A songwriter round is one of Nashville’s most unique music experiences. The Bluebird Café was already popular before the TV show “Nashville” turbocharged its visibility. These days getting a seat requires knowledge, speed, and diligence so, if you want to visit, let me start with the basics.
Good to know
- Many think the Bluebird Café is located near Music Row–it isn’t! It’s in a lowly retail district within the upscale neighborhood of Green Hills. That’s about 5 miles south of downtown.
- The 80+-seat room can be configured in two ways: In The Round where songwriters sit a circle in the middle of the room and In The Row with performers on the stage a mere two steps above the seating area.
- All shows are all-ages but the Bluebird may not be a good fit for younger children.
- The shows in highest demand feature well-known artists and hit songwriters.
- Generally, Friday and Saturday shows are most popular.
- The Bluebird is a hot ticket year-round but January and February don’t have as many tourists vying for tickets.
- Mondays are open-mic nights. No reservations accepted so show up at least an hour before doors open.
- Most people aim to get a table but the pews and bar stools are great seats as well.
- Only purchase tickets from the Bluebird Café site. Third-party tickets may be bogus.
There are no surefire ways to snag a seat but these strategies will increase your chances.
Plan A: Reserve seats online
- Select the show you’d like to see.
- Release schedule. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and the 9pm Blue Monday shows are released a week in advance. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday shows are released on the Monday prior to the show. The 6pm Monday Open Mic shows are walk-up only. Armed with that info…
- Log on before 8am Central on the appropriate day.
- When tickets go live, grab what you can get. NOTE: It’s much easier for solos and parties of two or four than it is six. For larger groups, have another member of your party, work independently. Keep in mind that you’re booking seats, not tables. If you have three people at a four-top, it’s likely a solo visitor will be seated with you.
- Didn’t get tickets? Keep vigilant because sometime people don’t complete the sales transaction. If you get the “sold out” notification, keep refreshing for a half-hour or so. And check periodically after that if you still don’t strike gold.
- According to the general manager, bad weather can affect attendance and there are typically last-minute cancellations the day before and the day of a show. Try your luck then.
- For more detailed ticket information, consult the Bluebird Café website.
- Because the room is tiny, there are only two wheelchair-accessible seats per show. A companion seat is also available. Inquire at least two weeks in advance at info@bluebirdcafe.com or call 615-383-1461 12 PM – 4 PM CST Monday-Friday for assistance.
Plan B: Walk-ups
- It’s standard policy to hold seats for the first 10-12 walk-ups but you have to be at the front of the line. Translation: get there early. If the show is a big draw, you may need to arrive 2+ hours before the door opens. And everyone in your party needs to present (no holding for others).
- There are no guarantees you’ll get in so have in mind an alternate plan to enjoy your evening.
Parking
- There are only a few parking spaces out front and they go fast. Option: take the alley off Warfield Drive and use the Bluebird Café’s gravel lot in back. A narrow concrete sidewalk next to the tall new building will lead you to the front.
- After business hours, you’re allowed to park free at United Community Bank next door. Other nearby businesses are known to tow non-customers during business hours.
- Many people prefer a rideshare or taxi to avoid parking issues. After a show, you may need to be patient to get a ride to your next destination.
- Should you opt for WeGo Transit, use the #7 bus which has a transit station n front of Hillsboro High School. Cost: $2, credit card or exact cash. It’s only about three blocks south to the Bluebird.
Attending a show
- Those with reservations form a line to the right of the front door and are admitted first; walk-ups line up to the left.
- There is a $15 per person minimum for food and drink.
- Your servers work hard to remain unobtrusive while delivering your orders. Show respect by tipping generously.
- You will be shushed if you talk during performances, trust me.
- Dress is casual but maybe forego ultra-casual. This isn’t a pool party.
- Avoid the long line to the women’s restroom by taking care of matters before you arrive or prior to the performance.
Bluebird exterior/Courtenay Decker
