Immersive cultural institution showcasing the history and impact of African American music traditions through interactive exhibits and multimedia experiences.
General Information
Tuesday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm
Sunday: 12pm – 5pm
Guests not admitted less than one hour before closing
Seniors (65+): $24.95
Youth (7–17): $19.95
Children 6 & under: Free
Military, Students (with ID): $24.95
Groups (15+): $24.95 per person with reservation
How to Get There
Take I-40 East to downtown Nashville, exit at Broadway (Exit 209A), continue on Broadway to 5th Avenue, and the museum is located at the corner of Broadway and Rep. John Lewis Way.
Overview
The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) is a groundbreaking institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans. Located in the heart of Nashville, the museum offers a dynamic and immersive experience that traces the roots and evolution of African American music from spirituals and gospel to jazz, blues, R&B, hip-hop, and more. Visitors begin their journey in the Roots Theater with a powerful introductory film before exploring themed galleries such as Wade in the Water, Crossroads, A Love Supreme, One Nation Under a Groove, and The Message.
Through interactive exhibits, touchscreens, and RFID-enabled experiences, guests can engage with music history in a deeply personal way—saving playlists, watching archival footage, and even recording their own performances. NMAAM not only honors legendary artists but also highlights the cultural and social movements that shaped their music. As the only museum of its kind, it offers a transformative experience that educates, entertains, and inspires, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers and cultural explorers alike.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the National Museum of African American Music, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.