Nashville Best Of 2026 · Best Nashville Rooftop Bar
L.A. Jackson
Floor-to-ceiling windows, an open-air terrace, and sweeping views of the downtown skyline from the top of the Thompson Nashville. Voted Nashville Scene’s Best Rooftop Bar six years running, L.A. Jackson is our pick for the best rooftop bar in Nashville.
The Verdict
Best Nashville Rooftop Bar: Why L.A. Jackson Earns the Title
Nashville’s skyline is now crowded with rooftop bars, but L.A. Jackson was one of the first, and it’s still the one locals vote for. Perched on the top floor of the Thompson Nashville in the Gulch, it pairs a sleek indoor lounge with an open-air terrace, so the panoramic views of downtown are just as good in January as they are in July.
The drinks and food keep pace with the view. The espresso martini is a crowd favorite, the seasonal cocktails rotate regularly, and shareable bites range from garlic parm fries to the legendary double-patty smashburger. Weekend DJ sets turn up the energy, while weekday happy hours make it a perfect after-work escape.
6x
Nashville Scene Best Rooftop Bar
2016
Opened in the Gulch
Top Floor
Of the Thompson Nashville
Year-Round
Indoor and Outdoor Seating
What to Order
Sip, Snack & Take in the View
Order a round, grab something to share, and time your visit for sunset.
Espresso Martini
The crowd-favorite cocktail at L.A. Jackson and the perfect way to kick off a night in the Gulch. Seasonal specialty cocktails rotate throughout the year, too.
Double-Patty Smashburger
The legendary burger regulars rave about. Pair it with the garlic parm fries and a round of drinks for the table.
Happy Hour & Wine Wednesday
Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from 5 to 7 pm and all day Sunday. On Wednesdays, full bottles of wine are half price.
The Story
Still the Rooftop Locals Choose
When the Thompson Nashville opened in the Gulch in 2016, it brought one of the city’s first true destination rooftop bars along with it. L.A. Jackson quickly became the place to watch the sun set over a skyline that was changing almost as fast as the neighborhood below.
A decade later, Nashville is packed with rooftops, but L.A. Jackson has held onto its crown, earning the Nashville Scene’s Best Rooftop Bar honor six years running. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the indoor lounge a year-round destination, and on Friday and Saturday nights, local DJs keep the terrace buzzing.
“Nashville has more rooftops than ever. Locals still pick this one.”
Nashville Best Of Editors
Plan Your Visit
Head to the Top of the Thompson
L.A. Jackson sits on the top floor of the Thompson Nashville in the Gulch. Sunset is prime time, so arrive early on weekends before the line forms.
Location
Kitchen & Happy Hour
Kitchen: until 10 pm Sun–Thu, midnight Fri–Sat
Happy hour: Mon–Thu 5–7 pm, all day Sunday
Open daily. Check the website for current bar hours.
Good to Know
All guests must be 21 or older. The dress code leans smart casual, so skip the athletic wear and flip-flops. Private events and group packages are available for celebrations.
Catch the Sunset from the Top
Plan your visit around golden hour, grab a spot on the terrace, and watch the city light up.
More of the Best of Nashville: Best Nashville Dive Bar · Best Nashville Bar Games · Best Nashville Sports Bar