About the Tennessee State Museum
The Tennessee State Museum in Nashville is a comprehensive museum dedicated to telling the story of Tennessee from its earliest peoples to the present day. Its galleries trace the state across its three Grand Divisions, East, Middle, and West Tennessee, and connect local history to the broader development of the United States. As a state institution located in the capital, it serves residents and visitors alike as a central place to explore Tennessee's rich and varied past.
The museum uses permanent and temporary exhibitions, objects, and stories to interpret subjects ranging from Native American history and the Civil War to the arts, music, and everyday life of Tennesseans. Its blog and programming go beyond the galleries to share even more of the state's history, reflecting a mission to make Tennessee's heritage accessible to a wide audience.
Exhibitions and What to See
The museum's exhibitions interpret Tennessee history across many themes, including:
- Tennessee Voices, American Stories and the Tennessee Time Tunnel, surveying the state's people and past.
- Forging a Nation (1760-1860) and The Civil War and Reconstruction, covering pivotal eras in the state's history.
- Tennessee Made and The Tennessee Playlist, exploring the state's arts and music heritage.
- A Children's Gallery and the Tennessee Transforms exhibit for younger and general visitors.
- Public programs such as the TN Writers, TN Stories author series and Lunch and Learn talks.
Planning Your Visit
The museum is located on Rosa L. Parks Boulevard in Nashville, Tennessee, and admission to the museum is free. The museum is generally closed on Mondays and on major holidays, but because hours and event schedules change, confirm current visiting details, parking, and program information through the official website at tnmuseum.org before your visit.
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