Everything You Need to Know about Tattoos in Nashville
Updated 2026 by Local Nashville Tour Guides
What Should I know about Tattoo Shops in Nashville? (AKA FAQ)
Get a little help for those straight forward style questions, or submit your own to and potentially get a custom tailored answer from a local expert!
How Much Does A Tattoo Cost in Nashville?
Tattoo prices in Nashville vary considerably based on the artist, size, placement, detail, and whether you’re choosing flash or having something custom designed. A $100 shop minimum is fairly common among established Nashville studios.
Tourist-focused locations around Broadway can be more expensive with mininums ranging from $120 to $180.
Do Any Shops Have A Better track records than others?
In general, yes. But you are overlooking one key factor:
The first rule of picking a shop is to treat it like a roledex to find the artist you want. Some shops may specialize in certain things or have an overall stylized portfolio – but it is highly recommended to find an artist that spikes your interest, or cators to your specific needs. Check out the individuals portfolio once you’ve began to drill down. For example, the artist’s instagram page. You may be suprised and inspired by work they have done in the past!
So to answer your question: Pick a high rated shop, then look to see if they have artist that fits your style requests.
How do I find a shop to match the style I’m looking for?
The first thing we recommend is becoming familiar with the terminology of the asthetic that you like. For example, gothic or post-modern. One of the easiest ways to do this would be to ask your favorite AI program to exam an image you’ve selected and ask it: “What style is this tattoo in?” You can use the returned answer to help filter your searches.
What type or Style of Tattoo is Nashville Known for?
While the city is filled with artist to match many different styles, it is commonly agreed upon that Nashville is known for American Traditional or “Old School” tattoos. With that said, specialized artist do exist in Nashville and they are screaming at their phone while they read this answer.
What is the Cheapest or Most Affordable Tattoo shop in Nashville?
Well before we answer that, we highly recommend agains’t that approach. It’s cheaper to put it on that remove it – so, you might not save any money in the long run. Additionally, shops you consider pricey might be able to divide your tattoo experience up into multiple smaller jobs if it is demanding piece.
Otherwise, we’ve seen lower minimums in the past from places like:
Just remember pricing can vary throughout the year, these are just ones we’ve seen run the lowest rates.
Is there a way to find the Artist I like first, and then locate the shop where they work?
We’ve found using tools like Serchet.com allows you to do exactly this! Just remember, the artist found here may not be comprehensive.
I’m drunk and want to get a tattoo in Nashville. Should I?
No… tonight is when you pick the one you want. Alchohol can increase bleeding, and most proffesional artist will turn away intoxicated guest.
Nashville Tattoo artist aren’t going anywhere. So get some ink another day! Remember, drunk-you is picking something sober you has to wear permanently.
What’s the best places to get Matching Tattoos Tonight in Nashville?
Some recommendations include (please remember to call ahead):
- Rebel Yell Tattoo and Social Club — (615) 750-2008, 1022 4th Ave S. This is probably the strongest fit for a spontaneous group tonight: they explicitly welcome late-night walk-ins, and reviews mention accommodating groups/friends on short notice. Their posted hours tonight are until 10 PM. Tattoos in Nashville
- Flash City Tattoo — (615) 320-9055, 910 Buchanan St. Open until 10 PM tonight. Reviews specifically mention group tattoos, including an artist accommodating five women for matching/small tattoos. This would be my other strong call.
- Nashville Ink — (615) 454-6112, 330 Commerce St. Open until 10 PM tonight, right downtown. They explicitly take same-day walk-ins, and reviews include groups of three and girls-trip tattoos. Nashville Ink Tattoos and Piercings
- Pride & Glory Tattoo Parlor — downtown and experienced with groups, but it closes at 8 PM tonight, so you’d need to move quickly. Their advertised minimum is $100/person.
- Glass House Tattoos – at 209 Broadway. It’s walk-in only and open 11 AM until late every day, specifically built around spontaneous Broadway tattoos.
Where can a Nashville bach party get matching tattoos?
Same-day walk-ins for groups is never gauranteed, so make sure to call ahead. However, matching tattoos have become another Nashville bachelorette-weekend activity alongside Broadway, brunch, pedal taverns, and live music.
Check our favorite tattoo places in Nashville below and give them a call to find out more
Me and the girls want to get a group tattoo in Nashville, What should we get?
The easiest and most affordable designs for a group are generally small, repeatable tattoos that don’t require extensive customization for each person. For example, a Nashville-themed tiny cowboy boot, horseshoe, star, guitar pick, or another simple shared symbol can work particularly well.
For something less touristy, consider commemorating a specific part of your trip: the concert you traveled to see, a symbol shared among your group, the date of the trip, or imagery associated with the reason you came to Nashville.
What are some popular ideas for a Tattoo in Nashville?
Popular ideas for a tattoo in Nashville include cowboy boots, guitars, guitar picks, horseshoes, microphones, records, Tennessee imagery, the Tennessee Tri-Star, stars, music notes, Western florals, Nashville’s skyline, and subtle references to a favorite song or Nashville memory.
Can I get a Nashville-themed tattoo without it looking like a tourist tattoo?
Yes! Absolutely. Start by finding an artist or shop that you like by checking out their flash and simply reach out to them with this exact request! Don’t be shy!
I’m in Nashville right now. Where can I get a tattoo without an appointment?
Several Nashville tattoo shops welcome walk-ins. Nashville Ink on Commerce Street and Hart & Huntington Nashville near Broadway both accommodate walk-in customers. Glass House Tattoos is directly on Broadway and operates as a walk-in-focused shop. Same-day availability depends on artist schedules, so calling ahead can save you a trip.
Are tattoos on Broadway in Nashville more expensive?
Tattoo shops directly on or near Lower Broadway often charge a premium for location, convenience, late hours, and the tourist experience. For example, Glass House Tattoos on Broadway advertises flash tattoos starting at $180, while Nashville shops outside the Broadway corridor commonly have minimums around $100.
MORE ANSWERS COMING SOON! Promise…
Our Local Favorites
Make a memory that will last forever by getting tattooed at any of Nashville’s top rated tattoo shops. There are TONS to choose from but here’s a list to get you started.
One Drop Ink Tattoo Parlour
4.9 ★
Jefferson Street is where we are beginning today’s journey through Nashville’s top rated tattoo shops and One Drop Ink is one heck of a start when you need some sick tattoos. Known for taking the art seriously, One Drop Ink Tattoo Parlour is what would be considered “Fine Art” in the realm of body modification. In particular, there is a sort of elegance to the pieces produced by this group. Closed on Sundays, you can find your perfect tattoo artist at One Drop Ink Tattoo Parlour from 1 – 7 pm any other day.
Safe House Tattoo Studio
4.9 ★
Since their establishment in 2012, Safe House Tattoo Studio has been home to an array of eclectic talent from all over the place. Closing earlier than your normal tattoo shop, the owners of Safe House want to create a high quality environment for anyone that comes in from the customers to the artists. A happy tattoo artist is an attentive one and this Safe House is meant to feel like home for everyone who comes in. Find this group of caring creators on Gallatin Pike and schedule an appointment Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am – 6 pm. When you get work done at Safe House Tattoo Studio, you can still be back home in time for dinner!
Pride & Glory Tattoo Parlor
4.8 ★
Much like the name suggests, Pride & Glory Tattoo Parlor takes plenty of pride in every step of the body modification process. Along with tattoos and body piercings, both of their two locations offer cosmetic choices like waxing. Whether you are on John Lewis Way or in the Berry Hill area, you can be sure that the folks at Pride & Glory Tattoo Parlor will take care of all projects big or small with the same fervor every time. Check their hours online before you go in as they vary between the two shops. No matter how intricate or simple of a piece you’re wanting, you won’t regret a trip to Pride & Glory Tattoo Parlor.
Black 13 Tattoo Parlor
4.7 ★
When you are on the search for an experience that is straightforward and to the point, Black 13 Tattoo Parlor has all the tools to ensure a successful visit. Tattoos only, this is not a piercing shop but that doesn’t take away from the immense amount of talent that regularly occupies this particular building. Make your selection from 10+ artists that are always ready to bring your best ideas to life at the Dickerson Pike location from Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am – 6 pm. Call during their business hours or stop by to make an appointment and let Black 13 Tattoo Parlor introduce you to an artist that you will want to visit again and again.
Nashville Ink
4.6 ★
Open every day of the week from 12 am – 10 pm at least (8 pm on Sundays) Nashville Ink is the kind of shop that wants to make sure they have availability for you any time. Every artist in this Commerce Street location specializes in a variety of styles, giving you a wide selection of options. Nashville Ink, along with their top rated tattoos, boasts the largest collection of piercing jewelry in the whole city. Variety is the word for Nashville Ink so come by and test the boundaries of how intricate your tattoo can get. You might even recognize this shop from their feature on Ink Master, so don’t miss out on a chance to visit the iconic Nashville Ink.
Adventure Tattoo
4.7 ★
When planning an adventure in Nashville, Adventure Tattoo should be on your list at some point. Located on Greenwood Ave in east Nashville, Adventure tattoos is open seven days a week and welcomes walk-ins on every one of those days. Consistency is key and that is what you can always expect at this shop. From 11 am – 7 pm, you can be sure that the artists at Adventure Tattoo will make sure they take great care from the design phase all the way through the healing stages. Ask about the 50 States book by their artist Chad to hear a grand tale of travel that involves tattooing in a different state every day.
Music City Tattoo
4.9 ★
In 2004, Music City Tattoo opened their location on Music Row but has since moved to the historic Berry Hill and is as ready as ever to find out what your perfect tattoo looks like. Open Tuesday – Saturday, Music City Tattoo is the place to be from 12 – 7 pm. Walk-ins are welcome to come by during open hours or you can schedule an appointment to talk with the artists personally. Attentive, sanitary, and friendly artists are only a trip to Bransford Ave away.
Kustom Thrills Tattoo
4.6 ★
For over 10 years now, Kustom Thrills Tattoo has kept up a reputation for being affordable without sacrificing any quality through the whole tattoo appointment. Pick from either the Main Street or Riverside shop and make your appointment, or walk right in. These award winning artists are dedicated to their craft in the best kind of way. From 12 – 8 pm every day, visit Kustom Thrills Tattoo with your most eclectic concepts and get the custom piece you’ve been considering. Making permanent memories on skin and off, Kustom Thrills Tattoo takes care of their guests in a way that feels like a trip out with friends from the moment you walk inside.
Electric Hand Tattoo
4.9 ★
From coverups to quotes and everything in between, Electric Hand Tattoo is proud to place an everlasting memory on every body mod enthusiast who happens to come their way. Any day except Sunday, when you’re feeling that inky itch (you know the one) you can find an artist at this location on Gallatin Ave. Check in with their artists from 12 – 7 pm on their active days and get to know them with a look through their portfolios. One flip through any of the books is sure to have you wondering who to pick, making the selection of just one person is always the hardest part.
Queen of Hearts Tattoos & Body Piercing
4.7 ★
Much like the queen’s men having to paint the roses red in Alice In Wonderland, the team of artists at Queen of Hearts Tattoos & Body Piercing pay the utmost attention to all details of your experience. Look no further than Nolensville Pk for this shop and know that the Queen of Hearts Tattoo & Body Piercing shop has made a long journey from their first location’s initial opening in Radcliff KY. This family owned studio has been in safe hands for two generations now, with full intentions to keep that theme running in the future. Come in and see what’s happening at Queen of Hearts Tattoo & Body Piercing any day (except Sunday) from 12 – 9 pm and schedule your next piercing or body art. You’re sure to enjoy a fall down this particular rabbit hole.
Titan Tattoo
4.8 ★
Spacious, tidy, and conveniently located next to the airport, Titan Tattoo on Lebanon Pike is an artist owned and operated shop that takes good care of their guests. Titan Tattoo also features a full service body piercing station, with more than plenty of jewelry that you won’t find anywhere else. What was once a small shop in the Donelson Plaza Shopping Center has gotten bigger and better than ever since moving to the new location in 2019. This noteworthy group opens their doors around noon every day and remains open until at least 6 pm and they can’t wait to find out how they can bring your body modification visions to life.
Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co.
4.5 ★
When considering tattooing as a creative practice over the years, plenty of trends have come in and out of style with some lasting longer than others in the public eye. With the crew at Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co, you can be sure that even the trendiest of pieces will be thought out and made to look great for a long time. Take a trip to 2nd St from 10 am – 10 pm all seven days of the week and see what they’ve got in store for you. Along with being housed in a massive building with plenty of space, this shop is noticeably spotless and sanitary. Don’t hesitate to browse their website before going in, Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co has a ton of references for every style of tattoo you might consider.
Dead Ahead Tattoo Co
4.8 ★
When you want to get the job done without any complications, there’s no better shop than Dead Ahead Tattoo Co on West End Ave. These guys have been in the business long enough to know just how to keep any clients happy regardless of the ink idea. Come find out more about their team of artists by stopping by between 12 – 8 pm every day (10 pm on the weekends) and know that your body art is in great hands at Dead Ahead Tattoo Co.
Island Tattoo
4.9 ★
Though they have been on the tattoo scene for just under five years, Island Tattoo is one force to be reckoned with. Only artists who have a deep respect for the art of tattooing hold positions at Island Tattoo and their portfolios speak for themselves. From 11 am until at least 5 pm every day, Island Tattoo has what you need in the realm of fine art tattoos. Stop by the shop, located on a concrete “island” on Lafayette St and snag a parking spot in the nearby garage. Everyone at Island Tattoo is always ready to schedule your high quality ink design.
East Tattoo Collective
4.9 ★
Gallatin Pike is home to East Tattoo Collective, a shop that focuses on an upscale experience for all tattoo lovers. Though they are closed on Sunday and Monday, the friendly crew at East Tattoo Collective is excited to take your appointment any other day from 1 – 9 pm. With a group as varied as the ones at East Tattoo Collective, you can ask for nearly any tattoo style and be confident that one of their members is skilled in that particular area. Follow them on social media to stay updated on their walk-in availability or go ahead and make an appointment. Ask about their eyebrow services while you’re at it and cover multiple bases.
Avenging Art Tattoo
4.6 ★
In the beginning, Avenging Art Tattoo consisted of only one professional artist managing both tattoos and piercings at the old shop. After ten years, the growth that has occurred is easy to see from the moment you pull up to their location on Thompson Lane. With multiple artists covering a wide variety of tattoo styles and a large studio that gives everyone plenty of breathing room, there is a certain amount of comfort in the air at Avenging Art Tattoo. From 12 pm – 8 pm (9 pm on the weekends) come see what these artists are all about and schedule an appointment to discuss your new favorite tattoo.
Conclusion
Are you ready to go out and get all the tattoos imaginable? We sure hope so! There’s no better place than Music City to get a piece of art that will stick with you for life. Keep coming back here to The Nashville Insider to find out all you need to know about what to do and where to be while visiting Nashville.