Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Honky Tonk Highway: Dancing Down Broadway

Broadway in downtown Nashville is the epicenter of honky tonk culture. Lined with neon-lit dive bars pumping out boot-stompin' country music, it's the perfect place to twirl and two-step the night away. From Robert's Western World to Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, each venue has its own vibe and charm.

According to Nashville locals, Robert's Western World is a must-visit for the authentic honky tonk experience. Grab a cold longneck beer at the bar and let the house band get you dancing. Be prepared for a packed dance floor - this is where Nashville locals and tourists alike come to kick up their heels. Robert's calls itself the "home of traditional country music" and backs it up with nonstop live sets from open to close.

Further down Broadway, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge has been a Nashville institution since the 1960s. Legend has it that aspiring country singers used to hang out hoping to be discovered while Nashville's biggest stars ducked in between sets at the Ryman Auditorium next door. Stop in and you might catch a few singers jamming on Tootsie's tiny stage. Sign your name on the walls for a bit of honky tonk history.

For a high-energy night out, check out Kid Rock's Honky Tonk & Rock N' Roll Steakhouse. Part bar, part restaurant, this place keeps the party going from morning to night. Grab some southern comfort food then head to the dance floor where you can line dance to both classic and contemporary hits. Be prepared for spontaneous dance-offs and contests.

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Tacos and Twang at Casa Rosa

After a night of boot scootin' on Broadway, you'll work up a hearty appetite. Head to Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa Tex-Mex restaurant for mouthwatering tacos paired with live country music. This rockin' cantina offers a fun fusion you won't find anywhere else in Nashville.

Housed in a former auto garage, Casa Rosa's vibe is funky, festive, and just a little bit greasy - in all the right ways. Handmade corn tortillas, sizzling fajitas, and icy margaritas are served alongside boot-stomping country tunes pumped through the speakers. Grab a seat at one of the picnic tables or sidle up to the bar to watch the musicians jam on stage.

According to Casa Rosa regulars, the tacos here are legendary. The brisket taco comes piled high with 12-hour smoked beef, pico de gallo, and pepper jack cheese. Add a dash of their housemade habanero sauce for an extra kick. If you're feeling adventurous, try the rattlesnake and rabbit tacos for a true taste of the southwest.

In true Nashville fashion, Casa Rosa showcases local singer-songwriters in addition to national acts. You never know when you might catch an up-and-coming talent trying out new tunes. Lambert herself has been known to grab the mic for impromptu performances. So bring your dancing boots - odds are you'll be on your feet all night!

Insider tip: Time your visit for Taco Tuesday when tacos are just $2 apiece. Wash them down with a margarita flight to sample Casa Rosa's expansive tequila selection. The food may be cheap, but the music and ambiance are priceless.

Casa Rosa stays open late, so it's the perfect place to keep the honky tonk party going into the wee hours. The garage doors roll up on temperate nights, exposing the chaos and revelry within. Tap your toes to the music and don't be afraid to join in the hollerin' and heel clickin' - anything goes at Casa Rosa!

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Celebrity Spotting on Lower Broad

Lower Broadway may be packed with honky tonks and boot-scooting bars, but it's also one of the best places in Nashville to potentially spot a country music celebrity. This legendary stretch attracts big name stars and up-and-comers alike thanks to its vibrant music scene. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the neon-lit streets, and you just may have a star-studded encounter.

According to Nashville insiders, Robert's Western World is a prized spot for celebrity sightings. Stars like Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, and even Taylor Swift have been known to pop in for impromptu performances on Robert's stage. The unsigned musicians jamming here could be the next Luke Bryan or Carrie Underwood, so don't miss your chance to catch them before they hit the big time. Sit back with a longneck beer and see who grabs the microphone on any given night.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is another hotspot where huge country stars have been known to gather. In the 1960s, the tiny bar was a favorite hangout spot for the Opry's biggest acts who ducked in for drinks between Ryman shows. Legends like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson and Patsy Cline put Tootsie's on the map. These days, Keith Urban, Luke Combs, and other chart-toppers keep up the tradition. Squeeze up to the bar for a beer and scan the crowds for familiar faces.

For contemporary country celebrity sightings, check out Luke Bryan's 32 Bridge Food + Drink. Named after one of Bryan's songs, this lively rooftop bar attracts Nashville's now generation of stars. Dan + Shay, Jon Pardi, and Maren Morris are just a few who've been spotted sipping cocktails on the open air patio. Take in the incredible views of downtown Nashville while staying on the lookout for country music's biggest hitmakers.

Insider tip: Lower Broad gets especially celebrity-studded during the annual CMA Fest in June. The 4-day country music festival draws over 50,000 fans plus countless singers. Stars perform at Nissan Stadium by night then hit the bars on Broadway, mingling with excited fans. Grab a spot on Lower Broad during the festival and your chances of meeting a celebrity skyrocket. You may get to shake hands with Blake Shelton or snap a selfie with Jason Aldean if you're lucky.

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Gulping Down Hot Chicken at Hattie B's

No trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing the mouth-burning bliss of hot chicken. And according to locals and tourists alike, Hattie B’s is the place to get your heat fix. The no-frills counter-service joint serves up tender fried chicken in six spice levels ranging from Southern (no heat) to the face-melting Damn Hot. Don’t let the humble digs fool you - people wait over an hour for Hattie’s addictive take on this Nashville specialty.

The brand was born when Bishop Jefferson opened a tiny hole-in-the-wall takeout spot back in 2012. Word spread like wildfire about his juicy, pickle-brined birds bathed in a secret blend of cayenne and spices. These days, Hattie’s has expanded to multiple locations though the original Midtown spot still draws the biggest crowds. Go early or late to avoid hour-plus waits during peak dinner hours. Orders are placed at the counter, so study the menu boards carefully before joining the queue.

First-timers tend to play it safe with the medium heat level, but that might still leave your lips tingling and nose running. If you’re spice-averse, opt for Southern or Mild to start. The real heat seekers go straight for the Hot or Damn Hot, which live up to their steamy names. No matter the spice level, expect ultra-juicy chicken with crispy seasoned skin that crackles with each bite. Dip it in the signature comeback sauce for a tangy yogurt and herb blend that offsets the burn.

Don’t miss the pimento cheese-topped grits bowls, collard greens, or baked beans on the side - you’ll need something to soak up the heat. Locals claim that piling on pickles or slaw helps, too. For dessert, the banana pudding with Nilla wafers and peaks of whipped cream cools your scorched mouth. There’s also local craft beer, sweet tea, and cheesy biscuits to tame the flames.

Insider tip: Hattie B’s lets you mix and match heat levels, so feel free to experiment. Spice-avoidant diners can opt for Mild while thrill-seekers kick it up to Hot or Damn Hot. You can also order half chickens or tenders to sample multiple spice profiles in one sitting. Customizing your spice journey is all part of the fun.

The loud, bustling vibe pairs perfectly with Hattie’s fiery fowl. Formica tables and vintage photos adorn a dining room filled with fellow hot chicken devotees. Expect tasty chatter about spice levels and sides as patrons excitedly dig in. Be prepared for pepper-induced perspiration and the occasional yelp or clap when someone tastes Damn Hot for the first time. It’s all part of the communal Nashville hot chicken experience.

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Saddle Up for a Mechanical Bull Ride

After a night of line dancing and hot chicken, only one honky tonk experience remains - saddling up for a mechanical bull ride. Nashville's bar scene offers plenty of chances to test your rodeo skills on a bucking bronco inside the raucous confines of a real honky tonk. Strap on your protective gear, climb aboard, and see how long you can hold on as the bull twists, turns, and tries to toss you. It's a thrill you won't find anywhere else but on Lower Broadway.

According to first-time riders, Robert's Western World is arguably the best spot for novice buckaroos to take on the bull. Robert's mechanical beast moves at a gentler speed with wider turns, ideal for newbies still getting their bull-riding legs. The padded floor also cushions any tumbles for a softer landing. Veterans suggest starting at Robert's to build confidence before attempting faster mechanical bulls around town. Take advantage of the slower pace to perfect your balance and practice timing your dismounts. With a few rides under your belt, you'll be ready to advance to more challenging cyber-bulls.

Once you've honed your skills, it's time to try out Nashville's most (in)famous mechanical monster - the Full Bull at Nudie's Honky Tonk. This notorious creature earned its name for a reason: it bucks aggressively with tight, unpredictable spins. Riders compare the untamed Full Bull to a wild rodeo animal, saying it takes real skill to make the 8-second bell. But if you manage to hang on for a qualifying ride, expect raucous applause and free drinks from impressed spectators. Nudie's lively crowds add to the electric vibe, rooting on brave bull riders with hoops and hollers. Just be prepared to face-plant, as very few conquer the mighty Full Bull on their first outing.

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Line Dancing Lessons at Wildhorse Saloon

After honky tonkin’ all night on Broadway, rest your feet while still kickin’ up your heels at Wildhorse Saloon’s legendary line dancing lessons. This massive three-story venue hosts free hourly classes every evening where instructors walk newbies through the steps to classic country line dances. Grab a spot on Wildhorse’s enormous main dance floor and learn iconic moves like the Tush Push and Cowboy Boogie. Yeehaw!

According to first-timers, the hourly line dancing lessons make country dancing accessible for all, regardless of skill level or experience. Instructors walk participants through basic steps at a beginner-friendly pace. Lessons start with foundational one-step moves before layering in turns and claps that build into recognizable line dances. Feel free to ask questions or have steps repeated as you find your footing. Learning alongside fellow dance newcomers reduces any intimidation.

After just an hour of instruction, even clumsy-footed novices gain enough skills to join the open dancing between lessons. Stick around after class ends to practice your new Grapevine and Jazz Box steps alongside Wildhorse’s seasoned regulars. The venue’s sprawling dance floor provides plenty of space to perfect your moves without fear of collisions.

Nightly lessons focus on a rotating selection of line dances like the Cowboy Charleston, Tush Push, and Watermelon Crawl. Ask the instructor which dances they’ll be teaching during upcoming sessions so you can familiarize yourself with the steps online beforehand. This allows you to focus on technique rather than learning entirely new footwork on the spot. Insiders recommend studying up on staples like the Electric Slide, Copperhead Road and the 4-Step Waltz to ensure you recognize some dances being taught.

Wildhorse draws crowds of line dance enthusiasts at all experience levels, from WTC (Wallflower Waiting to be a Country star) newbies to flashy seasoned pros. Upbeat instructors make it welcoming for all who want to learn iconic country moves. Participants bond over two-stepping mishaps and triumphs while shuffling in sync together. Swing by nightly for a boot-stompin’ good time that leaves your toes tappin’ and your face achin’ from grinning.

While lessons are free, insider tip: arrive early to secure a good spot on the main floor. The dance floor fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Lay your cowboy hat or purse on the floor to save your space if needed. Once class starts, avoid crowded front rows where collisions are likelier. Stand towards the back or sides for more room to maneuver as you master each step.

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Cooling Off with Whiskey at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

After an action-packed night of line dancing, mechanical bull riding, and hot chicken eating, you'll need a place to rest your weary feet and cool off. Look no further than Nelson's Green Brier Distillery, Nashville's premiere locally-owned whiskey provider. This laidback distillery and tasting room invites you to unwind with award-winning Tennessee sips and southern hospitality.

As soon as you step through the doors, the inviting, rustic-chic atmosphere puts you at ease. Exposed brick walls, leather couches, and repurposed whiskey barrels accent the tasting room's open floor plan. Grab a seat at the sleek concrete bar or make yourself comfortable in one of the cozy lounge nooks. Friendly bartenders walk you through Nelson's extensive collection of handcrafted whiskeys and provide samples to help you choose the perfect pour.

According to in-the-know Nashville locals, Nelson's Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey stands out for its smooth flavor and easy drinkability. Aged a minimum of 4 years in new charred oak barrels, it boasts rich vanilla and caramel notes with a mellow, slightly spicy finish. Sip it straight up, on the rocks, or craft it into a classic Whiskey Sour or Old Fashioned. For contrast, try the Belle Meade Bourbon finished in Sicilian Amaro casks for a bracing herbal kick.

While the spirits take center stage, Nelson's tasting room menu deserves equal attention. Upscale southern snacks like pimento cheese croquettes, baked brie, and shrimp cocktail complement the premium pours. Or opt for Nashville hot chicken sliders with a dram of whiskey to put out the lingering fire. Everything is made from scratch in-house using quality local ingredients.

Late nights call for Nelson's Frozen Irish Coffees spiked with Jameson and topped with decadent whipped cream. For non-alcoholic options, the handcrafted sodas and lemonades hit the spot on a hot Nashville day. Sip them on the open-air patio under twinkly string lights for an atmosphere that's decidedly more chill than the rollicking honky tonks.

Boot Scootin' through Nashville: Two-Steppin' and Tacos at Miranda Lambert's Broadway Bar - Woo-Hoo! Riding the General Jackson Showboat

After an action-packed night exploring Nashville's honky tonks, live music venues, distilleries, and fiery hot chicken joints, give your feet a break with a leisurely cruise on the iconic General Jackson Showboat. This 300-foot paddlewheeler evokes the grandiose steamboats of the 19th century as she glides along the Cumberland River with the Nashville skyline as a backdrop. It's a unique way to see the city that'll have you hollerin' "woo-hoo!"

According to Nashville insiders, the General Jackson Showboat is a classic Music City experience not to be missed. Guests can opt for a meal cruise with live entertainment or a sightseeing cruise to soak up the views. Both last around 2.5 hours and include fascinating narration about Nashville's history and landmarks along the river.

The dinner cruises really capture the nostalgic essence of riverboat travel. As the General Jackson cruises downriver, indulge in a multi-course Southern-inspired feast in the elegant Victorian-style dining room. Entrees like slow-roasted prime rib, Parmesan-crusted chicken, and cornbread-stuffed catfish hit the spot after an evening of honky tonkin'. Save room for decadent desserts like peach cobbler with praline topping.

Between courses, the nightly shows in the Grand Saloon live up to the General Jackson's "Music City on the Water" tagline. Talented musicians perform hits from legendary Nashville stars like Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn, encouraging singalongs from the crowd. Be prepared for infectious foot tappin' and hand clappin' as the band pumps out familiar country classics.

For a more budget-friendly experience, the daytime sightseeing cruises offer panoramic views from the open-air decks without the live music or dining extras. Relax on plush sofas in the glass-enclosed Opryland Hotel Atrium as you learn about the city and glide past landmarks like Nissan Stadium, Fort Nashborough, and the Tennessee State Capitol.

Insider Tip: Go for the Sunday Gospel Brunch Cruise to experience Southern hospitality at its finest. The menu boasts a decadent all-you-can-eat Southern buffet with everything from chicken and waffles to maple bacon. Then a local gospel choir lifts spirits with joyous hymns and spirituals. It's a rousing way to wrap up the weekend in Nashville.

No matter which cruise you choose, the talented crew ensures top-notch customer service with a smile. And the captain gladly obliges guests' requests to blow the General Jackson's whistle and ring her bell. So don't be shy - go ahead and holler "woo-hoo!" each time the steam whistle blows. It's all part of the delightfully nostalgic vibe.