Station Inn

Of course, public art is not the only type of art in Nashville. Music as an art form is present in every Nashville neighborhood, and the Gulch is no different. Originally located near Vanderbilt University, Station Inn is the most historic music venue in the Gulch. A group of seven bluegrass singers and pickers established Station Inn in 1974. The ownersalso made up the house band and regularly provided the entertainment. Station Inn moved to its present location on Twelfth Avenue South in 1978. Station Inn was sold to musician J.T. Gray in 1981. In 2003, J.T. Gray received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the International Bluegrass Music Association for his contribution to Nashville’s bluegrass scene. 

People flock to Station Inn to enjoy its simple style and sensational music. Artists who have performed at Station Inn include Bill Monroe, Ricky Skaggs, Dierks Bentley, Dolly Parton, Alan Jackson, John Prine, Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, and Reba McEntire. Seats are first-come, first-served at this cozy venue, and live music offerings range from jam sessions to band performances to the Doyle and Debbie Show. The club is the best-known bluegrass joint in town, and part of its charm is the modest interior and menu, which features wood-paneling, faded concert posters, and neon-lit beer signs. “It’skind of a Nashville landmark,” said Grammy Award-winner Ricky Skaggs, who added, “Same popcorn. Same pizza. Same hotdog.”

Continue down Twelfth Avenue South until you see Urban Outfitters across the street at 507 Twelfth Avenue. This is your seventh stop, the Javanco and Farber Building.