Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

Most know Bridgestone Arena as the home of the Nashville Predators, but it is also the home of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. The hall of fame was founded in 1966 by the Middle Tennessee Sportswriters and Broadcasters Association to celebrate the sporting achievements of individuals and teams connected to Tennessee. Since its inception, the Hall of Fame has inducted over 500 honorees. Nearly 60 of those inducted are women, and the Hall of Fame hopes this number will increase. If you know of a deserving individual, go to their website to learn more about the nomination process.

The first woman inducted into the Hall of Fame was TSU track legend Wilma Rudolph—known as “the fastest woman in the world” after her performance at the 1960 Olympic Games. But as you tour this small museum, you’ll see artifacts, images, and interactive displays connected to many of the Hall of Fame’s female inductees. You’ll learn about Olympic swimmer Tracy Caulkins, professional golfer Judy Street, WNBA coaches Lin Dunn and Marynell Meadors, and many more. Pat Summitt’s life and career is featured as a main exhibit, and each year the organization selects an individual to receive the Pat Summitt Lifetime Achievement Award.

Whether you are in town for the weekend or live in Nashville, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is a must-see for fans of all ages and anyone interested in learning about the sports legends that represent our state. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 to 4. Visitors should enter through the Music City Visitor Center, located at the corner of Rep. John Lewis Way and Broadway. Ticket prices are $2 for kids and $3 for adults. Take a tour of this hidden sports’ history gem in the heart of downtown Nashville. It is well worth the visit!

You can listen to the next stop from the lobby of the Hall of Fame or walk outside to view the exterior of the building.