Nashville Hatch Show Guided Letterpress Tour with Souvenir Poster

Explore Nashville’s Iconic Letterpress Studio: Hatch Show Print Guided Tour

If you’re in Nashville and craving a glimpse behind the scenes of one of America’s oldest working letterpress print shops, the Hatch Show Print Guided Tour is a unique experience worth considering. For just $23 per person, you’ll spend about an hour learning the craft, hearing fascinating stories, and even creating your own souvenir poster. Located conveniently within the Country Music Hall of Fame, this tour offers more than just printing; it’s a window into Nashville’s vibrant, print-driven culture.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the chance to see traditional printing at work—the presses are still cranking out posters just as they did a century ago. Second, the opportunity to make your own custom poster provides a personal souvenir that’s both fun and memorable. On the flip side, a possible drawback is that the admission to the museum is not included in the ticket price, so budget for that if you want a full day of entertainment.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, music fans, families, and anyone curious about American printing techniques. If you appreciate craftsmanship, vintage posters, or just want a different flavor of Nashville, this engaging, family-friendly activity offers a blend of education and hands-on fun.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: It’s run inside a working print shop with a tangible connection to Nashville’s music and entertainment history.
• Hands-on activity: Creating your own souvenir poster makes the experience personal and memorable.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable staff share stories about Hatch’s history, artists, and printing techniques.
• Great value: For just $23, you get a guided tour plus a keepsake—an affordable, meaningful souvenir.
• Family friendly: Suitable for most ages, with plenty of visual interest and interactive elements.
• Location convenience: It’s just steps from the Country Music Hall of Fame and near public transportation.

A Detailed Look at the Hatch Show Print Guided Tour

Location and Accessibility

The tour begins at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, specifically inside the historic Hatch Show Print shop. The meeting point is easy to find at 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S in downtown Nashville. Since the shop is very close to the Hall of Fame, you can combine both visits into one outing. The tour operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving flexibility if you’re planning a full day of sightseeing.

It’s recommended to arrive before 11:00 AM for the best availability, especially if you want to secure your preferred tour timing. The shop’s location near public transportation makes it accessible for most visitors.

What to Expect During the Tour

The hour-long guided tour is a lively blend of history, craftsmanship, and demonstration. As soon as you step into the space, you’ll hear the story of Charles and Herbert Hatch, the brothers who founded the shop in the late 1800s. Their vision transformed Nashville into a hub for music, vaudeville, circuses, carnivals, and minstrel shows, whose posters still decorate the shop walls today.

Throughout the tour, you’ll see vintage letterpress equipment, many colorful posters for legendary performers like Elvis Presley, Minnie Pearl, and Bill Monroe, and learn how these posters were created using traditional techniques. Guides often create an engaging atmosphere, sharing amusing anecdotes and highlighting the craftsmanship involved in each print.

Hands-On Poster Making

One of the most popular parts of the tour is the chance to make your own commemorative poster. This is not just a quick craft activity—it’s a real chance to operate the presses and understand the process from design to print. You’ll use actual tools and techniques reminiscent of the early 20th century, which can be surprisingly tactile and satisfying.

Reviews highlight how much visitors enjoy the personal aspect of this part: “We loved making our very own print to bring home,” says Pamela G, adding that watching the staff work with the presses was “pretty amazing.” The souvenir poster you take home is printed right there in the shop, giving you a handcrafted keepsake that’s both authentic and fun.

What’s Not Included

It’s important to note that admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum is not included with the tour ticket. You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket if you want to explore the museum’s extensive exhibits on country music history. This allows flexibility—if you’re more interested in the printing, you can choose to skip the museum or visit it afterward.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which creates a personalized experience without feeling crowded. Guides are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor, making the tour both informative and entertaining. Reviews often mention the friendly, welcoming environment and how guides create a “fun atmosphere,” even for those who aren’t traditionally into printing or history.

The Value of the Experience

For $23, this tour offers a rare opportunity to see a working print shop that’s stayed true to traditional methods. The personalized souvenir poster is a tangible reminder of Nashville’s artistic side, and the storytelling behind the posters enriches your understanding of the city’s cultural DNA.

While the price doesn’t include museum admission, many visitors find that the quality of the tour and the unique hands-on activity justify the cost. It’s a budget-friendly way to add an authentic, craft-focused stop to your Nashville itinerary, especially if you’re interested in arts, history, or music.

What Reviewers Say

People rave about the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the posters produced. “All of the guides are enthusiastic and excited to explain the techniques used to make posters,” shares Lynne B. Others appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere and the opportunity to see old equipment still in use—a rare glimpse of craftsmanship surviving in a digital age.

Some have noted that the tour might feel lengthy for those with limited patience, or that it’s less interactive than expected for younger kids. However, most agree that the experience is engaging and educational, especially with the chance to operate the presses.

Considerations

A few reviews highlight logistical hiccups like reservation issues, so it’s wise to confirm your booking in advance and arrive early. Since admission to the museum is separate, plan accordingly if you want to maximize your visit. Also, since the shop is inside a working environment, comfort with noise and activity is recommended.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals to a wide range of travelers. History enthusiasts will appreciate the stories and historic posters, while families and kids can enjoy the tactile activity and vibrant visuals. Music fans will love the connection to Nashville’s legendary acts and posters. It’s also ideal for craft lovers or those interested in traditional printing techniques, providing a genuine look at an art form that’s rarely preserved in operation.

If you’re after a quick, informative, and hands-on activity that offers a personal souvenir and a taste of Nashville’s creative spirit, this tour checks many boxes. Just keep in mind that it’s more about craftsmanship and storytelling than high-energy entertainment.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking around 25 days ahead is common, especially for preferred times, and you should arrive before 11:00 AM for the best availability.

Is admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame included?
No, the tour is inside the Hall of Fame but does not include museum admission. You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket if you want to explore the museum itself.

How long is the tour?
The guided experience lasts about an hour, offering enough time for stories, demonstrations, and creating your poster.

Can I make my own poster?
Yes, this is a key part of the experience. You’ll get to operate the presses and leave with your personal souvenir.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s suitable for most ages, and many reviews mention kids as young as 17 enjoying the experience.

What if I have mobility issues?
Since the tour is inside a working shop with equipment, it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific accessibility queries.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, which helps ensure a more personal and engaging tour.

What is the cost?
$23 per person, which includes the guided tour and your souvenir poster.

Are there multiple tour times during the day?
Yes, several times are available, but arriving early ensures more options.

Final Thoughts

The Nashville Hatch Show Guided Letterpress Tour offers a rare chance to see a historic print shop in action, learn about Nashville’s vibrant poster culture, and create a personalized souvenir—all for a fair price. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy arts, history, or music, and anyone curious about traditional craftsmanship.

While not a full museum visit, it complements Nashville’s musical heritage with a visual and tactile experience that’s both entertaining and educational. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft lover, or just eager for a unique Nashville story, this tour delivers an authentic taste of the city’s lively printmaking legacy.

If you want a fun, insightful, and hands-on activity that broadens your understanding of Nashville’s artistic roots, this is well worth the time. Just remember to book early, confirm your reservation, and plan for a few extra minutes to explore the nearby attractions afterward.

End of Review