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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Nashville

Museums and historical sites

Walking through the physical remnants of the past to understand how things used to be.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Jefferson Street Sound image 1
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Modest house converted into a museum offers an intimately curated tour focused on African-American music history and the Original Music Row of North Nashville. The atmosphere is rich with stories shared by a local historian who preserves the legacy of legendary musicians and the community's cultural impact. Exhibits highlight the neighborhood's vibrant past and the effects of urban development on its music scene.

The museum offers an intimately curated tour that highlights the untold stories of North Nashville's music history. It actively preserves the legacy of African-American musicians from the chitlin circuit and provides a unique perspective on the original Music Row.

The museum actively preserves the history of African-American music and the rich music heritage of North Nashville. It features a tribute to the neighborhood where famous musicians performed on the chitlin circuit and shares stories from key figures maintaining this legacy.

People are saying

"I learned about Jefferson Street's history from Lorenzo, a true historian."

"I loved hearing Lorenzo Washington's stories about legendary musicians."

Good to know

1

The museum is only open on Saturdays.

2

Lorenzo Washington shares personal stories about legendary musicians during tours.

3

Tours are available by appointment, so call ahead to schedule.

02
Lane Motor Museum image 1

Museum occupies an old bakery building with open concept and natural light, showcasing a unique collection of mostly small, European, and micro cars. Atmosphere feels laid back and intimate, inviting close viewing without barriers. Family-friendly features include a car-themed play area and picnic spot.

This museum features a very unique collection of vehicles with only about 2% overlap with other automotive museums. It showcases several one-of-a-kind automobiles that make it stand out from any other car museum.

A marvelous collection of foreign-made and unique cars fills the museum, showcasing rich automotive history. The building itself is a historic former cookie factory, adding to the site's historical significance.

People are saying

"This museum has so many unique cars you won't see anywhere else."

"I saw so many unique foreign and classic cars here."

"You'll find lots of automotive history and very unique cars here."

Good to know

1

The museum offers a guided tour of the vault on weekends for an extra $10.

2

Demonstrations of unique cars occur daily at 11 AM; don't miss it.

3

Expect to pay an additional fee for guided tours at 11:30 AM and 2 PM.

03
Tennessee State Museum image 1

Large, modern museum offers a well-laid-out space with immersive multimedia like music, sounds, and films enhancing exhibits. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxed to lively, with families and children enjoying interactive play areas and scavenger hunts. Views of the nearby capitol and skyline add to the visually engaging experience.

Free admission makes this museum very accessible. It offers a deep dive into the state's history with exhibits that can fill an entire day.

Free admission invites exploration of Tennessee's history and culture through extensive exhibits. The museum offers a deep dive into American history with a strong focus on the state's past.

People are saying

"I learned so much about Tennessee's history at this museum."

"The historical sites here offer free admission and parking."

"It's so thoughtfully curated with authentic artifacts."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Tennessee State Museum is free.

2

The museum offers guided tours at 2pm highlighting the main exhibits.

3

Parking is extremely difficult to find, requiring patience and multiple drives around the area.

04
Marathon Motor Works image 1

Old factory building houses historic machinery and original tools, creating a quiet, nostalgic atmosphere. Visitors explore shops, a distillery with whiskey tasting, and a deli within the preserved industrial space. The site blends industrial heritage with retail and tasting experiences.

A unique museum showcases the industrial era of America with a well-preserved collection of antique cars and factory pieces. Entry is free of charge, offering a good presentation of local history alongside small shops.

A historic building houses a former car manufacturer with machinery and vintage cars on display. The site blends antique history with small shopping areas under one roof.

People are saying

"It's interesting seeing all the old machinery and antique cars from the factory."

"It's a cool historical site with old machinery and shops mixed in."

"I loved seeing the old cars and machinery at the museums."

Good to know

1

The site is free to visit.

2

Parking costs $10.

3

Whiskey tastings are offered at the museum.

05
Museum of Christian & Gospel Music image 1

Museum offers a well-curated journey through Christian and Gospel music history with interactive exhibits and live gospel performances. Layout guides visitors through memorabilia and video footage, creating an inspiring and uplifting atmosphere. A small coffee bar with live music adds to the welcoming vibe.

Exhibits offer a walk down memory lane through decades of faith-filled music with a beautifully curated design. The museum provides an inspiring and uplifting journey through Christian and Gospel music history.

Exhibits offer a great journey through Christian and gospel history with a focus on Christian Gospel music.

People are saying

"I found this museum to be a great and awesome addition."

"You can enjoy an amazing cup of coffee here."

"You'll love the great journey through Christian and gospel history."

Good to know

1

The museum offers self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

2

Plan to spend at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits.

3

Visitors can enjoy free coffee during their visit.

06
Johnny Cash Museum image 1

Small museum space offers interactive listening stations and curated exhibits featuring photos, videos, and memorabilia. Atmosphere feels personal and respectful, with music playing that engages visitors. Layout is non-linear but provides plenty of photo opportunities and a friendly vibe.

Extensive exhibits showcase the life and music of Johnny Cash with high information density. The museum offers a phenomenal collection that appeals strongly to fans of Cash and country music.

A large collection of historical memorabilia showcases the life and career of a major country music figure. Exhibits include personal and professional artifacts that tell detailed stories about his journey and legacy.

People are saying

"I found the Johnny Cash Museum to be a wonderful tribute."

"I found the historical sites here packed with Johnny Cash's amazing history."

"The galleries here showcase Johnny Cash's instruments and costumes from many eras."

Good to know

1

Tickets are required for entry; check for pricing details.

2

Expect crowd flow issues during peak visiting hours.

3

The museum features a variety of Johnny Cash memorabilia.

07
Marathon Factory Museum & Retail Shops image 1

Industrial building preserves original tools and machinery from early 20th century car manufacturing. Quiet atmosphere invites slow exploration of historical artifacts and eclectic shops offering samples and local products. Layout supports easy walking through museum and retail spaces blending tradition with modern shopping.

Displays include old tools, machines, and parts from a vehicle factory, along with vintage advertisements. The museum is free, self-guided, and easy to walk through, offering a compact but informative look at auto making history.

Historic auto manufacturing comes alive in a beautiful building filled with detailed exhibits on the motor car's past. The museum offers a solid history lesson alongside retail shops, blending education with shopping.

People are saying

"I loved seeing all the old machinery and auto-making history."

"I found the shops here to be really cool, with tons of collectibles."

"The museum is small, clean, and totally free."

Good to know

1

The museum is free and unguided, with a guided tour option available for a fee.

2

Parking on the street is cheaper than the gravel lot.

3

The museum features a coffee shop and restaurants for visitors.

08
Cooter's Nashville image 1

Museum filled with Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia creates a nostalgic Southern atmosphere. Displays include General Lee, Daisy's jeep, and Cooter's tow truck, offering photo opportunities inside and outside. Free admission and a gift shop add to the welcoming, fun environment.

Entry to the museum is always free. It features an insane collection of memorabilia that offers a blast from the past and can be emotionally touching.

Displays showcase Dukes of Hazzard history with rich detail and nostalgia. The museum offers a welcoming atmosphere and features many historical artifacts related to the show.

People are saying

"This free museum is packed with Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia."

"It's packed with so much Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, I felt like I was in a museum."

"I thought this place was a Dukes of Hazzard Hall of Fame."

Good to know

1

Entry to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

Parking is free at Cooter's Nashville.

3

The museum features memorabilia from The Dukes of Hazzard.

09
Historic RCA Studio B image 1

Small brick studio holds rich music history and original recording gear. Atmosphere feels intimate and reverent, with echoes of legendary artists and timeless hits. Tours offer detailed stories and a sense of stepping back to the studio's heyday.

Efficient and helpful staff assist with admissions and tours. Tickets allow all-day access, letting visitors explore at their own pace. The museum offers rich insights for music history enthusiasts.

Historic RCA Studio B offers tours that share the recording history and play music made there. Guides tell moving stories about the studio's role in music history and the great artists who recorded inside.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are brought to life by knowledgeable guides."

"The tour guides here are so knowledgeable and make it interesting."

"The museum tour guides are so knowledgeable and tell fascinating stories."

Good to know

1

Tickets for the RCA Studio B tour require a Country Music Hall of Fame admission.

2

Advance reservations are recommended as tours can sell out quickly.

3

The tour lasts approximately one hour and includes music recorded in Studio B.

10
Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum image 1

Massive building filled with stunning replicas of recording studios and interactive music areas where visitors can play instruments and record vocals. Sounds from different sections create a lively but sometimes distracting atmosphere. Decorations include a record wall and a unique TV display syncing vintage sets to videos.

Exhibits showcase musicians who changed everything and offer a deep dive into the music industry. Visitors spend hours exploring and get a real sense of what it takes to work in music.

Displays include many historic instruments used by music legends and real artifacts from various genres. Audio tours cover the music history and the influence on today's hits, with sections on music engineering and a soundproof recording room.

People are saying

"This museum is so fun and interactive with amazing music artifacts."

"I loved seeing the historical instruments and stage outfits of famous musicians."

"I found the interactive exhibits and interesting information really engaging."

Good to know

1

Admission is $28 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

The museum features a special exhibit on Jimi Hendrix, showcasing rare memorabilia.

11
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage image 1

Expansive grounds with historic mansion and original features create a peaceful, serene atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy wagon rides and local wines while exploring beautiful gardens and shaded paths. The site balances authentic architecture with open space, offering a relaxing and immersive historical experience.

Exhibits focus on Andrew Jackson's life and stories of others tied to the property. Interactive displays, short films, and artifacts create an immersive experience. Electric carts assist with the long walk between exhibits.

A beautifully restored historical treasure offers a true telling of slave history rarely seen elsewhere. Visitors walk through the history of President Andrew Jackson and the impact of human slavery on the farm and its descendants.

People are saying

"I found the history here so interesting and still in tact."

"The guides at these historical sites are so knowledgeable about Andrew Jackson."

"The museum guides here are so knowledgeable and informative."

Good to know

1

Tickets for the house tour should be booked in advance to avoid missing out.

2

Wine tasting is available on-site for $3 per flight.

3

Admission costs $20 per person to access the grounds.

12
Belmont Mansion image 1

Mansion showcases elegant architecture and authentic period furnishings that transport visitors to another era. Gardens offer a serene, well-maintained setting with peaceful spots to sit and enjoy live music on the patio. Atmosphere feels welcoming and nostalgic, inviting exploration of rich history throughout the rooms.

Historic home museums feature living history exhibits that bring the past to life. The setting combines beautiful architecture with fascinating historical details.

Walking through grand rooms reveals rich history tied to the post-emancipation period. Knowledgeable guides share details about the mansion's European artwork and unique features like the Medicinal Paper and toilet chair.

People are saying

"This historic home is beautiful and full of rich history."

"The guided tours offered fascinating insights into the mansion's history."

"I found this home museum to be beautiful and fascinating."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; consider finding nearby street parking.

2

Visitors should ring the doorbell for entry to the mansion.

3

The mansion stays open until 4:30 PM on Sundays for last tours.

13
Tennessee Agricultural Museum image 1

Small museum showcases antique farm equipment and agricultural history across two floors in a quiet, calm setting. Outdoor area includes historic cabins and walking trails, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Free admission and family-friendly features make it accessible and educational.

Free admission lets you explore a great collection of antique farm equipment and artifacts. Passionate staff share insights on Tennessee's farming history and rural life.

Displays highlight agricultural history and early mechanical development. Outdoor areas include historic cabins and walking trails showcasing regional specialties.

People are saying

"I loved seeing the antique farm equipment and tools at this historical site."

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of fun toys for toddlers."

"I loved seeing the antique farm equipment and artifacts at the museum."

Good to know

1

Admission is free, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

The museum has parking and restrooms available for guests.

3

The museum features a play area with toys for kids and toddlers.

14
Legends of Country Music Museum and Nashville Souvenirs image 1

Small museum offers an intimate look at country music history with extensive memorabilia from legends like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton. Gift shop provides a wide variety of affordable souvenirs including clothing and novelties. Adjacent bar features a relaxed vibe with live music and food.

A large collection of Willie Nelson memorabilia and exhibits on over 35 classic country legends fills the museum. It offers a packed but manageable experience with detailed information on country music history and stars like Lefty Frizzell.

Exhibits offer an intimate look at the roots of country music, focusing on Willie Nelson and his contemporaries. Displays cover a broad history of country music, featuring many artists beyond just one figure.

People are saying

"I loved the museum and the store's affordable souvenirs."

"I found lots of interesting information on artists like Willie Nelson."

"The docent made this historical site tour spectacular and so knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Admission is approximately $12.95 per person.

2

The museum features a large collection of Willie Nelson memorabilia.

3

The gift shop offers a variety of affordable souvenirs related to country music.

15
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park image 1

Wide open spaces combine with historical monuments and an extensive timeline of Tennessee to create a peaceful yet lively atmosphere. Shaded walking paths and interactive features like a granite state map invite exploration and relaxation. Occasional live music and a 95-Bell Carillon add charm and energy to the setting.

Many exhibits focus on Tennessee history at the park. The adjacent State Museum offers free admission and includes the library and archives nearby.

Historical markers and monuments line shaded paths, offering new pieces of history at every turn. Unique architecture and geological features blend with beautiful city views to create an engaging walk through the state's past.

People are saying

"I found the historical sites here really educational and informative."

"I found the park to be beautiful and well maintained."

"You'll see exhibits about Tennessee history and creative sculptures."

Good to know

1

The park hosts various events, including movies on Thursday nights.

2

New Year's Eve celebrations feature live performances and fireworks.

3

Parking is free and easy to access near the park.

16
Fort Negley Visitors Center image 1
Historical landmark

Historic fort ruins sit amid rustic paths and wildflowers, offering 360-degree views of downtown Nashville. The atmosphere is quiet and pleasant, inviting reflection on the area's rich history. Archaeological digs and informative exhibits add depth to the outdoor experience.

Free exhibits at the Visitor Center focus on local history with some artifacts on display. The museum space is well-maintained but could use more visually appealing items to enhance the exhibits.

Well preserved grounds showcase an important historical installation with great views. The visitors center offers useful historical information and helpful guides to deepen understanding of the area's past.

People are saying

"You can learn so much about Nashville's history here."

"You get a great view of the city from here."

"I found the museum here to be an interesting stop with lots of historical information."

Good to know

1

Admission and parking are free.

2

The guided tour at Fort Negley Visitors Center is fantastic and free.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

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