About Nashville Municipal Auditorium
The Nashville Municipal Auditorium is a historic multi-purpose arena in downtown Nashville, Tennessee (417 4th Avenue North). Designed by city planners and built in 1962, it was the first public assembly facility in the Mid-South with air conditioning (brucebase.wikidot.com ). It replaced the Bijou Theatre (a segregated venue for Black audiences) which was demolished in 1957 to make way for this modern hall (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). The Auditorium opened on October 7, 1962, with a large Church of Christ revival meeting (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). For more than six decades it has anchored Nashville’s entertainment scene, hosting everything from rock concerts to circuses, basketball tournaments to trade shows (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (www.nashville.com ). With roughly 9,600 fixed seats, it once served as the city’s largest indoor venue before newer arenas appeared (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Its mid-century, almost Art-Deco exterior and broad plaza reflect its 1960s civic origins. Locals often simply call it “the Municipal.” Over time the city of Nashville (Metro Government) has renovated and upgraded the space; for example a $3.2 million project finished in 2017 included new private dressing rooms and restored seats (www.nashville.com ). Inside the lobby visitors can even see displays of old concert posters tracing the hall’s rich history. The building also houses the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum (with a “Grammy Gallery” opened in 2016) on the ground floor, making it a two-in-one music landmark (www.nashville.com ). In short, the Municipal Auditorium is a venerable venue that blends Nashville’s music-city heritage with a functional downtown arena.
Events and Programming
Nashville Municipal Auditorium offers an eclectic calendar – it truly hosts a bit of everything. By design it is a versatile “fairgrounds” arena: each year it features national touring concerts in rock, pop, country, R&B and hip-hop as well as Christian and gospel tours. Big names from Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones and Elton John in the 1960s–70s (www.nashville.com ) to modern acts like Def Leppard, Megadeth, Empire of the Sun and Sexyy Red perform here. It also regularly hosts non-music events: circuses and family shows (for example, recurring runs of traveling circuses), seasonal expos (auto shows, wedding fairs, or consumer trade shows), and local sports / competition events. Recent sports and competition events include mixed martial arts bouts (“Misfits Boxing”), pro-am cage-fighting and even a new professional women’s basketball league (Athletes Unlimited signed Nashville as a home city) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). College and high school basketball games or cheerleading championships are occasionally held as well. In late summer 2025 the arena will host the Professional Fighters League World Semifinals on June 12 (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). One Saturday night might see headlining music tours; the next might bring a Christian worship event or a dance competition. Billed events often happen several times a week, especially on weekends. Ticket prices vary widely by show: in general mid-level concerts might run $30–$70 for upper seats and $50–$150 or more for front-floor or VIP seats. Family shows and amateur events tend toward lower prices, while big names charge premium rates. Promoters usually announce tickets weeks to months in advance. In sum, the Municipal Auditorium’s programming is rich and varied – from rock concerts and country shows to boxing nights and community expos – making it a central piece of Nashville’s live entertainment scene.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at the Municipal Auditorium are sold through the official box office and authorized outlets. The Box Office is in the main lobby at 417 4th Avenue North (the venue’s address) and is open weekdays (roughly 10:00 AM–4:30 PM Monday–Friday, and typically about an hour before each show) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). It is a cashless box office (credit/debit cards only, no American Express) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Online tickets are sold via official ticketing partners (often Ticketmaster or similar services, though the venue does not publicly endorse any single company). There is no third-party “will-call” desk off-site – if you purchased tickets to be held, you must pick them up at the Auditorium itself on the day of the event. By venue policy, will-call tickets (usually ticketmaster orders) can be picked up at the door with the purchaser’s photo ID and credit card used for purchase (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). If you miss a show, note the refund policy: tickets are non-refundable unless the event is canceled (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ), in which case refunds are processed through your original purchasing method.
For presales or premium packages, artists and promoters sometimes offer special sales codes (check official band/fan club newsletters). In practice, we recommend buying early for in-demand shows. Many big acts sell out well before the event; the Box Office sometimes opens earlier for sold-out shows to sell last-minute or accessible seating, but generally it’s best not to wait until day-of. You should also note that children ages 2 and under do not need a ticket (they sit on an adult’s lap) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) – anyone ages 3 or up needs a paid ticket. Finally, if you plan to attend multiple shows or industrial events (like a trade convention), the Municipal Auditorium’s calendar is usually published about a month in advance on the official site. In summary: buy through official channels, arrive early, and grab seats for popular concerts before they sell out.
Seating and Layout
The Municipal Auditorium holds about 9,654 reserved seats for a full concert configuration (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). The seating is arranged in a classic arena style: there is a main floor (the “orchestra” section) in front of the stage and a single tier of raised seating wrapping around (often called the mezzanine or parterre). The stage is usually at one short end of the hall (for end-stage shows), with Floor sections extending forward and side sections curving toward stage. A few concerts may use an “in the round” layout (center stage), but most big shows put the stage against a wall. In reserved-seating concerts, the best view is in the floor seats and first several rows of the lower tier. In the official seating charts, these are labeled as “Premium Orchestra” (front floor) and “Parterre” sections (1–7) which offer good sightlines (www.eventticketscenter.com ). Fans note that even the upper rows are not extremely far from the stage; as one reviewer put it, “the back row isn’t very far away, certainly not by today’s arena standards” (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Thus even the highest balcony seats give you a reasonable view of the show, though floor-level seats are always prime for watching performers up close.
Some events (especially rock/metal concerts) may open up the floor for general admission standing. In GA events, the main-floor chairs are removed, and fans can stand (and often dance) near the stage, raising the crowd capacity by a few hundred. In that case, the doors usually open early so standing fans can line up and get spots near the stage. For sporting events or fight shows, the arena floor is configured with a boxing ring or sporting court at center; seating surrounds it in all directions. The venue also has a smaller dome-like basketball or volleyball layout for high school and college games with additional side floor seats. Each layout has a different diagram (see the venue website’s seating charts).
In any configuration, a few quick tips: the very best seats are the front-center floor or first few rows of sections 1–2 in the main tier (www.eventticketscenter.com ). Proximity to the stage not only improves sightlines but usually gives better acoustics too. A small side note – if you have accessibility needs, accessible (wheelchair) locations are provided near the elevator (concourse level) on both sides of the arena. Those seats must be reserved via the Box Office in advance. If you want an immersive experience, some fans enjoy standing room at the very front of the barricade (for GA shows), while others prefer the elevated vantage of the upper sections (fewer neck craning, wider view). In short, the venue is compact enough that nearly every seat is close enough for a good view of the stage or event.
Getting There and Parking
The Municipal Auditorium is right in downtown Nashville, a few blocks north of Union Street and near the James Robertson Parkway (Victory Bridge). By car, the address is 417 4th Avenue North (zipcode 37201). From I-40/I-65 downtown exits, you’re generally headed toward 4th Avenue/Charlotte Avenue. For example, from I-40 East take exit 209 (Charlotte) and head east to 5th Ave North, then turn left; the venue will soon be on your right. From I-65 South exit (also James Robertson Parkway downtown), continue straight onto Interstate Drive and cross the bridge; at the 4th light past the bridge turn left onto 5th Ave North, and the auditorium will be on the left side (just beyond Rep. John Lewis Way). Parking is NOT available on-site (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Instead, visitors use downtown parking garages and lots. The city’s ParkIt Downtown app/website lists numerous lots in the area (many blocks south and east). Common options include the parking garages near the Music City Center (a few blocks south of the venue), or the open lots along Broadway or Church Street. Some listeners parked at the K&B Lot further north on 5th, or the lot at 6th/Charlotte near the Capitol. Surface-street metered parking can also be found on nearby streets, but note meters fill up quickly on concert nights. In any case, plan to arrive 30+ minutes early for parking, as garages can fill during big events.
Public transit is also practical. A few city bus routes stop along Charlotte Avenue (one block from the auditorium) and on nearby 5th Avenue or 7th Avenue, connecting downtown with East Nashville and West End. The Music City Circuit (the free downtown shuttle bus) stops within one or two blocks (5th Ave N at James Robertson Pkwy, for example). The main Nashville MTA transfer center (Music City Central at 8th & Broadway) is about 3 blocks south; from there a short walk or bus ride reaches the venue. For a stress-free trip, many locals use rideshare: Uber and Lyft drop off and pick up on 4th Ave North at the main entrance. After a sold-out show, downtown traffic can be heavy, so build extra time for exit or coordinate a meetup point. In good weather, the venue is also a pleasant walk from central downtown: it’s only 5–10 minutes on foot from Broadway and Bridgestone Arena. Nearby attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman Auditorium are within easy walking distance (about 0.3–0.5 mi). For drivers, note that some nearby streets are one-way, so follow the posted signs. Lastly, always check ahead: on special event weekends, the city may set up tailgate or shuttle programs (e.g. for CMA Fest) that affect traffic patterns around the venue.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, expect standard arena procedures. The main lobby leads to multiple entry doors at ground level. Ticket check and security screening typically begins about one hour before showtime (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (some events may open those doors earlier for VIP or line management). Bag and personal-item searches are routine: Nashville Municipal Auditorium strongly enforces a strict bag policy. Only clear plastic bags up to about 12″×12″×6″ are allowed, and purses or clutches must be under roughly 4.5″×6.5″ (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Backpacks and large bags are prohibited (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Outside food, cans/bottles, weapons, fireworks, large signs, noise-making devices, selfie sticks, and professional cameras or video recorders are not allowed (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Service animals (with proper harness) are permitted, but check with staff for placement if needed (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Patron ID is seldom checked unless it’s an age-restricted event (like 18+ shows with alcohol) or will-call pickup (which requires the original purchaser’s ID (www.nashvilleauditorium.com )).
After entry, you’ll find amenities along the concourse. Concessions stands offer snacks, meals and alcoholic drinks – note everything is card-only (no cash) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Fans have reported that refreshment lines can be slow, so it’s smart to buy drinks well before or after the main performance if possible (www.tripadvisor.com ). Restrooms are located on the first and second floors; as of 2017 they were fully renovated with new plumbing and fixtures (www.nashville.com ). A small first-aid center is on the first floor outside Vomitorium 4 (in case of medical issues) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). The venue is smoke-free indoors. However, a designated smoking area exists on a second-floor patio overlooking the WeGo bus station (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ), accessible via the upper concourse stairs or elevator. Also note the elevator (at vomitory 4) which provides ADA access from the ground floor to the upper level (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ).
Most events sell merchandise or souvenirs: official t-shirts, posters and other items are usually on sale at tables along the concourse. Most concertgoers connect on cell phones without issue (signal is decent indoors). Wi-Fi is generally not offered in the venue, so plan cellular data use accordingly. Electrical outlets and charging stations are not typically available to the public, so keep devices charged beforehand. A coat check service is usually not provided, so carry minimal and easy-to-manage belongings. seating sections are clearly marked, though some past visitors have noted a lack of signage inside (the staff or ushers can help you find your row). The venue employs ushers to guide seating on show nights, but they are few, so keep to set pathway aisles. If you need wheelchair seating or other special accommodations, speak to a staff member as you enter – accessible площадки are reserved up front or along aisles. In general the hall’s atmosphere is nostalgic (with historic concert posters on the walls) and the crowd tends to be enthusiastic but respectful.
Accessibility: The Auditorium offers wheelchair-accessible seating and elevator access. Accessible seating is available in various sections (locations vary by event) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ), usually at the ends of the upper and lower levels. You should reserve accessible seats in advance through the Box Office or your ticket seller. Upon entry, the elevator near the first aid station carries patrons to the upper concourse levels (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Sign language interpreters can be requested (with at least two weeks notice) at no charge (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Closed captioning devices or assistive listening systems may be available for some events (ask the box office ahead of time if needed). Service animals are allowed (notify staff if you are bringing one). Even from seating areas, aisles and exits are clearly marked in case of emergency. The venue is generally flat at entry and on the concourse, and most restrooms are wheelchair-accessible.
Nearby Amenities
The Municipal Auditorium sits in the heart of downtown Nashville, so many restaurants, bars and hotels are within walking distance. Immediately near the venue you’ll find fast-food and quick-grab options (such as a pizza shop or sandwich café a block away on Charlotte Ave). A few blocks to the east is the lively Broadway district, with famous honky-tonks, bar grills and eateries like Rippy’s Smokin’ BBQ, Legends Corner, Pete’s and of course landmark country bars (for example Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is about 3 blocks away on 9th Avenue North). The famous Hattie B’s hot chicken (West campus location) is about 1 mile to the east on 19th Street, if you crave Nashville-style spicy chicken. Within a one-block radius are also several chain sports bars and quick-service lunch spots. If you have time, a short walk (5–10 minutes) takes you to Broadway where dozens of restaurants line the street, from Southern-style BBQ and steaks to pizza and Mexican fare. Many fans recommend grabbing dinner on Broadway or at Printer’s Alley before a show. For a sit-down meal closer to the venue, options include cafes and pubs on 5th Avenue and the nearby French Quarter neighborhood.
When it comes to nightlife and drinks, you’re in the downtown core. After a show you can head to Broadway (just a few blocks away) for live-music bars and clubs. The area near Demonbreun Street (a few blocks south) has wine bars and cocktail lounges. Within 5 minutes’ walk is the Printer’s Alley area, known for intimate piano bars and clubs. The area is generally safe and well-lit on show nights, but always exercise normal city-screening. Late-night taxis and rideshares queue up on 4th/5th Avenue after events, so it’s a short wait to get a ride home. If staying overnight nearby, hotels within a few blocks include a Sheraton, Hilton Nashville Downtown and several Marriott/Drury/Embassy Suites hotels just south on 3rd and 5th Avenues. The Music City Center hotel is also a short walk.
Arrival Advice: It’s wise to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before showtime. Ticket lines and security can take time, as noted by some patrons who reported multi-door queues (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Plan your transportation so you clear parking and enter calmly. If you have general admission standing tickets, expect to line up outside (the venue uses bike rack barriers to organize lines). If you can, eat or drink before you arrive – concession lines inside were described as 15–30 minutes long during peak times (www.tripadvisor.com ). Coat yourself in layers if it’s cool out; the arena can be cold air-conditioned. And remember to leave ample time for the crowd heading out after a big show, whether walking to a parked car or catching a rideshare.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Nashville Municipal Auditorium is more than just another performance hall – it’s a piece of Music City history. For one thing, it’s an iconic 1960s building that has slotted into Nashville’s music scene for generations. Many artists note its intimate feel compared to modern arenas: here, even the top balcony is relatively close to the stage, giving fans a personal connection to the performers (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Its classic lobby displays and old-fashioned charm provide a nostalgic backdrop. Over the years it has hosted trailblazing moments: country stars of the 60s, the rock upticks of the 70s, and pop/rap acts through the 21st century all passed through these doors. Some longtime Nashvillians grew up coming here to spectacular jobs like Elvis Presley or even The Jackson 5 in 1972 (their early ’70s tour stopped here according to archived records). It’s also the place where the city’s big motorsports and scholastic events happened – from auto shows and livestock expos to marching band championships – meaning many locals have fond childhood memories here.
Another unique feature is that the Musicians Hall of Fame (with its impressive guitar, drum and Grammy exhibits) shares the building; visitors to a concert can literally spend the afternoon touring the Hall of Fame on the lower level, making a whole “Music City” experience. In addition, the auditorium has a tradition of hosting civic and charity events (benefit concerts, sports tournaments for causes, etc.), reinforcing its role in the community beyond just rock shows. When big-name country or pop acts visit Nashville, the Auditorium provides a medium-sized stage (larger than a club but cozier than Bridgestone) that artists often prefer for its straight-shooting acoustics and audience vibe.
Finally, its ongoing renovations and partnerships (City of Nashville working with Live Nation and the Musicians Hall of Fame) mean it is able to stay relevant. For example, updating the seating and facilities around 2017 shows that the city and promoters value keeping the hall comfortable and appealing (www.nashville.com ). The combination of historical aura (it was here before Nashville’s rise as “It City”) and modern multi-use capability makes it beloved by performers and fans alike. In short, the Municipal Auditorium is special because it bridges Nashville’s rich musical past with a working performance space for today’s artists and audiences.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility & Seating: If you or someone in your party needs wheelchair or companion seating, book those tickets as early as possible (the venue has limited spots per show) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Upon arrival, use the elevator near Vomitorium 4 to access upper levels. Reserve aisle or front-row seats if mobility or leg room is a concern. Note that the seating risers have uneven step heights and no handrails, so watch your step – several visitors have cautioned that the stairs can be tricky in dark conditions (www.tripadvisor.com ). Keep in mind that standing room GA events (if any) require you to remain in the floor pit without a chair.
What to Bring / Wear: Be ready for security checks. Travel light: only small clear bags or handheld items are allowed (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Cameras with telephoto or video cameras are banned, though small point-and-shoot digital cameras (without a big lens) are sometimes permitted if security approves – better to leave any large cameras or video recorders at home. Your smartphone and wallet are fine. Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll do a bit of walking and standing. A light jacket or sweater is wise, as the air conditioning can be chilly. It’s a casual venue: no dress code beyond “no obscene/offensive attire” (the policy forbids masks or face paint, and says clothing must be “proper” without profanity) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). (By contrast, formal dress like a suit is rarely seen at concerts here.) If you bring children, remember that kids 2 and under sit on your lap free (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) – any age 3+ needs a ticket. Strollers are allowed in the concourse but must be folded when in the seating area (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ).
Arrival and Lines: Do not arrive too early on the day of the show – the box office and doors do not open before about 10 AM anyway (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Plan to queue up just before doors open (typically one hour pre-show (www.nashvilleauditorium.com )) rather than overnight. On big event nights, lines can stretch to the street. Past attendees have noted frustration when promised entry times aren’t met – for example, a fan reported waiting 45 minutes past a scheduled 5 PM door time for multiple entrance lanes to open (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). To avoid that, check the official event page (or call the box office) for exact door times and any updates. Once inside, use bathroom and buy concessions before the performance starts, as later lines are very long (www.tripadvisor.com ) and you don’t want to miss any of the show.
Prohibited Items and Behavior: The rules are strict. Aside from bags and cameras (see above), remember no outside food or drink – all food and beverages must be purchased inside (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). No selfies sticks, balloons, spray cans, or quick-fold chairs are allowed (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Weapon prohibition is absolute (no knives, pepper spray, etc) (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Smoking is only permitted in the designated outdoor area; no vaping or cigarettes inside. Keep noise makers (cowbells, horns, whistles) at home. Security will ask you to stow or surrender any banned item. Also, the venue is alcohol-aware – don’t bring your own cooler, and don’t overdo it at the bar (security will cut off intoxicated guests).
Connectivity and Other Services: There is no general public Wi-Fi, so mobile service is your only option (coverage inside is generally OK). Some visitors have found that cell signal is better at concourse level near windows than deep in the seating bowl. The venue does not typically have its own charging stations or ATMs, so come with charged devices and enough cash/card for purchases. If you lose something, call the office (615-862-6390) later – they will hold found items at the venue (www.nashvilleauditorium.com ).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: One common tip: arrive earlier for parking and entry than you think necessary. Also, double-check your tickets before coming in – there’s a large venue next door, the Ryman Auditorium, which can confuse first-time visitors (make sure you’re headed to the Municipal, 4th Ave N). Don’t wait to buy merch – often popular show shirts sell out quickly. If attending with a child or group, keep track of everyone (the concourses can be crowded). Finally, for night events the walk back to parking might be a bit dark, so stick to main sidewalks or use rideshare drop-off at the front door.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Nashville Municipal Auditorium?
The main arena seats about 9,654 people in a full Reserved configuration (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). With floor seating in place, that number can vary (around 9,600). If the floor is opened up for standing (General Admission) events, capacity is slightly higher (approaching roughly 10,000). In short, it’s just under a 10,000-seat indoor arena.
How do I buy tickets and when does the box office open?
Tickets are sold through authorized outlets (often listed on the venue website or artist promotions) and at the on-site Box Office (417 4th Ave N). The Box Office is in the main lobby and is open on weekdays (roughly 10:00 AM–4:30 PM Monday–Friday) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). On performance days it usually reopens about one hour before doors. You can also purchase online through the official ticket partner. There are never advance box office fees – you pay face value there. Simply call ahead or check the venue’s schedule page for selling points if unsure.
Are there will-call (will-call) tickets, and what ID do I need?
Yes, many tickets can be held at Will Call. All will-call tickets (often from online orders) must be picked up at the Municipal Auditorium on the day of the event. To pick up tickets, you must present the purchaser’s photo ID and the credit card used for the purchase (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). No other party can pick up will-call without being listed as an authorized buyer. Plan on arriving at least 30 minutes before showtime to pick up your tickets and avoid the box office rush.
What time do doors open and when do events typically start?
Doors usually open about 1 hour before the published showtime (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). For example, a 7:00 PM concert will have doors at 6:00 PM. Occasionally, big events might open a bit earlier for VIP or fan club lines – check the specific event info. Doors will not open before about 10:00 AM (even if advertised otherwise), so don’t line up before mid-morning on performance day (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Most acts begin promptly (especially on weeknights, which usually start on time; weekend concerts may have an opening act or a 15-30 min delay).
What is the box office refund policy?
Tickets cannot be refunded for change of mind or if you simply cannot attend. The only time tickets are refunded is if the event is canceled. In that case, refunds are issued at the point of purchase. Online purchases (via official vendors) will automatically credit your card within about 7–10 business days. In-person box office tickets must be returned in person within 30 days for a cash refund (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). No refunds are given for postponed dates (tickets remain valid for the rescheduled date).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Municipal Auditorium is fully ADA-compliant. Accessible (wheelchair) seating is available at all events (though locations vary by show) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). There is an elevator next to Vomitorium 4 on the first floor that serves as a lift between floors (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). If you need assistance, you can call the box office in advance to reserve accessible seats. Service animals are also welcome (though you must notify staff ahead of time for any special seating). Sign language interpreters can be requested two weeks in advance, free of charge (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Restrooms on each level are wheelchair-accessible.
What can I bring into the auditorium? (Bag policy, prohibited items)
The Municipal Auditorium has strict rules to speed up entry. Bags must be small and clear (no larger than about 12″×12″×6″), and small clutches must not exceed roughly 4.5″×6.5″ (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Backpacks and large purses are not allowed at all (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Bottles, cans, outside food and beverage, coolers, chairs, large signs, fireworks, lasers, recording devices (GoPros, camcorders, professional cameras), drones, weapons, and anything deemed hazardous are all prohibited (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Small digital cameras (point-and-shoot) are often okay if the event policy allows it, but high-end cameras and video cameras are definitely banned (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Only service animals are permitted (no pets) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). If you have any questions about what might be allowed, call security before coming. Generally, travel very light: just tickets (printed or digital), ID, wallet, and phone make for a smooth entry.
What restaurants and hotels are near the Municipal Auditorium?
The auditorium is in downtown Nashville, so there’s no shortage of dining and lodging. Within a few blocks you’ll find many bars and restaurants on Broadway (cowboy bars, burger joints, BBQ places like Rippy’s and local chains) as well as casual locales on 3rd/4th Ave. For quick eats near the venue try pizza, Mexican or sports-bar fare on Charlotte Ave. If you want a sit-down meal, Broadway’s steakhouse and Southern kitchens are about a 5-10 minute walk. Well-known nearby hotels include the Sheraton, Hilton Nashville Downtown, Embassy Suites and several Mariott/Drury Plaza downtown – all within one or two blocks of 5th Avenue and Broadway. If you stay out of town and need to return after a show, remember rideshares are plentiful downtown. TripAdvisor and Yelp list many restaurant reviews for the area – but in general, downtown Nashville (within a few blocks of the auditorium) has kitchens open late for shows and plenty of casual dining spots.
Can I smoke or vape inside the auditorium?
No. The Nashville Municipal Auditorium is completely smoke-free indoors. Smoking (and vaping) is only allowed in a designated outdoor area: a smoking deck on the second-floor patio overlooking the bus station (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). That staircase can be accessed from inside, or you can step outside on the first floor, throw something on the floor under the break area, or walkway. Just remember: no smoking in seats, aisles, or lobby.
Is re-entry allowed during an event? Can I leave and come back in?
Re-entry policies can vary by event. Generally, if you request daytime to go to the restroom or car, it’s typically allowed, but it is at the security staff’s discretion. Some shows stamp or scan tickets so you can come and go, while others may not allow re-admission once you leave. If you need to step out (for example to smoke on the patio or refreshments outside), ask an usher on your way out. If they allow it, keep your hand-stamp or ticket paper. Note that the ensemble foyer is not easily accessible from outside without passing security checks again. In any case, plan to stay inside once the show starts, as re-admittance can sometimes be refused.
Are children allowed and is there an age policy?
Children are welcome at most events. By venue policy, any child up to age 2 years old may enter free (sitting on an adult’s lap) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Every person aged 3 and older needs a ticket. There is no special dress requirement for kids. For loud concerts, bring ear protection. Some shows (especially those with mature content) might have their own age restrictions; always check the specific event’s details. The seating is all fixed, so strollers are only allowed in concourse areas and only if parked – you must fold them for seating areas (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Nursing and changing areas are not specifically provided, so plan accordingly.
Is there food and drink available inside?
Yes. Concession stands on the concourse offer typical arena food (burgers, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels) and both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, cocktails). Note: all sales are cashless (cards only) (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Lines can be long before intermission or during openers (for example, one reviewer waited 20 minutes for a beer during a concert (
www.tripadvisor.com )). To avoid missing the start of an act, go during an opening song or after it ends. There is no outside food or drink allowed, so anything you bring must be consumed before entry. Water fountains are available on each level if you bring an empty bottle.
How far are the “nosebleed” seats from the stage?
The auditorium is relatively compact compared to larger arenas. Even the very last row in the upper level is only perhaps 100-150 feet from the stage. Most fans note it feels intimate. In fact, one concertgoer commented that the venue is “pretty small” – even upper deck seats are still close by modern stadium standards (
www.tripadvisor.ie ). So while the front-floor sections put you right at the stage, the back rows still give a clear view (no one is extremely far away). Sound and video screens also help ensure all seats are good. In practice, you’ll want to avoid seats immediately facing the side walls with obstructed views; center sections or sides at angles are more reliable.
What should I wear or bring to a concert here?
Dress casually and comfortably. There is no formal dress code (jeans, t-shirts and sneakers are common). Since the building can be chilly, a light jacket or sweater is a good idea. Comfortable shoes are recommended (you may stand or walk a bit). Bring only essentials: your ticket (print or digital), ID, and a small clear bag (if needed). The venue is cashless (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ), so carry a credit/debit card for any purchases. Earplugs are wise for very loud shows, especially for children. Avoid latex balloons or hats that cover your view. Cameras: a smartphone is fine, but any camera with a detachable lens or flash is prohibited. In summary, wear what you’d wear to any large indoor concert and pack light for security’s sake.
Is smoking allowed at or near the Venue?
Indoor smoking/vaping is completely prohibited. The Auditorium is smoke-free inside. There is, however, an outdoor smoking area on the second level – a deck overlooking the bus station (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ). Guests who wish to smoke must exit to that patio area (you can then re-enter through security if allowed). Outside the building on street level, Nashville’s open-container laws do allow public drinking by consent, but inside the venue all alcohol must be purchased at the counter. In short, no smoking inside and no bringing your own alcohol.
What time should I arrive before the event?
Plan to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before the scheduled start time. This allows time for parking, ticket pickup and security lines. Doors often open one hour in advance (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ), and lines can be long for popular shows. For example, one patron reported gates opening 45 minutes late, creating a rush; arriving early gives a cushion (
www.nashvilleauditorium.com ) (
www.tripadvisor.com ). In general: have dinner or drinks outside, and come early enough to enter and find your seat well before the lights go down.
