Songbirds Guitar & Pop Culture Museum
A non-profit foundation, live music venue, and museum showcasing vintage guitars and pop culture history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience intimate live music
Songbirds Guitar & Pop Culture Museum
Best Time
Experience intimate live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A non-profit foundation, live music venue, and museum showcasing vintage guitars and pop culture history.
"An awesome experience and a real gem to the Chattanooga community, preserving music and encouraging youth."
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Purchasing tickets online can save you a few dollars compared to buying them at the door.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
Visit their website to see who's playing; the venue transforms for live music events.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Guitar Collection
Museum Floor
Marvel at a stunning array of rare and iconic vintage guitars, a true treat for any music enthusiast.
Intimate Live Music Venue
Performance Space
Experience live performances in a cozy setting, perfect for appreciating local and touring artists.
Pop Culture Exhibits
Museum Floor
Explore fascinating displays that connect music with broader pop culture trends and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Catch a Show or Explore Exhibits
New Location, Same Great Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Purchasing tickets online can save you a few dollars compared to buying them at the door.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
Visit their website to see who's playing; the venue transforms for live music events.
❄️ Stay Cool Inside
The air conditioning is excellent, making it a comfortable escape during hot Tennessee summers.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Expect a warm welcome from staff who are passionate about music and the museum's history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Purchasing tickets online can save you a few dollars compared to buying them at the door.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
Visit their website to see who's playing; the venue transforms for live music events.
❄️ Stay Cool Inside
The air conditioning is excellent, making it a comfortable escape during hot Tennessee summers.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Expect a warm welcome from staff who are passionate about music and the museum's history.
✨ Explore the Vault
Don't miss the 'vault' area, which is now open and offers a super cool experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Songbirds for its intimate venue, excellent sound quality, and comfortable atmosphere, especially during live shows. The vintage guitar collection is a major draw, captivating both enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The staff are frequently mentioned as being friendly and knowledgeable, contributing to a highly enjoyable experience. Some note the new location may have fewer museum artifacts but retains its charm and focus on music.
"This is my first time at songbirds, it's a great intimate venue I saw some live folk music, sound was great, air conditioning was amazing in the hot Tennessee summer, and the people working there were super nice. It's got a lot of interesting history and exhibits to look at while you're waiting for the show. Very enjoyable evening."
Joe DiNoto
"Such an awesome experience and a real gem to the Chattanooga community. You will be hard pressed to find a more passionate community of musicians that not only spends a tremendous amount of time preserving music and music history, but ones that are encouraging the youth in music. Absolutely love this place and highly recommend it to anyone!"
Robert Jones
"Very intimate venue! Beautiful showcase of instruments as well"
K S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Songbirds is located at 212 W. Main Street in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It's a few blocks from its previous Station Street location. Parking information can usually be found on their website or by checking local parking apps.
While specific public transport routes can vary, Chattanooga does have a bus system. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for routes that service the downtown Main Street area.
The new location at 212 W. Main Street is in a downtown area, so street parking or nearby parking garages are likely options. It's best to check the Songbirds website or local parking resources for the most current information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is around $15, offering great value for the experience. Purchasing tickets online in advance can sometimes offer a slight discount.
Opening hours can vary, especially on days with live performances. It's recommended to check the official Songbirds website for the most up-to-date hours for both the museum and any scheduled events.
For live performances, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular acts, as the venue is intimate and shows can sell out.
Yes, the 'vault' area is now open and is considered a very cool part of the museum experience.
Information on specific discounts for students, seniors, or other groups is best confirmed directly with the museum through their website or by contacting them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a vast collection of vintage guitars, learn about music history, and see exhibits connecting music to pop culture. The venue also hosts live music events. +1
Yes, teenagers, especially those interested in guitars, find the museum very engaging. The interactive exhibits and historical context can appeal to a wide range of ages.
Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours exploring the museum, but you could easily spend longer if you're deeply interested in the exhibits or attending a show.
Absolutely! It's described as a very intimate venue with great sound, making it an excellent place to catch live performances. +1
The atmosphere is intimate and engaging, allowing you to feel close to the performers and enjoy the music in a comfortable setting. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself might have limited concessions, the new location is in a vibrant area of Chattanooga with many dining options nearby. Check their website for any specific offerings during events.
Yes, the museum is located in a part of Chattanooga with numerous restaurants and eateries within walking distance, offering a variety of cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in the museum exhibits. However, flash photography might be restricted, and rules for live performances may differ. It's best to check signage or ask staff. +1
The vintage guitars themselves are incredibly photogenic. The 'vault' area and any unique music decor also make for great shots. During shows, the stage and audience interaction can be dynamic. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the exhibits, the intimate venue is also great for catching live shows, which can be a fun family outing. The air conditioning is a major plus during hot Tennessee summers, ensuring comfort for everyone.
🎸 Music Aficionados
Beyond the instruments, the venue's commitment to live music means you can experience performances in an intimate setting, truly appreciating the artistry. The knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience with their passion and insights.
🎶 Budget Travelers
Buying tickets online can offer a small saving. While there might not be extensive food options on-site, the surrounding area offers diverse dining choices, allowing you to manage your food budget effectively.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Songbirds Experience: Museum Meets Music
In the evenings, Songbirds transforms into an intimate live music venue. This aspect is frequently highlighted by visitors who praise the venue's acoustics and the close proximity to performers. It's a fantastic spot to catch local bands or touring artists in a setting that feels personal and engaging. The staff are noted for being knowledgeable and friendly, contributing to a positive overall experience whether you're there for the exhibits or a show.
The recent move to 212 W. Main Street has brought about some changes, with the new location potentially having fewer museum artifacts but retaining its focus on music decor and an intimate performance space. This ensures that Songbirds continues to be a vibrant hub for music lovers in Chattanooga.
A Gem for Guitar Enthusiasts
Teenagers, especially those interested in playing or collecting guitars, find the museum incredibly captivating. The exhibits are designed to be engaging, providing historical context and showcasing the evolution of guitar design and music. This makes it an educational and inspiring outing for younger visitors, with many citing it as their favorite part of a Chattanooga trip.
The passion of the staff and the community surrounding Songbirds is palpable. They are dedicated to preserving music history and encouraging new generations of musicians. This dedication shines through in the curated exhibits and the welcoming atmosphere of the venue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit