, and operates as an acoustic music listening room. Tours of the filming locations for the hit ABC showNashville include a Bluebird visit, as do some Nashville city sightseeing tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Performance tickets can be reserved about a week in advance.

• Most shows have no cover charge, but there is a $10 food and drink minimum per guest.

• Sunday and Monday night shows are first come, first served. As such, lines are famously long on these days.

• Though the Bluebird Cafe serves alcohol, guests of all ages are welcome.

How to Get There

The Bluebird Cafe is located just outside downtown Nashville. There is parking directly in front of the café.

When to Get There

Most shows take place in the evening. If you plan to wait in line for tickets, arrive two to three hours before a show starts.

Other Must-See Music Spots in Nashville

Beyond the Bluebird, Music City’s other most famous venues include the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry—both of which are a must-see for country-music fans. These sights can be visited and toured during the day, so for the ultimate Nashville experience, check them out before attending an evening show at the Bluebird.

Ways to explore

The Bluebird Cafe features live music performances—and perhaps the next big thing—every day and night. There’s also an occasional open-mic night that often features special guests. As the Bluebird has become one of the most popular destinations in Tennessee, securing seats can be tough, especially on weekends. In addition to hosting shows, the café serves food and drink and operates as an acoustic music listening room. Tours of the filming locations for the hit ABC show Nashville include a Bluebird visit, as do some Nashville city sightseeing tours.

Accessibility

The venue is wheelchair-accessible, with a limited number of accessible seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Age limits

Children are welcome, but you must be over 21 years to sit at a bar seat.

What to pack

Camera, small bag, valid photo ID

What to wear

Layered smart-casual clothing, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Large bags and suitcases, video or audio recording

Amenities

Bar, restrooms, parking

Address 

The Bluebird Café sits in the Green Hills neighbourhood of Nashville, a short drive from downtown. Visitors can arrive by car, rideshare, or use local bus services from central Music City.

Driving

The café is an easy 15-minute drive from the city center. Instead of driving, it’s easier to use a rideshare app, since parking spaces fill up quickly on popular nights.

Public transportation

It’s easy to travel by bus from downtown Nashville to the Bluebird Café. You can get bus No. 17 from Central to Richard Jones Rd & Hillsboro Pike and then walk for six minutes.

Best times to visit

Arrive before the show starts to secure a seat—doors typically open around an hour before show time.

Best days to visit

It’s usually easier to get tickets for Tuesday–Thursday shows when competition is slightly lower. Friday/Saturday nights tend to sell out quickly due to higher-profile acts.

Best months to visit

April or May are great months to visit Nashville for pleasant weather and smaller crowds than in summer.

Special events

During the annual CMA Fest (typically in June), the café sometimes hosts special events and daytime performances.