Songbirds is a guitar museum and live music venue at the Chattanooga Choo Choo, at 206 W Main St in Chattanooga’s Southside District. Its collection spans vintage and rare instruments, including guitars associated with musicians such as Chuck Berry and B.B. King. Interactive displays explore guitar and local music history, with hands-on elements for different ages. Come during the day to look through the exhibits, or plan an evening around a concert on one of the custom-built stages. The intimate room and clear sound make live performances a strong reason to stay.
Guitars through the decades
The collection traces the development of the guitar through instruments from different periods, brands and styles. Displays include acoustic, electric, jazz and bass guitars, with examples arranged to show how the instrument changed over time.
Some guitars are associated with well-known musicians, among them Chuck Berry, B.B. King, Loretta Lynn and Roy Orbison. The exhibits also connect instruments to the artists who played them, giving you a way into the music history behind the objects.
Interactive exhibits and local music
Songbirds pairs its instruments with hands-on displays about guitar history and pop culture. A Chattanooga music history zone places the city’s musical heritage alongside the broader story of the instrument. Music education is part of the museum’s work, including STEAM-based installations that connect music with learning.
The exhibits make the museum a useful stop for families as well as guitar enthusiasts. Staff can share further information about the collection and the local music history presented here.
A museum that becomes a music venue
Songbirds also hosts live performances in custom-built spaces. Its programme includes tribute acts, cover bands, local and regional musicians, and national touring performers, across genres that include rock, blues and folk. The concert rooms are designed for intimate shows, with a capacity of 250 in one venue.
The venue has a full bar, and the museum and concert spaces sit within the Chattanooga Choo Choo campus. Songbirds is a nonprofit foundation that raises money for music education and therapy, and supports emerging artists. Check its concert calendar to see what is on during your visit.
FAQ
Where is Songbirds in Chattanooga?
Songbirds is at 206 W Main St, on the Chattanooga Choo Choo campus in Chattanooga’s Southside District.
How long should I spend at Songbirds?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours to explore the museum.
When do concerts usually start?
Live shows typically begin between 7 pm and 9 pm. Check the concert calendar for the event you plan to attend.
Is Songbirds wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, restroom and parking.
