The buildings that today constitute Marathon Village were once a hub of American manufacturing. They were the home, from 1910 to 1914, to Marathon Motor Works, a Tennessee company started around the turn of the 20th century that was the first to manufacture cars entirely in the American South. Visit the old buildings that now play host to a new generation of industry and fun shops, alongside a car museum and exhibits of some of the equipment that once assembled Marathon’s cars.
Go first to the free on-site museum, which is divided over two sites. Wander down the main gangway, which is dotted with old equipment and informational plaques, then head across the road to the original Marathon showroom. Appreciate the vintage style of the exhibited cars, which represent five of the eight remaining Marathon vehicles.
Head back to the main building, where a range of stores offers shopping opportunities for every kind of visitor. For Americana, visit Antique Archaeology, run by the HISTORY channel’s American Pickers, which showcases some of the country’s best vintage patriotism.
Parch a thirst with a visit to the on-site winery or one of the two distilleries, one of them run by Jack Daniels. Peruse a range of clothing stores, featuring vintage brands and Nashville-run companies. Get some permanent decoration, and unforgettable souvenir of a trip to Nashville, at the tattoo parlor.
Find Marathon Village to the northwest of downtown Nashville, an 8-minute drive, 30-minute walk or 20-minute bus ride from landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium. Limited free parking is available on the street, or for a flat fee in the on-site garage. Admission to the building and to the car museum is free. Operational hours of the various businesses vary, but most are generally open during business hours. Some, like the winery, stay open into the evening. Tours of the Motorworks are available when booked in advance.
