From its Carols, Crafts, and Cookies event near the holidays — where kids can come decorate cookies, listen to a choir and create various ornaments — to its everyday programming, the Tennessee State Museum is the perfect place for families. The various events the museum holds throughout the year are free, as is regular entry to the museum, which makes it an easy choice for all kinds of folks. It’s a peaceful place to spend an afternoon looking at historical items or finding state landmarks on a map on the floor in the children’s area. Several of the artifacts are placed at kids’ level, making it much easier for them to engage. Plus, it’s right next to the Nashville Farmers’ Market, where you can grab lunch or some ice cream on your way out. AMANDA HAGGARD
More Best of Nashville wins: Tennessee State Museum also took Best Free Fun in the Readers' Poll in 2026 and 2024. In our Writers’ Choice they’ve been named Best Free Programming (2023), Best Gift Shop (2020) and Best Free Cultural Experience (2019).
