Location: Nashville
Top Things to do in Nashville
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Top 7 History Museums in Nashville, Tennessee (TN)
With live music to be heard all across town, 24/7, 365 days a year, Music City lives up to its name. From honky-tonk bands jamming at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge to songwriters in the round at the Bluebird Cafe and country music legends rocking the Grand Ole Opry, you never know who you might see. The creative spirit from Nashville's music landscape flows into the area's myriad art galleries, up-and-coming fashion scene, historic landmarks and chef-driven restaurants.
Restaurants in Nashville
1. Glen Campbell Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
Located at the highly-trafficked corner of Broadway and 2nd Avenue, The Glen Campbell Museum will feature more than four thousand square feet of never-before-seen artifacts from Glen's early years.
Reviewed By Sherrid112 - Salem, United States
My family (all adults) and I were scheduled to visit on December 31st. Due to streets being closed (from Christmas day)we weren't sure if we were going to get to go. Kevin contacted us from the museum in the morning and said they were cleard to open; so we went and are we glad we did! This is a beautifully done tribute to Glen's life. He's undeniably one of the greatest country music performers ever! The museum is a touching and fitting tribute to his life and music. Some of my favorites in the museum included The Glen Campbell Goodtime Theatre. It was fun to see legends of County Music. We sang along to the songs. The Greatest Guitarist to ever play section included stories behind some of Glen's biggest hits. My favorite story was on the song Southern Nights! If you're in Nashville, do not miss this museum!
2. Historic Travellers Rest
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 258 reviews
Historic Travellers Rest is the oldest historic house museum open to the public in Nashville. Our primary mission is history education and we serve more than 12,000 children and adult visitors each year. Our programs and events cover 1000 years of history, from Mississippian settlement through the 19th century using the cultural resources at the 1799 home built by John Overton. Self-guided grounds tours and guided house tours are available Tuesday-Saturdays. House tours last about an hour and are offered on the hour starting at 11:00 am. Last tour at 3:00 pm. During this time tour sizes will be limited to 8 people. Tour availability is first-come first-serve so reservations are suggested. Please call to make a reservation.
Reviewed By 866TaylorB - Chicago, United States
I suppose most people visit Andrew Jackson's Hermitage to get a perspective on the history of Nashville, Tennessee. Well, that certainly is an important part of it. But don't pass up an opportunity to visit Travellers Rest Plantation and Museum to get another perspective. Located at 636 Farrell Parkway, the two-story structure with four rooms was built in 1799 by Judge John Overton, who was an advisor and close friend of Andrew Jackson. In fact, he was a co-founder of Memphis, Tennessee. An addition was made to the house in 1812 to accommodate more members of the Overton family and a long ell was added in 1820 when Overton married a widow with five children. He died at Travellers Rest in 1833. A final addition was added in 1887. At one time, the plantation covered 1,050 ares and was worked by 80 slaves. Historically, it is significant because Overton discovered a large number of prehistoric skulls on his property. Today, archaeologists know that the remains were part of a large Mississippian village site. The house was saved from demolition and restored in 1954 to become a museum when construction of a visitors center uncovered additional human remains from a prehistoric period. During a one-hour guided toour, visitors can view exhibits that document the life and work of John Overton, his relationship with Andrew Jackson and the history of the Overton plantation and Nashville during the Civil War, then explore the lavish gardens that surround the plantation. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969.
3. Tennessee State Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 911 reviews
The Tennessee State Museum is located at the corner of Rosa L. Parks Blvd. and Jefferson Street at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. It is designed to bring history to life. It includes a “Tennessee Time Tunnel” chronicling the state’s rich history and leading visitors though the Museum’s permanent collection, a hands-on children’s gallery, six rotating galleries, a state-of-the art digital learning center and a two-story Grand Hall. Exhibitions include significant artifacts related to the state’s history, along with displays of art, furniture, textiles, and photographs produced by Tennesseans. The Museum's Civil War holdings of uniforms, battle flags and weapons are among the finest in the nation.There is no admission charge for visitors. Hours are subject to change. Please check our website at tnmuseum.org for the most up to date information on parking, exhibitions and events.
Reviewed By jerb2014 - Bristol, United States
The museum itself is located on Rosa L Parks at the intersection with Jefferson and very close to the Bicentennial Park and the Farmer's Market. It is filled with an astonishing collection of art, crafts, furniture, artifacts, and tools that resent the history of Tennessee very nicely. The collection starts with items from prehistory, through colonial times, the Civil War, Victorian era and up to modern times. It is just a Disneyland for lovers of art, history and culture. The admission to the entire museum is free as is the parking in the lot associated with the museum. Strikingly beautiful building. If the lot is full, you can get two hours of parking free along either 6th or 7th street. This was a most enjoyable experience for us all.
4. The Johnny Cash Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,848 reviews
The Johnny Cash Museum features the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world. Walk through the life of the Man in Black depicted in interactive exhibits, films and much more. We feature a Bongo Java Coffee Shop and Museum Cafe. Officially endorsed by the Cash Family. The museum recently received the coveted AAA GEM rating; the highest bestowed on an attraction. We are one of only six attractions in Nashville to have this distinction.
Reviewed By IllyCoffeeDrinkers - Flagstaff, United States
While driving from Flagstaff to DC, the male half of IllyCoffeeDrinkers and one of our kids spent a day and night in Nashville in order to take in the sites, music and food. The Johnny Cash Museum is a must-see location for all Johnny Cash and music fans. The museum contains a spectacular collection of John Cash awards, memorabilia, personal items, informative exhibits and photos (a few photos are attached). As Johnny Cash fans, we were inspired to learn so many things about his career, family, friends and artists he collaborated with. It is truly incredible how many songs Johnny Cash recorded, and the number of people involved in his music. As we walked through the exhibits, we kept wondering – did this guy ever sleep? Our bottom line, if you are a Johnny Cash fan, or just a music fan, this place is definitely worth a visit. If you found this review helpful and/or our photos helpful or pleasing, we hope you will click the “helpful/thank you” button. Those of us who write detailed reviews appreciate the feedback and it encourages us to write additional reviews for everyone’s consideration. Thank you.
5. Cooter’s Museum and Store Nashville
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,024 reviews
Free Admission If you love THE DUKES OF HAZZARD (And Americans of all ages do), you will love a visit to Cooter's Place. This is Nashville's one and only Dukes of Hazzard Museum and Shop, operated by none other than ol'Cooter himself. Ben Jones, who played the Duke Boy's stalwart sidekick, is your host at this tribute to Hazzard County. This expanded museum features Pictures, Props, Costumes, and Memorabilia from the beloved hit television show. Also displayed are Cooter's Tow Truck, Daisy's Jeep, Rosco's Patrol Car, and of course, a General Lee, the 1969 Dodge Charger which has achieved iconic status among fans of the show. Just keep your eyes peeled for Cooter's Tow Truck and the bright orange car with the Rebel flag on top and a big 01 on the door. YEEEHAAAA!
Reviewed By dabby52 - Vidor, United States
My companion on this trip was a big Dukes of Hazzard fan and we had rented a car, so we set out on Saturday to see this museum. I had a seated walker that I took into the store/museum with me. The Dukes car was outside and we made photos there, but the collection on display inside was exceptional. I never knew there were so may Dukes of Hazzard games and puzzles and cups and glasses, etc. Anything and everything orange! The museum is several rooms of display, easy to navigate, even on my walker, and including Daisy's Jeep and several vehicles inside. All in all a fun diversion!
6. Marathon Village
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 699 reviews
Marathon Village is a neighborhood born out of the buildings that once housed the Marathon Motor Works from 1910-1914. Marathon Motor Works manufactured and sold the first car of the South! Today, it serves as a model for adaptive re-purposing of historic structures. Marathon Village has become a diverse destination where artists, performers, designers, music business professionals, and inventors co-exist. Our Factory houses our museum along with a retail experience like no other that includes flagship stores from the History Channels’ American Pickers to legendary whiskey makers, Jack Daniels. Come sip, shop and explore the history of our village! The building is open until 8pm. Each shop/business has their own hours. Parking: - Free street parking - $10 Visitor Parking in the lot
Reviewed By HotelJumpers - Orlando, United States
Yes, AmericanPickers is still there! So is Jack Daniels and many other unique and interesting shops. This is a great place to go and it's too cold outside or inclement weather. Lots of choices for shopping, and a lot of historical things to look at. In the days of covid we always have to include the fact that there was enough room for social distancing. Shopkeepers and everyone were wearing masks and it felt very safe. There is paid parking in the area but if you're smart there is also free parking available on the street you just have to look. This was a great place to pick up very unique souvenirs to bring home to family. These were items that did not look like you found them at a local souvenir store or the airport...lol Many things were moderately priced and very unique and design. I personally would not go again. This is the kind of place that's one and done for me.
