The Tennessee State Museum explores the state’s rich history through exhibits and programming, from its developing landscapes and first peoples to present day, in an expansive new space. Encompassing 137,000 sq ft., the museum features a comprehensive, interactive gallery with six permanent exhibits and supplemental temporary exhibits. The museum was previously located on the lower level of the War Memorial Building before moving into the James K. Polk Theater in 1981 where it remained for 35 years. The Museum opened to the public in its new home on the northwest corner of Bicentennial Mall in October 2018.