About 3rd & Lindsley Bar & Grill
3rd & Lindsley is a well-known live music club and restaurant in downtown Nashville, Tennessee (at the corner of 3rd Ave South and Lindsley Ave South (www.nashvillescene.com ) (www.3rdandlindsley.com )). Opened in 1991 by owner Ron Brice (the space was previously a Mexican restaurant called Jose’s), it has become one of Nashville’s iconic independent music venues (www.nashvillescene.com ) (www.visitmusiccity.com ). The room is relatively small and L-shaped, giving it an intimate, “last of the seated venues” feel that Brice himself embraces (www.nashvillescene.com ) (www.nashvillescene.com ). Over the decades it has hosted countless local and national artists – from singer-songwriters and Americana acts to rock and country legends (www.indieonthemove.com ) (www.visitmusiccity.com ) – and is praised as a cornerstone of Nashville’s music scene (www.visitmusiccity.com ) (www.axios.com ). It operates as an all-ages, wheelchair-accessible bar & grill with live performances seven nights a week (www.indieonthemove.com ) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ).
Events and Programming
On most nights 3rd & Lindsley runs professionally produced live shows, often featuring singer-songwriters, country, rock, blues, Americana and even tribute bands. For example, their schedule includes weekly series like WMOT’s free “Finally Friday” roots music radio show (Friday lunchtimes, no cover charge) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ), Lightning 100’s Sunday-night broadcast concerts, and the popular Monday night “Time Jumpers” Western-swing show. Other shows might be boxed tributes to classic albums or single-night residencies by touring artists. Over its history the venue has seen everyone from up-and-coming local acts to Grammy-winning headliners – artists as diverse as Sturgill Simpson, Ed Sheeran, Norah Jones, Grace Potter, Lady Antebellum and Derek Trucks have all graced its stage (www.indieonthemove.com ). In recent years it’s also hosted Nashville writing rounds, benefit concerts and Americana festival showcases. Shows generally run nightly; doors typically open 60–90 minutes before the advertised start time (for example, a 12:00pm show has doors at 11:00am (www.3rdandlindsley.com )). Many events are ticketed, though the weekly Finally Friday is free and all-ages.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets must be purchased in advance through official channels. The venue does not sell tickets on site before a show (www.3rdandlindsley.com ), so plan to buy online (typically via the official 3rd & Lindsley website or a ticket vendor) or by phone. Most shows go on sale weeks in advance; the venue’s social media or local station announcements often note presales and general sales. When ticket inventory still exists, it may sometimes be sold at the door on the night of the show, but once an event is marked “Sold Out” there’s no official box office stock left (www.3rdandlindsley.com ) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). (The club warns against unofficial resale sites – avoid scalpers or secondary markets.)
Prices vary widely by act. Smaller local and singer-songwriter shows often have modest cover charges (sometimes in the $15–$25 range), while well-known performers or special productions can run $30–50 or more. Some daytime songwriter showcases are inexpensive or free; for instance, the WMOT “Finally Friday” broadcasts are free entry (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). For popular acts, tickets may offer only general admission (all GA), and organizers sometimes open presales through credit-card or radio giveaways. If a show is expected to sell out, it’s wise to grab tickets as soon as they go on sale.
Seating and Layout
The venue’s main space is one large L-shaped room with a stage at one end. There are tables and chairs along the sides and back, plus some balcony seating, but tickets are all general admission. Seating (about 340 chairs) is unreserved – first-come, first-served by location (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). If you want a table, you should arrive early: reviewers note that “virtually anywhere you sit you’ll have a good view of the stage” (www.tripadvisor.ie ), but competition for front tables is keen. (One insider tip: people recommend getting in line 30–60 minutes before doors to claim a table (www.tripadvisor.ie ).) When shows aren’t fully seated, the room can hold about 700 people (www.3rdandlindsley.com ), with patrons able to stand near the stage for a close view. Upstairs balconies overlook the main floor, and from most spots the stage is easily visible – reviewers often praise the sightlines from the balcony and back of the room (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). In short, any vantage in the house generally provides a clear, intimate view.
Getting There and Parking
3rd & Lindsley is located at 818 3rd Avenue South (just south of Broadway) in downtown Nashville (www.3rdandlindsley.com ) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). It sits in the North Gulch/Marathon Village area, about a 10-minute walk from Broadway’s honky tonks. Many visitors drive: street parking in nearby blocks is mostly free (always check signs) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Several pay-to-park lots are also adjacent (rates vary). If you arrive late, pay garage options or roadside spaces on 4th Avenue or the riverfront may be necessary. An easy drop-off option is a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – the main entrance is on 3rd Ave S, and taxis can usually circle for curbside drop-off. There’s no dedicated venue lot, so allow extra time to find a spot.
For transit, Nashville’s WeGo buses run several routes through downtown. Routes that travel 3rd Ave S or nearby (for example, buses on Broadway or Korean Veterans Boulevard) stop within a few blocks of the club. The city’s free Music City Circuit shuttle (downtown loop) also has stops not far away. From Nashville International Airport (BNA), the venue is about 10–15 minutes’ drive by taxi or shuttle. (Nearby landmarks: Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame is just a few blocks north.)
Inside the Venue
Expect a casual bar/bistro atmosphere once you enter the front doors. Tickets are checked at a single door; attendants will scan your e-ticket (or printout) and may do a quick bag check. Just inside the entrance on the right side you’ll find an ATM machine (cash is handy for merch or tips) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Band merchandise is typically displayed nearby. The full bar is along one wall, serving craft beers, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. If you’re hungry, the kitchen serves bar-style food: reviewers report a menu of sandwiches, burgers, salads and steak plates (www.3rdandlindsley.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). (One reviewer noted a $20 ribeye special as a “bargain” (www.tripadvisor.ie ).) Food service usually runs through the first set; menus are available at each table. Seating consists of small stage-side tables and booths, plus a few high-top standing ledges around the perimeter. The overall décor is simple – dim lighting with spotlights on stage, wood floors, and walls featuring music photos/art. Restrooms are near the back. The sound and lighting are professional-grade; in fact the venue even offers live HD audio/video recording for shows (www.3rdandlindsley.com ), which means the PA system and lights are concert-quality. The house does not allow outside food/drinks, weapons or large backpacks (www.3rdandlindsley.com ), and asks that you ask permission before using cameras (no flash photography) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Staff are generally friendly and helpful, though during busy nights service can be a bit slow at the bar.
Nearby Amenities
If you want a bite before the show or a late-night snack, there are many restaurants and bars within walking distance. Casual options include Big City Tacos (a lively Mexican-style taco bar just a few blocks away (www.concerthotels.com )), the Diner (a multi-level American diner with a rooftop patio (www.concerthotels.com )) and Pinewood Social (brewery/restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating and games, about 0.7 miles south). For a more upscale meal try Harper’s Steakhouse (modern steak house) or Yolan (elegant Italian kitchen) – both are only 5–10 minutes’ walk (www.concerthotels.com ) (www.concerthotels.com ). There are also several nearby steak and grill restaurants (such as Bob’s Steak & Chop and Oak Steakhouse). If you’re in the mood for just drinks or appetizers, check out Four Walls (a cocktail lounge in the Pinewood building) or Dos Urban Cantina (tacos and margaritas). Bars along Broadway are a quick walk north if you want live honky-tonk or country nightlife after the show.
There are a number of hotels in the vicinity. The venue partners with Home2Suites by Hilton (Nashville Downtown) at 201 3rd Ave S, which is within easy walking distance (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Other downtown hotels a few blocks away include the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown (on Korean Veterans Boulevard), Courtyard Nashville Downtown, and boutique options like The Joseph or Virgin Hotels. If you’re staying in downtown, most of these lie within 5–10 minutes’ walk or a short rideshare from 3rd & Lindsley. Remember that after late-night shows, few buses run. Rideshare and taxi service are usually available 24/7, but it’s wise to plan your ride back home or to your hotel in advance.
What Makes This Venue Special
3rd & Lindsley’s uniqueness comes from its blend of casual bar culture and top-notch live music history. As one of Nashville’s last independent, all-ages clubs, it has played a crucial role in the careers of many artists (www.visitmusiccity.com ) (www.axios.com ). Its historical significance (opening in 1991 and celebrating milestones like a 35th anniversary soon) adds to its charm. Fans especially love its intimacy and acoustics – the “L-shaped room” design gives an almost living-room feel to concerts (www.nashvillescene.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Many local music traditions revolve around it: for example, the non-profit radio station WMOT broadcasts its Friday afternoon shows live from the stage, and the WY folk/Americana station Lightning 100 has featured weekly artist showcases here (www.3rdandlindsley.com ) (www.nashvillescene.com ). The staff and regulars are like a family: owner Ron Brice has long said he “got lucky” with local talent and loves giving young musicians a dependable stage (www.nashvillescene.com ) (www.axios.com ). In short, 3rd & Lindsley is special because it feels both historic and homey – it’s a true neighborhood venue where audiences and artists of all backgrounds connect over music.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive early, especially for popular shows. Seating is all first-come; arriving 30–60 minutes before doors (or longer for sold-out shows) helps you stake out a good spot (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Dress is casual – you’ll see anything from jeans and boots to tourist attire. The venue enforces a strict “no outside food or drink, no large bags” policy (www.3rdandlindsley.com ), so bring only essentials. Cameras and phones are fine for personal use, but flash photos and video recording are discouraged unless the band says it’s OK (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). If the show is all-ages, no ID is needed (though 21+ shows may be designated at the ticket stage). Wheelchair users: the club is accessible, and staff will assist if you call ahead (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Finally, if you’re driving, remember that neighborhood street signs can change (the address is 818 3rd Ave S) and watch for tow-away signage in private lots (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Above all, come ready for music – 3rd & Lindsley’s strong sound system and attentive crowd mean everyone can enjoy the show up close.
How much is parking near 3rd & Lindsley, and is there free parking?
Public street parking around the venue is generally free (check local signs). There is no dedicated lot for the club, but several paid parking garages and lots are within a block or two (prices vary by day/time). On busy shows you may need to walk a few blocks from available spots. As always, obey posted restrictions to avoid towing (www.3rdandlindsley.com ).
Which public transit options serve 3rd & Lindsley?
Several WeGo Transit bus routes run downtown near 3rd & Lindsley. For example, buses traveling on Broadway or on 1st/4th Avenue will drop you within a few blocks of the venue. The free Music City Circuit shuttle (downtown loop) also stops not far away. Check the latest Nashville transit maps for exact routes. (The venue itself is about two blocks south of Broadway on 3rd Ave.)
Where is the box office, and can I buy tickets at the door?
3rd & Lindsley does not have a traditional box office. All tickets are sold online ahead of time (via the venue website or an authorized seller). You generally cannot buy advance tickets at the club itself. If an event isn’t sold out, you may be able to purchase remaining tickets at the door when showtime arrives. Once an event is “sold out,” though, no more tickets are available (www.3rdandlindsley.com ) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ).
Are there reserved or VIP seats at 3rd & Lindsley?
No. All tickets at 3rd & Lindsley are general admission. While the venue does have tables and chairs, these are always open seating (first-come basis) for GA ticket holders (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Some acts may hold back a few tables for their own parties, but in general arrive early to snag any available seat or table. There is no separate VIP section or reserved seating.
What is the capacity and seating arrangement of the club?
The club can hold roughly 700 people at full capacity, but only about 340 when set up with all seating (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). For most shows the space includes tournament-style folding chairs at tables and some balcony seating, plus standing room. Arrangements vary by event – fully seated concerts use up to ~340 seats, while fully standing shows can pack in ~700. No matter the setup, sight-lines tend to be good from anywhere in the room (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
Are children allowed at 3rd & Lindsley?
Yes – the venue is typically all-ages unless a specific show notes otherwise (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Families often bring kids to early-evening or Sunday shows, especially the radio broadcasts like Finally Friday. Of course, patrons under 21 cannot purchase alcohol, and some late-night or standing-room events might skew toward adults, but there’s no blanket age restriction beyond individual event notices.
What items are prohibited in the venue?
The club does not allow large bags or backpacks inside (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). You also cannot bring outside food, beverages, or alcohol. (An ATM is available inside if you need cash (www.3rdandlindsley.com ).) Weapons, illegal drugs and similar contraband are banned as well. Dress is casual but clean; overly wet clothes (raincoats dripping, etc.) might be barred simply for practicality. Basically, plan to carry only essentials and buy food/drink inside.
How late does 3rd & Lindsley stay open?
Show end times vary, but the club typically stays open until around midnight on weeknights (later on weekends for big shows). For example, an 8:00pm concert often runs past 10:00pm with the bar open until roughly midnight. The venue’s posted hours are usually until 12:00am (www.tripadvisor.ie ). If you need to leave after midnight, note there are limited late-night transport options downtown, so arrange a ride or hotel accordingly.
Is 3rd & Lindsley wheelchair accessible?
Yes – the venue is wheelchair accessible and committed to accommodating guests. The main floor entry is at street level (with ramps) and there are accessible seating areas. Management asks patrons with special needs to call ahead so staff can prepare any necessary accommodations (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). (The club’s website explicitly states it is a handicap-accessible facility.)
Can I bring a camera or record the show?
Camera policies depend on the artist. Generally, no flash photography is permitted (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). You should ask permission before taking photos or video of performers. Small point-and-shoot or smartphone snapshots during a set are usually tolerated if done discreetly. Avoid blockbusting or filming an entire performance unless explicitly allowed by the band.
What food and drink does the club serve?
3rd & Lindsley is a full bar & grill. The kitchen offers a range of bar-food menu items (appetizers, sandwiches, salads and entree plates like grilled steak) (www.3rdandlindsley.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Cocktails, draft and bottled beer (often local brews) and nonalcoholic drinks are available at the bar. Expect typical pub prices. Note that at showtime there can be a rush, so ordering earlier in the night (before the first set) is wise. You cannot bring your own food or drink inside (www.3rdandlindsley.com ).
Are there restrooms and other amenities inside?
Yes – there are men’s and women’s restrooms toward the back of the venue. They are standard bar/toilet facilities. You’ll also find an ATM just inside the front door for cash needs (www.3rdandlindsley.com ). Some guests note there is no coat check, so keep belongings with you. There is no advertised WiFi hotspot for patrons – cellular coverage is typically the way people stay connected. In short: restrooms and basic amenities are on-site, but don’t expect extras beyond an ATM and merchandise table.
What kind of performances should I expect at 3rd & Lindsley?
You should expect primarily singer-songwriter, Americana, country-rock, blues and folk shows. The venue is known for intimate concerts by touring roots artists, local band lineups, songwriters’ rounds and occasional cover/tribute shows. It has famously hosted eclectic acts – past artists have ranged from indie alt-rockers to Nashville songwriters and bluegrass players (www.indieonthemove.com ) (www.nashvillescene.com ). Upcoming calendars often mention categories like “Backstage Nashville Songwriters”, tributes, or the “Finally Friday” radio concert. In short, plan for mostly live band performances (frequently guitar-based and vocal-oriented) rather than EDM or dance parties.
Why is the venue named 3rd & Lindsley?
The name comes from its street location. The club is on 3rd Avenue South right at Lindsley Avenue South (the cross street), so it’s named for that intersection. If you look at a Nashville map, 818 3rd Ave South sits on the corner of 3rd and Lindsley streets in the North Gulch area.
How early should I arrive before the show?
For a guaranteed good spot (especially if you want a table), plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before the posted door time (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Doors themselves often open about one hour before showtime (for example, 6:00pm for an 8:00pm concert). Lining up early is smart because seating is unassigned GA and can fill quickly. That way you can get a place before the crowds push in.
