What to do and see in Tennessee, United States: The Best Architectural Buildings

Wynnewood is a state historic site that includes the largest historic log structure in Tennessee. Built in 1828 by the Wynne family, the structure served as the Castalian Springs Resort for stagecoach travelers and tourists interested in the sulphur mineral springs and their reported medicinal powers, located at the base of the hill. The property came to Mrs. Almira Wynne as a bequest from her father, General James Winchester of nearby Cragfont. Almira and her husband AR moved the family into the resort and AR left his wife the management of operations while he traveled for business. The resort was also home to approximately 20-30 enslaved men, women, and children who worked at the resort and the agricultural operations on site. The Civil War ended the resort's operations, and they were not picked up again until a resurgence in 1899. The site is currently owned by the Tennessee Historical Commission and managed by nonprofit Historic Castalian Springs.

Beautiful theater holds musical and stage performances.

Standing as the centerpiece in Nashville's Centennial Park, the Parthenon is a full scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Come inside to see the 42-foot gilded sculpture of Athena, the permanent display of American paintings from the Cowan Collection, the history of the Nashville Parthenon dating back to the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, and a variety of temporary shows and exhibitions! The entrance is located on the ground level of the East side of the building.

Focusing on American art from the Colonial period to the present day, the Hunter offers amazing architecture, a stunning permanent collection and exciting temporary exhibitions, and a museum store. The museum is housed in an early twentieth century mansion, a modern 1970s era building and a sleek, contemporary structure of steel and glass. The museum's collection includes paintings, works on paper, sculpture, photography, mixed media, video, furniture and contemporary studio glass covering a diverse range of styles and periods. A few of the well-known artists whose work is represented in the Hunter include Thomas Cole, Fitz Henry Lane, Winslow Homer, Robert S. Duncanson, Mary Cassatt, Childe Hassam, Robert Henri, John Marin, Thomas Hart Benton, Helen Frankenthaler, Louise Nevelson, Jack Beal, George Segal, Duane Hanson, Robert Rauschenberg, Sam Gilliam, and Andy Warhol. The Hunter Museum is a 501 (C) 3 Non-Profit charitable institution.

An elegant, 16-room mansion built in 1870 and featuring period furnishings and mannequins displaying the fashions of the era.

Falcon Rest is the Victorian mansion where history is fun. Built in 1896 by Gorilla Pants manufacturer Clay Faulkner, it's been called "Tennessee's Biltmore" by PBS. Some say it's presided over by a friendly ghost. Open daily year round for guided tours, tea room lunches, Victorian Gift Shop, and history-based entertainment and meals for group tours. For nearby overnight lodging, see our listing for Falcon Manor B&B at Falcon Rest, the four guest suites on the mansion's grounds.