We Visited the Country Music Hall of Fame!

The Country Music Hall of Fame was an unexpected highlight during our recent trip to Nashville.

Admittedly, I am not a die-hard country music fan. That being said, I don’t hate it. I just tend to listen to the pop genre more. However, our visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame brought to light just how impactful this genre of music has been through the years.

More than country?

Before we dive deeper into our visit, you should also know that the Country Music Hall of Fame is not just for country music fans. Ever heard of an artist named Elvis Presley? Or, maybe you or someone you know is a Swifty.

Hold on to your horses! You’re in for a wild, and wonderfully musically diverse, ride.

Of course the Country Music Hall of Fame offers visitors a chance to delve into the history of one of America’s most traditional genres of music and its artists. And, just let me say, it does not disappoint.

Where is this magical venue?

The venue is located in downtown Nashville. Parking in the area is somewhat limited and can be very expensive. A lot of places charge upwards of $50. We highly recommend doing a quick internet search for the best parking deals or park a couple of blocks away. Be sure you check the prices before you park!

Attention teachers!

We purchased our tickets directly from the venue. As usual, we asked if they offered a teacher discount. To our surprise, they do!

Simply supply them with a copy of your teaching certificate or badge and you are good to go.

Going up?

Upon entering the waiting area, you are guided to an elevator and sent up to the third floor to begin your journey through the history of country music.

The displays are in chronological order. The beginning of the tour is the beginning of country music. Your tour ends, of course, with some of today’s top artists.

Music is the soundtrack to our lives

While I may not be a huge fan of country music, Jeff is, especially the old stuff. He was so excited to see many of the exhibits!

Relics from Don Williams, Kenny Rogers and many other artists, as well as memorabilia from the show Hee Haw all brought back memories from his childhood. It was fun watching him get excited over the music or artists that had played a part in sparking joy in his life. I believe his exact quote was, “It was a walk through my life, honestly.” He loved being able to stroll the music through the years.

While I may not always have my car radio set to a country music station, this genre of music has been in and out of my life over the years. I simply cannot bowl without Garth Brooks’ Friends In Low Places playing in the background. What can I say? It was popular when we took a bowling class in college.

Need a ride?

My little pop music heart was happy to see Elvis Presley’s diamond and fish scale dusted, gold plated Cadillac.

The car was far ahead of its time with bells and whistles. This luxurious automobile had a tv, a top of the line stereo system, refrigerator, bar, and even an electric shoe shining station!

Elvis’ Cadillac isn’t the only car in the museum. Ever heard of Smoky and the Bandit? That’s right. Bandit’s car is on display!

Calling all Swifties!

Where are my Swifties? Don’t forget that Taylor got her start in country/crossover music. Her original self-titled album, Taylor Swift, had some pretty serious country influence. Ever heard of a tune called Our Song? Let’s just call this Taylor’s Debut Era.

As a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Taylor was honored with the naming of the Taylor Swift Eduction Center. In the lobby of this area of the museum, you can see the graduation cap and gown Taylor wore when receiving her honorary doctorate, a guitar that was smashed by Taylor in a video, as well as some of her dresses. More of Taylor’s memorabilia is on display in various other locations throughout the museum, showcasing her various Eras. Want to know more about the Taylor Swift exhibits? Check out our video here.

Something for everyone

We could go on and on about our visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame. I guess the main takeaway is that this beautiful venue  offers something for all music lovers, country or otherwise.

Want to know more content about our visit to this country music shrine? Check our our latest video

If you’re planning a visit to Nashville be sure to check out our post on The Hermitage! We Visited a President’s House!

And remember, break the monotony, not the bank.

–Marnie and Jeff