Tennessee is home to so many museums that are engaging for the entire family and free of charge.
These five museums are perfect for an educational family day, offering things like interactive exhibits, large outdoor areas and activities that kids and adults will enjoy while learning about history.
These museums cater to all ages, and even the most curious minds will enjoy a variety of activities involving art, history or the outdoors. Whether your little one is a history fanatic, a modern day Bill Nye, or just looking for a fun way to spend a day with family, these destinations promise a lovely experience and free admission.
If you are packing up the family for a road trip to these museums, make the most of each moment together with this list of simple roadtrip games for all ages!
Here are 5 free family-friendly museums in Tennessee that you won’t want your kiddos to miss out on:
1. Tennessee State Museum (Nashville)
This huge museum is a treasure trove of Tennessee’s history and includes exhibits from prehistoric times to present day. Kids will love the interactive Children’s Gallery, which includes hands-on exhibits that provide information about the state’s rich history. The museum also hosts special family programs, storytelling events and scavenger hunts to keep younger kids engaged.
Address: 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd Nashville, TN 37208
Reviews: “As others have mentioned, you can spend all day here and still be entertained. I only had a few hours but honestly, I could have spent another day here. It was also a hot day so spending a relaxing day here to cool off and learn about history is a very well spent day. Especially when it’s free. They do have some donation boxes scattered about. Another nice thing is that the museum is next to the Bicentennial Park and close to the Farmer’s Market so there is plenty to do around the area.” -Alan C.
2. The McMinn County Living Heritage Museum (Athens)
This hidden gem brings Tennessee history to life and has exhibits dedicated to pioneer and Native American life, as well as unique Civil War artifacts. Families can explore historic artifacts in a casual environment that is free for everyone. The museum also offers guests the opportunity to dress up in period clothing. With hands-on history activities, interactive displays and kid-friendly exhibits, McMinn County Living Heritage Museum is unlike any other.
Address: 512 W Madison Ave Athens, TN 37303
Reviews: “Definitely worth a visit! McMinn County has a lot of history that you probably didn’t know about. For example, you bet that as a woman I exercise my right to vote. And I’m so proud Harry T. Burn did the right thing in 1920 to ratify the 19th amendment. Or how about Time Magazine’s vote for the world’s best ice cream right here at Mayfield creamery. And by the way, Mayfields’ is soooo delish. Go get some now!” – Paisley T.
3. McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture (Knoxville)
Located on the University of Tennessee campus, this museum is a combination of science and history. The dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and interactive exhibits will have kids leaving wide-eyed with wonder and inspired to learn. The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture provides families with a fun experience for all ages, along with kid-friendly activity booklets and scavenger hunts.
Address: 1327 Circle Park Dr Knoxville, TN 37996 United States
Reviews: “This is a small but lovely museum that has prehistoric, ancient, decorative arts, human evolution, and local history exhibits. Displays are quite beautifully curated and designed. Excellent descriptions and explanations and good flow and lighting throughout. There are several videos throughout the museum. Highly recommend the downstairs human evolution exhibit, which is beautifully presented and informative. Staff is friendly and helpful. There is a small gift shop at the entrance/exit. Free admission and free parking. Great place for kids.” –Madonna D.
4. The International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame (Jackson)
For all the music-loving families out there, this museum is perfect for you. Attendants of the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame are guaranteed to enjoy their time learning about Rockabilly, one of Tennessee’s most influential and unique music genres. This museum is home to several instruments, stories and memorabilia from legendary musicians that will impress kids of all ages. Their live music performances and interactive, kid-friendly music history displays make this museum one of the most fun and unique in the state.
Address: 105 N Church St, Jackson, TN 38301
Reviews: “Being a huge music fanatic, I was excited to go to the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in Jackson, Tennessee. I wasn’t disappointed! Mr. Harrison’s knowledge and enthusiasm for rockabilly is second to none. If you’re at all interested in the history of this great type of music, do yourself a favor and head to Jackson for a visit with a wonderful, knowledgeable and interesting man. Thanks, Mr. Harrison!” – Susan B.
5. Knoxville Museum of Art (Knoxville)
This museum highlights East Tennessee’s rich art and culture with their stunning exhibits, hands-on activities and a gorgeous outdoor sculpture garden. One of the most iconic displays is the “Cycle of Life” glass installation by Richard Jolley, a must-see for any art lover. Filled with colorful artwork, art-making activities and hands-on learning opportunities, the Knoxville Museum of Art will capture the attention of every kid. Admission to the museum isn’t the only thing that’s free; they also host many community events, artist talks and family workshops.
Address: 1050 World’s Fair Park Dr Knoxville, TN 37916
Reviews: “The Knoxville Museum of Art (KMA) is a hidden gem in East Tennessee, offering an enriching and accessible cultural experience for visitors of all ages. One of its standout features is free admission, making it an inclusive destination for anyone interested in art and creativity.” –Adriana F.
Whether you’re in Nashville, Knoxville or somewhere in between, these free museums provide options across the state for families to have fun learning and spending quality time together.
