Located in Memphis, Tennessee, the Metal Museum—formerly known as the National Ornamental Metal Museum—is a captivating destination devoted entirely to metalwork exhibitions and public programs featuring master metalsmiths. Founded by artist-blacksmith James Wallace, this unique institution offers you an engaging look at fine craftsmanship across its permanent collection of over 3,000 items alongside dynamic traveling exhibitions. As you explore the grounds, you will discover a fascinating history; the original site operated as an 1884 hospital that treated Civil War patients and researched yellow fever cures, preserving historic nurse and executive buildings.
Today, the venue features interactive spaces for learning, including an active blacksmith shop, a working smithy, the Lawler Foundry, a repair and restoration lab, a specialized library, and a peaceful gazebo. You can even participate in hands-on classes held directly inside the museum's workshops. In May 2022, the museum expanded its site by signing a lease on the former Memphis College of Art property.
Whether you are admiring detailed metalwork, taking a workshop class, or watching live forge demonstrations, you will enjoy a memorable educational experience.
What to see at Metal Museum
- Permanent collection featuring over 3,000 metalwork items and traveling exhibitions
- On-site working smithy, Lawler Foundry, and repair and restoration lab
- Hands-on metalwork classes available inside the museum's workshops
- Annual fall Repair Days Weekend featuring live repairs by nationwide metalsmiths
- Historic grounds with preserved 1884 hospital buildings, a gazebo, and a library
Visiting tips
Visit during the fall Repair Days Weekend to watch volunteer metalsmiths from across the country fix virtually any metal object while you watch.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Fall
How to get there & what’s nearby
Metal Museum is easy to reach on Memphis’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Orpheum Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Memphis travel guide.
See the full Memphis travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.