Whether you’re in Nashville for a bachelor or bachelorette party, a family reunion, a work event, or just a good time, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. One of the top attractions Nashville offers is the party bus. From party barges to hot tubs on wheels, the city is full of party bus options your group can choose from. With all these options, how do you choose the best way to party on Broadway beyond all the Honky Tonk bars? There are certain things you might want to consider, like which party bus operator has the most experience? How can we have the most fun on wheels? We recommend doing some research, as Nashville has seen a significant influx of new party buses over the past couple years. A fun, safe experience is a top priority when you select your party on wheels. We’ve put together this list of the top 5 party buses in Nashville to help you decide where to start your weekend in the city. While putting this guide together, we considered three key attributes: originality, fun, and safety.

The Best on Wheels

1. Honky Tonk Party Express

The Honky Tonk Party Express is Nashville’s original party bus in downtown Nashville. This bus offers a capacity of up to 25 passengers with a 2-hour experience down Broadway. The Honky Tonk Party Express is the best in the business when it comes to lively tunes, a track record of safety, and a reasonable price for a private tour. The bus includes LED lighting, a large sound system, a VIP bartender, and an optional shuttle service to the party bus from anywhere in Nashville. 

Quick Info:

  • Approximate cost is $49 per person
  • Catering options not available
  • No restroom on board

2. The Nashville Tractor

The Nashville Tractor is a popular choice for small groups and quick tours of Nashville. These large party bus tractors cruise around Broadway, giving guests the chance to see the sights. They come equipped with a large sound system and a BYOB policy. Tickets are under $40 per person for a 1 hour and 15 minute-long ride. A number of guests have left reviews of canceled tractor rides due to overbooking or no availability, so it’s always good to call and confirm your departure prior to committing. The Nashville Tractor is primarily standing-room only. While on this lively party bus tour, you’ll become part of the Broadway spectacle. We recommend the Nashville Tractor if you are looking to party on a large open-air tractor with amazing views of Broadway.

Quick Info:

  1. Approximate cost is $40 per person
  2. No catering options available for private parties
  3. No restroom on board 

3. The Big Drag Bus

The Big Drag Bus has done a great job creating something distinct and entertaining. What a fun party bus idea for downtown Nashville! It offers a truly unique experience that sets itself apart from other party buses you’ll find here. You’ll enjoy a 90-minute tour of laughs, performances, and games. We recommend the Big Drag Bus for small groups looking for a different type of fun entertainment compared to the typical loud music you’ll hear on Broadway. 

Quick Info:

  1. Approximate cost is $45–$50 per person
  2. Ideal for groups of 4–24 people
  3. No restroom on board

4. Nashville Party Barge

While the Nashville Party Barge is an original party barge experience, don’t be fooled. This is not a barge but an extended pickup truck with a large sound system. This operator made our list because they are original to Nashville. Their party barge offers seating for 10–18 people, a driver, and music. Make sure you know what to expect ahead of time, as you are not allowed to stand or dance while this party bus is in motion due to safety concerns. We love that this party barge takes you beyond the main sights of Broadway (unlike many other party buses), including Nissan Stadium and Midtown.

Quick Info:

  1. Approximate cost is $25–$40 per person
  2. No catering options are available
  3. No restroom on board

The Best on Water

5. Pontoon Saloon

Looking for unique alternatives to a flooded market full of similar party buses? We’ve got you! The Pontoon Saloon offers an original, unique experience. Enjoy a full 2 hours on the water and see downtown Nashville from the Cumberland River. Skip the hot streets of Broadway and catch a fresh breeze, cruising at 10 knots while partying with new friends (or just your crew) on the best party barge in Nashville. Pontoon Saloon allows dancing throughout the cruise, catering options are available for your private events up to 45 people, and some of our cruises even provide live music. If driving, ask about our free, local parking options for large groups. Looking for a shuttle from Opry Land? We have you covered with the Honky Tonk Party Express shuttle.

 

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Plan Ahead for the Best Nashville Party Bus Experience

When scheduling a party bus or party barge for your desired dates, we recommend making reservations well in advance—at least 25–35 days ahead of time—as availability will be limited. A lot of the open-air party buses use tarps to provide coverage from cold and rainy weather, which may not be ideal for some. Plan accordingly! If you’re booking in the rainy season, which is typically March–May in Nashville, be sure to bring a rain jacket. Our warm season is June–October when the weather is usually perfect for an open-air party bus in Nashville.

Nashville has become a popular destination for tourists as well as people moving to the city. This means roads are busy and traffic is at an all-time high, so give your group plenty of time to arrive and check in for your party bus reservation. You may even want to factor in at least one Uber cancellation due to high demand and low driver supply. Planning ahead will ensure you get to focus on more fun and less stress while visiting Nashville!

pontoon cruising in front of nashville skyline at sunset

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