Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum in Nashville is a fantastic spot for anyone who loves art or is looking for a fun family outing. Housed in a historic Art Deco building that used to be Nashville’s main post office, the museum combines architectural beauty with top-notch art exhibitions.

The Frist Art Museum is a non-profit center that showcases incredible visual art from local, state, and regional artists, along with major national and international exhibitions. With 24,000 square feet of exhibit space, there’s always something new and exciting to see.

The building itself was constructed between 1933 and 1934 during the Great Depression as part of the Public Works Administration. Designed by the Nashville firm Marr and Holman, it features a style known as “”stripped Classicism”” with Art Deco influences. It served as the main post office for many years before being transformed into the Frist Art Museum in 2001.

How to Get There

The museum is located at 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. It’s easy to reach by car or public transport. Visitors can park in the Frist Lot at 919 Broadway or use nearby parking options like the American Lot or Union Station Nashville Yards.

Things to See

1. Exhibitions: The museum hosts a variety of traveling and Frist-organized art exhibitions that change every few months, so there’s always something fresh to explore.
2. Martin ArtQuest Gallery: This interactive space is perfect for visitors of all ages to create their own art and engage with the visual arts.
3. Architecture Tours: Discover the history and design of the museum’s landmark building with guided tours available every Saturday and Sunday at 3:30 p.m.
4. Docent-Guided Walk-Up Tours: Join informal guided tours without needing a reservation on Thursday through Monday at 1:30 p.m., Thursday at 6:30 p.m., and Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

Ticket Information

– Adult groups can enjoy the museum for $12.00 per person if they have a group of 10 or more with an advance reservation.
– College groups get in for free with an advance reservation.
– School groups from Pre-K to 12th grade also enjoy free admission with an advance reservation.
– General admission prices vary depending on the exhibition, so it’s best to check the museum’s website for the latest pricing.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Ahead: If you’re planning a group tour, make sure to reserve at least three weeks in advance.
2. Interactive Experiences: The Martin ArtQuest Gallery is a fantastic spot for families to dive into interactive art-making activities.
3. Accessibility: The museum is accessible for visitors with disabilities and offers ASL interpreters on the first Saturday of each month.
4. Special Events: Keep an eye on the museum’s calendar for upcoming events like gallery talks, music performances, and family activities.
5. Online Resources: Check out the museum’s online resources for more information about exhibitions and tours.

The Frist Art Museum is a unique blend of art, history, and architecture, making it a standout attraction in Nashville. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a fun family activity, the Frist Art Museum offers an enriching experience for everyone.