Best Rooftop Bars in Nashville
Nashville's skyline has grown fast enough that the rooftop bar scene has grown with it. There are now a dozen or more legitimate rooftop options in and around downtown, with a range of vibes from high-end cocktail lounges to casual beer-and-view setups. Here are the best.
L.A. Jackson (Thompson Nashville, the Gulch)
L.A. Jackson at Thompson Nashville is the Gulch's flagship rooftop bar and one of the best in the city. The views of downtown are excellent, the cocktail program is strong, and the outdoor space is well-designed. It gets crowded on weekends — arrive by 7pm to get a good spot. Dress code is smart casual.
L27 Rooftop Lounge (Westin Nashville, Downtown)
L27 at the Westin is on the 27th floor with panoramic downtown views. It's one of the highest rooftop bars in Nashville and on a clear day the views extend well outside the city. Strong drinks, solid food menu, and a reliable option for visitors who want the high-altitude experience.
Acme Feed and Seed (Broadway)
Acme Feed and Seed is a multi-story bar right on Broadway with a rooftop deck that's one of the most fun places to watch the Broadway energy from above. It's touristy — that's the point. The views down Lower Broadway are excellent and the vibe is classic Nashville.
Pinewood Social (the Gulch)
Pinewood Social doesn't have a traditional rooftop but its expansive outdoor patio and pool deck are among the most popular outdoor drinking spaces in Nashville. More of a hangout than a bar, with an all-day coffee and cocktail program that draws everyone from laptop workers to bachelorette groups.
Bobby Hotel Rooftop (Downtown)
The Bobby Hotel rooftop in downtown Nashville has a great view and a fun vintage-Airstream bar setup that makes it one of the more unique rooftop experiences in the city. Less polished than L.A. Jackson but more interesting. Good for a casual drink with a view.
The Dutch (Graduate Nashville, Midtown)
Graduate Nashville's rooftop bar, The Dutch, has a great Midtown vantage point and a more laid-back vibe than the downtown rooftop spots. It draws a mix of hotel guests and locals and tends to be less crowded than Broadway-adjacent rooftops.
FGL House (Broadway)
FGL House (Florida Georgia Line's bar on Broadway) has multiple floors including a rooftop with excellent Broadway views. It's loud, it's touristy, and the rooftop fills up fast on weekend nights. For a big-group, high-energy rooftop experience, it's a good option.
Pre-Game Before the Rooftops
Nashville rooftop bar prices are real. Music City Weekend Co. can stock your Airbnb with your favorite drinks so your group can pre-game at the rental before heading out. Save the rooftop money for the views. Shop the full catalog at musiccityweekend.co/shop, or learn more about Nashville grocery delivery and fridge stocking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rooftop bar in Nashville?
L.A. Jackson at Thompson Nashville in the Gulch is widely considered the best rooftop bar in Nashville for a combination of views, cocktail quality, and atmosphere. L27 at the Westin offers the highest vantage point downtown.
Do Nashville rooftop bars have a dress code?
Most upscale Nashville rooftop bars like L.A. Jackson and L27 have a smart casual dress code — no athletic wear, flip flops, or overly casual clothing after 8pm. The Broadway rooftops like Acme and FGL House are more relaxed about dress.
Are Nashville rooftop bars crowded?
Yes, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Popular spots like L.A. Jackson and L27 fill up quickly after 8pm on weekends. Arriving before 7pm or on weekday evenings gives you a significantly better experience with less waiting.
Do Nashville rooftops require reservations?
Most Nashville rooftop bars are walk-in, but some offer table reservations for weekend nights. L.A. Jackson and L27 both accept reservations for groups. Checking ahead for weekend visits is strongly recommended.