National Museum of African American Music

1264 reviews

510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

www.nmaam.org

+16153018724

About

National Museum of African American Music is a Museum located at 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. It has received 1264 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday10AM-5PM
Tuesday12-5PM
Wednesday12-5PM
Thursday10AM-5PM
Friday10AM-5PM
Saturday10AM-5PM
Sunday10AM-5PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of National Museum of African American Music: 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

  • National Museum of African American Music has 4.9 stars from 1264 reviews

  • Museum

  • "My family was visiting Nashville and put this museum on our list of MUST-DO attractions based on the reviews"

    "MAJOR KEY!! GET THE BRACELET for $1 This review is far overdue! This museum sets the standard for how a museum should be in the 21st Century"

    "This is a must do in Nashville! For such a vast subject, they have done an amazing job at sharing so much information without overwhelming the visitor"

    "This is the best museum I've ever been to"

    "New resident to Tennessee and when our family found out this museum was right in our backyard we were thrilled to support"

Reviews

  • Jessica Reed

My family was visiting Nashville and put this museum on our list of MUST-DO attractions based on the reviews. I thought the museum as a whole was really well done and engaging. The presentation of music through time was a really interesting processional, and I really enjoyed the tables where you could listen to the musical connections from the past to present. My children are 5 and 11 and also made several meaningful connections. They spent a long time at the table where you could "build your own jazz song" which also tied in well to what my sixth grade daughter is learning about in social studies right now. My five year old loved the dancing room the best, but also enjoyed walking around with me and learning the names of different instruments. One thing I wanted to note: I get that this museum is maybe geared toward an older age group, but I've never shied away from exposing my children to diverse and accurate historic information. My one minor complaint is that there was no way to opt-out of explicit music when listening to the playlist building tables. I would definitely go again, but would probably have prefaced it with a conversation about the use of certain words that pop up a lot in the modern music. I recognize that it would be inauthentic to sensor music in this setting, but feel like there are ways to make this an engaging opportunity for younger audiences, without surprising them with music full of words that will get them in trouble at school. I wish this information would've been clearer before attending, and I think resources on talking to kids about the use of explicit language in music and art would've been a nice touch. We spent almost two hours there and had to skip the last section about modern music because the museum was closing. At the time of our visit the museum offered parking validation for the lot at 5th and Broadway, for up to two hours. This cannot be stacked so if you go to the museum and dinner, you'll be paying full price for the full time and not just the time over 2 hours.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Greg LaCoste

MAJOR KEY!! GET THE BRACELET for $1 This review is far overdue! This museum sets the standard for how a museum should be in the 21st Century. Me, being a humble soul who grew up in the mud of New Orleans, La, a person who is well versed in the cultural heritage of music in the Black-American community and having the knowledge of how it connects us back to our ancestors in the Motherland, I was moved to see the introductory video, titles "ROOTS" The museum experience begins as a sort of guided tour in the "Francis S. Guess" theater but after that feel free to take your time interacting with the music hubs scattered all around the museum. My girlfriend and I spent well over three hours, and we would have spent more time here if we didn't have other things on our agenda! To be honest I had a roller coaster of emotions that I was not ready for; from Wading in the Waters with the Gospel, to grooving under one Nation, I was astonished. If you have children, please take them, this will give our children a newfound hope and encouragement for how they see themselves! As a black man, this is an experience for the ages, I wish I could've caught the Funk venue, but ill be back.. If you made it this far, then what are you waiting for? GOOOO!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Mary Hodgkins

This is a must do in Nashville! For such a vast subject, they have done an amazing job at sharing so much information without overwhelming the visitor. The interactive displays are incredibly fun, and the access to samples of all the music through the Roots&Stream system, allows you to go down a music rabbithole! I learned so much about original influencers that I didn't know, and grew such an appreciation for the genres that I'm not as familiar with. Do the wristband (actually it's a card!) That allows you to load and save a Playlist and save the other interactive things you choose to. They send it to your email, and you can play your music list through Spotify. $5 for the wristband will up your experience and make your visit unique and personal. I did all the interactive displays, and spent a lot of time listening and loading music. My visit was a little over 3 hours. Time well spent down a music history lane.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Ashley Norwood

This is the best museum I've ever been to. Not only do you learn about the evolution of music, but the visual and auditory experience is beyond comparison. Be sure to spend the extra $5 for the interactive wristband, you won't regret it. It allows you to save music you find on their interactive tables, as well as some of the interactive exhibits you'll come across to your email. The interactive exhibits include things such as a green screen where you can sing along to a choir, challenging your friends to a rap battle, showing off your dance moves, and even making music. The museum is full of educational elements, and even have exhibits like Billie Holiday's famous microphone and dress, Kanye's Yeezy's, and the evolution of music through gospel to modern hip hop. You'll come out changed and a lot more educated. It's located right on Broadway, and it is well worth the money spent.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$31+

  • Malcolm Darrell

New resident to Tennessee and when our family found out this museum was right in our backyard we were thrilled to support. Went the Monday after Mother’s Day ( w/ mom, wife and em3 year old son). As someone who has worked in cultural institutions for decades and formerly for Walt Disney Imagineering, this museum is an immersive storytelling triumph! Well worth the admission and much more if you’re visiting or live in the Nashville area this summer a cultural gem for Music City. The museum suggest 90-min and honestly it’s just not enough time to delve into all the material. BUT, you can do it! My family decided we’re getting a membership so we can go back because it’s worth it! Highly recommend this museum as it is America’s museum, all of American music is birth from the African American story and we should never forget that.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Tracy Williams-Lindsey

We stumbled upon this beautiful museum on our extended weekend in Nashville. We had driven in from Kansas City Missouri to see the Chiefs/Titans game. Very nice layout with the history of African American music starting back during slavery and gives an indepth perspective into the 21st century. Gospel, Blues, Rock&Roll, R&B, Funk, and Hip Hop. Lots of pictures, videos and articles. Many parts are interactive. They even give you a wrist band that gives you the ability to save music to your account and listen to at a later time. Upon entering and paying, the attendant collects your name and email and provides a wristband that has a chip that you connect to music inside the museum. Haven't received my welcome email to set up my account yet. Note: I changed it from 5 stars to 2 because of poor customer service. We were supposed to have music connected to our wristbands. We saved a ton of music. They don't return emails Poor customer service.

  • Kiva Taylor

This place was everything! If you're a lover of music in any genre this is a definite must! From the time you walk in you are immersed with musical roots and they have a number of interactive opportunities to explore music, from putting beats together as a producer or making a rap beat, to dancing along with decades of artists, to singing in a choir with Dr. Bobby Jones, to rapping in a mini studio. (For an extra $1 you can purchase a wristband that allows you to save anything that is interactive and it will be emailed to you) This is a museum for all ages. I loved every minute of it. They even pause your interactive moment and play Prince's performance. I would definitely go back. It's a lot to take in and see. If you are an educator just flash your badge for a discount. I did! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Rachael DK

Before visiting Nashville I did some research so I could find things for us to do that were educational and then the things that were just plain fun! This museum combined the two! The museum has a collection that is quite extensive and informative. There are also various studios or rooms for you to test out your singing ability or lack of, LOL! Try that out because it's part of the fun! My husband and I enjoyed the interactive type displays while learning and reminiscing about different music genres. The museum is a beautiful and large space with reasonably priced tickets for adults. I highly recommend it and I'm happy to see there's celebration and acknowledgment in Nashville of more than just country music! I'm hoping one day my sons will make a trip to go visit it with or without us.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Janet Lamb

The National Museum if African American Music is a must see for any music lover. The interactive exhibits are so much fun and give you a full appreciation of the history of African American music. Recording rooms let you be part of a choir, music video and DJ, where you can save your performances and send them to your email. Other stations help you write a song and mix one, again allowing you to save and email it. Then there are the Roots stations that allow you to start with your favorite artists and trace their influences back in time. The Museum has all this and more. You need to allow yourself plenty of time to fully enjoy all it has to offer. We were there for two hours and only left because I had an obligation I couldn't postpone. It was fun, creative, and informative. I highly recommend it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Chris Miller

Fantastic museum. Should definitely be a must-visit place if you're coming to Nashville for the music. Excellent video presentation at the start with really high production value, the sound and visuals were really impressive. Staff were really helpful. The most impressive thing was the wristband, well worth the $5 if you're a music fan as you can save playlists from the exhibits to be emailed to you after your visit. The interactive music stations with artists influencers, peers and followers are some of the best researched and deepest exhibits I've ever come across in a museum, I could have spent all day on these. This is where you'll get most of your playlists from if you get the wristband. They also have one of Louis Armstrong's trumpets, which is cool.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • john gutraj

This place is WAY better than the country music hall of fame. If you only have time for one, do this one. I wasn't sure what to expect going in. As a 40yo white man from the northern Midwest, I wasn't sure if I would understand or appreciate anything here. But this place does a great job of making the music accessible to everyone, and telling the story behind the sounds. They have it broken up thematically- gospel, blues, hip hop, etc. But they make it clear that these are not independent of each other, and in fact they all share a common thread going back to slave times. This museum had great interactive experiences for the kids, and it had plenty of artists from my own lifetime that I can remember. The other music museum had neither. Definitely worth a stop if you are in downtown Nashville.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min

  • L. J.

If you are a music lover of any genre, you should check out this museum. It has something for everyone. I enjoyed looking at all of the photos and reading the information that was given about the artist. I love the fact that there was music in the background the whole time. Sometimes it was gospel music, sometimes it was Rihanna. There was lots of activity going on in the lobby area. There was music out there and patrons were encouraged to get up and dance to it. And to top it all off, when I left, there was a Caucasian man singing country music on stage in the lobby. I recommend this museum to everyone. It’s not a museum that you can just run in and run out, so don’t come if you don’t have the time to spend and walk through it and take it all in.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • The K Green Show

4.2 stars but I will give them the 5 Museum walks you through the black experience and how music has always been a part of that journey. Explores how genres are intertwined and have built upon each other over the years. Has some paraphernalia, which is a deduct.. needs more for a museum of this caliber. Currently a 75 25 split for reading and interactive exhibits to showcasing articles of music history. Museum is located in a very pricey area so expect a steep entrance fee plus parking which can add up for a family. They do validate and discount your parking up to 17 dollars if you park in the adjacent garage.. if you know that ahead of time. Another deduct. Overall, I'm glad I checked it out.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$31+

  • Samantha Brooks

Great experience! Very professional and welcoming staff, with so much history about the contributions of African American people to the music industry. I also loved the fact that there were many interactive portions to the exhibit where you could listen to music from all different time periods, make your own songs, and even follow a dance routine to a popular song. I also like the intro video that provided a lot of detailed information as to our history as a people in relation to music. I definitely learned a lot from visiting this museum and I would definitely recommend it for anyone interested in gaining knowledge of our people, history, culture and listening to great music.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Stefan Murphy

Simply the best museum experience I've ever had. A mix of history and musical exploration with a few fun activities to do. A true museum of the 21st century with large interactive touch screens. The first sets of screens gives a foundation with music from the various eras. Then you branch off into different exhibits. The "star" of the show is the music explorer. It starts with a wheel of options for the genre of the exhibit you are in. You click through into an artist or band and it shows you influences, influenced, and peers. It provides three songs for each artist to get a feel for them. On to op of all you can download the music you find and take it with you.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Justin Jose

A must see! -In downtown so very accessible -Right next to the Assembly Food Hall so you can eat before or after your tour. -About $25 for an adult (offer teacher discounts) What to expect -15 min intro video -plenty of photos, art, history, and amazing memories to explore. -You can complete the tour and a basic walk through in 30 minutes but 1.5-2 hours is recommended to take it all in. -There are interactive parts of the exhibit where you can produce music, sing with a choir, and even sing in a recording booth. You will need to pay an extra $1 for an interactive wrist band so you can save your experience/performances/recordings.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • K B

Absolutely LOVED MY experience visiting this museum. I didn’t know what to expect at all, but it surpassed anything I could have imagined. Loved the interactive displays and activities. Definitely purchase the $1 wristband to have you digital creations emailed to you. We came midweek around 10am and it was perfect, no reservation needed. You could spend hours and hours here and still not take in all the information. Nice that there is a gift shop at the end, but as per usual everything is high priced. I still bought stuff though lol! Unfortunately I never received my email, so I’ve emailed them hoping they can resolve. My friends received theirs though.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Chelsa S. Moore

I thoroughly enjoyed visiting this museum. The displays laid out the history in a fun, interactive, and very creative way. This museum reminded me of AA Smithsonian museum in DC. You need a couple of hours to get through everything. I loved that you can download songs to a playlist as you move throughout the museum from your wristband. The interactive stations were super fun! You get to produce beats, make songs, dance and more. Put this at the top of your list for things to do when visiting Nashville! I’m definitely visiting again in the future.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • MsKrayola

The National Museum of African American Music is a must visit if you love music. This museum has so much to see and do. They start you off with a video of some music history then the doors open into the actual museum. I recommend planning at least half the day if you want to take your time going through the museum. They give you a wristband where you can scan throughout the museum and then it emails you all the stuff you scan so you can keep as momentos. Such a wonderful touch. I will definitely go back as we didn't have enough time to enjoy it all.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • D W

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this museum. It was educational and informative yet cool and fun as well. We went on a Wednesday afternoon. It wasn’t a long wait; maybe 5 minutes at most. Once you get your tickets you wait for the next time to enter where you watch a movie about the origin of music. The movie was really good and kept us engaged. Once the movie was over we got to explore the different genres of Black music. It was really a treat! Make sure you stop by the cool gift store before you go and grab some stuff!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Glenecia Barnes

Ughhhh this place was THE best! If you love history, go. If you love music, you NEED to go. We did a “tour” & went in order, it makes more sense that way. The museum made me feel disgust, joy, pride, excitement, sadness all at the same time. I needed that, to feel things, we all need it. The museum is interactive & even cooler when you get a wrist band. And no, it’s not just for black people, we were the minority in our group which felt amazing. Add this museum to your schedule & plan to stay 3-4 hours to really dig your feet in. Have a great day!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Anita Tucker

I always wanted to go to this Museum for the last few years yippee my last stop going home Indiana,from Texas they show a film about slavery, n how they praise God n singing got them through each day n night. then we was able to go into the museum and see past,n now n hear the music from slavery to Hip Hop to R&B now today how we still enjoy music in our soul no matter what we are feeling it will get us through our day.. we had a great n a wonderful experience for me, n my friend illana
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Yvette

I don't really care to visit museums, but this museum was recommended by a friend. I read the reviews before visiting to make sure it would be something I would like. I took my mom for an early Mother's Day gift. We ENJOYED this museum so much!!!! We stayed for two hours, but didn't get to see some things due to catching a flight. However, we will defintiely be returning to finish our visit. The exhibits, music, recording booth, etc. is AMAZING!! This is a must do if you are in Nashville, TN. I love how you can save playlist using the wristbands.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Andrew Hizer

One of the best museums I've ever been to! Part of admission they give you an option to get a rfid chip bracelet that let's you interact with different displays. One of the display you can create a hip hop beat then save it and send it to yourself with rfid bracelet. My favorite part was the interactive displays that you can click on an artist then see who their influence was like a big family tree. Fun interactive museum which I highly recommend! If you love music this place is for you. I definitely learned something new after visiting as well
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • veronica ware

Loved this museum! I didn't read the reviews before my visit so I was surprised by the amount of interactive activities. We got lost in the interactive music history board and making playlist. I would recommend, carve out more time than you expect for your visit. We were there for about 2hrs and had to leave due to the museum closing. I would say, if you don't like listening to music 2-2.5hrs is enough. If you love music and music history - plan for longer. I loved this museum and want to plan another trip to Nashville just to finish going through the exhibits and make more of my own beats, visit more interactive displays, etc.

  • Jesse

This was probably one of the best museums I'd been to. It wasn't very linear, which I think would've actually been cool to see how the music tree evolved, but it was enjoyable nonetheless. I learned so much, I kept reading something and thinking, I need to remember that! And then would forget it a little later because I would read something else so interesting. It was a lot to digest, I think you would need to go a few times to really absorb everything. There were plenty of artifacts, interactive rooms, and plaques. Highly recommend
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Yalana Allen

We went here during Labor Day weekend and it was dope!! I love music history so when I saw this place, I had to go. We went twice to get the full experience and it was totally worth it. This was one of the most informative and interactive museums I've ever been to. We were singing with the virtual choir, creating your own hip hop beats, and doing dances for different decades. Then you could save songs to your personal playlist. Man! This was probably the best part of my trip. Highly recommend it!!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Kay Jay

Wonderful museum!! We were in town for a conference and planned on visiting on our last day, which was a Wednesday. We were pleased to find out that entry is FREE the 1st Wednesday of the month! I love that it’s very interactive..places to listen to music, perform with a choir, dance, make beats and also do a little karaoke! Let’s not forget about all of the wonderful history presented. I think it’s very well laid out and I hope more people take advantage of it! My only gripe is that I paid for the wristband but never received the uploaded info. I also reached out to their IT department with no response. ☹️

  • m scott

The National Museum of African American music is located in downtown Nashville. It is 1 and 1/2 blocks from the Country Music Museum. We went on a Saturday and me and my family and I loved it. The exhibits were first-rate, and the gift store was excellent. We only wished we knew about it sooner and planned more time to experience everything that the museum had to see. I will definitely go back, and I absolutely recommend the National Museum of African American music
Price for entry
$20.00
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes
Ticket type
Military

  • A S

I can not say enough about this museum. I was transported to so many eras of my own life as well as history. I ENJOYED listening to music, making beats, and participating in the interactive choir. We purchased the wristband, which allows you to save music and play it again later on Spotify (limited to 30 or 60 days). You can get your parking validated at 5th and Broad in the museum if you spend less than two hours there. Of course, we spent 4, but it was well worth it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • A. Gayle

I visited the National Museum of African American Music with the Total Access Pass. Being able to visit a museum that is dedicated to our music and reflects our culture. Words can't truly express how amazing it was. There was so much to watch, read, experience, and interact with. You even get some digital souvenirs. Definitely a fun, informative museum for all ages. I traveled solo, but I'm looking forward to visit again with family and friends.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Peter Gerard

This museum is a superb mix of education, inspiration, and fun. As you dive deep into the history of African American music and musicians, you learn about how Black musicians had to fight for their voices and instruments to be heard and how their contributions influenced every musician who came after. Throughout you’ll find fun interactive experiences where you can sing, dance, remix and immerse yourself in the richness of American music.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Joseph Wilson

This museum is incredible! We went to a free museums in Nashville and this was definitely the best one. There's tons of exhibits inside, many of them interactive. You can mix your own blues songs, hip hop beats. There's a room you can dance in. So cool! The museum is quite large, and a thorough visit will take at least a few hours if not more. The price of tickets was very reasonable considering the amount of content on display.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Nicole Gary

Must visit in Music city. You watch an educational film of Afro American music. At the end, the door opens to start your walking tour. Lots of interactive stations. A recording studio where you virtually join a Baptist choir. ( created by a 22 year old Afro American woman). The museum covers every era, with personal property from several artists. Reserve at least 2 hours before closing. There’s a lot to do.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Stephanie Peoples

My 16 year old said it was the best Black history museum she had ever visited. Very interactive for all ages. It's a fun and educational exhibit. I enjoyed the trip back down memory lane and learned so much more about the significant influence of our culture on music worldwide. A very positive experience. There's so much to see, you can't possibly take it all in during one visit. We'll return for sure!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Peter Dongelmans

Great and well put together exhibition. Bit expensive. A few buses of highschool kids entering the museum turned my visit into a disaster. Running around, not being interested in anything in the exhibition, making tons of noise and their teachers didn't do anything about it. When i coincidentally spoke to the conciërge she offered me to visit the museum tomorrow again. That was a nice gesture.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • C Lilakos

This is hands down one of the best museums I’ve ever been to. It was educational and a lot of fun. There are a lot of interactive exhibits here. You have the option of buying a bracelet for $1 to create a playlist in the museum, definitely do it. You can save all of the music you like as well as the things you produce in the interactive experiences. There’s a lot of information, history, and pieces of memorabilia from moments in black music history. Amazing experience and a must-do if you’re visiting Nashville.

  • D’Andre & Evita Johnson

What a fantastic place to visit in Nashville. My husband & enjoyed ourselves & the recording booths. I love the wristband option to be able to receive songs that you downloaded to the wristband. It’s worth every penny & many more. We will be coming back & bringing our teenagers here. I come from a music family & my family loves MUSIC! It’s a great experience & so I highly recommend it.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Mister Jon

This is a relatively new museum that just opened up in January 2021. The exhibits are more technology based than many museums. The content is a little thin thoroughout the museum, but that's to be expected when attempting to hit a younger demographic that has short attention spans. My favorite exhibition area was the 90's music and ode to the rise of rap music. Very well done museum. Entry is $25 for an adult, or $50 for an annual pass. A family annual pass is $100. They do have senior discounts.

  • Daniel Wunder

I didn't know what to expect from this place but it came highly recommended so we gave it a shot. It far exceeded my expectations. I went with my 4 kids ages 9 - 16 and they all had an amazing time. The museum was informative and so interactive. Great combination of music, videos, pictures, plaques and inactive exhibits. So much fun and learned so much. So glad we followed this recommendation.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • michael stoy

Amazing tour through the history of African American music from slavery to today. Interactive experiences throughout the museum, allowing toy to be a rap star, music producer, blues artist as well as being able to download tons of music with the bracelet. Absolutely fantastic visit even for someone who is well versed in music like myself.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Bernard Whitmore

This is a world of music accompanied by visual excitement that embraced me from the moment I stepped into it. More than narratives on the wall, there were classic performances to watch and listening-tables where I immersed myself in various genres, listen to classic recordings and learn how American music evolved from its Black roots.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Chung-Hae Casler

This museum was a blast - multi-media, interactive. I was whisked away down Memory Lane, reading, learning, listening, dancing, singing. . . This museum reinforced the impact of the African American experience on the music I loved growing up and enjoy today. Fabulous! Can’t wait to go home and down load the music from my wristband!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Shanice McMorris

This place gave me feels in my soul I can’t put into words how incredibly amazing this museum is. The design the layout the detail the archives the dj in the lobby the interactions were all great, my only regret is not allowing myself enough time to truly enjoy the museum but again still amazing and a must visit for any person.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$31+

  • D M

I could have spent more time here. I love music of any type. I paid extra for the extended playlist. I rated this place for the interactive displays. Actually, I liked the way the museum presented several genres and the extensive lists that accompanied each other. My only thumbs down, I would have liked to see more artifacts
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Jacque Mac

Informative. Coming into this museum there is a white wall to the left with instruments all over it-very nice. Bracelets were placed on your wrist so that you can send playlists to your email. There is so much to learn about the beginning and the power of Black music here. From slave helms, gospel, R*B, to rap. Great experience.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Kennette Crockett

I didn’t know it would be so soul enriching and fun. People young and old were singing, dancing and rejoicing. The admission includes a video that contextualizes the exhibit. Attendees can sing with a virtual choir and download the performance to a wrist ban that creates and saves Playlists. There is also an interactive story board detailing Blues songs. My favorite was the rap room where attendees and rap and record. This is a must experience.

  • Francesca Fludd

There are not enough words to express how beautiful and well thought out this museum is. I had such a grand time. It was so informative and interactive. Definitely suggest going a few times more because you'll become engulfed by everything. Ro include: The DJ was spinning and mixing as you came in. They will not disappoint.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Maureen Powell

Jazz, blues, r&b, funk, hip-hop, rap, soul - these genres and more are all covered here with wonderful interactive displays. A must if you are visiting Nashville and have had enough of country music. I was there 3 hours and could have spent the rest of the day just sampling some of my favorite artists.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Paul Daniels

Hands down one of my favorite museums. So much education and it’s so dense. I leave every time with 10 more artists I need to explore. The interactive pieces are by far the best I’ve seen in any museum (what you can do and the fact that they actually work). And such an immensely important place in Nashville which is frankly a city giving most credit and attention to white artists that took black music and seldom gave credit.

  • Armi

Visited this amazing museum during the week. It was not crowded and I got to see a lot in the two hours I spend there. Absolutely enjoyed the different variety of artists and their sense of fashion. Many historical events and very informative. I’d come back to his museum during my next Nashville visit.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Candice Higgins

Enjoyed this modern and interactive museum! I could have spent a whole day there reading and listening to music, while sending myself songs with the RFID bracelet. Thank you for bringing light to the contributions of African Americans because Black music is American Music! Nashville got its name as Music City USA because of the Fisk Jubilee Singers - well before it was known for Country Music. Visit and linger a while.

  • Kat Ledezma

Amazing experience!!! The National Museum of African American Music Is completely worth it. Very well organize and very engaging. We took our daughters to learn about African American culture which she is studying now and she loved it!!! She got to learn about music and history, not only by observing , reading but dancing and singing along. As a family we recommend it to everyone adults and kids, will love it.

  • Erik Schut

I love that you can connect dots and listen to music by era while getting information about the era, the music the artists of that era, which present artists are influenced, followers etc. Could spend hours doing that! The instruments, are very interesting as well as all the costumes. Very nice.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • N. Knight

I absolutely love this museum! Our group of 3 adults and 3 children had an amazing time. There is plenty to see and do. It was especially nice to see how artists and genres are connected and influenced. The only strange part is that there are pictures of Justin Timberlake throughout the museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Michelle C

Fun, interactive and informative museum. I thoroughly recommend this museum. It was full of history, and music. Not boring like museums can sometimes be. Please go, you won't be disappointed, and it's not just for African-Americans. Any music and/or history lover will enjoy it.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • William Smith

Excellent and beautiful museum. Very detailed and tons of artifacts. So much to do and see. Only issue I had, I wish there’s an arrow directive to follow. There’s just so much history and art that you’ll easily get sidetracked. The interactive booths are perfect. About a 2 hr tour museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Eric Pressie

I gave 4 * as I think the $24 entry fee is a little high. $14-$18 would be more appropriate. That being said, it was really cool to literally walk through African-American musical history. Had my son with so being able to show him some of our history was an added bonus.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Meredith Tunnicliff

Outstanding! So well laid out and curated. The access to music, the information on the artists, the interactive experiences.... It was just so well done. Cannot recommend enough. Do not underestimate how long you will need here. 2 hours minimum to do this collection justice.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Denita Dejoy

Absolutely amazing! There is so much to see and listen to. There are also interactive activities. The layout has been beautifully done. I'll be back. There's so much awesome history that I couldn't complete the tour in one visit. If you have a love for music, no matter what genre this is, a MUST see!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

  • Antwan Nicholson

Not enough time. That's all I can think of when reminiscing about my visit there. It was very interactive, meaning we were able to click on an artist and see who they've influenced, who influenced them, and who were their peers. In the room dedicated to music from 1985 to early 2000s, there was a machine where we were able to make beats for music. It was awesome! I can't wait to return.

  • Katera Tyson

This museum was very nice especially if you are into music! They go back to the roots of jazz/blues and show how the genres are influenced in today’s music. There were wrist bands that were given to save music/playlist. There is also a dance room which is cool!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Louis Coffman

Hands down, this museum beat every expectation I could have had. Informative, educational, entertaining, and visually impressive... that only describes the introductory video. The museum itself is an interactive musical wonderland. Can't wait to go back.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Mo Mehio

I've been living in Nashville for the past 20 years and I am so excited to see this beautiful exhibit pop up in downtown. As if I thought I knew everything about black music history, this museum put me in my place and not only allowed me to learn more but to see and interact with very immersive and historically valuable exhibits. A must visit for anyone coming through downtown.

  • Rosemary Mcclendon

This place was Amazing! It chronicles black music from before slavery until today. You can listen to music from different era's and even download some of the music. There are 2 interactive booths where you can sing in the choir or dance at a disco. Both were fun. The cost is less than $30
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Agua Dulce

It was absolutely amazing. They had a hip hop section, blues section, gospel section. I danced in an interactive room, sang gospel with a choir and even created my own hip hop beats. This was worth the visit and totally great experience for all ages.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Sandra Thompson

The museum is wonderful! The interactive dancing was so much fun. The place is beautiful. My only issue is with the t-shirt that I bought in the gift shop. After one washing the colors faded. I called the museum and left a message but no one ever called me back. It cost $25.00.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Keesa Addison

I was in town for a conference and visited on a long break between sessions on the last day. It was an amazing experience: many genres, history, interactive elements, and MUSIC! I’m so proud of this place and would love to go again and take others.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Kathleen Trainor

This museum is a must see! So comprehensive and well done. The listening stations were well organized - identifying influences and followers of selected artists. And the interactive singing and dancing areas were alot of fun. 10 stars!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$31+

  • Alexis Lawson

If you are in town please go here. They give you a bracelet to collect all the things you do during your time there. It is so interactive. It's is great for young and older people. There are some amazing photo ops and the playlist are fire.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

  • Mark Young

Such a cool visual and auditory experience. A lot of interactive exhibits, and the playlist wristband is such a good idea. This museum was so much more impressive than the Country Music Hall of Fame and I’m glad we got to experience it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Liz Robertson

My husband and I and a couple of our friends had a wonderful time. The video is the first thing that you watch and is very informative. After the tour they had a DJ that got everyone involved even the people outside.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Ronell Whitaker

Such a great experience! I love music and I learned so much. Every exhibit is informative and there's tons of interactive things to do. You can even make a beat or freestyle rap in the booth. Def returning next trip
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Jassy Woods

This is a must do if you are in Nashville. They offer military and student discounts. It is so greatly presented and the music is so inspiring, especially the way music inspired Hope and change!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Rosalyn Butts

This was our second time visiting and we absolutely love this place! My girls loved interacting with the music. It was great to see them totally engaged with jazz, blues, and ragtime. There is so much beautiful history to discover!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Eric Neumeyer

This museum was amazing and should be a must see for any visitors to Nashville. The timeline of music was well presented and the layout was astetitcally impressive. The interactive stations were very well done and allowed you to listen to great music and participate in creating your own. Be sure to visit this place!

  • Love Love

Enjoyable place to spend a couple of hours to learn about music history and listen to music. You're able to save music playlists too. They also have a couple of interactive areas that are fun.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Louiselle Morand Salvo

The content is amazing, very rich and well explained. Also it's displayed beautifully: you're surrounded with music and great pictures. And can learn lots of stuff thanks to well designed interactive stations. I absolutely loved it! A must see in Nashville
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

  • Roberta Griffin

The history behind African American Music is just mind blowing. Gospel, Jazz, Blue's, and Hip Hop ECT... A wonderful place to visit. Plus a special room to celebrate 50 years in Hip Hop!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Sara Terry

This was amazing. For sure don't miss this! I would say you can spend the whole day here, open to close. Even another full week! So much history. So much music to get lost in! Get the music bracelet to download all the music you listen too. Worth it.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

  • L A F Berry

The National Museum of African American Music was phenomenal. The displays, videos, and activities are just enough to keep everyone engaged. I loved my afternoon at the museum.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • S. Haynes

Phenomenal museum!!!! So much history to learn and the exhibits are very interactive. Definitely recommend at least 2 hours to really make sure you don't miss out on anything
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Tamiko Grant

It was awesome! So much history, knowledge and love of African American music. If you visit Nashville, Tennessee you have to visit this place! I would definitely go again.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Sarah Perkins

The Museum was great! Definitely recommend going. Lots of interactive things to do throughout. DO NOT PARK IN THE 5th & BROAD PARKING LOT. The museum validates parking for 2 hours, but if you go over the 2 hours at all, the validation doesn’t work and the lot makes you pay the full amount.

  • Ricarlos Brantley

This museum is awesome! For music lovers like myself, I recommend that you spend as much time as you possibly can at this venue. I will be going back many times!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Deb Hawkins

This museum is BEAUTIFUL, and interactive! From pre-slavery Africa to modern day, you can learn everything you need to know about the culture of Black music.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Eva Kenworthy

Absolutely the best museum I've ever been to. The flow of the exhibits is great and gives you a sense of discovery. The interactive exhibits are first class. I learned so much and had a ton of fun! Pro tip: get the RFID card, you'll want it!
Visited on
Weekday

  • TK KYLE

Absolutely loved this day. Birthday gift from my besties to support New Edition and their induction on their special day in Nashville. #NE4Life
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • GINA NATER

Super thankful that we chose this museum to tour. If you go on the 1st Wednesday of the month is free..... staff were friendly and helpful!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Catherine Saperstein

Everything about this museum was thoughtfully done. So much to see and listen to. A fun and educational experience where there is truly something for everyone to enjoy! Nashville has so many museums but make this one a priority to visit- you'll be glad you did.

  • Kim E

This is such a well arranged museum that takes you through the origins and history of African American music. So thorough and presented in an attractive and fun way to learn.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Lynnette Hooks

You have got to visit this place. There is not enough time to go through this interactive experience. For an additional dollar get the wristband that allows you to download music, make your own hip hop beats and save your own dance routine. Loads of fun!!

  • Phillip “Mac” McElroy

Excellently put together display of African American music history. A must visit no matter what type of music that you're a fan of.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Senecca Horton-Mariner

A must-see museum when in Nashville. If you love music and learning about it, definitely visit. You can easily spend hours here.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Luis Sanchez - Realtor

A friend recommended it to my wife and I, so we went to check it out. We went 1 hour before they closed. I recommend going with enough time to explore as it has so many cool interactive activities that we didn't expect.
Visited on
Weekday

  • Min Zhang

State of the art museum with easy to use interactive technology. Lots of fun for people who love music
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Tony Lee

Overall...very informative and interactive experience...lot of interesting facts about artists...will have to go back very soon!
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • David Sydnor

Beautiful journey through the evolution of music. From field songs to negro spirituals to gospel all the way to modern hip hop and r&b.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • Denise Allen

This museum was an amazing experience. I could have stayed in there for hours!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Randy Love

I had an amazing experience learning about Africa American culture. Learning about the middle passage was brutal but very eye opening to see how Africa Americans were treated during slavery. ✊ …

Similar places

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

15703 reviews

222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203

Cooter's Nashville

4230 reviews

2613B McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37214

Tennessee State Museum

2957 reviews

1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208

Lane Motor Museum

2728 reviews

702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210

Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

1788 reviews

401 Gay St, Nashville, TN 37219

Belmont Mansion

909 reviews

Belmont University campus corner of Acklen Avenue & Belmont Blvd - behind Freeman Hall, 1901 15th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37212

Willie Nelson and Friends Museum and Nashville Souvenirs

435 reviews

2613A McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37214

Tennessee Agricultural Museum

146 reviews

404 Hogan Rd, Nashville, TN 37220

Military Branch of the Tennessee State Museum

138 reviews

301 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37243

Two Rivers Mansion

108 reviews

3130 McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37214