10 Best Museums in Nashville

Let’s Teleport Back In Time With A Visit To These 10 Best Museums In Nashville!

Are you obsessed with Nashville country music? Well, it’s time to get obsessed with its numerous top-notch museums that are sure to take you back in time to explore the city’s rich artistic legacy, culture, music, and history. The Nashville museums provide an intriguing voyage of discovery, honoring the city’s renowned music scene and stunning displays that will make you delve into its varied past. Nashville’s museums highlight the abundant history and its incredibly talented musicians from various genres, and world-class artworks, astronomy, and science. So, without beating around the bush, let's explore some of the best museums in Nashville where you can take a step back in time.

The National Museum of African American Music is located across from the Honky Tonk Highway in Downtown where you can immerse yourself in a musical history of African American culture. In this contemporary museum that debuted in 2021, one can discover the inventiveness, history, and impact of African American musicians via captivating multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and immersive exhibitions. One must check out the Roots Theater show, which summarizes the civilizations and ancient eras of Central and Western Africa, and the legacy of slavery.

510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

The Lane Motor Museum, set in the southern strip of Nashville, has the greatest collection of European automobiles and motorbikes in the United States. Military vehicles, Microcars, Sports cars, and amphibious vehicles are among the unique and distinctive European automobiles on display at this museum. Admire the inventive engineering and designs of these modern and historical cars, and discover how transportation has evolved, everything is well-presented through interactive exhibitions and displays. The admission tickets may include daily demonstrations of incredible vintage vehicles and motorbikes, which start at 11:00 AM.

702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210, United States.

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is a 20-minute drive from Nashville’s Downtown and was once the residence of the 7th President of the United States, depicting the great Greek Revival style. The museum exhibitions, well-preserved mansion, and lovely grounds are all open for exploration. Visitors get a chance to learn about the enslaved residents of the area as well as President Jackson’s life and legacy.

Additionally, visitors can take a VIP tour of the tomb, grounds, and garden and sip on some regional wines from Middle Tennessee or from Natchez Hills Winery.

4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States.

The Johnny Cash Museum honors the contributions of the famous songwriter and singer, Johnny Cash. His life, legacy, and classical music are all honored at this museum, set in the heart of Nashville’s Downtown. Fans of the well-known “Man in Black” series will enjoy exploring the extensive collection of Johnny Cash’s archives. The museum is home to the biggest and most extensive collection of memorabilia and artifacts across the globe. Exhibitions range from Cash’s famous stage show costumes to personal belongings, and records, and are dedicated to his career, early life, influence on American music, and lasting legacy.

119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201, United States.

Located near Nashville’s Music Row and The Gulch, the Adventure Science Center features over 175 hands-on displays, and interactive activities that explore a variety of scientific subjects, such as geology, physics, and astronomy. Get fascinated as you get to watch how science comes to life with captivating displays, experiments, and simulations that make science education enjoyable and approachable for visitors.

Before visiting, check the events calendar as they also host some fun laser shows and concerts. Kids may feel energetic as they explore the climbing tower, and visitors get to marvel over the presence of stars and planets in the planetarium or learn the design process and engineering at the Tinkering Garage.

800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.

Located right in the center of downtown Nashville’s arts & entertainment sector, the well-known Country Music Hall of Fame features the biggest collection of country music artifacts in the world. The rich history and development of county music are showcased at this renowned museum. Discover the history and sounds of country music through videos, images, recordings, and interactive exhibits at the Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music exhibition. Additionally, the museum hosts special events, educational activities, and live performances, allowing visitors to discover the cultural influence of country music over the history of American music. Visitors can learn more about the renowned performers who have made great contributions to the genre such as Dolly Parton and Hank Williams.

222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.

For astronomy and stargazing fans, the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is an intriguing destination to visit. This historic observatory remains open for paid events and often hosts seminars, educational programs, and some cool stargazing events for the visitors. The observatory offers an intriguing chance to discover the wonders of the cosmos with cutting-edge telescopes. Watch out for the tickets, as they go live one month prior for telescope sessions and Meet the Astronomer Talks.

1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States.

The most visited music museum in Nashville is the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum, which is situated in Downtown Nashville, next to the renowned State Capitol building. All sorts of genres including jazz, rock, pop, and blues are honored in this museum. The ancient artifacts, instruments, and stories of renowned performers who have had a lasting influence on the music industry are on display. Music lovers can drop by this place to sing, play guitar, DJ, or share the stage with Ray Charles and experience the recording process step by step.

401 Gay St, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

The Frist Art Museum is housed in the historic US Post office building, in the heart of Downtown Nashville. Art lovers are welcome to explore the stunning art collections and the happening of worldwide traveling exhibitions or stroll through a vast collection to showcase paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other art forms, ranging from traditional to modern times. Moreover, it also conducts meditation sessions, live music events, and craft classes.

919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.

The Tennessee State Museum showcases a collection of old artifacts, records, and interactive displays depicting the rich history of the state, and different Native American cultures. Children can have fun at the Children’s Gallery, while adults can explore the enormous map of Tennessee, participate in storytime, STAX records, or put on rock and roll costumes.

1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208, United States.

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