National Museum of African American Music Nashville

The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) on Broadway in Nashville tells the story of how African American music shaped the American soundscape. Your visit begins in the Roots Theater, where you learn about West and Central African culture, the institution of slavery and the evolution of a distinctly African American culture with its own musical traditions.

Next, follow the full chronology of African American music along the River of Rhythms Pathways. Animated interactive touch panels trace these traditions from their beginnings to the present day, from southern gospel and blues to contemporary R&B and hip-hop.

The remaining five exhibits take a deeper look at moments in history and how they shaped the music and the stars that came out of them, including the Harlem Renaissance, jazz and post-war R&B. Inside these galleries you can see instruments, stage costumes, sheet music and more. The museum is wheelchair accessible, and smartphone tickets are accepted.