Tennessee has 12 stops on the U.S.
Civil Rights Trail that passes through cities such as Memphis, Nashville and
Clinton. It includes the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel in
Memphis whose powerful interactive exhibits tell the story of slavery, sit-in
demonstrations, and the life and legacy of Dr Martin Luther King Jr.
Memphis is home to museums covering fine art, civil rights and the
history of rock and soul music. But there’s one museum whose eclectic
collection defies categorisation: the Pink Palace Museum & Mansion ran by
the Memphis Museums of Science & History. This Memphis institution covers all
aspects of the Mid-South: natural history, Memphis history and the cotton
industry, plus rare exhibits such as Elvis Presley’s military uniforms.
Franklin is the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the American
Civil War. Beyond Civil War history, however, Franklin is rich with stories of
the past. From nationally recognised landmarks to a farm that revolutionised
the Tennessee Walking Horse industry to an old stove factory-turned-shopping
hub, there is history around every corner.
Alternatively, celebrate TN America 250 in Granville and experience the small-town charm of
the historic community along with a tour of the new Independence Hall’s
exhibits, preserving stories and artefacts that define the community.
Posted by: Tennessee Tourism
Posted on: 02/02/2026