20 Best Architectural Buildings in Tennessee: A Guide to Top Landmarks

Tennessee boasts an impressive array of architectural buildings that display a rich history and diverse styles.

From historic landmarks to modern masterpieces, the state’s architectural landscape offers something for every enthusiast.

These buildings not only highlight the state’s cultural heritage but also demonstrate innovative design and engineering.

What are the best architectural buildings to see in Tennessee?

This article will guide you through the top 20 must-see structures.

Whether you are a resident or a visitor, these architectural gems are sure to add value to your understanding of Tennessee’s architectural beauty.

1. Tennessee State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture.

Built using limestone from nearby quarries, its design resembles an Ionic temple.

Architect William Strickland designed the building. Strickland’s work was so appreciated that, after his death, he was buried in the Capitol building.

The Capitol is 206.6 ft tall and measures 112 by 239 ft.

It is one of the oldest functioning capitols and houses the Tennessee General Assembly and the governor’s office.

2. Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium, originally known as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, is a historic live-performance venue in downtown Nashville.

Built in 1892, it hosted a variety of performers such as W.C. Fields and Charlie Chaplin.

From 1943 to 1974, it was home to the Grand Ole Opry, making it crucial in the history of country music. The building’s off-Broadway location adds to its cultural significance.

The Ryman is often referred to as the “Soul of Nashville” and is a National Historic Landmark. It continues to be a key site for music and architectural history in Tennessee.

Read more here.

3. Parthenon in Nashville

The Parthenon in Nashville, located in Centennial Park, is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens.

Built in 1897, it was part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition.

This landmark building functions as an art museum. It features a 42-foot statue of Athena, making it a unique attraction.

The structure uses brick, stone, and reinforced concrete, which contrasts with the marble of the ancient Greek version. It stands out as a centerpiece of architectural heritage in Tennessee.

4. Union Station Hotel

The Union Station Hotel in Nashville is known for its stunning Gothic architecture.

Originally built in 1900 as a train terminal for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, this building stands as a historical landmark.

Located in downtown Nashville, it now serves as a luxurious hotel that blends its historic charm with modern amenities.

Guests can experience the grandeur of its 65-foot barrel-vaulted ceiling and elegant stained glass windows.

Recognized as a Best Haunted Hotel in 2021, Union Station adds an intriguing element to its storied past.

This fusion of history and modern luxury makes it a unique destination.

5. Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel

The Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel, originally known as Terminal Station, opened in 1909.

This historic building is located in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The hotel gained its name from the popular Glenn Miller song “Chattanooga Choo Choo.”

The station closed in 1970 and reopened as a hotel in 1973.

A recent $19 million renovation brought new life to the property.

Visitors can stay in restored Pullman train carriages dating from the 1920s to the 1960s.

The hotel features a variety of amenities and entertainment, making it a vibrant community hub downtown.

6. Sun Studio

Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee is celebrated as the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

Opened by Sam Phillips in 1950, it is where an 18-year-old Elvis Presley recorded his first song.

Notable for its history, Sun Studio also saw recordings from legends like Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and B.B. King.

This iconic music landmark remains a must-visit for fans, preserving the legacy of its influential artists.

Learn more about its history at Sun Studio.

7. Tennessee Theatre

The Tennessee Theatre is a historic venue located in downtown Knoxville.

It was originally built in 1928 and is known for its stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture.

The theater has hosted a variety of performances, including concerts, Broadway shows, and movies. It is a key cultural destination in Knoxville.

Renovations have preserved its grandeur, making it a must-see for visitors.

Learn more about the theater’s history on the SAH ARCHIPEDIA website.

8. The Hermitage

The Hermitage is a significant historical site located in Davidson County, Tennessee.

It was once the home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States. The property spans over 1,000 acres.

The Hermitage Mansion, completed in 1837, is a notable example of Classical architecture.

It features elegant Philadelphia Classical-style furnishings from its renovation after an 1834 fire.

Visitors can explore the mansion, the beautiful gardens, and the final resting place of Andrew Jackson.

Learn more about its history by visiting The Hermitage.

9. Belcourt Theatre

The Belcourt Theatre in Nashville, Tennessee is a historic landmark, known for its rich history and commitment to the arts.

Designed by Anecdote, it spans 14,000 square feet.

First opening in 1925, the Belcourt has undergone various renovations. The most recent renovation in 2016 revitalized its appeal and functionality.

The Belcourt engages the community by offering innovative film programming.

It hosts post-screening discussions with filmmakers and experts, enriching the educational experience for Middle Tennessee residents.

Learn more about the Belcourt Theatre and its vibrant history.

10. Graceland

Graceland, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a mansion on a 13.8-acre estate.

This iconic home once belonged to Elvis Presley and features 23 rooms, including elegant stairways and artistic ceilings. The mansion also houses the Elvis Presley Memphis complex, showcasing memorabilia and exhibits related to the famous singer.

Graceland was constructed in 1939 by architects Furbringer and Ehrman.

The property is also the resting place of Elvis and several family members, making it a historic site for fans and visitors.

11. The Peabody Hotel

The Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee, is a grand historic hotel known for its luxury and charm.

Opened in 1925, it quickly became a social and business hub.

One unique feature is the Peabody Ducks that live on the rooftop and make daily treks to the lobby fountain. This tradition attracts visitors daily.

Designed by Chicago architect Walter Ahlschlager, the hotel showcases beautiful architecture and elegance.

The Peabody underwent a $25 million restoration and reopened in 1981. Today, it continues to be a significant landmark in downtown Memphis.

12. Stax Museum

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a key cultural landmark in Memphis, Tennessee.

Located at 926 East McLemore Avenue, this site was the original location of Stax Records.

The museum covers 17,000 square feet and includes interactive exhibits, videos, and vintage musical instruments.

Stax Records launched the careers of famous artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Sam & Dave.

Visitors can explore approximately 3,000 items of memorabilia, including stage costumes and photographs.

It tells the unique story of American soul music, particularly the Memphis Sound.

13. Memphis Pyramid

The Memphis Pyramid is a striking landmark in downtown Memphis, Tennessee.

It was originally built in 1991 as a 20,142-seat arena. The structure is 321 feet tall and has base sides of 591 feet.

Today, it houses a Bass Pro Shop, which secured a 55-year lease in 2010.

The building offers various attractions, including an indoor swamp, an observation deck, and a bowling alley.

Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and even staying at the attached hotel.

The Memphis Pyramid remains one of the most unique buildings in Tennessee.

14. Shelby Farms Greenline

Shelby Farms Greenline is a popular urban trail in Memphis, Tennessee.

The 10.65-mile path connects Midtown Memphis to Cordova.

The Greenline was built on an old railroad line, turning unused tracks into a space for walking, biking, and running.

Visitors can start at Tillman Street and enjoy the scenic route that runs through Shelby Farms Park.

15. Hunter Museum of American Art

The Hunter Museum of American Art, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, showcases a timeline of American architecture.

The museum combines Georgian Revival, New Modernism, and contemporary styles.

Its collection includes works from the Hudson River School, American Impressionism, and post-World War II modern art.

The museum’s 21st century renovation added significant space for new exhibits.

Visited by many, the Hunter Museum remains a key cultural spot in Chattanooga.

It offers engaging temporary exhibitions and a stunning permanent collection, making it a must-visit location.

16. Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is located in Townsend, Tennessee.

It connects visitors with the rich history of the region through its museum galleries and historic structures.

The center has a wide range of exhibits, highlighting the time period from 1802 to 1960.

This historical collection offers deep insights into Appalachian life.

It is open from Monday to Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm, and Sunday, Noon – 5:00pm.

Admission details can be found on their official site.

17. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is located in downtown Nashville, Tennessee.

Stretching across 19 acres, the park commemorates 200 years of Tennessee’s history. It opened on June 1, 1996, during the state’s bicentennial celebration.

The park features various landmarks, including a massive granite map of the state and a World War II memorial.

It’s an urban park that showcases Tennessee’s geography, culture, and history.

Visitors can enjoy the park’s design, created by Tuck Hinton Architects and Ross/Fowler Landscape Architects.

This park draws more than 2.5 million visitors annually, making it a popular destination.

Learn more at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.

18. The Peabody Ducks

The Peabody Ducks are a unique attraction at The Peabody Memphis, a historic luxury hotel in Downtown Memphis.

The tradition began in the 1930s and quickly became a beloved spectacle.

Each day, the ducks march from their rooftop Royal Duck Palace to the hotel lobby.

Bellman Edward Pembroke, a former circus animal trainer, started the famous Peabody Duck March in 1940. He served as the Duckmaster for 50 years.

The ducks live in a $200,000 marble and glass structure on the rooftop when off-duty.

19. First Horizon Park

First Horizon Park, located in downtown Nashville, is the home of the Triple-A Nashville Sounds. This ballpark opened on April 17, 2015, and can seat up to 10,000 people.

The venue features a 360-degree game viewing experience and spacious concourses. Unique group outing spaces and an expansive club level with suites are also part of its design.

A standout feature of First Horizon Park is its signature guitar scoreboard. This scoreboard, bigger and brighter than ever, adds a touch of local flair to the stadium. Learn more here.

20. Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville is a stunning example of postmodern architecture. Its design includes a facade with windows that resemble piano keys, symbolizing the music heritage of the region.

The cylindrical shape of the Rotunda recalls rural water towers and grain silos. The building was constructed using local materials, including Crab Orchard sandstone. This thoughtful design by Tuck-Hinton Architects captures the essence of Tennessee’s musical legacy.

Historical Significance of Tennessee Architecture

Tennessee’s architecture showcases a mix of colonial, industrial, and modern influences. Each period left distinct marks on the buildings, reflecting the state’s rich history.

Colonial and Early American Influences

Early Tennessee architecture was deeply influenced by colonial styles. During the 18th and early 19th centuries, buildings often featured simple, functional designs.

Materials like wood and brick were common. The First Presbyterian Church, founded in 1814, exemplifies this style. Large windows, steep roofs, and symmetrical layouts marked these buildings.

Farmhouses and churches from this era still stand today. These structures highlight the settlers’ craftsmanship and practical needs. Many old homes have large, central chimneys. The simplicity and elegance of this period remain influential.

Industrial Era and Modernism

The Industrial Era brought significant changes to Tennessee’s architecture. With the growth of cities, buildings became larger and more complex.

The Customs House Nashville, built in 1877, is a prime example. Designed in the Second Empire style, it features a Mansard roof and elaborate details.

Steel and iron became popular materials during this time. Factories, warehouses, and skyscrapers emerged, reflecting industrial advancements.

The move toward modernism introduced clean lines and functional designs. Structures like the Belmont Mansion, built in the 1850s, show a blend of historical and modern elements. This mansion showcases Italian architecture with intricate frescoes and moldings, adding a unique flavor to Tennessee’s architectural landscape.

Key Architectural Styles in Tennessee

Tennessee boasts a rich variety of architectural styles, influenced by historical and cultural developments. Among the prominent styles are Gothic Revival, Classical Revival, and Mid-Century Modern, each leaving a distinct mark on the architectural landscape.

Gothic Revival

Gothic Revival architecture in Tennessee is known for its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. This style became popular in the state during the mid-19th century.

It often features intricately detailed stonework and large, stained glass windows. Many churches and academic buildings in Tennessee showcase this style, drawing inspiration from medieval European structures.

The Knight’s Chapel in Franklin is a prime example, characterized by its tall spires and ornate woodwork. Gothic Revival buildings often convey a sense of grandeur and elegance, making them standout features in the state’s architectural heritage.

Classical Revival

Classical Revival architecture, also known as Neoclassical, emphasizes symmetry, columns, and domed roofs, drawing inspiration from Ancient Greek and Roman architecture.

This style emerged in Tennessee in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Buildings in this style are often used for governmental institutions and grand residences.

Nashville’s State Capitol is a notable example. The building’s imposing columns and ornate capitals reflect the grandeur and formality of Classical Revival. This style symbolizes strength, democracy, and enduring stability.

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern architecture came into prominence in Tennessee during the post-World War II era, from the mid-1940s to 1960s. This style is known for its clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and integration with nature.

Buildings often feature large glass windows, open floor plans, and a blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces. The home designs in East Tennessee provide excellent examples. These houses showcase functional aesthetics and innovative use of materials.

Mid-Century Modern architecture reflects the optimism and forward-thinking mindset of the era, emphasizing simplicity and modernity.