Beyond the stage lights and concert halls, Nashville’s thriving art and cultural scene is bustling with innovation and diversity.

Filled with a wide selection of art museums to choose from, Nashville wears its artistry proudly. From grand institutions boasting vast, eclectic collections to intimate venues spotlighting the nuances of local talent, Nashville’s art museums promise a journey through time and culture.

Better yet, each venue offers a unique experience — a chance to delve deeper into the city’s cultural fabric.

So, whether you’re a seasoned art lover or merely curious, Nashville’s art museums promise a visual feast that’s both enlightening and inspiring — and might even get you thinking differently about art.

Let’s dive in and discover some of the best Nashville art museums you have to visit during your next trip.

A Closer Look at Nashville’s Thriving Art Scene 

When most people think of Nashville, the first thing that often comes to mind is its iconic country music legacy. But there’s another side to this vibrant city that’s equally captivating: its burgeoning art scene. Over the past few decades, Nashville has been making waves in the world of visual arts — becoming a gathering place for artists, enthusiasts, and collectors.

The streets of Nashville are a canvas in themselves. Murals and street art have become a significant part of the city’s urban landscape — with local and international artists contributing to its colorful community. Better yet, neighborhoods like East Nashville and The Gulch are brimming with expressive wall art that represents the city’s progressive and diverse artistic spirit.

Meanwhile, the city’s art galleries are also as varied as they are numerous. From avant-garde installations in contemporary galleries to traditional paintings in classical venues, there’s something for every art lover. These spaces don’t just exhibit works — they foster community, hold workshops, and encourage the next generation of artists.

Our 7 Favorite Nashville Art Museums

Nashville’s artistic spirit isn’t just confined to the city streets; it thrives magnificently within the walls of its esteemed art museums and galleries. Each space, with its own distinct flavor and history, offers a window into various facets of art, from classical masterpieces to contemporary innovations. 

Let’s dive into our top seven picks that every art aficionado should make a point to visit:

1. Cheekwood Estates & Gardens

Address: 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205

Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM

Nestled in the scenic hills of Nashville, Cheekwood Estates & Gardens stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and art. Spanning 55 acres, this historic estate provides visitors with a myriad of experiences. The meticulously manicured gardens, divided into various thematic sections, burst with seasonal colors and plant varieties. Whether it’s the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or the vibrant hues of the Color Garden, nature lovers find solace in its diverse flora.

The mansion — a centerpiece of Cheekwood — is also an architectural marvel that transports visitors back in time. Built during the American Country Place Era, its interiors showcase period-specific decor, alongside rotating art exhibitions that offer insights into different cultures and artistic movements. Moreover, with the estate hosting a plethora of workshops, educational programs, and dazzling holiday lights, it’s more than just a visual treat — it’s a hands-on, immersive experience that visitors can enjoy.

2. The Nashville Parthenon

Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM – 4:30 PM; Sunday, 12:30 PM – 4 PM

More than just a nod to ancient Greece, The Nashville Parthenon serves as a beacon of the city’s deep-rooted admiration for art and architecture. This exact replica of Athens’ Parthenon stands proudly in Centennial Park. But its exterior grandeur is just the beginning. Inside, visitors find an array of American art — most notably the 42-foot tall Athena statue, bathed in gold and representing the goddess of wisdom. 

Temporary exhibitions and educational events make it a dynamic hub for art aficionados of all ages. Check out their website for a full run-down of everything!

3. Frist Art Museum

Address: 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

Hours: Monday  to Saturday, 10 AM – 5:30 PM; Sunday, 1 PM – 5:30 PM

With its ever-changing array of exhibitions, Frist Art Museum is like a kaleidoscope of the art world. Located in Nashville’s iconic Art Deco post office building, the museum brings a global perspective to its visitors, featuring artworks from every continent. 

Its dedication to community outreach and educational programs ensures that everyone — from seasoned artists to curious children — leaves with newfound knowledge and appreciation for the art world.

Check out the museum’s website to learn about current exhibitions.

4. Tennessee State Museum

Address: 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208

Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM; Sunday, 1 PM – 5 PM

A journey through time, the Tennessee State Museum is like hopping aboard a time machine to the state’s vibrant past. Spread across multiple levels, it houses artifacts, art, and exhibits that span from the ancient Native American residents to the modern era. 

Special sections dedicated to the Civil War, Tennessee’s role in the nation’s music evolution, and even interactive children’s areas make this museum a comprehensive cultural exploration.

5. OZ Arts Nashville

Address: 172 Cockrill Bend Cir, Nashville, TN 37209

Hours: Opening hours vary

Championing the contemporary, OZ Arts Nashville is where art meets innovation. In a sprawling, transformed cigar warehouse, this venue continuously redefines artistic boundaries. From immersive installations and boundary-pushing theater productions to avant-garde exhibitions, OZ Arts is a testament to the city’s evolving artistic landscape, attracting a diverse audience eager for fresh perspectives.

6. Hatch Show Print

Address: 224 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 6 PM

Hatch Show Print is more than a print shop — it’s a living, breathing archive of music and design history, housed within the Country Music Hall of Fame itself. Established in the 19th century, this iconic institution has handmade posters for legends like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong. With daily tours available, visitors aren’t just welcome to browse the print shop’s vast collection of memorabilia, but are also invited to partake in hands-on workshops to understand the intricacies of traditional printmaking. Want a custom print? Hatch Show will do that for you, too.

A visit to Hatch is an authentic experience, merging tactile craftsmanship with musical heritage.

7. The Belmont Mansion

Address: Belmont Blvd & Acklen Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212

Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM; Sunday, 11 AM – 4 PM

Located in the heart of Belmont University’s vibrant campus, the Belmont Mansion is an emblem of Southern history and charm. Built in the mid-19th century, this Italianate villa stands as a symbol of the grandeur and opulence of the Antebellum South. Once the home of Adelicia Acklen — one of the wealthiest women of her time — the mansion is now a meticulously preserved museum. 

Guided tours lead visitors through opulent rooms adorned with authentic Victorian furnishings, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. Plus, with its sprawling gardens and captivating stories, it’s a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Discover the Artistic Soul of Nashville

Nashville’s art museums are a testament to its rich cultural history and vibrant artistic heritage. A captivating blend of historic elegance, contemporary innovation, and soul-stirring creativity, each one of these venues offers its own unique lens into the world of art — inviting both art connoisseurs and novice onlookers to dive into an unforgettable visual journey.

So whether you’re tracing the history of the state at the Tennessee State Museum, marveling at the grandeur of the Belmont Mansion, or getting hands-on at Hatch Show Print — we guarantee you’ll leave wanting to see, learn, and experience more.

And after a day of immersing yourself in art and history, what better way to relax than with a centrally-located and fully-equipped home-away-from-home to cater to your needs? At Nashville Luxury Stay, our cozy vacation rentals are designed to provide the perfect ambiance to unwind and relish the essence of Nashville.

Ready for an artistic retreat in the heart of Music City? Book your getaway today and make the most of your Nashville experience!