Nashville may be known as Music City, but it also has many excellent museums which offer a glimpse into the city’s storied history, culture, artistic heritage – and of course, music. From iconic museums that pay homage to the city's legendary music scene to thought-provoking exhibits that explore its diverse heritage, Nashville's museums offer a fascinating journey of discovery.

From world-class art to science and astronomy, Nashville’s museums showcase the state's rich heritage, and shine a spotlight on its extraordinarily talented musicians from many genres. Follow this guide to discover Nashville’s best museums.

  • 1

    Country Music Hall of Fame

    Immerse in the world of country music

    Country Music Hall of Fame
    • Families
    • History

    The Country Music Hall of Fame is the world’s largest repository of country music artefacts and it’s in the heart of city centre Nashville’s arts and entertainment district. This iconic museum showcases the rich history and evolution of country music. Explore the Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music exhibition to take a journey through the history and songs of country music via photos, video, recordings, and interactive displays.

    The museum also hosts live performances, educational programmes, and special events. You can learn about legendary musicians, such as Hank Williams and Dolly Parton, who have made significant contributions to the genre, and explore the cultural impact of country music on American music history.

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    Location: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

    Phone: +1 615-416-2001

    Map
  • 2

    National Museum of African American Music

    One nation under a groove

    National Museum of African American Music
    • Families
    • History

    The National Museum of African American Music takes visitors on a deep dive into African American musical culture and is in city centre Nashville across from the Honky Tonk Highway.

    You can explore the history, innovation, and influence of African American musicians through exciting immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations in this modern museum which opened in 2021. Don’t miss the Roots Theatre presentation which gives an overview of west and central African cultures and the effects of slavery.

    Location: 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday–Monday from 12 pm to 5 pm

    Phone: +1 615-301-8724

    Map
  • 3

    Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

    Reach for the stars

    Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory
    • Families
    • History

    The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory, just outside Nashville, is a fascinating attraction for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. Open to ticketed events only, this historic observatory offers regular educational programmes, workshops, and stargazing events for visitors of all ages.

    With its state-of-the-art telescopes and knowledgeable staff, the observatory provides a fascinating opportunity to learn about the wonders of the universe. The popular Meet the Astronomer Talks and telescope session tickets go on sale a month before each event and regularly sell out, so make a note to book in advance.

    Location: 1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, USA

    Open: Open for ticketed events only

    Phone: +1 615-373-4897

    Map
  • 4

    Lane Motor Museum

    Drive-in to geek out

    Lane Motor Museum
    • Families
    • History

    The Lane Motor Museum is a 10-minute drive south of Nashville and showcases the largest collection of European cars and motorcycles in the USA. This one-of-a-kind museum features a collection of unique and rare vehicles from Europe including microcars, amphibious vehicles, military vehicles, and sportscars.

    Marvel at the innovative designs and engineering of these vintage and contemporary vehicles, as well as learn about the evolution of transport through interactive displays and exhibits. Don’t miss the daily demos of amazing vintage cars and bikes at 11am, which are included in your entrance fee.

    Location: 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210, USA

    Open: Thursday–Monday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Tuesday–Wednesday)

    Phone: +1 615-742-7445

    Map
  • 5

    Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

    Take a deep dive into the home of recorded music

    Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
    • Families
    • History

    The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum is one of Nashville’s most popular attractions, located city centre, just around the corner from the State Capitol building. The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the talent and contributions of musicians of many genres from rock to pop, jazz to blues. This museum showcases the stories, instruments, and memorabilia of legendary musicians who have made a lasting impact on the music industry.

    Your entry ticket also includes the fun interactive GRAMMY Museum Gallery, where you can sing onstage with Ray Charles, play guitar, DJ, and follow through every aspect of the recording process.

    Location: 401 Gay St, Nashville, TN 37219, USA

    Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +1 615-244-3263

    Map
  • 6

    Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

    Explore the former home of a US President

    Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
    • Families
    • History

    Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is a Greek Revival-style mansion around 20 minutes’ drive from city centre Nashville, and once home to the 7th President of the USA. You can explore the preserved mansion, the beautiful grounds, and the museum exhibits. Discover insights into the life and legacy of President Jackson, including the enslaved people who lived there.

    Take a VIP tour of the grounds, garden, and Jackson’s tomb to get full the scoop on Jackson’s life. Stop at Natchez Hills Winery next door for a tasting of local Middle Tennessee wines and discover Jackson’s ties to wine.

    Location: 4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, USA

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm

    Phone: +1 615-889-2941

    Map
  • 7

    Frist Art Museum

    From fine art to modern

    Frist Art Museum
    • Families
    • History

    The Frist Art Museum is in the centre of city centre Nashville, in the city’s former US Post Office building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Home to touring exhibitions from some of the most prestigious art collections in the world, the Frist Art Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

    From traditional to contemporary, the museum features a wide range of paintings, sculptures, photography, and more. Immerse yourself in the world of art and learn about the artists, techniques, and historical context through the many workshops, talks, and interactive displays. Check listings as the museum often hosts guided meditation sessions, craft workshops, and live music events.

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    Location: 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

    Open: Monday, Friday, Saturday from 10 am to 5. 30 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 5. 30 pm, Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm (closed on Tuesday–Wednesday)

    Phone: +1 615-244-3340

    Map
  • 8

    Johnny Cash Museum

    Walk the line to this amazing museum

    Johnny Cash Museum
    • Families
    • History

    The Johnny Cash Museum in city centre Nashville is dedicated to the life, legacy, and iconic music of the legendary singer-songwriter, Johnny Cash. Fans of the "Man in Black" will love exploring the vast archive of all things Johnny Cash, at the home of the world’s largest, most comprehensive collection of artefacts and memorabilia.

    Learn about Cash's early life, his career, and his impact on American music and enduring legacy through exhibits that run from his iconic stage costumes to personal items, recordings, and awards.

    Location: 119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201, USA

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

    Phone: +1 615-256-1777

    Map
  • 9

    Tennessee State Museum

    Understand Tennessee’s complex cultural timeline and natural history

    Tennessee State Museum
    • Budget
    • Families
    • History

    The Tennessee State Museum is city centre by Capitol Hill and offers a chance to explore the state’s storied history from Native American cultures through the Civil War and beyond. Learn about Tennessee's diverse past through a vast collection of artefacts, documents, and interactive displays.

    Kids will find plenty of fun in the Children’s Gallery – stop in for Storytime, explore the giant-sized map of Tennessee, or dive into the dress-up box to try rock and roll costumes in the STAX Records area. For those on a budget, note that the Tennessee State Museum is free to visit.

    Location: 1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208, USA

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)

    Phone: +1 615-741-2692

    Map
  • 10

    Adventure Science Centre

    Adventure awaits!

    Adventure Science Centre
    • Families
    • History

    The Adventure Science Centre is close to Music Row and The Gulch in Nashville, offering 175 hands-on interactive exhibits exploring various fields of science including physics, astronomy, geology, and more. See science come alive through engaging experiments, demonstrations, and simulations that make learning about science fun and accessible for all.

    Kids can blow off steam on the climbing tower, learn about the design and engineering process at the Tinkering Garage, and marvel at the stars and planets in the planetarium – check listings for when the laser shows and concerts are scheduled.

    Location: 800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

    Open: Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday from 9 am to 3 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm (closed on Tuesday–Wednesday)

    Phone: +1 615-862-5160

    Map