Printers Alley is a historic alley located in downtownNashville, TN. The alley was once home to a thriving printing industry, buttoday it is known for its vibrant nightlife and unique entertainment options.This article will explore the history of Printers Alley, its currentattractions, and the many things to do in this iconic Nashville destination.
History
Printers Alley dates back to the late 1800s when it was ahub for the city's printing industry. At the time, Nashville was known as the"Printers' Mecca of the South," with dozens of printing businessesoperating in the area. Printers Alley was home to some of the city's mostprominent printing shops, including the legendary Southern Printing andLithographing Company.
During the Prohibition era of the 1920s and '30s, PrintersAlley became a hotbed of speakeasies and underground nightlife. Bars and clubssprang up throughout the alley, catering to a mix of locals, musicians, andout-of-towners. The alley became known as a place where anything could happen,and it quickly gained a reputation as one of Nashville's most uniquedestinations.
Current Attractions
Today, Printers Alley is still a vibrant hub of nightlifeand entertainment. Many historic buildings that once housed printing shops andspeakeasies have been converted into bars, restaurants, and music venues. Thealley has a unique, eclectic vibe that draws visitors from all over the world.
One of the most iconic destinations in Printers Alley is theBourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar. This venue features live music everynight, featuring local and national acts performing blues, jazz, and othergenres. The bar has a New Orleans-style atmosphere, with brick walls, wrought-ironbalconies, and plenty of Mardi Gras beads.
Another popular destination in Printers Alley is Skull'sRainbow Room. This historic bar and lounge is located in the basement of theSouthern Turf Building and has been a fixture of Nashville's nightlife scenesince the 1940s. The venue features live music, burlesque shows, other uniqueentertainment options, and a full bar and restaurant.
Other notable destinations in Printers Alley include theCoyote Ugly Saloon, a rowdy bar and dance club inspired by the movie of thesame name; the Fiddle and Steel Guitar Bar, a popular spot for country musiclovers; and the Alley Taps Beer Garden, a laid-back outdoor bar with a rotatingselection of craft beers.
Things to Do in Printers Alley
There are plenty of things to do in Printers Alley, whetheryou're a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a unique experience. Hereare a few of the top things to do in this iconic Nashville destination:
Catch a live show at Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar orone of the other music venues in the alley. You'll undoubtedly hear some of thebest live music Nashville offers.
Take in the unique atmosphere of Skull's Rainbow Room. Thishistoric venue has been entertaining visitors for decades and is a must-visitdestination in Printers Alley.
Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many bars andrestaurants in the alley. From craft cocktails to Southern comfort food,there's something for everyone in Printers Alley.
Take a walking tour of the alley to learn more about itshistory and the colorful characters who have called it home over the years.
Check out the art galleries and studios that line the alley.From contemporary art to vintage posters, there's plenty to see and appreciatein Printers Alley.
Let's Do This
Printers Alley is a unique and vibrant destination thatcaptures the spirit of Nashville's rich history and culture. From its originsas a hub for the printing industry to its current status as a hotspot fornightlife and entertainment, Printers Alley has always been a place whereanything can happen.
Whether you're a music lover, a foodie, or just looking fora unique experience, Printers Alley has something to offer. With its eclecticmix of bars, restaurants, and music venues, this historic Nashville destinationalways has something new to discover.
So the next time you're in Nashville, be sure to make a stopin Printers Alley. Take in the live music, enjoy some Southern comfort food,and soak up the unique atmosphere of this iconic Nashville destination. Youwon't be disappointed!
