Introduction:
Nashville, Tennessee, also known as “Music City”, is not just a place for country music lovers and nightlife seekers which is also a fantastic place for families travelling with kids.
There are a lot of interactive Nashville kids museums, outdoor adventures, educational attractions and lively music which are some of the things to do in Nashville with children while creating some of the best memories with your kids of every age group.
You get to explore exotic animals at the Nashville Zoo by doing hands-on science experiments at the Adventure Science Center, you will find the city full of engaging and kid-friendly activities.
Families can walk through Centennial Park, hop aboard a riverboat cruise, or take a selfie in front of colorful murals that bring creative spirit to life in the city.
You must also explore some of the best tourist places like the Country Music Hall of Fame which organizes special programs and exhibits just for kids and the Parthenon replica that creates curiosity about ancient Greece.
You will find many food cuisines which are good for your kids whether it is sugary dishes or hot-chicken for kids.
So if you are in Nashville for a weekend or for a longer vacation, this city will give you lots of memorable opportunities and activities for both parents and children.
It is a city that makes learning fun and lets families experience the magic of music, culture, and beautiful Southern charm together.
Guide to Nashville
1. Adventure Science Center:
Visit this adventure Science Center in Nashville where you get your kids to do hands-on science museum which is a perfect place for kids of every age group. There are more than 175 interactive exhibits where children get to explore various topics like space, biology, and earth science through play and discovery.
Here you will find a giant climbing structure, laser shows, and the interesting Sudekum Planetarium. It is a perfect spot to visit with your kids which improves their curiosity and encourages STEM learning in a fun, energetic environment. It is a must visit place for both fun and education.
2. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere:
Visit the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere along with your family which is one of the topmost places for an excellent outing. Being home to more than 3000 animals which represent 350 species, the zoo offers some of the interesting exhibits like Kangaroo Kickabout, Critter Encounters, and the award-winning Expedition Peru.
Here, the children will love the Wilderness Express Train, the Jungle Gym playground, and animal feedings. This zoo offers wildlife education along with hands-on fun due to which it is a perfect place for both learning and adventure.
With beautiful surroundings and engaging daily animal shows, it offers a fun-filled experience that will give unforgettable experience in Nashville.
3. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum:
You must visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum which is located in the centre of downtown where every music lover would enjoy in Nashville.
This museum celebrates the rich history and lasting influence of country music on American culture and beyond. Step inside this museum to discover the rarest exhibits of iconic artists, rare recordings, original instruments, and their glittering stage costumes.
Here you will find engaging interactive displays which guide visitors of all ages through the rich evolution of country music, from its roots to today’s top artists.
The museum also has the Hall of Fame Rotunda honoring influential artists who shaped country music. It would be an unforgettable experience which captures the legendary Nashville music perfectly.
4. Adventure on Broadway:
Plan a visit to Adventure on Broadway where you will find glowing neon lights, honky-tonks, and live country music performances full of energy, music.
Whether you are bar-hopping, enjoying rooftop view, or discovering Western themed shops, Broadway has something for everyone. You will also find street performers who entertain crowds by day, while you will find many legendary venues during night.
Everyone from locals to tourists, visits this city to just escape into the musical heartbeat of the city. You get to experience the rich culture and nightlife of this city.
5. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park:
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a beautiful and educational 19 acres park located in the center of Nashville where you witness beautiful views of the State Capitol.
With a 200-foot granite map you get to know about the rich history of the city, with historical timelines and educational monuments.
You get to walk along tree-lined paths, fountains,or learn from the exhibits provided in the park. Visiting this park would be a perfect outing with your family along with providing glimpses into the history of the city.
6. Frist Art Museum and Martin ArtQuest:
Visit this beautiful Art Deco building named Frist Art Museum which is located in downtown Nashville. Here you will find rotating exhibitions from local, national, and international artists.
You will find fresh and inspiring exhibitions every time you visit this museum as they do not maintain a permanent collection.
It is a family-friendly place where you will find interactive stations where every visitor gets to enjoy many creative activities like painting, printmaking, animation, and sculpture.
7. Cheekwood Garden and Mansion:
Visit this beautiful 55-acre botanical garden and historic mansion which is located outside downtown Nashville. It was earlier the residence of the Cheek family, but now this mansion is a fine art museum.
It serves as a fine art museum which shows American artwork and rotating seasonal exhibitions. Here you will find a Japanese garden, herb garden, and beautiful seasonal flower displays. Both nature lovers, and art enthusiasts would love this mansion immensely.
8. Johnny Cash Museum:
The Johnny Cash Museum which is situated in the heart of downtown Nashville, gives an immersive journey through the life of the iconic “Man in Black”.
This museum is considered as one of the top music museums in the world recognized by Forbes which has the largest collection of Johnny Cash memorabilia.
You will get to explore personal artifacts, stage costumes, instruments, handwritten lyrics and rare video footage of Johnny Cash. This museum tells you the story about the humble beginnings of Johnny Cash to his rise as a music icon.
9. Pinewood Social:
Visit this energetic and stylish place in Nashville where you equally enjoy dining, entertainment and get to relax. It is located in a renovated industrial space where you will find a full-service restaurant, coffee bar, cocktails.
With its seasonal outdoor space, pools, and lounge areas it gives the perfect atmosphere for your daytime brunches or late-night gatherings.
Both visitors and locals would love to visit this place if you are willing to dine, play a game, or just relax.
10. Nashville Mural Walk and Photo Hunt:
It is an energetic and interactive way to explore the flourishing art of the city. Through self-guided tours you get to explore some of the most colorful neighborhoods which include 12 South, The Gulch, and East Nashville.
You will find this place to be a fun combination of art, adventure, and photography which is ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers looking to create unique memories and experience about Nashville’s creative culture.
11. Outdoor Play and Seasonal Festivals:
Outdoor Play and Seasonal Festivals in Nashville which offers families a perfect mix of fun, nature, and culture. Children get to freely run in spacious parks, splash around in water play areas, and discover scenic trails, while adults relax in the surrounding natural beauty.
Throughout the year, Nashville comes alive with family-friendly festivals like the Cherry Blossom Festival, Tomato Art Fest, and Music City July 4th Celebration. These events feature live music, food, games, and activities that celebrate the city’s vibrant spirit and welcoming community.
12. Nashville Water Taxi and Cumberland River Excursion:
It offers a refreshing water taxi ride. While gliding along the Cumberland river you get to enjoy beautiful views of the Nashville skyline, historic bridges, and water attractions.
Ideal for families and visitors of all ages, the ride is both relaxing and beautiful. So if you are using it as transport or for a leisurely tour, this river adventure adds a fun and memorable layer to your Music City experience.
Conclusion:
Nashville gives you a perfect mix of excitement, learning, and fun for families travelling with kids. You get to participate in hands-on exhibits at the Adventure Science Center to close encounters with animals at the Nashville Zoo, there are many engaging activities that spark your kids curiosity and creativity.
You will find outdoor parks, splash pads, and beautiful green spaces for your kids to play. While many seasonal festivals add music, food, and games for your kids to enjoy.
Families also get to enjoy unique experiences like mural walks, trolley tours, and river excursions while making every outing an adventure. With many kid-friendly dining options and welcoming attractions, parents can relax while the kids explore and enjoy.
So whether you are looking for a weekend escape or an extended stay, Nashville creates unforgettable memories and endless smiles. It’s a city where learning is fun, playtime is everywhere, and every moment becomes memorable - making it a top destination for families with children.