It's no secret that Tennessee has a great food scene, but not as many people know that the Volunteer State also has more than its fair share of iconic bars as well. Some have been neighborhood institutions for the better part of half a century, and some have been influential in kick-starting the careers of some of the world's favorite musical acts. From Knoxville to Memphis, you need to make sure you visit this iconic Tennessee bars.

1. Dino's - Nashville

Dino's in East Nashville has long been a neighborhood favorite and is known all over for its no-frills atmosphere and absolutely killer burgers. They've been around for over 40 years, and there's a reason folks just keep coming back day in and day out. (411 Gallatin Ave)

2. Cotton Eyed Joe - Knoxville

Known as the best club in Knoxville, Cotton Eyed Joe has been delivering a party to East Tennessee for over 25 years. They've featured live shows from some huge names in country music over the years, and there's always room on their 2,500 square foot dance floor. (11220 Outlet Drive).

3. Tootsie's - Nashville

One of Nashville's oldest honky tonks, Tootsie's has been running strong on Lower Broadway since 1960. The spot is famous for being a hangout of many famous country stars back in the day, like Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Faron Young. (422 Broadway)

4. BB King's - Memphis

While BB King's has locations all over the South, there are none like the original location on Memphis's Beale Street. There's always live music, delicious barbecue, and cold drinks. What more could you ask for? (143 Beale Street)

5. Clancy's Tavern & Whiskey House - Knoxville

While Clancy's isn't very old itself (it opened in 2014), it's absolutely steeped in history. It sits in a 100-year-old building right next to the iconic Tennessee Theater, making this the perfect spot for a before or after show drink. (602 S Gay Street)

6. Flying Squirrel - Chattanooga

Chattanooga's Flying Squirrel Bar is unique in that it is probably one of the healthiest bars you'll ever go to. They pride themselves on making all of their plates from healthy, fresh ingredients. Plus, they make a pretty mean cocktail. (55 Johnson St)

7. Lafayette's Music Room - Memphis

Lafayette's Music Room has seen a couple of iterations over the years, but early on, it was very influential in helping launch the careers of stars like Billy Joel, KISS, and Barry Manilow. Today, they have live music every day, making this one of the best spots to hang out in all of Memphis. (2119 Madison Ave)

8. Peter Kern Library - Knoxville

The Peter Kern Library bar at the Oliver Hotel in downtown Knoxville is a classic speakeasy with a literary twist. You enter through a door in the alley behind the hotel, but if you're a guest, there's a hidden door in the lobby that you can use to access it as well. (407 Union Avenue)

This British pub also makes for a fun experience, if you're in the market for quirky spots in Tennessee.