43 Fun Things to Do in Nashville with Kids (Updated) – 2024
Tennessee is a state of wonders, and Nashville is one of them. Nashville is the reason for some great country music and amazing stars. Apart from the people, it also inherits a vibrant historical culture.
The food here is phenomenal. Delicacies here include everything from southern cuisines to world-class meals.
There is an overwhelming list of things you can do in Houston with kids, so you will need more than one visit to check this list.
Here’s a list of 43 things you could do to enjoy and seize your visit to Nashville and nearby areas.
Best things to do in Nashville with children
1. Grand Ole Opry and Backstage Tour
The best we’ve ever gone closest to being rockstars are the offkey renditions on a karaoke night. But at Grand Ole Opry, you can step on the same stage your favorite artist performed on.
Why visit?
The opportunity to present yourself at your idol’s spot is something you will relish for a lifetime, so don’t miss out on this opportunity.
Apart from that, guests here can enjoy a fantastic live radio concert. You can also tour the Ryman Auditoriums behind the scenes.
You can get involved with the place’s rich history and witness some authentic dressing rooms and sets.
2. Hop on, Hop-Off Bus
The renowned Hop On Hop Off Bus is one of Nashville’s most popular family attractions and a compelling, economically feasible way to tour the city. It is a double-decker bus accompanied by a professional guide, making it a very informative ride. You can also ask the guide to let you know some of the underrated spots.
Why visit?
You get to see the whole place at a very reasonable price. The steady influx of attractions will also help keep the toddlers interested and controllable, allowing the parents to enjoy the attractions without worrying much about keeping the kid entertained.
You might want to take the Grayline as it provides the best overview of the city.
Don’t miss the concert here; it is one of Nashville’s best attractions for kid-friendly activities. It is a wonderfully timed event with unrestricted mobility, church-pew seating, and a fun atmosphere.
3. Belle Meade Plantation
Near the hotel Courtyard by Marriot, a great plantation land named Belle Meade is something you cannot miss. They organize unique tours to keep the toddlers occupied and to treat the parents; there’s wine tasting at the end of the time. In short, everyone is taken care of.
Why visit?
This plantation was initially a horse breeding stable; hence, you will also see some vintage carriage storage and groomed lawns. The tour around the place is almost 45 minutes, and during that time, the doors of the ride are locked so that you don’t have to worry about the children and enjoy the activity in its spirit.
4. The Escape Game Nashville
Keeping the teenagers in mind, Nashville offers a fantastic escape room that is very popular amongst teens. One of the most enjoyable indoor activities. It’s perfect for some fun, mystery, adventure, and cognitive exercise.
Why visit?
Eight people are allowed in these, especially created chambers giving the player an hour to figure the way out or escape. There are various helping hints like props and setups to help you on your way. Things do get tricky here, and that’s the fun of it.
5. Music City Hall of Fame
Nashville is renownedly known for its music. Music City Hall of Fame is the place to visit for the intricate knowledge and details of Nashville’s Country music.
Why visit?
Aside from the well-presented displays that summarize the genre’s history, the Music City Hall of Fame museum features super-festive kids’ activities like the Scavenger Hunt and many others. They also reward the kids at the end!. A separate kids’ section keeps the toddlers occupied and entertained.
The undisputed centerpiece is the recording studio, a crowd-pleaser. Here, you can record, replay, and save your song much as in a real recording studio, and it feels fantastic to do it in person.
6. Frist Center For the Visual Arts Nashville
This place may not sound like something the kids would be interested in, but don’t judge the book by its cover; wait till the kids check all the interactive events on offer. It has something for everyone visiting, as the artistry area consists of a fantastic portfolio of photographs, and the kids will surely never want to get out of their section.
Why visit?
The kids’ area includes various interactive fine art and construction activities for children, such as drawing, constructing, and water-color painting. They can even work hands-on on even stop animation.
Children and parents may channel their inner Picassos, and the entire family can create unique artworks together!
7. Nashville Adventure Science Center
Every place has fantastic venues that sum up pleasure, fun, learning, and leisure. That place for Nashville is its Adventure Science Center.
Why visit?
To see the most creative side of your kids, take them to the TinkerLab, where they can make whatever they wish. There is a very cool climbing framework in the middle of the place, and climbing upto the top can fetch your kids rewards and stunning views of Nashville. There is also a farting slide, which farts every time kids slide down and seem to love it.
8. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center
This is a massive resort and conference facility in Nashville, which is free to visit, and who doesn’t like free amusements. Many of the Gaylord Opryland Resort’s amenities, such as the delta river, cascades, and flower conservatory, are open to visitors.
Why visit?
Have the best leisure time and relax alongside the waterfall while the kids enjoy themselves in the vicinity.
You may also take a boat trip on the river right amid the hotel, a tour to Delta Island, or if you want to shop and refuel, you can enjoy the numerous charming shops and restaurants.
9. Centennial Park
Centennial Park is a massive park containing park classics like beautiful ponds and plush grass, as well as distinctive features—the Parthenon, a copy of the ancient Parthenon in Greece.
It also has a 24-foot Statue of Athena from the actual Parthenon in Greece erected here.
Why visit?
The entrance fee to visit the monument is a few dollars per person; however, the grounds are free and can be savored to your satisfaction!
Centennial Park is close to the outskirts of Nashville, so it may be a bit of a drive based on where you reside.
10. Musicians’ Corner
The Nashville Musicians’ Corner lights up in the spring with various outdoor performances and music events to enjoy. And the best part is, they provide free entertainment.
Why visit?
Musicians’ Corner is highly recognized for the food carts arriving during the celebrations, serving various tasty food.
You could eat all of Nashville’s most famous street cuisine in one visit, from Snow Cones to grilled cheese. You can head over to the picnic tables after grabbing your lunch, and if you’re not too peculiar, you can also lay out on the grass or the stairs of the auditorium and enjoy your meal.
11. Instagram Murals
In the growing Gen-Z era, the teens in the family must have lightened up when they saw this one. From the name “Instagram Murals,” you can bet there will be many exciting photo possibilities here.
Why visit?
The angel wings artwork is the most attractive, and you may have to queue up to take a photo with it. You might want to visit at the proper time to prevent strange shadows. The other artworks are equally impressive, but although some are close, you might need to drive for others’ needs.
12. Cumberland park and walking in Downtown Nashville
Cumberland Park isn’t among Nashville’s well-known treasures; if you didn’t seek it, you’d certainly rarely uncover it.
This fantastic playground is one of the best things to do with kids in Nashville, Tennessee.
Why visit?
You can have quality family time by carrying picnic tables or just relaxing in the leisure areas. The kids will have tons of fun because of its exciting slide, rock walls, and mild slopes on the banks of the Cumberland River.
However, if the kids get tired of the area, you can take them to the musical district! The park also features a pedestrian bridge that leads to downtown Nashville.
13. Nashville zoo
A trip here to the zoo is a nearly reliable vacation plan; who doesn’t enjoy seeing animals?
Perhaps you enjoy wildlife or are searching for a fun family activity, a trip to the Nashville Zoo is a must!
Why visit?
The wildlife park is located a few miles from downtown Nashville in a historic plantation residence and is home to roughly 6,200 animals from over 340 species.
The kids will also enjoy activities such as cuddling newborn kangaroos and viewing tortoises, and touching their shells.
Also, there is a beautiful jungle gym and the Wilderness Express Train, which promises to be a thrilling experience.
14. Bluebird Cafe
This renowned diner is equally as popular as the Television show in which it appeared!
Considering what to do in Nashville with kids, this theatre is an excellent choice for every age group.
Why visit?
Bluebird Cafe was first opened to the public in 1982 and has become one of Nashville’s greatest folk music venues.
Many famous performers such as LeAnn Rimes and Garth Brooks are regulars; they started their careers from Bluebird.
Every night, the café has two concerts, one of which is an open mic.
You may also select a trip that focuses just on Nashville.
15. Nashville Sounds
If you’re in Nashville around early April and late October, be sure to watch a Nashville Sounds baseball game!
The Nashville Sounds are a Minor League Baseball club after the city’s thriving music sector.
Why visit?
The city’s professional baseball club is a Quintuple associate of the Texas Rangers and a member of the Pacific Coast League.
On special days, with the intensity of a match and excellent refreshments, enjoyable baseball-league activities are prepared for toddlers.
Tickets range from $10 to $41, depending upon the nature of the seat, time of arrival, or even where you reserve.
16. East Nashville
East Nashville is lovely and eclectic; language and culture flourish here, and tourists are spoiled with food and shopping facilities.
The Five Points neighborhood has some beautiful graffiti artwork, elegant fine-dining eateries, and exciting pubs.
Why visit?
The Greenway at Shelby Park winds along the glistening Cumberland River and has beautiful tree-lined avenues.
Fatherland Street is the place to go if you’re looking for unusual gifts, hand-blended teas, or odd clothing.
Browse the wineries for some delicious local beer; various kid-friendly options are available.
17. Wildhorse Saloon
The Wildhorse Saloon features a great time for children, ranging from an excellent main stage dancing to outstanding cuisine, including a specialized kids’ menu, to a vibrant ambiance that keeps anyone going!
Why visit?
This massive bar and restaurant is situated off-Broadway and hosts various daily events; confirm the availability ahead of time to avoid unnecessary and pricey extra charges.
The exclusive cuisine, like the access fee, is also a little pricey.
The major attraction here is the ballroom floor, where you may participate in a line-dancing lesson or sway to popular western music.
The kids have their special exclusive session as well!
18. Pfunky Griddle
While visiting Nashville with children, you must go to the Pfunky Griddle, a restaurant as unique as its label! This is where you should take your kids for fun.
This one-of-a-kind restaurant has columns with waffle irons in the center where diners may prepare their favorite waffles on their own.
Why visit?
From M&Ms to strawberries, a range of condiments is provided to pair with the waffles.
In addition, you may cook yourself potato wedges, bacon, and mac and cheese. It has everything you can eat, and the restaurant also gives a whole bargain to enhance the flavors on your waffle!
For once, the toddlers will not run away from the table; instead, brace for a burst of sugar energy!
19. Poole Knobs Campground
Instead of taking standard forms of transportation, charter a Suv (provided you don’t own one) and travel down to Nashville; Nashville has a terrific selection of campsites.
Why visit?
The Poole Knobs Campground is a fantastic camping spot; it’s massive and overlooks the lake, so you can start waking up to lovely waterfront views and sleep on the ocean’s rhythm.
The campsite is 45 minutes from downtown Nashville; prepare ahead of time to accommodate for commute time and organize your agenda accordingly.
20. Seven points
Seven Points, another of Nashville’s beautiful camping facilities, is even nearer to the sea and right next to a campground and, most crucially, it is very close to the beach!
Why visit?
The campsites here are appropriately large; the US Army Corps of Engineers owns the area. Therefore, it is akin to a state park.
Furthermore, it’s not really an RV park.
This means there are almost no connections available, and you are entirely at Mother Earth’s discretion!
Additionally, Seven Points is barely a ten minutes drive from downtown Nashville, enabling it to establish a base.
21. Fannie Mae Dees Park
Like the thriving country music here, greenery is also abundant in Nashville, all of them are constructed with different specifications, and still, each one of them has truckloads of family-friendly activities and events. Perfect for when you are in town with kids.
Why visit?
One of the prime examples could be the Fannie Mae Dees Park here. This family-friendly park is also known as “Dragon Park” due to the enormous mosaic tile-covered dragon that rises from the earth. This extremely creative exhibit also includes a splashing pad, an exclusive picnic setup, and lots of fun pieces of equipment, all of which are appealing alternatives for the children!
22. Nashville’s Children Theatre
One of the finest things to do in Nashville with kids is to attend the Nashville Children’s Theater; the above is a non-profit institution that offers a wide range of exciting kids’ activities, such as summer camps, acting workshops, and the production of engaging children’s plays.
Why visit?
Whatever time of year you come, some kids’ activities will be available for various age groups and grade levels—check their site for the itinerary. According to your itinerary and on the day of the week you’re visiting, you can attend a matinée or a late performance.
23. Madame Tussauds
There is no way you haven’t heard about this one. It is the most renowned wax museum in the world. It is present in every big city across the globe, including Nashville.
Why visit?
Take photographs with all of your beloved celebs; the kids will be thrilled to see the idols that their era admires.
Madame Tussauds also introduces Nashville’s famous music culture history, with sculptures of most of its greatest talents.
It is adjacent to the Grand Ole Opry and is accessible until 9 p.m. every day (excluding Weekends), allowing you to visit multiple sites in a single trip.
24. Honky Tonk highway
The Honky Tonk Highway, another of Nashville’s greatest recognized avenues, never sleeps.
Upper and Lower Broadway have an almost unlimited amount of entertainment venues (that are mostly free! ), musical pubs, and fine diners.
Why visit?
The Whiskey Row pub, AJ’s Good Time Bar, and Alan Jackson’s Bar are three must-visit locations in town, all of which feature live entertainment.
Although other establishments would only allow adults at nighttime, many eateries, including the best picks like Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, are open to families all through the day.
Nevertheless, it’s not unusual to catch the sights of children on Honky Tonk Highway late at night!
25. Bb King’s Nashville
Inside BB King’s in Nashville, kids may slip on their tap shoes, move to the rhythms of rock music and authentic turquoises, and savor magnificent meals from specially designed cuisines menu options.
Why visit?
It is frequently rated among Nashville’s greatest diners and live entertainment venues. People coming to the establishment are delighted with rhythm and blues, classic country music, and perhaps the most succulent juicy pork in Nashville, complemented by a variety of excellent trademark beverages.
Furthermore, BB King’s is close to specific other prominent sites, and you may explore them before finishing the visit at the diner.
26. Nashville Ghost Tour
When you’re a clan of brave people visiting Nashville, you’ll undoubtedly like the Tennessee Ghost Tour, a private tour of Nashville City’s famous ghostly venues.
Why visit?
Local guides costumed in historic period dresses with lanterns also included lead visitors around Nashville monuments like President Polk’s Monument, the Tennessee State Capitol, and the Ryman Amphitheater, complemented by ghost stories.
Several travel companies provide a combo trip, including a ghost visit with a booze cruise or a spook tour with hiking; for a remarkable adventure, consider the corpse walk, which is a 1-hour casket trip over Nashville’s most fantastic iconic attractions.
27. Treetop Adventure Park
The Treetop Adventure Park is the place to convince you why you should visit Nashville with kids.
Why visit?
The adventurous track is set in the picturesque woodlands near Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort but also offers approximately 100+ exhilarating challenges of increasing intensity levels, such as zip lines, freight nets, hanging ladders, and Tarzan slides, to mention some.
Treetop Adventure Park seems to have activities for everybody in the group, so come along for a fantastic experience with plenty of socializing chances!
28. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
Andrew Jackson’s Mansion is the original house of Andrew Jackson, who was America’s seventh president.
Not only would you get to witness many of Tennessee’s greatest marked and picturesque fields, but you also learn about the president’s life and legacy and the events that took place.
Why visit?
Numerous visits are offered, ranging from 75-minute Premium visits, which take tourists around the estate and its expansive surroundings, to a stay that provides a profound perspective of life for enslaved people in the period.
On the other hand, a horse-drawn carriage trip transports visitors back in time to the existence of all individuals who resided here on a thousand-acre cotton field.
29. Nashville Shores Waterpark
Does Nashville seem to be suitable for children?
Featuring attractions like Nashville Beach Resort, you can be confident that it is.
Why visit?
Shores is the city’s largest waterpark and offers a multitude of excitement, almost 1 million gallons, to be exact!
This waterpark features eight thrilling adventure slides, a massive wave pool, a water slide, and the fabulous Kowabunga Beach, which includes a fantastic gazebo and arcade.
It is nestled on the beaches of Percy Priest Lake, and if you’ve spent your all-you-can-play allotment at the resort, visitors can relax here on the beautiful beachfront!
30. Adventureworks Zipline
Adventureworks Zipline is nestled on a 10-hectare mountain crest close to the Narrows of Harpeth State Park, approximately 25 kilometers southwest of the city.
This adventurous zipline, which the Harpeth River encompasses, is one of the greatest places in Nashville to see the stunning incredible scenic beauty of the authentic countryside.
Why visit?
Numerous zip-line trips are available, ranging from tree crown activities to romantic trips to midnight firefly rides to haunting rides; you’ve got everything covered.
Furthermore, children may enjoy their birthday parties too!
Maybe you don’t want to experience this endorphin rush; you can choose to spend some leisure time with nature meanwhile the kids have their share of adrenalin!
31. Ryman Auditorium
This auditorium was built in 1892 on 5th avenue Nashville and is a 15-minute ride from the local airport. It can commemorate around 2300+ people and was the former Union Gospel Tabernacle.
It is a heritage landmark known for having another of the finest musical performance venues in the country.
Why visit?
This theater is well-known for contributing to developing and promoting country-style music through actual live music attractions. Ryman Auditorium is also famous for having a great history.
Musical legends like Johnny Cash and June Carter bonded here.
From 1943 through 1974, the Grand Ole Opry had also been held here before moving to its present venue in Opryland.
The elements of the movies Honkytonk Man and Coal Miner’s Daughter have been shot on site.
If you’re a country music fan, you will admire its prominence and its significant influence in the genre.
You might even catch an excellent live performance if you’re lucky and visit at a prevailing time.
32. Pinewood Social
Pinewood Social is a restaurant and pub where you can socialize and make new friends.
Why visit?
This place serves delicious meals, beverages, and even a venue for leisure time, such as pin bowling, swimming, and much more.
The tavern offers beer brewed in the area.
Show up to Pinewood prepared to feast, wine, and have a good time!
33. Broadway
Lower Broadway is the essence of Nashville captured in one place. It allows free entry to all visitors. It is a National Historic Landmark known for its cultural and artistic significance.
Because of the live folk music events here, it is considered a cultural district. It is also peppered with restaurants and pubs that stream lovely country music.
Why visit?
Its neighborhood is culturally notable since it is home to famous music of great artists like Jimmie Rodgers, whose career started here.
In the early twentieth century, Rodgers, known for his synchronized dancing and singing, appeared in taverns on this road.
Several country artists were drawn to his shows.
It helped to promote the style of music in the region, transforming it into a folk music area.
Broadway carries a long, rich history of music to be cherished.
34. Capitol Grille
Capitol Grille is the place to visit if you’re looking forward to sophisticated fine dining in the city.
The eatery has opulent contemporary architecture and a tranquil ambiance suitable for a sophisticated dinner.
Why visit?
Their food follows the southern cuisine with a contemporary twist. It’s the best of both places, giving you the authentic taste of Tennessee. You should try this mix.
It is just the right place for excellent dining and wine tasting in Nashville.
This is a magical spot to enjoy excellent cuisine and beverages in a fantastic setting.
35. The Parthenon
Parthenon is a fantastic creation by the two most renowned architects, William Crawford Smith and Russell E. Hart.
It is a famous art museum with archives from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and occasional displays and events.
The architectural grandeur and antiquity are two of the most appealing aspects that entitle it to be a famous tourist destination.
Why visit?
This museum of art is a recreation of Athens’ Monument.
This was founded on the belief that Nashville was the “Athens of the South” at the time.
This was designed to be the focal point of the state’s Centennial Commemorations.
This was ultimately going to be destroyed. However, it had already risen to prominence and drew a significant number of people from all across The Us.
The city might well have suffered if it had been demolished.
36. Music Row
This place is made to pay tribute to the great artists who made Nashville- The Music City.
Because of its importance and relevance in the record labels, Music Row is recognized as the city’s core of the entertainment world.
The historic downtown is filled with major record labels, studios, and radio broadcasting dedicated to supporting the local and national folk music industries.
Why visit?
Explore the region to understand the origins of folk music and many other styles, such as spiritual and modern Christian music.
Many recording studios, such as RCA Studio B, where several folk music luminaries created their songs, are available for tours.
One may also go to this region to buy a record of their beloved performer.
37. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory
This is an astronomical observatory built in the mid-1900s.
The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is an astronomical observatory designed to educate and inspire the community about technology, research, and the cosmos.
Why visit?
The Arthur J. Dyer Planetarium, as it is often called, is a National Monument.
Things to do: Seeing the crescent, various constellations, and galaxies in the cloudless sky is indeed a lovely and gratifying feeling.
Consider viewing all of this and more via a lens. It’s entirely another perspective!
Visitors are guided into each galactic body to understand them and their roles in the celestial structure.
It is an excellent nighttime option for any Nashville visit.
38. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is among Nashville’s longest honky-tonks, where you can eat, sip, and enjoy some excellent country music.
The club opened in 1960 and is one of the most renowned and historic cafes in the metropolitan region.
Why visit?
This was initially called Moms. However, its current buyer renamed it Tootsie, following oneself.
This is one crucial spot that should be on every bucket list.
It includes a hallway of honor featuring images and mementos of musical luminaries who’ve already visited and graced the restaurant throughout the seasons.
Earlier in the day, renowned western recording artists such as Willie Nelson and Patsy Cline played at the club.
39. Warner Parks
In regards to tourism, Nashville is not solely focused on folk music.
It boasts magnificent and greenery surroundings where tourists may quench their inquisitiveness. Little Warner Parks are indeed the best places to see it all.
The gardens are committed to environmental safeguarding.
Why visit?
The twin playgrounds are approximately 7 kilometers apart and placed near one another.
Warner Parks is great for both single and family tourists. Toddlers enjoy playground spaces where they can engage in enjoyable activities.
These parks are distinguished by scenic pathways nestled amidst tall lush greenery.
These really are excellent trekking and riding paths.
40. The Grilled Cheeserie
The Grilled Cheeserie would be another popular restaurant known for its own tasty yet creatively crafted barbecued lunches.
Their sandwiches are unmatched, thanks to the secret recipe.
Why visit?
Due to increased clientele, the diner began as a food cart and subsequently expanded into a diner.
The fast food cart stills patrons on the streets of the city.
You might want to try the infamous grilled cheese sandwiches to check whether they match up to your expectations.
On-site, you may also get stew, smoothies, and desserts.
41. Tennesse State Prison
The Tennessee State Prison opened as a detention center in 1898 but shut down owing to overpopulation in the late 1900s.
Customers visit to observe the current prison’s building and internal walls that have a legacy left behind because of convicts who spent significant time there.
Why visit?
James Earl Ray, who’d been condemned for the murder of Martin Luther King Jr., was among the renowned convicts to be held inside.
You should not go to the building anticipating seeing something significant.
On the other hand, this building is a must-see tourist site if you are intrigued by historical landmarks and visiting areas that formerly held symbolic relevance.
Visitors will go through all of the chambers that hosted convicts and corrections officers. Over the seasons, it has appeared in several films.
The jail is also said to be cursed.
If you’re interested in supernatural occurrences, it would be on your checklist to do in Tennessee.
According to reports, you may hear the screams of people who were slaughtered in the facility.
42. Radnor Lake State Park
Radnor Lake State Park is among the city’s most gorgeous conservation areas. Radnor Lake State Natural Area is yet another name for the environmental reserve.
It is named after Radnor Lake, which is located inside its borders.
Why visit?
If you want to enjoy quality time with nature surrounded by lush greens and soothing noises, bonding with the environment, this is the spot for you.
Activities include hiking in the facility’s magnificent woodland and even around the Lake.
You’ll enjoy life’s splendor as you explore the facility’s plants and animals.
They also have six trekking paths.
You will also encounter coyotes, bobcats, minks, golden eagles, owls, black vultures, ducks, and other creatures.
The tourist’s bureau serves as a complimentary road map to simplify touring the area and reservoir.
43. Honeysuckle Hill Farm
Honeysuckle is a family-friendly tourist attraction and is the heart of Nashville’s music corn maze.
Honeysuckle Hill Farm takes pride in being the “heart of Nashville country music corn maze.” The attraction is near Springfield, despite its location.
Why visit?
It is an excellent destination for both single travelers and families with kids.
It provides a diverse choice of events for children of all ages to engage in.
If you are looking for a location to send your children to while you travel the city, this farm is a great alternative.
Your kids will love the cornfield maze, amusement park, and artwork & DIY section.
Parents will like touring the property and having delicious treats as well.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, these are some of the best things to do in Nashville with kids. This music city has everything from leisure, music, food, and ghosts to fun and adventure.
Excellent infotainment for kids and a delightful escape for the elders. You might run out of your days in Nashville, but you will never run out of the fantastic stuff to do here.
It’s one place that gives you memories and experiences worth a lifetime. So do make the best out of your vacation in the city. Let your kids out in the world. Freeze those giggles and live this beautiful life you were given to its absolute best. Wishing you a happy and healthy vacation, Always.
