Union Station

All aboard! We begin our tour at the same place where families began their own adventures in Nashville many years ago—Union Station. This spot served as Nashville’s passenger train station from 1900 until 1979 and became a hotel in 1986. The station is an example of late-Victorian Romanesque Revival architecture. Look up at the high towers and turrets that are reminiscent of a castle, and check out the enormous clock with a statue of Mercury—the Roman god of travel and transportation—on top. When you enter into the lobby look up again to admire the 65-foot, barrel-vaulted, stained glass ceiling and the four crystal chandeliers. As you explore the lobby, you can find the two sculptures known as "Miss Nashville" and "Miss Louisville" which are said to be images of two of the builder's daughters. Stop by the front desk to get a free “conductor badge” sticker and confirm that you’ve found “Miss Nashville” and “Miss Louisville.” The staff may tell you about how the hotel is haunted too! After looking at the grand lobby of the old Union Station, look to your left for a sign above a door that reads Track 14. Walk through the Track 14 door to the balcony that overlooks the former train yard and current parking lot. A hundred years ago, this area would have been bustling with people, including families, hurrying to catch their train!

Fun Fact: According to urban legend, alligators once lived in two small pools in the station's lobby. The scramble letter is “A” for Alligator.

From the balcony turn LEFT and walk across the parking lot and Tenth Ave then turn RIGHT. You will follow the road between the parking lots of Union Station and Frist Art Museum, which will curve around to the LEFT. Your next stop is the back entrance to the Frist Art Museum. Stop at the back stairs just past the ball-shaped car barriers in the sidewalk.