Photo: Szymon Jasina
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The Parthenon
★4.6(14,975 reviews)$Museum
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for the museum itself, or 3-4 hours if combining with playground time and exploring Centennial Park👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Elementary-aged children studying ancient civilizations will be amazed by the sheer scale of Athena, while tweens and teens appreciate the art galleries and impressive Greek architecture. Younger kids may enjoy it briefly but will likely prefer the nearby playground.🧡 Saved by 350+ families
About
Step into ancient Greece without leaving Tennessee! This stunning full-scale replica of the original Parthenon houses a breathtaking 42-foot statue of Athena covered in gold leaf, plus rotating art exhibits. Kids can burn off energy at the adjacent playground while parents soak in the incredible architecture and beautiful Centennial Park setting.
Highlights
- ✓The jaw-dropping 42-foot Athena Parthenos statue covered in gold leaf,the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world
- ✓The massive exterior columns that kids can walk through and compare their size against
- ✓The lower-level art gallery featuring rotating exhibits, often with family-friendly themes
- ✓The detailed replica of the original Parthenon's interior, including the east and west rooms
- ✓Adjacent playground and wide open green spaces in Centennial Park perfect for running and playing
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday evenings when the museum stays open until 7:00 PM for smaller crowds and beautiful golden hour lighting through the columns
- 2.Park for free in Centennial Park's lots and make a full day of it with the playground, walking trails, and duck pond all within steps of the Parthenon
- 3.Let kids explore the lower-level gallery which often features rotating art exhibits at child-friendly heights before heading upstairs to see Athena
- 4.Bring a picnic to enjoy in Centennial Park before or after your visit,there are plenty of shaded spots and picnic tables
- 5.Download or print photos of the original Parthenon in Athens to show kids the comparison,they'll be amazed by the accuracy
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) offer the quietest experience, or visit during extended Monday-Thursday evening hours for fewer school groups. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for exploring Centennial Park before or after your museum visit.
What to Know
Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children 4-17, and free for children 3 and under. Free parking is available throughout Centennial Park. No food is allowed inside, but there are water fountains and restrooms on-site.
Seasonal Notes
The Parthenon is open year-round with climate-controlled comfort. Centennial Park is especially beautiful during spring cherry blossom season (late March-April) and fall foliage (October-November). Check their website for special family programs and holiday events throughout the year.
Nearby Eats
Head to The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden (about 1 mile away) for gourmet burgers and a vintage soda fountain that kids love, or visit Bobbie's Dairy Dip (2 miles) for classic burgers, hot dogs, and incredible soft-serve ice cream in a retro setting.
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