Nashville has all it takes to be a great family destination: kid-friendly museums and attractions, plenty of green space to run around in, and plenty of delicious food options. And while Music City is best known for its country music roots, there’s plenty more to do here than just listen to music.
Here are 10 Nashville adventures your kids will love:
1. Visit the Nashville Zoo: Home to more than 2,600 animals, the Nashville Zoo is a great place to spend a day with your family. Be sure to visit the African Savanna, where you can see lions, giraffes, and zebras roaming around.
2. Take a scenic train ride: All aboard! The Tennessee Central Railway Museum offers scenic train rides through the Nashville countryside.
3. Visit the Adventure Science Center: This hands-on museum is perfect for curious kids of all ages. Explore the human body, the solar system, and more.
4. Play at Centennial Park: Centennial Park is a great place to run around and explore. Don’t miss the Parthenon replica, which houses a fascinating art museum inside.
5. Visit the Farmer’s Market: Nashville’s Farmer’s Market is open year-round and is a great place to find fresh produce and unique gifts.
6. Go on a nature hike: Tennessee has no shortage of beautiful hiking trails. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring the great outdoors with your family.
7. Visit the Belle Meade Plantation: This historic plantation is a must-see for any history buff. Take a tour of the grounds, or visit the on-site museum for more information about the antebellum South.
8. See a show at the Grand Ole Opry: Country music fans will love seeing a show at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. Kids will be entertained by the music and the lively atmosphere.
9. Take a riverboat cruise: See Nashville from the water on a scenic riverboat cruise. Sit back, relax, and take in the sights and sounds of Music City.
10. Visit the Nashville Predators hockey team: Cheer on the Nashville Predators as they hit the ice at Bridgestone Arena. Kids will love watching the fast-paced action and meeting the team’s mascot, GNASH.
Good now you know of 10 fun things to do with your kids in Nashville! But how do you prepare your trip so that it is as smooth and enjoyable as possible for everyone? From booking Nashville hotels to finding family-friendly restaurants, here are some tips to make sure your Nashville vacation is a hit with the whole family:
1. Choose kid-friendly accommodations: When you book a hotel in Nashville, be sure to look for one that offers amenities like a pool, free breakfast, and in-room microwaves and refrigerators.
2. Plan your days in advance: Nashville is a big city with lots to see and do. Save yourself some headaches by planning out your days in advance. That way, you can be sure to hit all the highlights on your list.
3. Pack light: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Nashville, so be sure to pack light. comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must.
4. Don’t forget the snacks: Hangry kids are never fun. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy and hydrated throughout the day.
5.Bring some toys: A few small toys will go a long way in keeping your kids entertained while you’re on the go. A deck of cards, a travel game, or a portable DVD player can be a lifesaver on long days or maybe colder winter days.
6. Visit during the off-season: If you can swing it, consider visiting Nashville during the shoulder season or winter months. You’ll avoid the crowds and the heat, and you may even find better deals on accommodations and attractions.
7.Book a Nashville car service: Driving in a unfamiliar city can be stressful. Save yourself the hassle and book a car service to take you around Nashville. That way, you can sit back and relax while someone else does the driving. All vehicles have age-appropriate car seats and can accommodate large families. Plus, all the chauffeurs are local experts who can give you the inside scoop on the best things to see and do in town.
8.Research kid-friendly restaurants: Nobody wants to eat at a restaurant where the kids are bored and the food is bland. Do your research in advance and book reservations at some of Nashville’s best kid-friendly eateries.
9. Leave time for rest: Vacations are supposed to be fun, but they can also be exhausting. Build in some down time each day so that everyone can recharge their batteries.
10.Leave room for surprise: Don’t try to pack too much into your trip. You never know when a spontaneous detour or unplanned activity will turn into the best part of your vacation.
Now that you know all the best things to do with your kids in Nashville, it’s time to start planning your trip! With a little advance planning, you can be sure that everyone in your family will have a great time in Music City.
