L.A. Jackson

"A warm southern breeze, skyline views, your favorite drink in hand, all while music rises up from the bars and shops below—this is why people mob Nashville’s rooftop bars in the warmer months. And L.A. Jackson, located at the top of the Thompson Hotel in the Gulch, is the quintessential rooftop of them all. Take a seat under the sprawling tree on the outdoor patio and sip on one of the cocktails with sorrel and sassafras, tangy shrubs, and other bright botanicals. They have burgers and the like, but the drinks are definitely the star of the show. Come in the afternoon and early evenings for a more relaxed experience, or get dressed up and hit the scene on weekend nights for DJ-fueled rooftop parties. " - bailey freeman, ann walczak

"The view from LA Jackson, on top of the Thompson Hotel, is one of the most iconic in Nashville. On the weekend, upbeat dance music thumps through speakers while coworkers, hotel guests, and locals all blend together against the skyline. The bacon-wrapped venison poppers and Oaxacan cheese-stuffed hand pies are perfectly-sized snacks. And, many of the drinks (like the Melondramatic) come with edible garnishes like a watermelon slice so big you could call it a gift with purchase. There’s also a literal tree on the roof (yes, really). " - adam sloan

"L.A. Jackson gave the city its first legit rooftop bar and hang when it opened in the Gulch in 2016, and it remains a staple thanks to ample seating both inside and out plus impressive views of downtown Nashville. The food and drinks are as Instagrammable as the views, especially the glittery chicken strips fried with Champagne tempura." - Kellie Walton, Eater Staff, Jackie Gutierrez-Jones

"A warm southern breeze, skyline views, your favorite drink in hand, all while music rises up from the bars and shops below—this is why people mob Nashville’s rooftop bars in the warmer months. And L.A. Jackson, located at the top of the Thompson Hotel in the Gulch, is the quintessential rooftop of them all. Take a seat under the sprawling tree on the outdoor patio and sip on one of the cocktails with sorrel and sassafras, tangy shrubs, and other bright botanicals. They have burgers and the like, but the drinks are definitely the star of the show. Come in the afternoon and early evenings for a more relaxed experience, or get dressed up and hit the scene on weekend nights for DJ-fueled rooftop parties. " - Bailey Freeman

"Social media influencers and brunch enthusiasts can keep flocking to this Thompson Hotel rooftop for the highly photogenic food — like the glitter chicken and a butter pecan skillet cookie — and equally social media-worthy views of the Gulch, because when the weather gets cold there are plentiful space heaters scattered through its outdoor rooftop. The indoor portion of the patio also has floor-to-ceiling windows offering stellar street views." - Clara Wang, Jackie Gutierrez-Jones