Is Nashville Safe in September 2026?

Several bars and clubs on Lower Broadway and Printers Alley add a per-person "entertainment fee" or "venue fee" ranging from $10 to $30 per head that does not appear on the menu or the initial tab, only on the final bill presented at the end of the night. Bartenders often attribute the charge to live music licensing costs. Disputing the fee at the bar rarely succeeds and can result in confrontation.

How to avoid: Ask explicitly before ordering whether the venue charges a cover fee or entertainment surcharge in addition to the menu prices. Request an itemised tab before paying. If an unexpected charge appears, ask for a manager and insist on written documentation of the fee policy before settling.

Scalpers and online sellers sell counterfeit or invalid tickets to Grand Ole Opry shows, CMA Fest, and other high-demand Nashville events. Buyers often discover the tickets are fake only at the door.

How to avoid: Purchase tickets only from the official venue box office or established platforms such as Ticketmaster or AXS with buyer guarantees. Avoid cash ticket transactions with strangers at or near the venue.

Tourists are enticed into honky-tonk bars on Lower Broadway with promises of free live music, but are then hit with mandatory cover charges, drink minimums, or table fees that were not disclosed upfront. Some venues charge a cover only after tourists are already seated.

How to avoid: Ask explicitly about all charges before sitting down or ordering. Most legitimate Broadway bars have no cover, so be skeptical of any last-minute surprise fees.

Photographers, balloon artists, and service vendors target bachelorette groups on Broadway, offering quick photos or decorations and then demanding disproportionately high payment using high-pressure tactics if the group tries to decline.

How to avoid: Agree on a price before any service is performed or item is accepted. Politely but firmly decline if you are not interested. Do not accept items handed to you without first asking the cost.

Unofficial drivers solicit rides outside Nashville International Airport quoting flat rates significantly higher than metered taxis or rideshare apps. Some pose as legitimate rideshare drivers but have no app affiliation.

How to avoid: Use only designated taxi stands at BNA or request your Uber/Lyft through the app and verify the driver name, photo, and license plate before entering the vehicle. Never accept unsolicited ride offers inside the terminal.