Tennessee State Capitol Tours

Tennessee State Capitol featuring heritage architecture and a park
Tennessee State Capitol
Tennessee State Capitol
Tennessee State Capitol
Tennessee State Capitol


Walk in the footsteps of former U.S. presidents and state governors on a tour of this elegant 19th-century legislative building.

The Tennessee State Capitol is home to Tennessee’s legislative chambers and the working office of the state governor. Tour rooms where state laws are presented, debated and passed. Watch state representatives engage in live meetings. Learn about three Tennessee residents who went on to become presidents of the United States.

Construction of the Tennessee State Capitol began in 1845 and the building was completed in 1859. It is the work of architect William Strickland, who took inspiration from the Ionic temples of Ancient Greece. Admire the entranceway, characterized by a large pediment supported by a row of imposing columns. Look up at the tower, modeled on the choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. Strickland’s body was buried in the building upon his death in 1854.

Inside browse a portrait gallery of former presidents with Tennessee political experience: Andrew Jackson, Andrew Johnson and James K. Polk. Visit the Governor’s reception room, the office of the Secretary of State, House of Representatives chamber and Senate chamber. Peer down on the Senate and House chambers from the public galleries during legislative days. See the tombs of Strickland and Samuel Morgan, a businessman known as the Merchant Prince of Nashville.

Find a collection of monuments in the Capitol’s adjoining garden. Among these is an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson, a statue of Andrew Johnson and the tomb of James K. Polk. There are also memorials to the Tennessee-born World War I hero Sergeant Alvin York and Confederate icon Sam Davis. Note the six cedar trees, which honor the 6 million victims of the Holocaust.

Find the Capitol in the heart of Downtown Nashville. It’s a short walk from major city attractions such as the Musicians Hall of Fame Museum and Tennessee State Museum. Public buses stop outside the building. Parking is available, for a fee, on the surrounding streets.

Explore the Tennessee State Capitol on a free guided tour or via a self-guided pamphlet. Visiting hours are from Monday to Friday and both the admission and tours are free of charge. Learn more about the state’s past at the Tennessee State Museum, a 2-minute walk east.

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Best Lodging Options Near Tennessee State Capitol

Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown

Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown

4 out of 5
623 Union St, Nashville, TN
Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown
Cambria Hotel Nashville Midtown

Cambria Hotel Nashville Midtown

3 out of 5
1612 Church Street, Nashville, TN
Cambria Hotel Nashville Midtown
Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown

Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown

4 out of 5
118 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN
Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown
Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown

Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown

3 out of 5
301 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN
Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown
Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville - Music City Center

Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville - Music City Center

3 out of 5
1501 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN
Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville - Music City Center
1 Hotel Nashville

1 Hotel Nashville

5 out of 5
710 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN
1 Hotel Nashville
Renaissance Nashville Hotel

Renaissance Nashville Hotel

4 out of 5
611 Commerce St, Nashville, TN
Renaissance Nashville Hotel
Caption by Hyatt Downtown Nashville/The Gulch

Caption by Hyatt Downtown Nashville/The Gulch

3 out of 5
118 12th Avenue South, Nashville, TN
Caption by Hyatt Downtown Nashville/The Gulch
Noelle

Noelle

4 out of 5
200 4th Avenue North, Nashville, TN
Noelle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Tennessee State Capitol

While visiting the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture with live music, theater performances, and exciting sports events. Explore the rich art scene of Tennessee, take part in a Nashville tour, and enjoy the outdoor ambiance at the Woods Amphitheater. Don't miss the iconic honky tonks nearby, where you can experience the heart of Nashville's music scene and nightlife.

Food and drinks

For a taste of Nashville near the Tennessee State Capitol, visit Yazoo Brewing Company, a charming brewery with a romantic atmosphere, just 1 mile away. Alternatively, Marrowbone Creek Brewing Company offers a delightful experience 17 miles from downtown, perfect for food lovers seeking local brews.

Shopping

The Farmer's Market, located 0.5 miles from the Tennessee State Capitol, offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for family shopping. Nearby, Hatch Show Print, also just 0.5 miles away, is a must-visit for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, Opry Mills, 6 miles away, features a wide range of shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at Nissan Stadium, just 0.7 miles from the Capitol, where you can catch a game or event. For relaxation, head to Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, 10 miles away, offering serene trails and lush greenery. Enjoy ice skating adventures at Ford Ice Center Antioch, also 10 miles distant.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of climbing at Climb Nashville, located 3 miles from the Capitol, where outdoor enthusiasts can challenge themselves on various climbing routes. For water sports, head to Nashville Paddle Co., 11 miles away, for kayaking and paddleboarding. Enjoy scenic hikes at Narrows of the Harpeth, 19 miles from the Capitol.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the Tennessee State Capitol offers something for everyone. Enjoy live performances at the Nashville Ballet, just 3 miles away, or gather with friends for fun at Elliston Place, 2 miles away. For a lively family adventure, head to Grand Old Golf, Games & GoKarts, 6 miles away.

Find the best attractions near Tennessee State Capitol

When visiting the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, you'll find a variety of attractions that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and culture lovers. Explore the Capitol grounds, visit historic houses, and enjoy the music museum nearby. Don't miss the Tennessee State Museum and the various buildings throughout Nashville to enrich your experience and learn more about the area's rich history and vibrant culture.

  • Broadway: Experience the heart of Nashville on Broadway, a lively street filled with honky-tonks, restaurants, and shops. Just a half-mile from the Tennessee State Capitol, it’s perfect for families and offers a vibrant outdoor atmosphere, showcasing live music and Southern hospitality.
  • Vanderbilt University: Explore the historic Vanderbilt University, located two miles away. Known for its beautiful campus and rich cultural heritage, it offers a glimpse into academic life and the arts, making it a serene spot for a leisurely stroll.
  • Music City Center: Just 0.7 miles from the Capitol, the Music City Center is Nashville’s premier event venue, hosting conventions and conferences. With its modern design, it reflects the city’s business vibe while being close to its musical roots.

Best time to go to Tennessee State Capitol

Visitor numbers around Tennessee State Capitol is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Tennessee State Capitol can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Tennessee State Capitol falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Tennessee State Capitol falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July79.2°F (26.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August77.7°F (25.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tennessee State Capitol

Visiting the Tennessee State Capitol is budget-friendly, as it offers free entry, along with nearby attractions like Broadway and Vanderbilt University. For cost savings, plan your trip between December and February for lower hotel rates, and book about a month in advance. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, customize your stay based on budget preferences, and consider eco-certified hotel options. Combine hotel bookings with flights for package discounts, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive offers and OneKeyCash rewards on future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tennessee State Capitol are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Tennessee State Capitol about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will reveal a list of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Tennessee State Capitol with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.