Scroll Down to Content Button

Nearby Attractions in Nashville

Known as the City of Music, and with several prestigious universities nearby, Nashville has tons of fascinating museums, parks and attractions to explore. Big-time music lover? Head over to the Johnny Cash Music Museum, where you’ll walk in the shoes of the Man in Blacks journey to fame.

Next, swing by Rudy’s Jazz Room for lively music, authentic cuisine and vibes that’ll take you all the way back to New Orleans. Next, spend a few hours at the National Museum of African Music, which celebrates the influence this under-representative group has had on the entertainment industry.

We’ve compiled six of the best museums and attractions to inspire and entertain you in Nashville, TN. 

1

Johnny Cash Museum

Located in the heart of downtown Nashville is a one-of-a-kind tribute to Music City legend Johnny Cash. The Cash Museum offers visitors a chance to walk through the incredible life and legacy of the Man in Black.

Home to an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia, the museum is highly praised for its authentic depiction of the country icon’s journey to and through fame. After you experience all things Cash, pop next door to Johnny Cash’s Bar and BBQ and unwind with beer, music and authentic Nashville favorites. 

Insider Tip

The museum does not offer parking for visitors, so plan to walk or hitch a ride.

Johnny Cash Museum - Opens in new tab
johnny cash museum
2

Rudy’s Jazz Room

Rudy’s Jazz Room embodies the swinging spirit of a traditional New Orleans jazz club right here in Honky Tonk Central. Co-owners Michael Braden and Adam Charney blended their knowledge of New Orleans cuisine and New York jazz music to bring a truly authentic jazz club experience to Nashville.

You’ll come for the cozy, mellow decor and stay for the incredible acoustics, world-class music and intimate seating areas. 

Insider Tip

You can’t leave without trying their homemade Creole dishes and top-notch cocktails.  

Ruddy's Jazz Room - Opens in new tab
jazz venue
3

National Museum of African American Music

African American musicians are underrepresented in Nashville’s music city culture. These musicians and their music are on full display at the National Museum of African American Music. Part celebration, part education, the museum immortalizes important moments in music history. 

Peruse a collection of photographs from some of today’s best hip hop photographers. Cozy up in the Roots Theater for immersive music experiences. Walk the Rivers of Rhythm pathway to see how African American music traditions have changed over time. Don’t miss the Museum Without Walls live events, which feature chats on life, music, and more.

Insider Tip

Double up on tours and book one at The Ryman Auditorium – located right across the street from the museum entrance.

View Exhibits - Opens in new tab
4

Frist Art Museum

A little bit local, a little bit global, Frist Art Museum has a knack for curating both classic collections and up-and-coming works of art. Their exhibitions span Picasso to Nashville area creators, inviting visitors to both embrace the broader world of art and keep their focus closer to home. Built in 1934, the building served as a Nashville post office before the Frist opened over two decades ago. 

Immerse yourself in everything from Picaso to paintings of the American West to a retrospective on Nashville itself. Be sure to check their event calendar before you go to see if they’re hosting any art education gatherings. If so, you won’t want to miss it.

Insider Tip

Traveling with little ones? Kids get free admission – all the time!

Visit the Museum - Opens in new tab
5

Centennial Park

Immerse yourself in 132 acres of outdoors at Centennial Park. Nestled in the heart of Nashville, Centennial Park is a surprising break from the hustle, bustle, and honky tonk. Stroll along the meandering trails, look out over Lake Watauga, and even experience a beautiful sunken garden.

Both Nashville locals and Music City visitors make up the thousands of people who visit the park each year. Visit Centennial Park to get in an early morning workout on the exercise trail or simply soak up some greenery before hitting Music Row.

Insider Tip

Walk around The Parthenon, right in the middle of the park. It’s a massive statue of the Greek goddess Athena and looks just like the one in Athens, Greece!

Explore the Park - Opens in new tab