10 Best Landmark and Historical Buildings in Nashville

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is a history museum and historic site in Hermitage centered on Andrew Jackson’s life, home and era. The 1,120-acre National Historic Landmark includes the Hermitage mansion, grounds, exhibits, tours and educational opportunities for groups and lifelong learners. Visitors can examine period furnishings, artifacts and the complex history of Jackson and plantation life.

The 2nd Avenue Historic District is a Nashville tourist attraction centered on historic buildings, distinctive architecture, restaurants and nearby entertainment. It suits visitors who want to explore downtown on foot, take photographs and experience local history and culture. The district becomes especially lively during events and evenings, with live music and casual dining nearby.

Two Rivers Mansion is a Nashville historical landmark offering mansion tours and hosted experiences. Its large, well-maintained setting suits visitors interested in historic architecture, paranormal tours or outdoor events on the lawn. Guided tours can add historical context, while the grounds have also hosted Nashville Symphony performances.

The Tennessee Governor’s Residence is a Nashville historical landmark centered on a century-old home. Visitors can experience the property through tours and seasonal events, including Christmas displays, with shuttle service and volunteers supporting the visit. The residence also includes artwork, historic stories and a gift store.

The Parthenon is a Nashville art museum housed in a full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, built in 1897. Visitors can explore American art galleries and the building’s classical architecture, while Centennial Park adds open space for walking, photography and outdoor viewing.

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery preserves a Nashville landmark through guided historic tours, family tours, and wine and bourbon experiences. The 1853 Greek Revival mansion and grounds connect the Harding and Jackson family story with the lives of the people who labored there. Its Journey to Jubilee Tour focuses specifically on enslavement, emancipation, and contract labor using primary and secondary sources.

Belmont Mansion is a historic house museum in Nashville, housed in a mansion built in 1853 for a cotton heiress. Visitors can explore the home, period furnishings, family history, and interpretive displays, with guided context followed by self-guided viewing. The experience suits people interested in historic homes, architecture, art, and the lives connected to the property.

Shy's Hill is a Nashville historical place marking a Civil War conflict, with a walking trail, commemorative stone markers and scenic views. It suits history-minded visitors and hikers seeking a short, quiet outing. The trail climbs steeply to the hilltop, where an interpretive board and bench provide context and a place to pause.

Fort Negley Visitors Center introduces visitors to the ruins of a Civil War fort in a park overlooking Nashville. It suits people combining local history with an outdoor walk and city views, with a visitor center, walking paths and an audio walking tour adding context to the site.

Tennessee State Capitol is a Nashville Greek Revival legislative building and historic site dating from 1845 to 1859. Visitors can explore the building and grounds, including the Senate Chamber, Legislative Lounge, terraces, historic artwork and the tomb of President James K. Polk. Its compact scale makes it suitable for a short architecture and history stop.