A Brief History of Printer's Alley

When it comes to Nashville nightlife, the Honky Tonk Highway on Lower Broadway gets the lion’s share of attention, but it is not the only street downtown designated for good times. Just 2½ blocks north of the neon is Printer's Alley.

Hopping Heyday

Located between Union and Church streets, Printer's Alley was formerly the center of printing presses for publishers, as well as saloons, burlesque shows, and Prohibition-era speakeasies. The area has a history of debauchery dating back to the early 1900s.

Fun-Filled Future

While the mood has changed a bit, tradition hasn’t: the Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar upholds the alley’s legacy of live jazz music, and Skull’s Rainbow Room serves great food in addition to hosting burlesque performances. Karaoke is also a stronghold of Printer's Alley culture, and Ms. Kelli’s Karaoke Club is a great spot to sing and dance.