Nashville: Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl

Exploring Nashville’s Charm on the Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl

If you’re heading to Nashville and want to experience more than just the usual honky-tonks, the Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s past and present. Priced at $33 per person and lasting about 2 hours, this guided walking tour takes you through downtown Nashville, visiting historic bars, hidden lounges, and lively pubs—all with a focus on music, history, and local spirits.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things we particularly appreciate: first, the personalized stories your guide shares, transforming each stop into a mini history lesson wrapped in entertainment. Second, the chance to enjoy live music performances amidst the bars, which provides a genuine Nashville vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves about a mile of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since alcohol isn’t included in the price, you’ll want to budget for drinks at each stop—though there are exclusive discounts for participants. This experience is perfect for music lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers who want a fun, authentic way to explore Nashville’s legendary nightlife.

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Key Points

Authentic Nashville Experience: Combines history, music, and local spirits in one walk.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like AJ and Alle are praised for their energy and storytelling.
Hidden Gems: Visits include secret lounges and speakeasies that you might not find alone.
Live Music: Enjoy local musicians performing at select stops, adding a genuine Nashville touch.
Flexible & Accessible: Weather-dependent but wheelchair accessible, with options for rescheduling.
Budget-Friendly: Reasonably priced with drink discounts, making it a good value for the experience.

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A Deep Dive into the Nashville Pub Crawl

Starting Point: Standard Proof Whiskey Co.

The tour kicks off at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. in downtown Nashville. Look for the Drinkers & Thinkers sign on the sidewalk, which signals you’re in the right spot. This initial location sets the tone for a laid-back, friendly experience, giving you a chance to familiarize yourself with the local whiskey scene before the walking begins.

Walking Through Downtown Nashville

From the start, you’ll stroll through the vibrant streets of downtown, an area pulsating with music, history, and lively crowds. Expect to walk approximately one mile over the course of the tour, visiting several different bars and lounges. The walk itself is a good way to get a feel for Nashville’s rhythm—what the city feels like outside its honky-tonk corridors.

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Visiting Iconic Bars and Hidden Lounges

Each stop is carefully selected to showcase Nashville’s diverse nightlife. You’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic bars, famed for their history and ambiance, along with hidden speakeasy-style venues that once hosted country legends and jazz musicians.

According to reviews, guides like AJ or Alle are praised for their ability to share stories that bring each location alive. As one reviewer says, “Our guide was very outgoing, energetic, and knowledgeable,” turning what might have been a simple bar crawl into a lively history lesson.

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Tales of Prohibition and Music Legends

One of the highlights is uncovering Nashville’s Prohibition stories, which add an intriguing layer to the city’s nightlife. During this period, secret speakeasies flourished, and some still operate today with an aura of mystery. Expect to hear stories of early Nashville music legends and how they performed in these clandestine venues.

Live Music and Local Talent

No Nashville experience feels complete without live music. During the tour, you’ll enjoy performances by local musicians, often right in the bars themselves. It’s a chance to catch a glimpse of Nashville’s musical soul in a more intimate setting than the big stadiums.

Tasting Tennessee Moonshine & Cocktails

While alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price, there are exclusive discounts available at each stop, encouraging you to sample local spirits like Tennessee moonshine or enjoy expertly crafted cocktails. The tour offers a delightful opportunity to experience authentic flavors and see why Nashville is renowned for its spirits.

The Hidden Gem: A Speakeasy Experience

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is visiting a hidden gem—a speakeasy-style bar where the atmosphere transports you back in time. The ambiance is cozy, dimly lit, and oozes vintage charm, providing a perfect setting for conversation and reflection on what you’ve learned along the way.

Final Stop: Center of Lower Broadway

The tour concludes in the lively heart of Lower Broadway, giving you ample opportunities to continue your Nashville adventure. From here, you’re just steps away from more live music venues, restaurants, and places to further explore on your own.

Authenticity and Value

Based on reviews, guides are clearly a key part of the experience. “Alle took pictures during the tour, and we wish we could access those photos afterward,” a guest mentioned, highlighting the personal touches guides bring. Their knowledge not only adds depth but also makes the tour engaging rather than just a series of bar visits.

The $33 price is quite reasonable for what you get: a guided walk, access to several historic and unique bars, live music, and discounts on drinks. Given that alcohol isn’t included, the value lies in the entertainment, storytelling, and insider access, which you wouldn’t easily find if exploring alone.

Practical Considerations

Remember, you’ll be on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. The tour operates in the afternoon or evening, which suits most travelers wanting a relaxed exploration after daytime activities. It’s limited to 20 people, ensuring a more intimate experience, but you should still expect a lively group.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys music history, local stories, and authentic venues, this tour will be right up your alley. It’s especially ideal if you want a cultural overview of Nashville that’s both informative and fun. However, note that it’s not suitable for travelers under 21, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: Is the Nashville Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl for You?

For anyone curious about the real stories behind Nashville’s iconic music scene and bar culture, this tour offers a refreshing mix of history, live music, and local spirits. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate storytelling and want to go beyond the typical tourist spots. The small group size and passionate guides help create an intimate, memorable experience that’s both educational and entertaining.

This tour is a great choice if you’re looking to cover more ground quickly, learn inside stories, and enjoy a local, authentic atmosphere. Plus, the affordable price point means you’re investing in a value-packed experience that can be a highlight of your Nashville trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
While alcohol isn’t included, the tour involves visiting bars, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with drinking or simply enjoying the atmosphere and stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 2 hours, which makes it a manageable activity in the middle of your day or evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. and finishes in the center of Lower Broadway, providing easy access for further exploration.

Is there any transportation involved?
No, it’s a walking tour. Expect to walk around one mile in total.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible where possible, but it’s good to check in advance if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, ID or passport, and an open mind ready for stories, tunes, and new experiences.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can also reserve now, pay later for flexibility.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but you’ll receive special discounts at each stop.

What kind of music can I expect?
Local musicians perform during the tour, giving you a taste of Nashville’s live music scene—expect country, jazz, or blues depending on the venue.

In short, the Nashville Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl offers a lively, story-rich window into Nashville’s past and present, perfect for those who want a relaxed, engaging way to explore. It’s a fun, affordable way to deepen your understanding of the city’s iconic music and bar culture—an authentic slice of Nashville you won’t want to miss.