10 Country Music Cities You Need to Visit
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Here are 10 of the best country music cities in the United States that you need to visit at least once in your lifetime.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, located in central Tennessee, is the undisputed Music City of the United States. The city’s musical roots date back to the early 1920s with the first performances of country music on radio. The Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running live radio show, began broadcasting from Nashville in 1925. Today, Nashville is home to more than 250 live music venues and is a popular destination for music lovers from all over the world.
In addition to its rich musical history, Nashville is also known for its honky-tonks, which are lively bars that feature live country music. The city’s most famous honky-tonk is Lower Broad Street, which is lined with legendary music venues like Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, you can also find many great live music venues in the city’s Gulch neighborhood.
No matter what kind of music you’re into, you’re sure to find it in Nashville. The city is also home to a variety of other attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Belle Meade Plantation.
Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas is the Live Music Capital of the World, and there’s no denying that country music has a strong presence in the city. From big names like Willie Nelson and George Strait to up-and-comers like Kacey Musgraves and Aaron Watson, Austin has something for everyone when it comes to country music.
If you’re planning a trip to Austin, be sure to add these 10 country music hotspots to your itinerary!
1. The Broken Spoke – This iconic honky tonk has been a fixture in Austin since 1964, and it’s known for being the “last of the true Texas dancehalls.” Willie Nelson, George Strait, and Patsy Cline are just a few of the big names who have graced its stage over the years. Be sure to try the chicken-fried steak while you’re there!
2. The Continental Club – Another one of Austin’s renowned honky tonks, The Continental Club is known for its top-notch live music seven nights a week. It’s also one of the most popular places to catch live blues and rockabilly in town.
3. Saxon Pub – If you want to experience a true slice of Austin culture, Saxon Pub is the place for you. This local dive bar has been around since 1990 and it’s beloved by both locals and visitors alike. You can catch live music most nights of the week, ranging from country and folk to blues and rock. Don’t forget to order a beer from their extensive list!
4. Stubb’s BBQ – Stubb’s is one of Austin’s most famous restaurants, and it just so happens to be located in an iconic music venue as well. In addition to serving up some of the best BBQ in town, Stubb’s hosts regular concerts on their outdoor stage, featuring both local and national acts. They also have an indoor stage that hosts more intimate shows. Either way, you can’t go wrong with catching a show at Stubb’s!
5. The White Horse – The White Horse is one of Austin��s newer honky tonks, but it’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This East Austin spot has a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy live music ranging from country and folk to blues and rockabilly seven nights a week. They also serve up some delicious cocktails if you need something strong to help you two-step the night away!
6. Billy Bob’s Texas – Located in Fort Worth (about an hour outside of Austin), Billy Bob’s Texas is billed as “The World’s Largest Honky Tonk.” This massive complex features several stages with live music nightly, as well as bull riding, billiards, bowling, dancing, and more. It’s definitely worth making the drive out to experience all that Billy Bob’s has to offer!
7. Gruene Hall – Gruene Hall is Texas’ oldest dancehall, dating back to 1878! It’s located in New Braunfels (about 30 minutes outside of Austin) and it still features live music on a regular basis (mostly country acts). If you’re looking for a truly authentic Lone Star State experience, Gruene Hall is definitely worth checking out!
Branson, Missouri
Welcome to Branson, Missouri – the live music show capital of the world! This vibrant city is packed with top-notch entertainment, from country music to Broadway shows, there’s something for everyone in Branson. Situated in the heart of the Ozarks, Branson is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of hiking, biking and fishing opportunities. So whether you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation or a relaxing getaway, be sure to add Branson to your list!
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a top vacation destination for country music fans and for good reason. The Myrtle Beach area is home to multiple country music festivals throughout the year, including the Carolina Country Music Fest, the CMA Music Festival, and more. And, of course, there’s the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy live music every night in the summer.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Pigeon Forge is a city in Sevier County, Tennessee, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city had a total population of 5,875. It is the principal city of the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which consists of Sevier County.
The city’s attractions include Dollywood, as well as numerous outlet stores and music theaters. Pigeon Forge is located just five miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
In 1965, country music singer Dolly Parton opened her first theme park, Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge. The “rural” themed park includes thrill rides along with shows and craft demonstrations that hearken back to an earlier era in the Appalachian Mountains. Other popular attractions in Pigeon Forge include Wonderworks indoor amusement park and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a small town located in the Great Smoky Mountains, and it’s one of the most popular vacation destinations in the southeastern United States. The town is home to many country music attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Dollywood, and the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau. There are also several country music festivals held in Gatlinburg each year, including the Country Music Festival and the Gatlinburg Music Festival.
Branson, Missouri
Branson, Missouri is a top destination for country music lovers. The city is home to more than 100 live performance theaters, making it a hot spot for live country music. You can also find a variety of country-themed attractions, shops, and restaurants throughout the city.
Nashville, Tennessee
As the capital of country music, Nashville is unsurprisingly brimming with musical history. The city has been home to some of the most influential country music icons, including Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Emmylou Harris. A visit to Nashville wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running live radio show. Country music lovers can also browse the Ryman Auditorium’s Museum, which chronicles the rich musical heritage of Nashville through interactive displays and memorabilia.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Pigeon Forge is a mountain resort city near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevier County, Tennessee, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city had a total population of 5,875. Situated just five miles north of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge is a destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing and picnicking. In addition to its natural beauty, the city also offers a variety of attractions and entertainment options such as Dollywood, WonderWorks and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is one of the most popular country music destinations in the United States. The city is home to many country music venues, including the Gatlinburg Convention Center, which hosts the annual Gatlinburg Music Festival. The festival attracts some of the biggest names in country music, and visitors can enjoy live performances, as well as meet-and-greets with their favorite artists.
