Tennessee, known for its rich cultural tapestry and unique traditions, is home to a remarkable collection of museums that are delightfully peculiar and wonderfully eccentric.
If you're a curious traveler with an appreciation for the offbeat, you're in for a treat.
Here's our list of the Top 10 Peculiar Museums You'll Only Find in Tennessee (in no particular order).
461 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 430-5515
The $3.00 Admission per Adult, goes towards any Salt and Pepper Shaker purchase in the gift shop. Children 12 and under are FREE!
With a passion for collecting that spans over three decades, the Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers proudly showcases a diverse collection of over 20,000 items from around the globe.
Explore the extraordinary variety, including animals, vegetables, people, and an array of colorful shapes, each a testament to the creativity of the talented artists behind them.
Whether you're young or young at heart, the museum promises great fun for all ages!
3901 Hwy 411, Dandridge, TN 37725
(865) 509-3077
Free admission.
Discover the history and legacy of Bush’s® at the Visitor Center, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee.
Immerse yourself in the story of the beans and how Bush's has been spreading the good bean word for the past 110 years.
The Bush's Museum boasts tastefully curated exhibits that will satisfy your bean curiosity, showcasing 110 years of the Beautiful Bean story. Set your BPS (Bean Positioning System) for Chestnut Hill, Tennessee, located in the picturesque foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, and get ready for a bean-tastic good time.
2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 453-3278
Tickets vary in price. Visit website for more info.
Explore American history from a different perspective in five unique galleries that burrow deep into criminal profiles, the penal system, victim’s stories, crime prevention, forensic science, law enforcement and our justice system.
The museum is 25,000 square feet, spread over 2 floors and includes over 100 interactive exhibits. Fun for adults and kids alike!
3315 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
(423) 267-3132
Admission: Adults – $10, Children 6 – 14 – $6, Children under 5 are free.
Situated in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum showcases meticulously restored antique wreckers and equipment from the tow truck industry.
Additionally, the museum exhibits an array of related toys, tools, equipment, and pictorial histories.
505 TN-57, Grand Junction, TN 38039
(731) 764-2058
Admission is by donation.
The National Bird Dog Museum features a rich collection of photographs, paintings, and sculptures that vividly capture the essence of the sport.
The museum also features related items such as firearms and hunting caps.
Representing over 40 breeds of pointers and retrievers, the museum's multiple wings offer a comprehensive exploration in the world of bird dogs.
Step outside to the Walk of Champions, adorned with sculptures honoring accomplished bird dogs and hunters.
Sustained by donations from supporters and bird dog enthusiasts to the Bird Dog Foundation, the museum thrives and welcomes dogs with open arms.
177 E Wears Valley Rd # 23, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 429-7099
Free admission.
If you're in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee don’t miss a visit to Cooter’s Garage in Pigeon Forge.
Ben “Cooter” Jones is your host at this tribute to the Dukes of Hazzard.
It features Pictures, Props, Costumes, and Memorabilia from the beloved hit television show.
27 Main St E, Wartrace, TN 37183
(931) 205-1683
Free admission.
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum is the only museum dedicated entirely to the Tennessee Walking Horse.
There is an exhibit on the current World Grand Champion, updated yearly as a new horse wins, and saddles and tack worn by past winners.
The museum contains a hands-on section where visitors can look through old show bills, industry-related magazines, and more.
30 Casey Jones Ln, Jackson, TN 38305
(731) 668-1222
Admission Pricing: Adults: $8; Children (4-10): $5; Children 3 years & under: Free
Situated adjacent to Casey Jones's historic home, the Railroad Museum features numerous exhibits dedicated to Casey's life and his heroic final journey.
Visitors can relish a short film narrating the story of Casey Jones, take a stroll through the historic home of Casey Jones, and capture moments with the 35-ton locomotive—the museum's rendition of Casey’s engine 382.
Allowing kids of various ages to climb aboard and ring the bell, the museum provides an interactive experience reminiscent of Casey's legacy.
Civil War enthusiasts will find pleasure in the permanent exhibit titled "The Railroads & The Civil War In Tennessee."
309 S College St, Trenton, TN 38382
(731) 855-2013
Free admission.
Housed in the council chambers of Trenton City Hall, the Permanent Teapot Collection stands as the world's largest.
Dr. Frederick C. Freed generously contributed his assortment of 525 exquisite "porcelain Veilleuse-Theieres" teapots in 1955.
Noteworthy for their rarity and intricate designs, these teapots often take the form of human figures or animals.
Waterloo Street, Lawrenceburg, TN
931-212-1944
Situated just over a block west of the Public Square in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, The Old Jail Museum holds a significant place in local history.
Erected in 1893, it functioned as a jail until 1973 and has since been repurposed as a museum under the care of the Lawrenceburg Historical Society.
Led by Curtis Peters, a historian and retired history teacher, along with dedicated members, the museum showcases an extensive collection of local artifacts and documents.
These historical treasures include items connected not only to the local area but also to distant places, particularly from the eras of World War I and World War II.
To view more activities in Tennessee, check out our Tennessee Family Vacation Calendar.