From the Author: I live in Southern California and have been country dancing for over 7 years. I have spent countless nights out both line dancing and partner dancing. I love the basic Two Step and other partner dances like the common Western Cha Cha dances.
Nashville, known also as Music City, is the birthplace of country music. It also continues to be the Mecca that all aspiring country musicians are drawn to. It’s where the country star’s dream is realized or lost. So, Nashville is the place to visit if you love country music. But what if you specifically want to do some country dancing in Nashville or Middle Tennessee?
If you love country dancing, both two-stepping and line dancing, and you either live in Nashville or are visiting, this post is a guide to where to go! When you go, the main thing of course is the live music. It truly is all about the music, both country and beyond! But what about dancing?
Believe it or not, it isn’t obvious and that easy to do the slappin’ leather line dance in Nashville. Yes, it’s possible, but you’ll need a guide, like what I’ve provided right here!
When it comes to exploring Nashville to go dancing, of course, we will take a stroll down Broadway, also known as “Honky Tonk Highway,” but we’ll need to drive out and around Nashville as well to find the good spots. But, starting with Broadway… There are so many fantastic little famous spots with from 2 to even 5 stories of live music and partying going on. Just look for the neon signs!
But what if I told you some of these places are a little short on the dance floor space? Sorry, but it’s true. The charm and magic of these little spots is their history. These tiny little stages, small taverns, and listening rooms were the launchpads for many great singing careers. They continue to be so, but it’s really about the music, the songwriters, listening, and drinking with friends (not dancing).
So we’ll start with 2nd & 3rd Avenue and then continue with a walk down Broadway and find the spots where there’s some country dancing happening. But then we’ll go on some long drives to explore some obscure but legit dance halls.
Additional Place! In addition to the 15 places listed in this article is also The Nashville Palace. This will be added to the list eventually, but for now, I have an article just about The Nashville Palace, a great place for some serious line dancing! For the 11 listed above see some quick info below…
11 Best Places around Nashville for Dancing At-A-Glance
Click on any of the pictures to jump down to see specifics about that Nashville or Middle Tennessee dance venue.
1. Category 10
While most of the iconic honky tonk bars line Broadway (“Honky Tonk Highway”, or “Lower-Broad”), Category 10 is to the north, up 2nd Avenue, located in the heart of downtown Nashville, and very close to the Cumberland River on 2nd Avenue.
If you go, you’ll be absorbed quickly by an amazing, even cavernous big honky tonk that is rocking. The establishment is now Luke Combs’ Category 10 honky tonk. But it hasn’t always been so! The story of Category 10 is one that is good to know! Category 10 is pretty new, but the building has been rocking with country music and dancing for a long time. It was previously known as the world-famous Wildhorse Saloon.
It opened in 1994 with a bang when Reba McIntire led a stampede of actual cattle down 2nd Street to mark the beginning of over 2 decades of country music and fun. But times change! The venue is now been reimagined, but thankfully is still a great entertainment venue for country music and country dancers!
Category 10, like its predessessor, the Wildhorse, remains a premiere spot for country music entertainment and line dancing. It is 3 stories, and the sprawling dance floor is the largest in Nashville. The saloon is open 7 days a week and offers line dancing lessons every day. There is live entertainment every day, and the restaurant serves food daily from 11:00 am- 10:00 pm.
Part of the Wildhorse’s history that should be mentioned is the TV show that was broadcast from here. It was called the Wildhorse Saloon Dance Television Series. There was something called a “Daily Dance Segment” that was wildly popular and viewed even internationally. So, yes, the Wildhorse was always very much a home to country dance and the place to be if you love country dance, and you’re in Nashville. It was also honored by the Academy of Country Music as Nightclub of the Year. Thankfully the venue is still all this, and in Luke Combs’ hands, hopefully will stay as much for years to come!
| Lessons: Daily, throughout the day (8 lessons, starting at 12:30 pm) |
| 12:30-1:00 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 2:30-2:30 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 3:15-3:45 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 4:30-5:00 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 5:45-6:15 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 7:00-7:30 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 9:00-9:30 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| 11:00-11:30 – Line Dancing Lesson |
| Cover Charge: None |
| Hours of Operation: Daily: 11:00 am – 10 pm. |
2. The Stage on Broadway
The Stage on Broadway. Besides the Wildhorse Saloon, the next spot to do some actual dancing would be the Stage. The Stage is another multi-level honky tonk roof-top bar with live music on every level.
A couple of things to know about it is for one, the famous mural on the wall featuring the Highwaymen (Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings) and Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. There’s also the original painting of The Highwaymen over the front door. Another thing that is cool is that many country singers have used the Stage for their music videos. Of particular note is that back in 2010 it was the location for scenes in the movie Country Strong starring Tim McGraw and Gwenyth Paltrow.
I’ve listed the Stage as a dance destination because of the large dance floor there. However, you won’t find any formal or organized lessons for country dancing. If you want to line dance there, you can, but I would recommend going with friends who know some line dances. If there’s room and the song is right, break out an Electric Slide or Power Jam! Also, if you and your partner are itching to do some two-stepping or country swing, you should find enough room here to do so.
| Cover Charge: None |
| Hours of Operation: Open 7 Days a Week: 11 am – 3 am |
3. Robert’s Western World on Broadway
Robert’s Western World on Broadway. There’s a lot of country chic in the selection of honky-tonk and rooftop bars you have from which to choose along Broadway. So many bars are modern and filled with the young crowd enjoying modern country music. Robert’s Western World is where you go if you want to travel back in time a little and get back to Nashville’s roots and traditional country music. Owned by Jesselee Jones, the owner says it is the home of traditional country music in Nashville. “We play the music that made Music City what it is this day.” This is so much so that it is regarded as the “last stronghold of country music” in Nashville.
So, as far as dancing goes, it just stands to reason with such a traditional country vibe, some two-stepping is appropriate! The dance floor, like most of these honky tonks is small. It tends to be an older crowd, though all ages are represented. You’ll find Robert’s Western World just two doors down from The Stage.
| Cover charge: None |
| Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday: 11 am to 3 am Sunday: Sunday Morning Gospel from 10:30 am to 11:45 am, Traditional Country Music from 12:00 pm through 3 am |
| Age Limit: Open – 6:00 pm: All ages (including children) 6:00 pm – 3 am: 21 and older |
4. New Boots Line Dancing
New Boots Line Dancing is very different from the other venues I’ve listed here! New Boots Line Dancing is not a honky tonk, but rather, a place to take line dance lessons. Their dance studio welcomes small to large groups to come to learn line dancing together. They offer what they call “Private Boutique Line Dance Classes” So, basically private lessons for groups.
I’ve included New Boots Line Dancing since it’s one of the few spots that is a haven for country line dancing in downtown Nashville. They are just open on the weekend and offer group classes in the day to get you ready to go dancing in Nashville that night!
If you are interested in taking a class, whether you be an individual, small group, or large group, just go to their website to contact them!
http://www.newbootslinedancing.com/contact
| Cost: 28.00/person for private group lessons 22.00/person for individuals or when groups are combined |
| Days Open: Saturday & Sunday |
| Class Times: 11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:30 pm |
5. The 5 Spot
Another hot spot for dancing in Nashville would be the 5 Spot! Just 2-1/2 miles east of Honky Tonk Highway, just over the Cumberland and east on Main ’til Forrest. You might have seen it featured on ABC’s hit show “Nashville.” The 5 Spot is a great dive to catch some up-and-coming artists with more of a Rock or Americana Folk sound, as well as country artists playing “secret shows”.
The 5 Spot has earned a reputation for being the heart and soul of the city’s dance life. On Sunday nights, you will take in live soul music and dancing. Monday nights, are Motown Mondays and there’s sure to always be a great dance party going on then. The Monday night Motown dancy party is so popular that it is recommended to arrive early before it fills up and gets too packed. Prepare to be packed in on the dance floor where everyone really lets loose.
In addition to hosting dance parties on these nights, the bar also invites local singers and songwriters to perform live on a regular basis.
| Cover Charge: 5.00 |
| Hours of Operation: 7 days a week, 5:30 pm – 2:45 am |
6. Cahoots Dance Hall and Honky Tonk
At about 30 minutes east of Nashville to the east is the next country dance haven in Middle TN. Cahoots Dance Hall & Honky Tonk is another great place to find country dancing.
Just head out east on I-40 and then north on the 231. Then a right on Tennesse Blvd. and a right on Highway 266 and you’ll find Cahoots behind the Office Max.
Cahoots gets mixed reviews, but really compared to some of the tiny honky tonks in downtown Nashville, this is a great dance hall to come out to. It is big with plenty of seating. The dance floor big enough for those that want to dance. And, like Silverados they also offer free beer on Thursdays from 7-11 pm. But they go further with free wine also being served.
But on to the dancing: Friday nights are best for country line dancing. The DJ plays country music and you can line dance the whole night. Thursdays opens the bar to an 18+ crowd, so depending on what you’re looking for either be happy or be forewarned its a younger crowd.
Thurdays also mixes up the music more, starting off with some country, but giving over a lot of the night to top 40 hit radio club music. If you’re a die-hard country fan hit up Cahoots on the weekend.
One thing pretty cool about Cahoots is their live music. They bring in some pretty great live country acts. Some to note are The Hootz, Jon Wolfe and Mark Chestnut (of Bubba Shot The Jukebox, It’s A Little Too Late, and Brother Jukebox).
| Cover Charge: Thursday: 5.00, Friday & Saturday 10.00 (FREE beer 7-11 pm!) |
| Hours of Operation: Thursday 7:00 pm – 1 am Friday & Saturday 7:00 pm – 3 am |
7. Whiskey Dix
A little farther out and down to the southeast of Nashville is Whisky Dix Saloon. If you’re looking for a good line dancing place Whisky Dix is loved more than most of the options in Middle Tennessee!
There’s a great friendly community of dancers here. If you are new to line dancing and still learning, no worries! Regulars are very willing to help you out so you feel included. Also, it’s a little different, but the DJ is known for playing different songs for the same line dance, which can add some fun variety.
If you are not that much of a country fan there is a separate room where there’s a hip-hop dance floor.
Generally, the bar is full of very friendly people, including the servers. A fun relaxing vibe where you can bring friends, whether they dance or not. There’s live music played, cheap pool, free darts, and even free beer!
One thing to note is that some have reported some bad experiences with people around the bar, so be careful to always stay together and stay safe!
| Line Dance Lessons: Offered between 7 & 9 pm |
| Cover Charge: 5.00 Ladies are free before 9 pm Friday and Saturday |
| Hours of Operation: Thursday 8:00 pm – 3 am Friday & Saturday 7:00 pm – 3 am |
8. Wagon Wheel II Dance Hall
The Wagon Wheel II Dance Hall is about 42 miles southwest of Nashville out on highway 46. The Dance Hall is behind the Tidwell Tires in the old 46 Auction Building.
The Wagon Wheel II Dance Hall, like the Wild Country Dance Hall, is also not a bar. It is a dance hall that welcomes all ages and is a great place for families in the community to come, gather, and listen to some good live music, and dance. Since it is a family-friendly environment there is no alcohol or indoor smoking allowed.
The Wagon Wheel II is open 3 nights a week with Thursday night being Karaoke night. Friday and Saturday nights feature live music and dancing.
One thing to note is that previously there were some confederate flags displayed in the dance hall, but they have all been removed. There were mixed feelings and opinions, but in the end, it was what they wanted to do as a positive change going forward.
| Cover Charge: 3.00 (Children 10 yrs. old and under: 1.00) |
| Hours of Operation: Thursday: 7 pm – 10 pm Friday & Saturday: 7 pm – 11 pm |
9. The Electric Cowboy
The Electric Cowboy is a chain of 9 country bars with other locations in Texas, Arkansas, and Kansas. The Electric Cowboy has mixed reviews from people. Barely holds onto a 3-star average.
Generally, people aren’t too happy with the service, the fact that they allow smoking inside, so be aware that that may happen! Also, while there is a good mix of country music and radio hits, there are too many slow country songs played.
But you can be assured there is some line dancing going on here 5 nights a week. There are free line dance lessons on Wednesdays. Also, while there are mixed reviews, as one person said it’s actually okay when you realize you’re in Clarksville!
| Line Dance Lessons: Wednesday |
| Cover Charge: Wednesday: No Thursday-Sundays: Yes (Ladies are free on Thursday) |
| Hours of Operation: Wednesday-Sunday 8:00 pm – 3:00 am |
Extra! If you are traveling near the Dallas-Fort Worth area and are a fan of the Electric Cowboy dancehall franchise there are two of them you can check out. I’ve covered some of the details of those 2 venues (Forth Worth and Lewisville). Check it out!
10. Mommas Country Dance Club
Whew! You made it to the end (or almost). Or you just popped down here with a click! Either way, I’m glad you’re still reading! I’ve saved two of the best spots for country dancing ’til the end. Momma’s Country Dance Club, while, quite a ways out of Nashville at 51 miles to the south is a great place to listen to live music and be part of a great two-stepping & line dancing community.
Momma’s claims to have the biggest dance floor in middle Tennessee and the regulars know their dances and how to use it. It’s a big club with a big stage to go with the big floor. Check out the great promotional video below. In the video, you’ll see people doing among others the Power Jam line dance as well as the contra dance: Black Velvet. And if it’s the partner dancing (cha chas, two-step, etc.), there’s a lot of that going on too!
| Cash Only Bar |
| Hours of Operation: Friday 7:00 pm – 2:00 am Saturday 7:00 pm – 3:00 am |
11. Revolver Dance Hall & Saloon
Okay, now you are at the end! Here’ my last country dancing venue! This bar also has a big dance floor and if you live out east from Nashville here’s one of the options for you! Revolver Dance Hall & Saloon is about 79 miles east of Nashville out off I-40 in Cookeville.
Revolver is a very hopping place in Cookeville, particularly during the school year. There is a bit of a younger crowd, but it depends on the night. Thursday night is College night, Saturday is Ladies Night.
For dancing, there are times when both dance floors (yes, there’s 2!) are empty, but other nights where it’s packed. The DJs (Cliffy and Reed) will play both country music as well as some Rap. This is a place to do some line dancing and learn some dances.
Check out their Facebook and you’ll see some great videos they’ve posted of their virtual line dancing that took place while they were shut down during the Coronavirus pandemic. You’ll see them really enjoying the Tush Push in one among other really popular, fun line dances.
| Cover Charge: Thursday: 7.00 Friday – Saturday: 5.00 (Ladies free on Saturday) |
| Hours of Operation: Thursday – Saturday 7:00 pm – 3:00 am |
There may be more! Please explore Tennessee and find your place to go. That’s the main thing. Find a good spot and make new friends and do some country dancing!
What about the Other Nashville Honky Tonks? Also, Visit these 12.
You may wonder about the many Broadway honky tonks that didn’t make this list! So, quickly here they are listed in their order as you walk south away from the river.
I’ve also added one extra very iconic honky tonk (The Bluebird Cafe) that is famous for the legendary country artists that got their start there and the haven that it continues to be for songwriters and yet-to-be-discovered new musical talent. The Bluebird Cafe, like the 5-Spot, was also featured often in the primetime ABC hit drama Nashville–how cool is that? So, be sure to visit the Bluebird, but you’ll have to travel the farthest for it. It is located 9 miles south of highway 431 (Hillsboro Pike). Be careful, you might pass it right up with the little strip mall it’s in (see below).
• Kid Rock’s Bad Ass Honky Tonk
• Luke Bryan’s 32 Bridge
• Jason Aldean’s Kitchen & Rooftop Bar
• Honky Tonk Central
• Dierks Bentley’s Whisky Row
• Nudies Honky Tonk
• Alan Jackson’s Good Time Bar
• Layla’s Honky Tonk
• The Second Fiddle
• Tootsies Orchid Lounge
• Legend’s Corner
• The Bluebird Cafe
These are the bars that are really tight and crowded and are really about the bands, the drinks, and the food. Check them out for sure, they are a big deal and an important part of the whole Nashville experience. Many of these honky tonks are quintessential Nashville bars. Enjoy them, just don’t expect to see much two-stepping or line dancing. Not that you won’t be able to dance in these places, just know if there’s dancing it’s more of a tight sardine free-for-all!
And if you visit the Bluebird, be prepared to be anything but rowdy! Here it’s about the intimacy of listening to the heart of a new songwriter pouring out their soul in the open mic setting.
Broadway looking north toward the Cumberland River. So many great honky tonks, some with as many as 5 stories! Live music everywhere, just not much country dancing.
What about Parking to Visit the Broadway Honky Tonks?
If you’re local to the area or visiting and staying at a local hotel, navigating your way around downtown Nashville isn’t too tricky. There are many ticketed lots and parking garages if you’re driving. And, if bar-hopping by foot, there’s no lack of a consistent stream of taxis readily available on Broadway. There are taxis as well as many Uber and Lyft drivers within range. Getting around is the least of your worries. Focus on exploring! Get to as many spots as you can, meet new people, take in new music and of course, dance your ass off!