Nashville, TN, is a city full of entertainment, with many opportunities for families looking to enjoy themselves. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, Nashville delivers. Here, we’ll list the top 10 family-friendly activities in Nashville, with descriptions that tell you what to expect.
Get Your Groove on at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is an iconic attraction that every family should check out. It’s a treasure trove showcasing the history of country music and its legends through rare artifacts, memorabilia, and photos. The museum also houses the Historic RCA Studio B, where legends such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and many others recorded their music. You can take a guided tour and learn about the history of music in Nashville.
Engage Young Minds at the Adventure Science Center
The Adventure Science Center offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family, featuring interactive science exhibits on physics, astronomy, health, and more. You can experience a range of exciting activities, such as the space chase simulation or exploring the human body in the BodyQuest exhibit. The museum also houses a planetarium that screens educational and entertaining films.
Meet the Animals in Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is always popular with families and young ones. The zoo has over 3,000 animals, including tigers, bears, kangaroos, and more. Visitors can experience up-close encounters with some of the animals, including feeding lorikeets or walking through the kangaroo habitat. The zoo also offers a variety of activities, such as a 4D theater, a zipline, and a jungle gym for kids.
Relax at Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
Families looking to enjoy nature and art should check out Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. It spans 55 acres and features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese Garden, a water garden, and a children’s garden.
The estate is also home to the Cheekwood Collections, showcasing American and European art in the form of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum often hosts interactive art-making events, making it a perfect destination for artistically inclined families.
Get Creative at Frist Art Museum
The Frist Art Museum hosts a range of exhibitions, featuring American and international art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. You can take part in workshops and hands-on experiences designed for both kids and their parents. Check the website for specific events taking place at the time of your visit.
Discover the Past at Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery
The Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery is a notable 19th-century destination that allows visitors to see how affluent plantation owners lived during that era. Visit the plantation’s restored mansion for a glimpse into its rich history. Choose from wine tastings, family tours, a restaurant, and a sweet shop.
Tune in at Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium is a great destination for families interested in music history. It’s a historic venue that has played host to famous musicians ranging from Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley to Lizzo and Foo Fighters.
A variety of guided and self-guided tours are available, allowing you to learn about the auditorium’s history. Depending on availability, you may be able to get backstage and even stand on the stage for the photo opportunity of a lifetime.
Soak up the Outdoors at Centennial Park
Centennial Park is ideal for families looking to enjoy the outdoors. The park spans 132 acres and features a variety of attractions, including a replica of the Parthenon, a beautiful sunken garden, and a large pond. It’s a great place for picnics, bike rides, and outdoor activities and hosts a range of events, including concerts and festivals.
Relive the Classics at the Johnny Cash Museum
Visit the Johnny Cash Museum if you’re interested in country music and the life of Johnny Cash. It features the world’s largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia and has been ranked the no.1 music museum in the world. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at Johnny Cash’s Bar and BBQ, which serves Southern-style cuisine and drinks inspired by Johnny Cash’s life and music.
Head into the Limelight at the Nashville Children’s Theatre
If you’re visiting Nashville with young children, be sure to stop at the Nashville Children’s Theatre, which offers a range of entertaining and educational productions highlighting themes like teamwork, acceptance, and empathy. Classes and summer camps are also available, allowing children to learn about acting, storytelling, and other aspects of theatre.
The Top 10 Family-Friendly Activities in Nashville in Summary
Nashville is a city with a huge amount to offer families looking for fun and educational experiences. Be it music, history, nature, or art, Nashville can deliver. From interactive museums to zoos, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to choose from. Hopefully, this list of family-friendly activities has given you some ideas for your next family vacation.
