Hotels near The Bluebird Cafe

The Bluebird Cafe is a 90-seat room in a suburban strip mall that has launched more careers than almost any venue in Nashville. Opened in 1982, it is known for its in-the-round shows, where three or four songwriters sit in a circle in the middle of the room and take turns playing the songs they wrote for other artists, often with the stories behind them.

Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift were both discovered here, and the person on the next stool may well have written a number one hit. Talking during songs is not allowed, and the atmosphere is closer to a listening room than a bar. Online reservations open at set times and disappear within minutes, while a small number of walk-in seats are held for some shows.

Pro Tip: Set a reminder for the moment reservations open and book in the first few minutes. If you miss out, queue early for walk-in seats at the Monday open mic night.