About
Known as "the Smithsonian of Country Music," the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum tells the stories and preserves the history of this legendary musical genre.
Chartered in 1964, the institution began its mission to collect, preserve, and interpret the evolving history and traditions of country music. The original facility opened its doors in 1967 on Music Row, but the rapid growth and popularity necessitated expansion. In 2001, the museum moved to a massive new building in downtown, and in 2014, a massive expansion created 350,000 square feet of state-of-the-art galleries, archival storage, and performance spaces.
Only steps away from Bridgestone Arena and the ever-popular Downtown Broadway, the building's exterior captures the imagination. The curved design mimics a piano keyboard, with the windows resembling its keys. It also features a replica of a radio tower, paying homage to WSM, which single-handedly launched the Grand Ole Opry.
Inside, there are over two million items to peruse, ranging from vintage instruments and rare photographs to iconic stage wear and original recordings.
History buffs will enjoy the meticulous documents and exhibits tracing the genre from its start in the Roaring Twenties to today's landscape. These also showcase the diverse influences that shaped the sound, from folk and blues to gospel and pop.
Adding to the allure of a visit are the educational programs designed for all ages. A prime example is the Taylor Swift Education Center with its unique hands-on experiences that connect young and old alike to creating music and Taylor's career.
Sing Me Back Home is another exciting exhibit that chronicles the evolution of country music. With its rotating exhibits, a new experience awaits with each visit, honoring the pioneers, the innovators, and today's stars.
With so much to see and do, adding this Nashville treasure to your Tennessee itinerary is a no-brainer!
POI: Fun Facts & Cool Features
As we alluded to previously, the building's architecture is a creative wonder. Aside from the WSM tower and keyboard imagery, the tiers on the roof resemble the classic vinyl records stacked on a turntable. Additionally, the facade features a prominent rotunda that represents a drum. Inside the "drum," bronze plaques honoring country stars hang on the walls in a continuous circle. It's a solemn yet photo-worthy space.
Another captivating feature is the two-story wall of gold and platinum records representing the commercial success of country music over the decades. While the number of records is overwhelming, if you look long enough, you'll discover certified albums from legendary artists and modern superstars.
The museum also houses the historic Letterpress Print Shop, where the Hatch Show Print currently operates. Designers and printers continue to create vibrant posters using carved wood blocks and vintage presses. Best of all, you can watch the printing process through large viewing windows, as custom posters for concerts, events, and merchandise are created right before your eyes.
The Ford Theater is a 213-seat circular auditorium that hosts songwriters, concerts, and lecture series. The intimate setting has earned the space the moniker "the living room," making it even ideal for corporate and private events.
After working up an appetite exploring the "house that holds the music," head to any of the nearby restaurants to refuel. Several blocks away is The Catbird Seat for artisan American cuisine, while Arnold's Country Kitchen is your go-to for southern classics and soul food.
Visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum on a Nashville vacation will delight your family or group with its massive collection of artifacts and interactive displays.
Local Tips
- The museum is busiest from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Plan accordingly.
- The Music City Center garage is convenient and affordable.
- Plan on your visit taking 2-3 hours.
- Time your visit to coincide with a show or event at the Ford Theater.
