Nashville With Kids: 12 Must-Do Activities the Whole Family Will Love
Nashville has earned its nickname "Music City" for good reason, but here's a secret many tourists don't discover until they visit with their families: Nashville is absolutely fantastic for kids. The city has invested heavily in family-friendly attractions, and you'll find that many of the best things to do here appeal just as much to adults as they do to children.
I recently spent a week exploring Nashville with my two kids (ages 8 and 12), and I was genuinely surprised by how much there is to do beyond the famous Broadway honky-tonks. From hands-on science museums to scenic outdoor experiences, here's everything your family needs to know about having an incredible time in Nashville.
Getting Around Nashville With Kids
Before diving into specific attractions, let's talk logistics. Nashville's downtown area is very walkable, which is great for families. The Broadway corridor and surrounding streets are stroller-friendly, and you'll find plenty of benches for rest stops. However, summer months can be extremely hot and humid, so plan your outdoor activities for morning or early evening hours.
Parking downtown can be challenging and expensive. I recommend using the Music City Center garage or looking for metered street parking a few blocks from the main tourist areas—you'll save money and avoid the congestion. The Nashville WeGo bus system is affordable and reliable for getting around, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
Top Attractions for Families in Nashville
1. Adventure Science Center
This nonprofit museum should be at the top of your list when visiting Nashville with kids. The science center features over 30,000 square feet of interactive exhibits that make learning fun and engaging for children of all ages.
My kids spent three hours here and could have easily stayed longer. TheSudekum Planetarium offers stunning shows that transport you through the cosmos, and the hands-on exhibits cover everything from simple machines to human anatomy. The recently renovated adventure tower was a particular hit with my children, featuring climbing structures and interactive displays.
Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds. The museum can get busy during school field trips on certain days.
2. The Parthenon in Centennial Park
You don't need to travel to Greece to see a full-scale replica of the ancient Parthenon—it's right here in Nashville. This architectural marvel was built for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition and now serves as an art museum and cultural landmark.
Kids will be amazed by the 42-foot-tall statue of Athena inside, and the art gallery features rotating exhibitions alongside a permanent collection of American paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries. The surrounding Centennial Park is perfect for a picnic lunch, with walking trails, a lake, and plenty of open space for kids to run around.
Budget-friendly option: Viewing the exterior and exploring the park is completely free.
3. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Even if country music isn't your usual jam, this museum offers an fascinating journey through American musical history that will captivate the entire family. The newly expanded museum space allows you to explore decades of musical heritage through immersive exhibits and rare artifacts.
The automatic tour includes access to the Taylor Swift Education Center, which features interactive exhibits perfect for younger visitors. Kids can try their hand at different instruments, learn about songwriting, and even record their own short musical piece.
Time saver: Book your timed-entry tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
4. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
The Nashville Zoo consistently ranks among the best family attractions in the city, and after visiting, I can see why. The 200-acre facility houses over 2,200 animals and features beautifully designed habitats that allow for excellent viewing.
The flamingo喂 station and carousel are particular favorites with younger children. My kids loved the giraffe feeding experience—there's something magical about having a giraffe gently take treats from your child's palm. The zoo's nature play area allows kids to climb, explore, and connect with the natural world.
Insider tip: Purchase tickets online for a significant discount off the walk-up price. Aim to arrive when the zoo opens to beat crowds and catch animals during their most active morning hours.
5. Discovery Center at Murfreesboro
Just a short drive from downtown Nashville, the Discovery Center offers an outdoor nature park and indoor museum space that encourages children to explore, create, and discover. The facility sits on over 200 acres of forests, meadows, and wetlands.
The indoor museum features interactive exhibits focused on art, science, and environmental education. Outside, miles of hiking trails wind through diverse habitats, and the natural play area lets kids build forts, explore streams, and connect with nature without structured activities.
Great for: Kids who need to move and burn energy. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces makes this perfect for active children.
6. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
This 55-acre botanical garden and art museum provides a sophisticated yet family-friendly experience. The grounds feature meticulously maintained gardens, sculpture trails, and seasonal flower displays that will wow visitors of all ages.
During our visit, my kids loved exploring the Bilingual Garden and discovering the various sculptures scattered throughout the property. The mansion itself offers a glimpse into Nashville's historical architecture, though young children may lose interest quickly in the indoor spaces.
Check the calendar: Cheekwood hosts excellent family events throughout the year, including holiday lights displays in winter and outdoor concerts in summer.
7. Andrew Jackson's Hermitage
Step back in time with a visit to the home of our seventh president. The Hermitage offers an educational glimpse into early American history, with guided tours of the plantation grounds and restored log cabins that bring the 1800s to life.
Younger children may need breaks from the more detailed historical commentary, but the grounds are spacious enough for them to explore and burn energy. The farm area features heritage breed animals that kids can observe and learn about.
Educational value: This visit provides excellent context for understanding American history, particularly regarding the complex issues surrounding slavery and early presidential politics.
8. Johnny Cash Museum
For families with older children interested in music history, the Johnny Cash Museum offers an intimate look at one of America's greatest musicians. The museum houses the largest collection of Johnny Cash memorabilia in the world, including instruments, costumes, and personal photographs.
The exhibits are well-curated and tell a compelling story about Cash's life and legacy. While younger children may not appreciate the full historical context, kids who enjoy music will likely be fascinated by the artifacts and stories.
Combine with: A visit to the nearby Grammy Museum or a drive by the Ryman Auditorium.
9. Centennial Park Dragon Sculptures
Here's a free Nashville gem that many tourists miss. The park is home to two magnificent dragon sculptures created by famous glass artist Dale Chihuly. The sculptures, part of a 2001 art installation, are stunning in their size and complexity.
Kids are often mesmerized by the vibrant colors and intricate designs. The sculptures are located near the Parthenon, making it easy to combine both attractions in a single visit. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photographs.
Perfect for: A quick stop between longer attractions, or a peaceful spot for rest and appreciation.
10. Broadway and Downtown Nashville
No visit to Nashville is complete without experiencing the energy of Broadway, even with kids in tow. During the day, the street performers, colorful buildings, and Southern hospitality create a festive atmosphere that's entertaining for the whole family.
I recommend visiting during daylight hours for the most family-friendly experience. Many honky-tonks serve food, and several offer afternoon shows that are appropriate for all ages. The retail shops along Broadway feature everything from western wear to music memorabilia.
Important note: Evenings can get rowdy as bachelor/bachelorette parties fill the bars. Plan accordingly based on your family's comfort level.
11. Radnor Lake State Park
When you need a break from the city buzz, Radnor Lake offers nature therapy just minutes from downtown. This 1,400-acre park features hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and around a scenic lake.
The terrain is manageable for families with children, and the wildlife viewing opportunities are excellent. We've spotted deer, turkeys, and various bird species during our visits. The Barbara J. Holland Aquatic Center is perfect for cooling off after a hike.
Trail recommendation: The Ganier Ridge Trail offers stunning views and is suitable for families with children ages 6 and up. Start early to maximize wildlife sighting opportunities.
12. Nashville's Food Scene for Families
Nashville's culinary offerings extend far beyond hot chicken (though you should definitely try it!). The city boasts an incredible variety of family-friendly restaurants serving Southern comfort food, international cuisines, and creative takes on classic dishes.
For authentic Nashville hot chicken that's more approachable for kids, try Princes Hot Chicken Shack or Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish. Hattie B's is legendary but be prepared for significant wait times and serious heat levels.
Family-friendly dining: The Pidgin and Emileille offer elevated Southern cuisine in casual settings, while The Personal Food Company provides farm-to-table options that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Tips for Visiting Nashville With Kids
Timing matters: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Summer can be oppressively hot, while winter brings colder temperatures and fewer daylight hours for sightseeing.
Pace yourself: Nashville has enough attractions to fill multiple days. Resist the urge to cram too much into each day, especially with younger children. A more relaxed pace means happier kids and more memorable experiences.
Stay hydrated: Tennessee summers are no joke. Carry water bottles for everyone and take frequent breaks in air conditioning.
Book accommodations wisely: Staying in neighborhoods like East Nashville, The Gulch, or 12 South provides easy access to attractions while offering a more authentic local experience than the busy downtown core.
Don't miss local neighborhoods: Areas like 12 South feature colorful murals, boutique shops, and excellent casual dining that appeal to families. It's a perfect way to experience Nashville like a local.
Final Thoughts
Nashville has successfully transformed itself into a destination that welcomes families with open arms. The city understands that parents want meaningful vacation experiences too, which is why so many attractions here genuinely appeal to both adults and children.
Whether your family loves history, music, nature, or simply great food, Nashville delivers on all fronts. The warmth of Southern hospitality combined with an energetic modern city atmosphere creates a unique environment where everyone in your family will find something to love.
Start planning your Music City adventure today—your kids might discover a new appreciation for country music, history, or the great outdoors. And who knows? You might find yourself humming "Take Me Home, Country Roads" long after you've returned home.
What Nashville attractions are you most excited to explore with your family? Drop a comment below and share your travel plans!