A Background on Songbirds
Songbirds offers a one-of-a-kind experience for music lovers. Originally known as the Songbirds Guitar Museum, it opened in 2018 inside the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo. Like many other businesses, it was forced to close during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Songbirds re-opened in 2021 and expanded to a larger location in 2024.
With its re-opening, Songbirds evolved into more than just a guitar museum; it became a unique and eclectic music and event venue. The space now features around 40 vintage guitars on display at all times, along with gear and equipment from some of the world’s most iconic musicians.
Today, Songbirds is located in Chattanooga’s vibrant Southside neighborhood and includes a full commercial kitchen, two bars, a dedicated exhibit space, and an outdoor patio. Don’t miss your chance to visit Songbirds at 206 W. Main Street.
The Songbirds Foundation: Giving the Gift of Music
Backed by the one and only Dolly Parton, the Songbirds Foundation is committed to giving back to young people in Chattanooga and across the South. Through its programs, the foundation provides free guitars and music lessons to students throughout the region. It also offers a Music Industry Masterclass, designed to help high school students learn the ins and outs of songwriting and music production.
Another standout program is Write to Rock, which gives elementary school students the chance to meet and collaborate with accomplished musicians. All proceeds from the venue go toward not only keeping Chattanooga’s music scene alive, but also enriching and inspiring students across the South to pursue their musical potential.
Open Mic Night at Songbirds: Celebrating Chattanooga’s Songwriter Community
Songbirds' Open Mic Night fosters a warm, tight-knit community for musicians and music lovers alike. It’s a welcoming space where passion for music takes center stage. The moment you walk in, you’re surrounded by pieces of music history across the venue’s vibrant walls.
Each Open Mic Night features a happy hour with $4 beer and wine from 6-7 p.m., and admission is always free. Guests are encouraged to suppout the couse by donating to the Songbirds Foundation.
The stage itself is full of character, and the energy in the room is infectious. Every artist brings their own style and spirit to the stage, making each night a one-of-a-kind experience.
Don’t Miss Out
Songbirds is the perfect spot for a night out in Chattanooga. Not only is it a dynamic, music-filled venue, but all merchandise proceeds go directly to supporting youth music programs through the Songbirds Foundation. Whether you’re planning a date night or bringing the whole family, you’ll feel right at home at Songbirds.
A 🎶 Note about the author and Visit Chattanooga's partnership with UTC
This blog was written by a student in Exploring Chattanooga, a Communication class at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. These students are helping document, define, and share the diverse cultural experiences scene that can be found in the Scenic City. Find more student-written blogs about local cultural experiences here.
