DOWNTOWN. Come here to examine the roots of country music and see how it all began. Find out who the real pioneers of country music were. If you're a country music trivia buff, you'll get your fill here. Stroll the walkpath and see where greats like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley got their starts ­ the famed RCA Studio B. The permanent exhibit traces the history of country music from its very beginnings, with memorabilia, audio and video clips, interactive displays, and finally, the Hall of Fame Rotunda. Special exhibits focus on different people, styles, or periods of history. Gift shop and restaurant onsite.

MUSIC VALLEY. The museum pays tribute to the Grand Ole Opry, known for being the longest running radio show to date. There are hands-on displays to keep little ones busy, and the museum houses exhibits which reveal the appearance of the Opry at various stages in the building's history. A video of the Opry documents its significance to the history of the music industry. #13;#10;

DOWNTOWN. Constructed in 1892, the fully restored Ryman Auditorium was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943-1974. Today, it hosts performers from every genre imaginable. Indeed, the list of past performers reads like a history of American popular culture: Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Isadora Duncan, Harry Connick Jr, Booker T. Washington, Neil Diamond, Nelly Furtado, New York Philharmonic Orchestra, Harpo Marx, Patsy Cline, the Indigo Girls, Erykah Badu, and Dolly Parton have all graced the stage. The Opry still offers shows here on occasion, too. A self-guided tour is a must for any music lover!

DOWNTOWN. Everything you ever wanted to know about Tennessee and more! The complete history if the state is traced from the original Native American inhabitants through the first European settlers and on through the Civil War and Antebellum period, culminating with displays of contemporary art and artifacts. Highlights include a collection of over 200 quilts, dating from 1808 to the present, a collection of over 500 flags and banners, and prehistoric artifacts from around the state.