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Best of Nashville

Museums

Made for those who find their inspiration and downtime within the quiet halls of a gallery.

Based on 579 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 shines with a unique collection of small European and micro cars in a bright, open bakery space. Visitors enjoy a laid back atmosphere that invites close viewing. Families appreciate the car-themed play area and picnic spot for kids.

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.

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 found the fun activities here to be a collection of really weird cars."

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 free admission and a deep dive into state history. Immersive multimedia like interactive play areas and films create a lively atmosphere for families. Stunning views of the capitol add to the 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.

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.

03
Jefferson Street Sound image 1

Modest house turned museum offers an intimate tour of African-American music history. Local historian shares untold stories of North Nashville's Original Music Row. Exhibits reveal the vibrant past and urban changes shaping the 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.

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.

04
Museum of Christian & Gospel Music image 1

Museum showcases Christian and Gospel music history with interactive exhibits and live performances. Visitors enjoy a well-curated journey through memorabilia and video footage. A cozy coffee bar with live music adds to the uplifting atmosphere.

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.

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.

05
Cooter's Nashville image 1

Museum offers a nostalgic Southern atmosphere with free entry and a huge memorabilia collection. Fans can see General Lee and Daisy's jeep up close and enjoy a fun gift shop. Photo spots inside and outside make it a memorable visit.

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.

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."

"It's a great place for couples who grew up in the era."

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.

06
Marathon Motor Works image 1

Explore historic machinery in a quiet, nostalgic setting. Enjoy whiskey tasting at the distillery and browse unique shops. Discover antique cars and local history in a free museum that blends industrial heritage with retail.

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.

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.

07
Tennessee Agricultural Museum image 1

Explore antique farm equipment and learn about Tennessee's farming history with passionate staff. Enjoy peaceful walking trails and historic cabins outdoors. Free admission and family-friendly features make it a calm, educational spot for all ages.

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.

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.

08
Johnny Cash Museum image 1

Small museum offers interactive listening stations and curated exhibits on Johnny Cash's life and music. Fans enjoy a phenomenal collection with photos, videos, and memorabilia. Atmosphere feels personal and respectful, creating 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.

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.

09
Fisk University Galleries (Carl Van Vechten Gallery & Aaron Douglas Gallery) image 1

Small, cozy gallery features early 20th-century art from Europe and America with rotating exhibits every few months. Space is compact and accessible, ideal for visitors with mobility needs. Admission is free, making it a welcoming spot for all.

A small, cozy gallery offers a manageable visit with no stairs and free admission. Exhibits change every few months, showcasing powerfully creative art from European and American artists of the early 20th century.

People are saying

"The Galleries here are free and interesting."

"The museum admission was free and the art exhibits were cool."

Good to know

1

Admission to the gallery is free.

2

The gallery is small, making it easy to navigate.

3

The art rotates every 3 months, offering new exhibits.

10
Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum image 1

Massive building with interactive music areas lets visitors play instruments and record vocals. Exhibits highlight musicians who changed everything and reveal music industry secrets. Lively sounds and a record wall create an immersive museum experience.

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.

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
Marathon Factory Museum & Retail Shops image 1

Explore early 20th century tools in a quiet, industrial setting that blends history with shopping. Vintage car factory displays offer a compact museum experience. Eclectic shops provide local products and samples, making it easy to enjoy both tradition and modern retail.

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.

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.

12
Madame Tussauds Nashville image 1

Wax museum features life-like figures of legends like Michael Jackson and Beyoncé. Interactive exhibits and a karaoke booth create an engaging, electric vibe. Themed rooms flow through diverse music eras, making the experience colorful and immersive.

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.

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.

13
Legends of Country Music Museum and Nashville Souvenirs image 1

Small museum showcases Willie Nelson memorabilia and stories of 35+ country legends. Gift shop offers affordable souvenirs like clothing and novelties. Adjacent bar has a relaxed vibe with live music and food, perfect for unwinding after exploring.

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.

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.

14
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage image 1

Expansive grounds with historic mansion offer a peaceful setting. Museums feature interactive exhibits on Andrew Jackson's life. Visitors enjoy wagon rides and local wines while exploring beautiful gardens and shaded paths.

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.

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.

15
Historic RCA Studio B image 1

Small brick studio holds rich music history and original gear. Staff are efficient and helpful, making tours smooth. Tickets offer all-day access to explore at your own pace.

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.

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.

16
The Gallery of Iconic Guitars (The GIG) at Belmont image 1

Vintage guitars and banjos create a musical history vibe. Visitors can play some instruments, adding a hands-on experience. Guided tours provide detailed insights, though security buzzers limit close viewing.

The museum features a gallery of classic guitars, basses, banjos, and mandolins showcasing musical history and art. Security buzzers are sensitive, which can make reading exhibit labels challenging, especially for seniors.

People are saying

"You can play some of the guitars at this cool museum."

"I found the collection of classic guitars and basses really cool."

"The Galleries have classic guitars you can play."

Good to know

1

Admission is $4.00, making it an affordable option for visitors.

2

Some guitars at The GIG are playable by visitors, enhancing the experience.

3

Guided tours are available, providing detailed information about the collection.

17
Belmont Mansion image 1

Elegant architecture and authentic period furnishings create a rich historical experience. Serene gardens with live music on the patio offer peaceful relaxation. Living history exhibits make the past come alive in a welcoming, nostalgic atmosphere.

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

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.

18
Tennessee Central Railway Museum image 1

Vintage train cars offer a relaxing ride with period-dressed conductors enhancing the feel. The museum provides educational exhibits and passionate staff. Stops include a winery with wine tastings and outdoor seating, blending history with local charm.

The museum offers a very educational experience with informative exhibits about trains and their history. Staff and train workers show great hospitality and deep passion for the museum and excursions.

People are saying

"The train ride was a very fun experience."

"The wine tasting train excursion was a fun and relaxing adventure."

"I loved the wine samples and the train ride."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dining as restaurants fill up quickly.

2

Expect long wait times for food during busy events, especially on weekends.

3

The train does not allow outside food, so plan accordingly.

19
Fort Negley Visitors Center image 1
Historical landmark

Historic fort ruins offer 360-degree views and a quiet atmosphere perfect for reflection. Free exhibits at the Visitor Center showcase local history artifacts in a well-maintained space. Rustic paths and wildflowers enhance 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.

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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