Visiting an art gallery isn’t necessarily on everyone’s bucket list—but maybe it should be. Viewing art can broaden the mind, soothe the soul, and spark new ideas. Still not convinced? Consider an art crawl, with free drinks, live music and the chance to hang out with friends. Or a gallery/studio combo where you can see an artist at work. Or a museum where you can see masterpieces and make your own art. One or more of those options is available any weekend in Middle Tennessee.

FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL (FRANKLIN, TN)

Image: FranklinIs.com

Mark your calendar: The monthly art crawl in Historic Downtown Franklin, TN, takes place 6-9 pm on the first Friday of every month. Download the app (which includes the Art Crawl Map) or start at any location and take the free trolley from place to place. You’ll see a variety of art pieces from local artists —paintings, blown glass, turned wood and more—all while enjoying complimentary refreshments and live music. See a piece you like? Take it home! All the art is available for sale.

For more information, visit Arts Council of Williamson County TN.

SECOND SATURDAY ART CRAWL (DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE, TN)

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From 6-9 pm on the second Saturday of each month, downtown Nashville galleries open their doors for special receptions and exhibition openings. Admission is free and you can enjoy free wine and snacks while strolling through the spaces. Each location presents diverse collections ranging from Nashville-area talent to internationally recognized artists. See which galleries and artists are on the schedule each month at DADA Nashville.

THIRD SATURDAY 100 TAYLOR ARTS MARKET (GERMANTOWN/NASHVILLE)

Image: 100 Taylor

The perfect outing for a wintery weekend, 100 Taylor Arts Market brings together more 60+ local artists and makers each month in a historic converted mill in the historic Germantown neighborhood of Nashville. Shop local while enjoying live music, food trucks and local craft drinks. The third Saturday of every month from 4-9 pm at 100 Taylor Arts Market.

TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS: LEQUIRE GALLERY (WEST NASHVILLE)

Image: VisitMusicCity.com

Browse over 5,000 sq. feet of floor space with 500+ works of art and exhibits at the LeQuire Gallery & Studio. Owner Alan LeQuire is best known as creator of the iconic sculpture, Athena Parthenos, located in Nashville’s Parthenon. Both a gallery and a studio, they promise “an insight for the public into the daily life of a sculptor.” Learn more.

ANY DAY BUT TUESDAY: FRIST ART MUSEUM (DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE)

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This family-friendly museum doesn’t have a permanent collection, which means there’s always something new to see. Their rotating exhibitions range from classical art to contemporary works. Plus, they offer family programs, talks, and community events. Don’t miss their Martin ArtQuest Gallery, where visitors of all ages can make their own art. The Frist is located in downtown Nashville, in an Art Deco post office building that’s a work of art in its own right. Plan your visit.

Go on one or all of these outings and you might turn into an art aficionado, if you’re not one already. If nothing else, it’ll be something fun and different to do on a chilly winter weekend. Enjoy!