USA Guide
The South
The Country Music Hall of Fame
Nashville's premier visitor attraction is the Country Music Hall of Fame. The building itself is an architectural tour de force, laden with musical symbolism – the whole thing is in the shape of a bass clef – but what really makes it special are the exhibits. Alongside paraphernalia from countless stars, including Elvis's gold Cadillac, you get a detailed history of the genre from its earliest roots. As well, songwriters and musicians give regular live demonstrations of their skills. The Hall of Fame itself is somewhat anticlimactic, simply consisting of a circular chamber filled with plaques.
The Hall of Fame also offers short bus tours that provide the only way to visit RCA's legendary Studio B on Music Row. Between 1957 and 1977, forty gold records were cut here, including Dolly Parton's "Jolene," but it's probably most famous for a thirteen-year run of Elvis hits. Recently restored and rewired, it's once again open for business, but only the most dedicated of fans are likely to find walking through the bare rooms interesting.
Address: 222 Fifth Ave S
Opening time: Daily 9am–5pm; $19.95, $25.95 including admission to Studio B