Things to do in Tennessee, United States: The Best Military Museums

WHERE HISTORY LIVES! Airworthy "Warbirds" are the foundation of this 50,000 sq ft facility, located on the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport in Sevierville. This unique location helps to bring aviation history to life with unscheduled flight demonstrations. Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the professionally designed Exhibit Gallery, containing artifacts tracing aviation and military history, uniforms, aircraft models and hundreds of aviation memorabilia. The 35,000 sq ft Aircraft Hangar features aircraft engines and cockpits, military vehicles, and magnificently restored vintage “Warbirds.” The collection of trainers, fighters, helicopters, jets and amphibious aircraft will definitely satisfy the interest of any “Warbird” fan. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just have a passing interest in flight, this is a must-see while visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. Travel off the beaten path and explore the fascinating realm of flight at this hidden treasure.

Visit the the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and learn about the history of our nation's highest military award for valor, from the First Medals in 1863 to the present. The Heritage Center works to educate Americans about the six character traits associated with the Medal of Honor and inspire visitors to develop the highest qualities of character demonstrated by its recipients: Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice and Commitment. The Heritage Center offers hand-on activities for visitors of all ages and was particularly designed to provide children and student educational opportunities.

We are a well-regarded Military Museum covering conflicts from the Civil War to the present, housed in a historic Crossville, TN building. Admission is free with donation accepted. Open Monday-Friday 9am, - 3pm. Group tours can be arranged.

A branch of the Tennessee State Museum, the Military Branch Museum is located in the historic War Memorial Building. Exhibitions explore America’s overseas conflicts, beginning with the Spanish-American War in 1898 and ending with Vietnam War. There is no admission charge to the Military Branch Museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions. Hours: The Military Branch galleries are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. The Military Branch Museum is closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter. Location: 301 6th Ave. North, in downtown Nashville, inside the historic War Memorial Building on Legislative Plaza. The entrance is on the left side of the building near the Vietnam War Memorial. The handicap entrance is located off of Union Street on the south end of Legislative Plaza.

The Sumner County Museum consists of 3 floors and 10,000 square feet of exhibits and artifacts dating back to prehistoric time. Some of the exhibits include Native Americans, pioneers, a blacksmith shop, a tinsmith shop, war memorials, automobiles, and farm equipment all of which have Sumner County ties. Take an educational walk through time at the Sumner County Museum here in Gallatin, TN.