Nestled in the heart of Nashville’s iconic Honky-Tonk Highway, Blake Shelton’s flagship country music venue, Ole Red Nashville, stands as a vibrant testament to the city’s rich musical legacy and evolving entertainment scene. Located at 300 Broadway, this 26,000-square-foot, four-story complex offers a seamless blend of history, culture, dining, and live performances — making it much more than just a bar.
A Venue Steeped in History and Charm
The building housing Ole Red Nashville carries nearly a century of history. Originally constructed in 1924 as the Broadway National Bank Building, parts of the structure may date back as far as 1880. A major renovation in 2018 transformed this storied edifice into a sprawling entertainment venue that preserves key historical elements like exposed brickwork and restored window frames, while embracing modern design features.
The renovation, spearheaded by Turner Construction along with Anecdote Architectural Experiences and Anderson Designs, aimed to create a space that honors Nashville’s architectural heritage but also meets the demands of contemporary music lovers and large crowds.
Dynamic Design for Music and Community
Ole Red’s interior is carefully crafted for optimal guest experience. The open floor plan removes traditional barriers, allowing clear sightlines to the stage from multiple vantage points. The first two floors serve as a performance space equipped with top-tier sound systems, perfectly suited for showcasing live country music acts. An upstairs mezzanine houses a bar and restaurant, providing a multi-level social atmosphere.
The venue’s capacity impresses with seating for up to 700 guests during sit-down events and room for as many as 1,300 for cocktail-style gatherings. The design encourages intimacy, putting audiences close to the stage to capture the spirit of Nashville’s music scene and fulfill Blake Shelton’s vision of discovering the next generation of country stars.
Bars, Bites, and the Best Rooftop in Town
Ole Red features two distinct bars that enhance its lively ambiance. The mezzanine bar offers an extensive selection of liquors, including finely aged whiskey, tequila, brandy, and vodka, satisfying diverse palates.
But the crown jewel is the rooftop bar, aptly named The Lookout. This 6,500-square-foot space has earned the title of “Best Rooftop Bar in Nashville,” offering panoramic views of Lower Broadway and the historic Honky Tonk neighborhood. The Lookout blends a “glam-meets-grit” aesthetic, hosting live acoustic sets, DJ performances, and serving full-menu dining with specialty “fancy-pants” cocktails. It’s a prime spot for special events and VIP experiences.
The food menu echoes Southern comfort classics with dishes like bacon-wrapped meatloaf, chicken and waffles, and flavorful tacos. Desserts served in mason jars add a nostalgic touch. Health-conscious options are also available, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Daily buffet-style meals serve 400 to 600 guests, supporting the venue’s bustling traffic. Branded glassware—20-oz pint glasses, mason jars, and shot glasses—adds to the unique experience, with guests encouraged to take these souvenirs home.
Beyond Music: Retail and Private Events
Ole Red Nashville extends its offerings beyond dining and music with the Ole Red Shop, where visitors can purchase branded merchandise and memorabilia. The venue also features conference rooms and private suites on the upper floors, ideal for corporate events and private parties, making the space versatile for various occasions.
Operating Hours and Community Engagement
Open daily from 10 a.m. until 3 a.m., Ole Red Nashville caters to both early visitors and late-night revelers, embodying Nashville’s nonstop entertainment culture. Broadway’s live music scene, which runs more than 16 hours a day year-round, finds a perfect home here.
Upcoming Events and Celebrations
Looking ahead, Ole Red Nashville is preparing for a standout event: the “Ole Red White And Blue Firework Rooftop Viewing Party” on July 4, 2025. This exclusive 21+ celebration promises live music from the venue’s hottest artists, ice-cold drinks, and unbeatable views of Nashville’s fireworks—perfect for marking Independence Day in style.
Regular programming includes line dancing lessons every Friday, ensuring Ole Red remains a hub for country music lovers seeking both tradition and fresh experiences.
Blake Shelton’s Ole Red Nashville is not just a bar—it’s a living tribute to Nashville’s past and present, a gathering place where music, culture, and community thrive in harmony.