7 Hidden Gems Waiting To Be Discovered Along Tennessee's Beloved Music Highway
By Meghan Kraft|Updated on November 30, 2023(Originally published November 25, 2017)
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
As I’m sure you know, Tennessee is the place to go for many things, including its music scene. We think it’s such a joy to live in a space that celebrates auditory art and self-expression! Nashville may be Music City, but the Tennessee Music Highway runs straight through the belly of the state, exiting south into Mississippi and finishing up in the heart of the Big Easy – New Orleans. The following list highlights seven gems along the way (and one bonus!) that we think you’ll enjoy visiting when you’re looking for somewhere different to explore when you’re driving along Music Highway Tennessee.
Known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley's highly lauded career, Sun Studios has recorded some of the most famous musicians in the world, including Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash. Founded by Sam Phillips, this is one iconic music locale that you don't want to skip when you're riding along the Music Highway in Tennessee.
6. International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum - Jackson
The International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum is where you can experience and indulge in the history of 1950s rockabilly stars. Take in old photographs and props from musical greats like Brenda Lee, and watch iconic and influential performances throughout your tour of the building located on Music Highway.
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5. Graceland - Memphis
Graceland, Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116, USA
Ah, yes. Graceland. It may not be a "hidden" gem, but it is a gem all the way around. This treasure is quite possibly one of the most iconic spots on our list of places to visit along Music Highway TN. Of course, you'll have to visit the home of Elvis Presley and see the world from his eyes. The Mississippi-born rockstar chose to live in Tennessee for the majority of his adult life, and his adopted state couldn't be more proud.
Upon learning where is the Music Highway in Tennessee, you might be surprised to learn that this next spot is on the route. Although a bit macabre, the Patsy Cline crash site is considered an honorary member of the Tennessee Music Highway. It's where one of the greats lost her voice, and the quiet, beautiful spot is located in the heart of the forest. It's a peaceful space that pays homage to a horrific and is sure to be humbling.
Located in her hometown of Nutbush, the Tina Turner Museum is based in a most interesting place: Tina's old schoolhouse. Flagg Grove School was where a young Anna Mae Bullock attended classes, and now houses her life's work in the form of personal items and rock memorabilia. Therefore, you'll get a history lesson when you visit this step along the Music Highway in Tennessee.
2. Ernest Tubb Record Shop - Nashville
Ernest Tubb Record Shop, 417 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
As you've been learning where is the Music Highway in Tennessee, you might be surprised to see that sum of the gems on this route are in plain sight. For instance, The Ernest Tube Record Shop is located on Honkytonk Highway in downtown Nashville and has been open for over 65 years. Over its lifetime, the space has collected all sorts of vinyl records and rare CDs. Wander through on your way to Tootsie's, and pick up some new tunes.
Editor's Note: As of 2023, this shop is going through renovations.
1. Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge - Nashville
Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge can be found right behind the Mother Church of Country Music (The Ryman Auditorium!). This spot along Music Highway is known for its quirky exterior color and rooftop patio. There's live music nightly, and folks as big as Taylor Swift have made their way to the stage. Come to let go, let loose, and have a fun time out!
Bonus! Preservation Hall - New Orleans
Preservation Hall, 726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
Okay...Preservation Hall is 100% not in Tennessee. It's in New Orleans, but we wanted to include it here because it serves as the final stop on the Music Highway, stretching from the heart of Nashville, through Tennessee and Mississippi, finishing its run at the very tip of Louisiana. The historic jazz space may be "touristy" to some, but there's nothing more pure than hearing "Saints" played by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
Now that you know where Music Highway in Tennessee is, let us know if you plan on visiting the gems you just learned about any time soon. I also suggest taking a look at Tripadvisor to learn of other sights to check out when you’re traveling in Tennessee. You’ll find ideas of other unique spots to go in our piece about hidden destinations in Tennessee, as well.
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More to Explore
Music Highway In Tennessee
Marla S. |November 29, 2023
Is there a Music Highway in Nashville?
Aside from the Music Highway in Tennessee, we recommend checking out the Honkeytonk Highway in Nashville. Although this area in Nashville has developed a reputation as a tourist attraction, it's still the place to go if you'd like to listen to Honkeytonk music. Some recommendations of where to stop on this Music Highway in Nashville include Robert's Western World, The Stage on Broadway, and Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge.
What are some scenic drives in Tennessee?
In addition to driving along Music Highway, here are some scenic drives in Tennessee that we think you'd enjoy too:
The Dragon: This windy and picturesque route takes you through the heart of The Smokies.
Cherohala Skyway: We highly recommend driving along this scenic road in the fall so that you can appreciate the stunning foliage.
Great River Road: Along with being known as one of the most popular routes in the country, Tennessee is one of ten states that it goes through.
Cades Cove Loop: This lesser-known scenic drive is one of many Tennessee backgrounds with breathtaking views.
