The Bluebird Cafe

World renowned and a Green Hills nightclub mainstay since 1982, The Bluebird Cafe requires planning and patience if you want to hear some of the world’s best singer-songwriters in a gloriously intimate setting. (Prepare to be shushed by the wait staff if you speak much beyond a whisper.) Due in part to its regular storyline on the “Nashville” TV show, the 90-seat club now has an audience with tourists outnumbering townies on many nights. Thus the “How to Make Reservations” section of the website is a must-visit with the exception of Sundays and Mondays, which are first-come, first served. From Tuesday through Saturday a few rows of church pews and bar seats remain first-come, first-served, so there’s always a chance and getting in the door. And the opening set, which features lesser-known but still immensely talented acts, sells out less quickly. Live music nightly, with a cover charge for the late show and food and drink minimums.