Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville is an incredible spot for anyone who loves music. It’s all about celebrating the musicians behind some of the most iconic songs ever recorded. Nestled in the historic Nashville Municipal Auditorium, this museum offers a fascinating dive into the world of session musicians and their impact across different music genres.

History

The museum was founded in 2006 by songwriter Joe Frank Chambers. It originally opened in a 30,000-square-foot space in downtown Nashville. However, when the Music City Center was built, the museum moved to the Nashville Municipal Auditorium in 2013. This relocation more than doubled its size, allowing for an even more extensive collection of musical artifacts and instruments from legendary artists.

How to Get There

You’ll find the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum at 401 Gay Street, Nashville, TN 37219. If you’re driving, there are several parking garages nearby, including State Garage, Southeast Financial Credit Union, and MTA Garage. Public transportation and ride-sharing services are also convenient options to get there.

Things to See

1. Exhibits Dedicated to Session Musicians – Check out the displays featuring instruments and memorabilia from session musicians in cities like Nashville, Detroit, Muscle Shoals, Memphis, and Los Angeles.
2. The American Sound Studio – This exhibit showcases the studio where Elvis Presley recorded hits like “”Suspicious Minds”” and “”In the Ghetto.””
3. Jimi Hendrix’s Stratocaster Guitar – You can see one of Jimi Hendrix’s famous guitars and the stage he performed on in Nashville.
4. Roy Orbison’s Memorabilia – There’s a collection of Roy Orbison’s signature sunglasses, musical instruments, and other personal items.
5. Interactive GRAMMY Museum Gallery – This gallery lets visitors dive into the music-making process by performing on stage, mixing music in a sound booth, or playing instruments.

Ticket Information

The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. General admission tickets are available, with discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, and police officers. Kids under 5 get in for free. For more details on tickets, it’s best to check out the museum’s official website.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Your Visit – With so much to see, it’s a good idea to plan your visit so you can explore everything at your own pace.
2. Interactive Exhibits – The GRAMMY Museum Gallery is super interactive and fun for all ages, making it a hit with both adults and kids.
3. Guided Tours – While not necessary, guided tours can offer deeper insights into the exhibits’ history and significance.
4. Special Events – The museum hosts annual induction ceremonies and concerts, which are definitely worth checking out if you’re in town.
5. Photography – Don’t forget to snap some photos of the exhibits, but be mindful of any areas where photography might be restricted.

Visiting the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum is a fantastic way to appreciate the unsung heroes of the music industry and get a firsthand look at music history.