Discover Nashville’s Hidden Country Music Museum
On the outskirts of Nashville, the Legends of Country Music Museum is a must-visit for fans and newcomers alike. From vintage instruments to stage costumes, this under-the-radar museum offers an unforgettable journey through country music history. Image: Brianna Goebel
On the outskirts of Nashville, this under-the-radar museum remains a secret even to some locals. Sitting across the street from Gaylord Opryland Resort and next door to the iconic Nashville Palace is what looks like just another tourist-focused souvenir shop. What’s inside, however, is a treasure trove of music history. The Legends of Country Music Museum spans 4,500 square feet and houses rare artifacts from more than 30 stars, including Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, to Patsy Cline, Ronnie Milsap, and many more.
How a Music Treasure Was Born
Originally opened on July 4, 1979, the first iteration of the museum was part general store, part framing shop. Founded by close friends of Willie Nelson, Frank and Jeanie Oakley, the space eventually transformed into a modest hangout frequented by locals as well as country music stars, thanks to the Oakleys’ roots in the music industry.
After Willie won Entertainer of the Year and donated a few of his personal belongings to be displayed, the shop’s popularity only continued to skyrocket. During its heyday, it was not unlikely for patrons to bump into everyone from Porter Wagoner to Roy Acuff, Webb Pierce, and Billy Walker.
As more musicians continued to hang out here, they began to donate their own artifacts, which eventually inspired the name change from Willie Nelson & Family General Store to the Legends of Country Music Museum.
The museum moved locations over the years before finally settling into its current home at 2613 McGavock Pike.
What You’ll Find Inside
Behind rows of postcards, T-shirts, and coffee mugs sits an unassuming door at the back of the souvenir shop. After purchasing a museum ticket from the front counter, head through that door to begin your journey.
The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by framed photographs of country legends and an entire wall of vinyl record covers. As you move into the main room, pause for a moment — it’s almost overwhelming at first. Artifacts are everywhere, and each one offers a story to tell.
Perhaps the most notable items are in the center of the main room. Here, you’ll find furniture from Willie Nelson’s recording studio and golf course in Perdanales, TX. Under the custom-made sofa, the Texas flag rug would probably tell a million memorable stories if it could talk. Take special note of the two worn outlines that show where Willie would stand, sing, and play his iconic guitar, “Trigger,” during recording sessions.
Continuing through the front room, you’ll learn more about the museum’s beginnings and see artifacts from Willie and other country music legends. Standouts include a collection of awards Wille has collected over the years, photos of the original general store, and a guitar autographed by stars who’ve visited the museum over the years.
Step Deeper Into Country Music History
To the right of the main room is another space filled with treasures. Walking into that room, the first artifact you’ll likely spot is a pickup truck that once belonged to Hank Williams Jr. The custom 1968 Dodge, complete with his logo and nickname “Bocephus,” comes with its own infamous lore. Legend has it that Hank Jr. sold the truck in Las Vegas when he found himself in need of some “quick cash.”
Continuing through the rest of the room, you’ll see a replica of Willie Nelson’s famous tour bus, Honeysuckle Rose, as well as outfits worn by legends like Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Tanya Tucker, and Dolly Parton. And don’t overlook the “smaller” artifacts, either — like a $15 ticket to an Elvis Presley concert scheduled for August 17, 1977 (just one day after his passing).
Final Stops Worth Exploring
The final sections of the museum only continue to impress. From an entire case dedicated to The Highwaymen, a legendary music group comprised of Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings, to an original booth and table from Tootsie’s Orchard Lounge (a downtown honky-tonk where many stars got their start) and a piece of flooring from the original 1980s Opry House, don’t be surprised if you find it hard to leave.
When you’re finally ready to go, be sure to stop and explore the section honoring the female legends of country music. From the showing of a documentary to a wall of all-female-recorded albums, it’s the perfect end to your museum visit.
Plan Your Visit
Admission begins at $12.95, but you can save 20% when you purchase them in advance online. The museum is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit legendsofcountrymusic.com.
From rare artifacts to legendary stories, the Legends of Country Music Museum offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Nashville’s musical past — making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
**********
To discover more hidden gems in and around Nashville, follow StyleBlueprint on Instagram!
Brianna Goebel
Brianna is StyleBlueprint’s Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.