Revelry Tours Nashville Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour

Nashville is often celebrated for its vibrant country music scene, lively honky-tonks, and welcoming Southern charm. But beneath its polished surface lies a more shadowy side, full of stories of vice, danger, and intrigue. The Revelry Tours Nashville Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour offers a captivating look into this lesser-known history, blending storytelling with visits to historic bars and secret spots. While it’s not your typical Nashville experience, it’s perfect for those curious about the city’s darker chapters and the characters who once thrived there.

What we love about this tour is the way it turns Nashville into a living museum, revealing its seedier past with expert narration and immersive stops. We’re particularly drawn to the stops that bring history to life—like the old “Men’s Quarter”, and Printer’s Alley—offering a peek into the city’s nocturnal past. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, weaving stories that keep you engaged, and the price offers good value given the depth of storytelling. One potential drawback? Drinks are not included, so it’s a mostly walk-and-listen experience unless you choose to buy at each stop.

This tour suits those who love history with a twist, fans of storytelling, or anyone eager to see Nashville through a different lens. It’s also a good pick for travelers seeking a fun, evening activity that’s both entertaining and educational without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

Authentic Stories: Learn about Nashville’s Red Light District, “The Men’s Quarter,” and Printer’s Alley through captivating storytelling.
Historical Stops: Visit historic bars and locations that played a role in Nashville’s more secretive past.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Nestor add enthusiasm and rich insights, making the experience memorable.
Value for Money: At $35 for two hours, it’s a reasonably priced way to explore Nashville’s darker history.
Active Experience: The tour involves walking and conversations, rather than sitting down for long periods.
Not for Under 21: The experience caters to adult audiences interested in the city’s seedy side.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into Nashville’s Darker Past

The two-hour Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour kicks off at 600 Church Street, a central location that makes it easy to find and convenient for most travelers. The meeting point is right inside Church Street Park, where your guide will be waiting by the central circle, ready to lead you into Nashville’s shadowy history.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Journey

First Stop: Standard Proof Tasting Room

Your journey begins with a visit to the Standard Proof Tasting Room. This spot isn’t just about tasting whiskey; it’s a gateway into the city’s past sorrows—think loveless marriages, illicit affairs, and even murders. The guide shares tales that bring this bar’s history to life, making the experience more than just a drink stop but a story-rich introduction. Guests have mentioned how guides like Nestor bring enthusiasm and knowledge, making even the most macabre stories engaging.

Mid-1800s Red Light District at Bobby Hotel

Next, you’ll step back into the 1800s at the Bobby Hotel, where the old “Smokey Row” red light district once operated. This part of the tour paints a vivid picture of Nashville’s seedier side, showing how areas that once thrived on vices have transformed over time. The hotel’s historical context helps you understand how Nashville’s nightlife was intertwined with its darker underbelly.

The Men’s Quarter at Dream Nashville

Moving on, you’ll visit Dream Nashville, where the “Men’s Quarter” once catered to indulgent vices for men. Here, the stories of secret rooms, clandestine meetings, and forbidden pleasures come alive. Guests often remark how guides highlight the social and cultural significance of these places, making the past feel surprisingly tangible.

Printer’s Alley at Night

One of the tour’s highlights is Printer’s Alley, famous for publishing by day and overflowing with libations by night. The alley’s transformation from a bustling publishing hub into a hub for nightlife and vice is fascinating. Visitors will see how this area was integral to Nashville’s lively, sometimes notorious, reputation. Reviewers love how guides explore the stories of the characters who frequented the alley, making it a vivid part of the city’s history.

Final Stop: CMT/Ryman Auditorium

The tour ends at the CMT/Ryman Auditorium, where the dark story of Stringbean & Estelle unfolds. This surprising twist ties together the city’s musical fame with its darker stories, offering a well-rounded picture of Nashville’s complex history.

What to Expect & Practical Details

This tour is designed for adults, as it explores adult-themed stories and history. The 2-hour experience is mostly walking, with stops at significant historic venues. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers. Since drinks are not included, plan on purchasing beverages at each stop if you wish to indulge during the tour.

The guides—like Nestor—are praised for their enthusiasm and extensive knowledge. One review specifically praises Nestor for showing them places they wouldn’t have found on their own, turning the tour into a genuine discovery experience.

Timing-wise, the tour is typically offered in the evening, making it a fantastic way to start or cap off an exciting Nashville day. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early, ensuring you’re ready to go and don’t miss the start.

How Does the Tour Provide Value?

For $35, you get a well-rounded, 2-hour storytelling experience that reveals darker, lesser-known facets of Nashville. While drinks are extra, the value lies in the stories, the atmosphere, and the exclusive access to historic locations. The guide’s expertise enriches the experience, transforming what could be a simple walk into a lively, engaging history lesson.

Guests also appreciate the opportunity to visit spots that are not on the usual tourist radar, like the old “Men’s Quarter” and Printer’s Alley. The tour’s intimate group size and conversational style make it feel more like a local’s insight rather than a scripted presentation.

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Additional Considerations

While the tour hits a lot of highlights, it’s worth noting that some guests might prefer drinks included or a longer experience. However, the focus on storytelling and history compensates for this, offering a uniquely Nashville perspective you won’t find in typical sightseeing tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in Nashville’s hidden stories—the stories behind its vice districts and infamous characters—this tour is a smart pick. It’s perfect for history buffs, nightlife enthusiasts, and curious travelers looking to go beyond the music scene. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy guided storytelling and engaging narratives told by passionate guides.

This experience isn’t ideal for under-21s or travelers seeking a light, superficial overview of Nashville. It’s specifically tailored for adults who enjoy stories with a bit of a darker edge and are comfortable with adult themes.

The Sum Up

The Revelry Tours Nashville Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour offers a compelling peek into Nashville’s less shiny, more shadowy past. At just $35, it provides a good mix of storytelling, history, and local secrets, brought to life by knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a history lover, a nightlife enthusiast, or simply curious about Nashville’s hidden side, this tour offers a memorable, authentic glimpse into the city’s more daring stories.

It’s a great choice for anyone wanting to see a different side of Nashville—one filled with intrigue, characters, and stories that are often left out of the city’s more polished attractions. Expect lively narration, historic sights, and a fun, adult-oriented experience that will leave you with plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, this tour is designed for adults as it explores themes related to vices, red light districts, and adult stories.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 600 Church Street, near Cornerstone Square, with the guide meeting guests at the center circle inside Church Street Park.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase beverages at each stop if desired.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more travelers to enjoy the experience.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons or weekends.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The focus on Nashville’s darker, seedier history combined with expert guides like Nestor, who bring stories vividly to life, makes this tour a unique and engaging experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: