Tennessee State Capitol: is it worth it?
Our score, honest verdict, what it costs, how to avoid the crowds, and what to do instead if it is not for you.
Our verdict: worth it, and it costs nothing
A free weekday stop with a 45-minute guided tour or a self-guided walk. Plan around the hours and leave large bags behind, since all bags are checked by security.
Admission and tours are free, according to the Tennessee State Museum's Capitol page.
Guided tours start six times a day; rarely crowded outside the legislative session.
A working state capitol with a landmark building.
Open weekdays only, and bags are checked at security.
Who should go, and who should skip it
- You want a free weekday activity
- You like history and architecture
- You are visiting on a weekend, when it is closed
To compare, read our review of Tennessee State Museum, Pedestrian Bridge at sunset and Frist Art Museum.
Better alternatives and what pairs well
MUSEUMPhoto: Antony-22, CC BY-SA 4.0Tennessee State Museum
A free museum of Tennessee history, from early peoples to the present, in a modern building near the Farmers' Market.
VIEWSPhoto: Kaldari, CC0Pedestrian Bridge at sunset
A free walk over the Cumberland River on the historic John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, with the downtown skyline behind you.
MUSEUMPhoto: Kathleen Conklin, CC BY 2.0Frist Art Museum
A downtown art museum in a former post office, known for rotating exhibitions.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tennessee State Capitol free?
Yes. The official page says admission and tours of the Capitol are free and open to the public.
When are tours?
Guided 45-minute tours start at 9, 10 and 11 AM and 1, 2 and 3 PM Central, Monday to Friday, first come, first served. Self-guided tours run during open hours. Groups of 10 or more should book ahead at (615) 741-0830.
Where is it?
600 Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Blvd., at the top of Capitol Hill.
What can I bring?
No large bags or backpacks. Small purses are allowed, and all bags are checked by security.
