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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Nashville's best

Interesting museums

Spending an afternoon wandering through exhibits that spark genuine curiosity.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Lane Motor Museum image 1
Lane Motor Museum image 2
Lane Motor Museum image 3
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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.

An incredible array of vintage vehicles includes cars, motorcycles, airplanes, and a monowheel. The collection features unusual models and prototypes from around the world, showing how automotive design has evolved over time.

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."

"I saw so many interesting cars I'd never seen before."

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.

02
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.

Many interesting exhibits showcase historic content with educational facts about the past. The museum offers informative displays that engage visitors in learning.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the exhibits here really interesting and informative."

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.

03
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.

Old car manufacturing machinery and antique cars create a unique museum experience. The building also houses a variety of shops along a long hallway, adding to the exploration.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun, cool hidden gem with a historic manufacturing vibe."

"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.

04
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.

Many interesting facts about Johnny Cash and other music legends fill the museum. It offers lots of historical content on figures like Presley, Orbinson, Perkins, and Colonel Parker.

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."

"I found the exhibits and content here really interesting."

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.

05
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.

Many old farm equipment pieces and items from the past fill the space. Exhibits show the process to make corn flour and other agricultural tools, creating an atmosphere like an antique shop.

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.

06
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.

Interactive exhibits and a screen showing 'The Grammy's' create an engaging experience. Displays include detailed information on musicians' history and backup careers, with some large and interesting objects.

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.

07
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.

Storytelling interpreters keep history relevant and engaging. The house offers a rich historical setting with insights into Jackson's presidency and retirement.

People are saying

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

"The grounds are beautiful and peaceful."

"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.

08
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.

Displays highlight the prime of 70s country with lots of interesting artifacts. Information on Willie Nelson and related artists adds depth even for those less familiar with country music.

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.

09
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.

Lots of nostalgia fills the museum with many interesting items on display and for sale. Admission is free, making it an affordable attraction with unique memorabilia.

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 found tons of interesting show memorabilia and souvenirs here."

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.

10
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.

Standing where Elvis Presley recorded over 240 songs offers a unique glimpse into music history. The tour shares interesting facts and detailed stories about his time in the studio, making the experience both informative and engaging.

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.

11
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.

Antebellum mansion offers a deep look into historical upper-class life. Guided tours share interesting stories and detailed family history. Every room holds rich history to explore.

People are saying

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

"I found the house's history and ongoing restoration process so interesting."

"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.

12
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.

Small size combines with industrial displays from car manufacturing to create a unique experience. Old school machinery and parts scattered through the shopping complex add to the interesting vibe.

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."

"It's interesting seeing old car manufacturing machinery and apparel."

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.

13
Madame Tussauds Nashville image 1

Wax museum with life-like wax figures and themed rooms creates an immersive, colorful atmosphere. Interactive exhibits include photo opportunities and a karaoke booth, adding energy and engagement. Layout flows well with diverse music eras, enhancing the experience.

Wax figures capture legends like Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift with meticulous artistry. Interactive displays and a music-themed ambiance create an engaging, electric atmosphere.

Figures display interesting history and close-up views. The arrangement of statues shows many notable people.

People are saying

"I loved taking photos with the wax figures at this museum."

"It's a lot of fun taking photos with the stars."

"The wax figures here are so lifelike, it's interesting."

Good to know

1

The museum only accepts card payments; cash is not accepted.

2

Expect minimal wait times during weekdays, especially in the morning.

3

The museum is located inside Opry Mills Mall, making it easy to access.

14
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.

The site offers rich historical information through the visitors center. Its location and history provide an engaging experience.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the history presented here really interesting."

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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