A Guide To Parthenon, Nashville

Things to do/ highlights

The Parthenon proudly stands in the center of Centennial Park in Nashville. Once you arrive at the temple replica, you will surely feel overwhelmed by its size and stunning architecture. Lots of visitors claim that the presence of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, can be felt inside this iconic landmark. If you are planning to visit Nashville’s version of Athens’ iconic Parthenon, here are some things that you should not miss out at the site.

Take souvenir pictures with the statue of Athena

A replica of Parthenon would not be complete without a towering statue of the goddess of war and wisdom. Standing proudly inside the temple is a 42ft-tall Athena that serves as the main highlight of the museum. Gilded and breathtaking, this structure will take your breath away with its massive size that almost reaches the roof of the temple and its intricate sculptural design and craftmanship. You can not end your Parthenon visit without taking home some souvenir pictures with this marvelous art and architectural masterpiece that reflects classical architecture.

Browse through the Parthenon's permanent exhibits

Whether you are a professional artist, a budding talent, or a regular Jane who likes art and culture, once you visit the Parthenon, make sure to browse through the temple’s fascinating permanent exhibits of stunning American paintings. Aside from a place of worship, the Parthenon is an art museum. It is home to 63 paintings, gathered from numerous skillful artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. These masterpieces are donated by sir James M. Cowan, a confederate veteran.

View the temporary exhibits

Aside from a permanent exhibit of painting from remarkable American artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, the Parthenon holds temporary exhibits and shows that tourists can see and marvel at.

Attend an event

Also, the Parthenon offers informative docent classes that will surely excite artists. If you want to learn about art and culture, and you wish to hone your craft, feel free to attend one of the docent classes in the Parthenon. One will be held on February 1, and the other is on February 8. Updates of upcoming classes will be posted on the official website.

Travelers tips

Visit during the spring and fall season

If you want to avoid the extreme foot traffic at the Parthenon, you might want to visit the landmark during the spring or fall seasons. During this time, the place is not as crowded as it normally is during the summer. Also, the temperature is at its most ideal, not too warm, and not too cold. The vegetation in the park is blooming as well, during this time.

Dresscode

The Parthenon in Nashville does not impose any strict dress code, but for your comfort and convenience, you might want to wear comfortable clothing that works best on the season of your visit. Breathable shirts and comfy jeans are ideal during the summer while jackets are best during the winter. Also, as this place is Instagram-worthy from every angle, you might want to wear your picture-perfect outfits to match with the place’s beauty.

Facilities for disabled guests

The Parthenon is one of the many attractions in Nashville that is wheelchair accessible. Handicapped guests can enjoy exploring the museum as much as any other guest. Also, interestingly, the statue of Athena has braille texts on numerous panels for blind visitors’ convenience. Not only that, but the attraction provides helpful brochures that are equipped with braille texts, as well.

How to get there

By bus

For guests on a tight budget, you can take advantage of an affordable public transport method on the way to the Parthenon, Nashville - the bus. There are several bus stations scattered across the city that can drive you to the iconic landmark. You can head to Target, Apple Greenhills, Concourse C, SuperTarget, Smyrna, and Kroger, Hermitage. Hop on a bus with the signs Bus - 21, Bus - 3, and Bus-05 as those buses take routes that lead to the Parthenon.

Hail a cab

Just like most US cities, Nashville has a fair amount of taxi rides. For your convenience and a hassle-free transport, hail a cab to drive you straight to the Parthenon in Nashville. Just be prepared to pay a rather pricier rate.

Book an Uber

For tech-savvy people, especially millennials, you will be thrilled to know that Uber is accessible in Nashville, just like most US cities. Have an app ready, and at any time of the day, feel free to book a driver to fetch you from your location and drive you to the marvelous tourist attraction.

How to book tickets

For tourists who are planning to visit the majestic Nashville’s Parthenon, you have several options on how to get tickets. You can book on-site or if you want a hassle-free no-queue booking, you can purchase tickets from the Parthenon’s official ticketing link.

Additionally, if you browse the web, you will find fantastic travel agencies that offer guided tours to the Parthenon.

Parthenon, Nashville information

Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 4:30pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)

Cost: From 4 USD

Official website: Parthenon, Nashville

Department of tourism: Visit Music City