Parthenon
A stunning full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, housing American art galleries and a colossal Athena statue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Parthenon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, housing American art galleries and a colossal Athena statue.
"Experience a piece of ancient Greece in Nashville with this breathtaking replica and impressive art museum."
🎯 See Athena Up Close
The 42-foot Athena statue is a must-see! Entry fee required to go inside.
🚶♀️ Explore Centennial Park
The Parthenon is in Centennial Park; enjoy a walk around the lake too!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Athena Statue
Inside the Parthenon
A breathtaking, full-scale replica of the goddess Athena, standing tall and golden.
Architectural Replica
Exterior
An exact-size replica of the original Athenian Parthenon, offering a glimpse into ancient Greece.
American Art Galleries
Interior
Discover a collection of American art, adding another layer to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Athena Statue
Beyond the Replica: Art and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 See Athena Up Close
The 42-foot Athena statue is a must-see! Entry fee required to go inside. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Centennial Park
The Parthenon is in Centennial Park; enjoy a walk around the lake too!
🎟️ Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are around $10-$15. Kids under 4 are free. +1
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great for photos inside and out. Capture the grandeur of the replica.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 See Athena Up Close
The 42-foot Athena statue is a must-see! Entry fee required to go inside. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Centennial Park
The Parthenon is in Centennial Park; enjoy a walk around the lake too!
🎟️ Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are around $10-$15. Kids under 4 are free. +1
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great for photos inside and out. Capture the grandeur of the replica.
⏳ Quick Visit
Plan for about an hour; it's a great short trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Parthenon in Nashville a unique and impressive replica of the Athenian original, especially appreciating the grand Athena statue and the art galleries inside. While some feel the ticket price might be a bit high for the duration of the visit, many agree it's a worthwhile stop for its architectural beauty and historical insights, offering a taste of Greece without leaving Tennessee.
"Pretty cool local landmark. The lower level is a combination art museum/exhibit on how they built the giant statue of Athena. The main floor is pretty cool just because it feels pretty immense. Maybe a little pricey for how long it takes to go through (maybe an hour if you go slowly)."
Jesse Cowger
"We visited The Parthenon in Nashville out of curiosity, and while it’s definitely unique in terms of architecture, the overall experience felt underwhelming.
The structure is an interesting replica of the original Parthenon in Greece. It’s cool to see how they’ve recreated the broken or missing parts of the original based on history and imagination—it gives a sense of how grand the real thing must have been. The massive statue inside is impressive, and there are some beautiful artistic pieces worth a look.
When you enter, there’s a gift shop where you also get your tickets. Parking was easy—there’s a lot right in front. We first went around 12:30 PM, just as it opened, but the line was already at least 30 minutes long, and standing outside in the heat wasn’t ideal. So we came back right before closing and were able to do a quick walk-through.
The visit didn’t take long—maybe we stayed a bit longer just because we were taking photos. It’s not a large museum or a long tour, and to be honest, it didn’t quite feel worth the ticket price.
Overall, it’s a unique stop if you're already in the area and curious about the architecture or Greek history—but don’t expect a long or deeply immersive experience."
Nikita B
"Experience a little bit of Athens without having to go there, this gem is just in Nashville! Visiting the Parthenon is breathtaking to say the least. From the intricate architecture, to the beautiful paintings, and the detailed sculptures, there is plenty for your eyes to see. Starting from the outside, you can walk the entire perimeter of the building and see it in its glory for free. There are even spots where you can scan a QR code for an audio "tour" to learn about it. You can even sit around and enjoy the day on the building itself. Once you go inside, the museum is reasonably priced at $12 for adults and $10 for kids under 17 and under 4 is free. Even has discounts for students and veterans! When you go in, you are treated to a first floor filled with amazing artwork, replicas mold making tools, interactive learning about recreating the Parthenon, and other informational areas. Going up to the 2nd floor, is where you stand in awe of the enormous Athena statue in middle of the room and the surrounding areas have more statues and exhibits to enjoy.
Overall, you'll spend about an hour here so its great for a short, inexpensive trip that is sure to educate you and expand your appreciation for ancient Greek culture. This is a great place to enjoy some beautiful scenery, inside the building and also the Centennial Park outside. Don't forget to check out the gift shop before you leave!"
Aaron Frances
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Parthenon is located in Centennial Park at 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203. Parking is available right in front of the museum.
Yes, there is a parking lot directly in front of the Parthenon, making access convenient.
While driving is common, ride-sharing services or local buses can also get you to Centennial Park.
Many visitors enjoy approaching from the main entrance of Centennial Park to take in the full view.
The grounds are generally accessible, and the museum typically accommodates visitors with mobility needs. Check their official website for specific details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $10-$15 for adults, with discounts for youth, seniors, students, and veterans. Children under 4 are free. +1
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak hours or weekends.
Hours can vary seasonally and by day. It's best to check the official Parthenon website for the most current operating hours before your visit. They often open around 12:30 PM on Sundays.
Yes, you can admire and walk around the exterior of the Parthenon replica in Centennial Park for free.
Discounts are often available for seniors, students, veterans, and children. Check their website for details.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find American art galleries, exhibits on the Parthenon's history and construction, and the impressive 42-foot statue of Athena. +1
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the Parthenon, including the museum and the Athena statue.
Yes, the Parthenon in Nashville functions as an art museum, housing galleries and exhibits alongside the replica structure.
It's a full-scale, exact replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece, built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition. +1
While official guided tours might be limited, you can often find QR codes for audio tours or explore independently.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers stunning architectural shots, while inside, the Athena statue and art galleries provide unique photo opportunities. +1
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on flash or tripods.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful lighting for exterior shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and around historical structures. Check local regulations.
Use a wider aperture for a shallow depth of field to isolate the statue, and adjust ISO for low-light conditions inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the admission fee as an investment in an educational and visually stimulating outing. Centennial Park itself offers plenty of space for children to run around and enjoy the outdoors before or after your visit. Pack snacks and drinks, as options inside might be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic in Centennial Park or explore other free attractions in Nashville to keep costs down. The Parthenon provides a significant cultural experience without breaking the bank.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Dive into the exhibits detailing the construction process and the historical context of the original Parthenon. The presence of the Athena statue, a key element of the original temple, further enhances the historical immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Replica
The architects and builders meticulously recreated the ancient structure, aiming to showcase what the original might have looked like in its prime. This dedication to accuracy allows visitors to experience a piece of ancient Greece right in the heart of Tennessee. The exterior architecture itself is a marvel, drawing inspiration from classical Greek design.
Inside, the Parthenon serves as an art museum, housing galleries that feature American art. The centerpiece, however, is the colossal statue of Athena Parthenos, a breathtaking recreation that dominates the main hall. The museum also offers exhibits detailing the history of the Parthenon and the process of its reconstruction, providing a rich educational experience for all visitors.
Experiencing the Athena Statue
Seeing the statue up close offers a profound connection to ancient mythology and art. The way light plays off the golden surface can be mesmerizing, and the scale of the statue truly emphasizes the grandeur of ancient Greek artistry. It's a moment that many visitors find particularly memorable and worth the admission fee.
It's important to note that access to the Athena statue requires an admission ticket. While the exterior can be admired for free, the interior experience, including the statue and art galleries, is behind a paywall. This makes it a key reason for many to purchase a ticket and step inside.
Beyond the Replica: Art and History
The museum also delves into the history of the Parthenon itself, explaining its significance in ancient Greece and the story behind its recreation in Nashville. Exhibits often include information about the architects, sculptors, and the methods used to construct both the original and the replica. This historical context enriches the visitor's understanding and appreciation of the site.
Interactive displays and informational panels help visitors learn about the construction process, including mold-making tools and techniques used to recreate the ancient structure. This educational aspect makes the Parthenon a valuable destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit