Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum in Nashville is a fantastic spot for anyone curious about history, art, and culture. Nestled at the corner of Rosa L. Parks Boulevard and Jefferson Street, this modern museum takes you on a journey through 13,000 years of Tennessee’s past.

The museum is free to enter and open to everyone, offering an engaging experience of Tennessee’s rich history and cultural heritage. With its sleek design and interactive exhibits, it’s a perfect place to dive into the state’s intriguing history.

History

The museum’s permanent exhibits cover a wide array of topics, from Tennessee’s geological origins to its crucial role in the Civil War and Reconstruction. It also highlights the state’s significant contributions to the Women’s Suffrage and Civil Rights movements. Plus, there are temporary exhibits that explore different facets of Tennessee’s art, history, and culture.

How to Get There

Located at the northwest corner of the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, the museum is easy to reach by car, with free parking available in the shared lot with the Nashville Farmers Market. If you don’t have a car, public transportation is an option, and it’s just a short walk from downtown Nashville.

Things to See

1. The Tennessee Time Tunnel: This exhibit offers a chronological look at Tennessee’s history, featuring artifacts and paintings from the museum’s collection.
2. Natural History: Dive into the state’s geological beginnings with this fascinating exhibit.
3. First Peoples: Learn about the history of Tennessee’s first inhabitants.
4. Forging a Nation: Discover the state’s early years and its path to statehood.
5. The Civil War and Reconstruction: Explore Tennessee’s role in the Civil War and its reconstruction period.
6. Change and Challenge: This section covers the state’s history from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.
7. Tennessee Transforms: See how Tennessee evolved from the mid-20th century to today.
8. Temporary Exhibitions: Check out the rotating galleries with fresh and exciting exhibits on various topics and eras.

Ticket Information

Admission is free! The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It’s closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Tips for Visiting

1. Free Admission: Enjoy exploring the museum without spending a dime.
2. Free Parking: Take advantage of the free parking in the shared lot or along 6th and 7th Avenues.
3. Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, with elevators and complimentary wheelchairs available.
4. Interactive Displays: Engage with the interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations for a richer experience.
5. Photography: Feel free to take photos without flash for personal use, but remember not to touch the exhibits.
6. Special Events: Check out the museum’s events calendar for lectures, guided tours, and other activities.
7. Museum Store: Stop by the museum store for history-themed shopping, featuring items from local artisans.

The Tennessee State Museum offers a unique and enriching experience, making it a must-visit on any Nashville itinerary. With its comprehensive exhibits and interactive displays, it’s a place where history truly comes alive.