I get this question quite often, you’re heading to Nashville with your family but you might not want to hit Broadway, (which is more than understandable) so you’re looking for activities to do with your family but want to make sure that you still get the Nashville experience. Look no further, I took a little bit of time to round up a few fun activities and restaurants for the WHOLE family.
The Adventure Science Center in Nashville has been a staple in Nashville for over 75 years. The science center offers engaging learning experiences and science fun through hands-on, interactive exhibits, innovative programs, and full-dome productions in state-of-the-art Sudekum Planetarium. This is a great activity for the whole family, you’ll feel like a kid again! Make sure to keep up with their hands on exhibits.
Centennial Park is over a 100 acres of beauty in the heart of Nashville. It features everything from sand volleyball courts, a dog park, a one mile walking trail and even the famous replica of the Parthenon in Athens. This park is a great space to spend a sunny afternoon – Pick up food from Hattie B’s Hot Chicken or sandwiches from 51st Deli and enjoy nature at it’s finest.
Cheekwood is a family favorite of ours, this botanical garden in Nashville brings history to life. During any season, they always have the best exhibits and fun for the whole family. During the spring season, they have THE most beautiful tulips – 1,000 of them scattered through out the whole property and in the fall they have every pumpkin you can imagine. Enjoy the lights and hot coco during the holiday season and even meet Santa! It’s magic no matter the time of year!
The Country Music Hall of Fame, preserves and protects legends and treasures. Inside you’re invited to stand up close to history, to get a glimpse behind the scenes at the music and artists that sustained you this past year, and before, and beyond. Make sure to check out and see if they are offering any family programs when you’re in town – Whether that’s a songwriting 101 class or an exhibit.
Kids are ALWAYS free at the First Museum, and that’s a win for sure. This museum sits right one Broadway and is a great experience for the whole family. The First offers many different exhibits ranging from contemporary art to renaissance art. Be sure to check out the exhibits before you come!
Welcome to the HOME of country music – yes that’s right! Anyone who’s anyone is the country music industry has made their way across that stage. Make sure you book tickets for a tour of the Grand Ole Opry and also don’t miss the events calendar to see who is playing when you’re in town. Who knows, you might just stumble upon the next Dolly 😉
The Pfunky Griddle IS a Nashville staple and shhhh.. it might just be one of Nashville’s best kept secrets. I truly don’t think tourists know about this place (but now since you do, let’s keep it our little secret) This is an interactive pancake bar, yes you can make YOUR OWN pancakes right at your table. Just pick your favorite toppings and get to pouring the batter right on your griddle.
Speaking of pancakes, if you don’t want to do your own flipping – Pancake Pantry is THE place to go if you want the best pancake in town. Let’s just say their sweet potato pancakes are my families favorite – or the praline pecan. YUM. Be sure to get their early because their is usually a line, but I promise it’s worth it.
The Nashville Zoo is fun for the whole family ! When Lily + Luke were younger, this was a great place to take them for an afternoon outing. Between the flamingos and the giraffe’s they were always entertained. Don’t miss out on fun activities like Boo at the Zoo or different events through out the whole year.
Radnor Lake is tucked away in the neighborhood of Green Hills – you might not even realize there is a state park when driving around. This state park is a great place for a leisurely hike where you are able to catch all the beauty of TN.
If you’re in the 12th South area, then you must definitely check out Sevier Park. It has a play set for children and all the restaurants and shop are just a short walk away! Pick up food from Bar Taco or ice cream from Jeni’s and then enjoy it at the park. If you’re in town on a Tuesday, they host a farmers market with some Nashville favorites – be sure to check it out!
You might remember a few years back when I took the kids for a staycation at Sounds Waves – Gaylord Opryland. Let’s just say it’s something we all still talk about – WE HAD SO MUCH FUN. It’s a great hotel and SO kid friendly, plus could it be anymore beautiful? Check out this whole post on it here.
If you’re looking for some good pizza, a cold beer and wide open spaces for your kids to run around – Then look no further than Tailgate Brewery! Let’s just say their hot honey pizza DOES NOT disappoint. During the summer they have movie nights and when the weather is nice, you HAVE TO sit outside under the string lights.
The Ryman is another piece of history in the heart of downtown Nashville – If you have music lovers in your group, this is definitely a must see. Snag tickets to see a concert or even book a tour ! Be sure to check out 5th and Broadway after for a bite to eat.
