Play Dance Bar

- 1519 Church St, Nashville, TN 37203

Introduction / Overview

For a night of fierce performances, high-energy dancing, and an unapologetically fabulous atmosphere, look no further than Play Dance Bar in Nashville, Tennessee. As a landmark gay night club and gay bar, Play stands as a beacon of the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community. This establishment is not just a place to get a drink; it's an immersive experience, a space where everyone is welcome to let loose, be themselves, and celebrate life. Owned and operated as an LGBTQ+ owned business, the bar prides itself on creating a judgment-free and inclusive environment, a sentiment echoed by a fan who described the dance floor as "a judgment free zone where I become Britney Spears for 3–5 business minutes." It is also officially recognized as a transgender safe space, further solidifying its commitment to inclusivity. The main draw for many is the sensational drag shows, featuring a roster of talented and charismatic performers who serve "glitter fueled cardio sessions." These live performances are the heart and soul of the club, leaving audiences mesmerized and entertained. But Play is also a fully-fledged nightlife destination, offering a wide array of food and drink options that go far beyond typical bar fare. With a full-service menu that includes everything from Asian-inspired small plates and sushi to decadent desserts, you can make an entire night of it without ever leaving the premises. The atmosphere is consistently described as trendy and high-energy, perfect for groups, tourists, and locals alike. While some recent feedback has pointed to inconsistencies with the music from a specific DJ, the overall reputation of Play as a place for "fierce performances, loud music, and twerking like rent is due" remains intact. It’s a place where wigs fly and heels slay, guaranteeing an unforgettable night for anyone looking for a truly lively and authentic Nashville experience.

Location and Accessibility

Play Dance Bar is conveniently located at 1519 Church St, Nashville, TN 37203, USA, placing it at the epicenter of Nashville’s nightlife. This prime location makes it a central and accessible destination for both local residents and visitors from across Tennessee and beyond. The establishment has made significant efforts to ensure it is accessible to all. Parking is a crucial convenience, and Play offers multiple options, including a free parking lot, free street parking, and paid parking lots or street parking. This variety helps alleviate the stress often associated with finding a spot in a bustling urban area. In terms of physical accessibility, Play Dance Bar goes above and beyond to be inclusive. The venue features a wheelchair-accessible car park, a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet, ensuring that everyone can navigate the space with ease and comfort. This commitment to accessibility is a significant highlight, demonstrating that the bar’s welcoming ethos extends to its physical design. The club also offers outdoor seating and accepts reservations, which are great planning tools for groups and parties. The central location, combined with these thoughtful amenities, makes Play a practical and appealing choice for a night out. Being situated on Church Street, a well-known area for entertainment and dining, allows patrons to easily incorporate a visit to Play into a larger evening of activities in the city. The ease of access from all parts of Nashville contributes to its popularity and reputation as a must-visit spot.

Services Offered

• Full-Service Bar: A wide selection of alcohol, beer, spirits, wine, and great cocktails are available.
• Diverse Food Menu: The bar serves a full menu of food offerings, including soups, salads, small plates, sushi, "yum bowls," and signature plates.
• Live Performances: Regular and sensational drag shows are a core offering, featuring both a resident cast and weekly special guests.
• Live Music & DJ Sets: The club features live music and DJ sets to create a high-energy dance environment.
• Dancing: A world-class dance floor is available for patrons to dance the night away.
• Outdoor Seating: The venue offers outdoor seating for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the night air.
• Reservations: Play Dance Bar accepts reservations, which is ideal for groups and for planning special events.

Features / Highlights

• LGBTQ+ Owned & Friendly: As an LGBTQ+ owned business, the club is a pillar of the community, offering a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
• Transgender Safe Space: The venue is explicitly designated as a transgender safe space, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity.
• Sensational Drag Shows: The live drag shows are a major highlight, known for their fierce performances and dazzling entertainment.
• High-Energy Atmosphere: The club maintains a trendy and lively atmosphere, perfect for a night of dancing and fun.
• Diverse Menu: The food menu is a notable feature, offering a wide range of options from Asian-inspired small plates to sushi and desserts.
• Accessibility: The bar is fully wheelchair-accessible, from the car park to the entrance and toilets, making it an inclusive venue.
• Great Drinks: Play is highlighted for its great beer selection and creative cocktails.
• Free Parking Options: The availability of free parking, both on the street and in a dedicated lot, is a valuable convenience for patrons.
• Fast Service: The service is consistently noted as being fast and attentive.

Contact Information

Address: 1519 Church St, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

Phone: (615) 322-9627

What is worth choosing

For anyone in Tennessee looking for a night out that is more than just a trip to a bar, Play Dance Bar is a destination that delivers on multiple fronts. The primary reason to choose Play is its unparalleled role as a cornerstone of Nashville's LGBTQ+ community. It is a true safe haven and a vibrant space where people can feel free and accepted. The live drag shows are a show-stopping feature, offering a level of entertainment and artistry that is hard to find elsewhere. These performances are a testament to the club's commitment to supporting and showcasing incredible talent. Furthermore, the combination of a high-energy dance floor and an extensive menu means you can spend your entire evening here, from a delicious dinner to dancing the night away. The variety of food, which includes Asian-inspired small plates, sushi, and more, sets it apart from other dance clubs that often offer limited options. While some reviews have noted issues with the music from a specific DJ, the overall positive experiences of countless patrons highlight the exceptional quality of the drag shows and the friendly, attentive service from the bartenders. The practical amenities, such as multiple parking options—including free ones—and full wheelchair accessibility, show a business that is committed to making its space available to a broad audience. For a bachelorette party, a girls' night out, or simply a night to celebrate with friends, Play provides a joyful, glitter-fueled escape where you can be your most fabulous self. Its identity as an LGBTQ+ owned business and a transgender safe space makes it a truly meaningful choice for anyone who values inclusivity and wants to support a business that creates a positive and welcoming impact on the Nashville community.

Play Dance Bar

1519 Church St, Nashville, TN 37203, USA