35 Fun Family Activities In Nashville

Are you looking for some fun family activities in Nashville? Then you are in luck because Nashville has so much to do. I have been exploring Nashville with kids since I moved here 15 years ago. From family outdoor adventures to indoor family exploration, you can do something new every day with your family, if you can find the time! As we enter the second half of September, harvest-themed events and fall festivals are happening all over Nashville. You can always find fun seasonal events going on at Nashville museums, parks, and local businesses and churches. I have also provided a long list of family activities in Nashville that can be done year round. Children grow so fast and they are such a blessing to have so make sure you squeeze in lots of family fun with these suggestions for things to do in Nashville with kids.

List Of Some Of The Best Family Activities In Nashville, Tennessee

Looking for a family-friendly getaway that will leave your kids wide-eyed with wonder? Well, prepare to be dazzled by the vibrant city of Nashville! From its rich musical history to its breathtaking outdoor spaces, Nashville has something for everyone. In this article, we’re going to take you on a whirlwind tour of the top 35 fun and surprising activities that will keep your kids entertained and create lasting memories in Music City, USA. Get ready to explore the Adventure Science Center, embark on a thrilling adventure at the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort, immerse yourselves in history at the Tennessee State Museum, and so much more. With Nashville as your playground, your little ones will be begging you to come back for more. So pack your bags, gather your little adventurers, and let’s delve into the wonders that await you in Nashville!,

Discover fun and surprising activities to do in Nashville with your kids! From interactive museums to exciting outdoor adventures, this article will share the best family-friendly attractions in Music City, USA. Find out the hidden gems of Nashville that are guaranteed to delight your kids! This guide will take you off the beaten path and introduce you to unique attractions, secret spots, and local favorites that will create unforgettable memories for your family.

I am starting a list of family activities in Nashville, Tennessee. I would like to continue to add to this list so feel free to share your ideas on social media @familyfocusblog! In the mean time, here are plenty of fun family activities to in Nashville to keep you active and engaged in your community.

1. Nashville Farmers’ Market

Buying produce from a farmers market is a great way to celebrate the harvest months while supporting local farmers! Located at 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., the Nashville Farmers’ Market is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day of the week. Explore the North and South Farm Sheds and choose from plenty of fresh produce and other products. The market vendors sell all sorts of colorful and nutritious items, including cheeses, baked goods, fruit, vegetables, herbs, meats, eggs, and juices.

Chatting with the vendors about where all the food comes from and how it’s made can be a fun way to learn more about what you’re eating. Kids will enjoy learning about what local farms produce. Additionally, you can stop for lunch or dinner at one of the tasty food stalls inside that offer food from around the world! My husband loves the Colombian place, I love the Indian and my son loves the BBQ. You can also get a photo for Instagram while you are there!

2. Honeysuckle Hill Farm

There are several fun fall activities kids will love.  Located 30 minutes north of Nashville in Springfield, TN, the Honeysuckle Hill Farm has given my family some truly enjoyable days in the autumn months. Try navigating the massive corn maze by collecting clues placed along the paths. Pick a pumpkin to take home, and split a caramel apple with a friend. If you’re feeling brave, check out Scream Creek after dark. From the Haunted Woods to Zombie Apocalypse Paintball, Scream Creek can be quite a scare for those who want to get in the Halloween spirit!  For fun during the other seasons, the farm also hosts pig races, chicken shows, and an Adventure Park with ziplines and a rock wall.

3. Full Moon Pickin’ Parties

Take your family to a Full Moon Pickin’ Party for a relaxing night out. These Parties take place near the full moon and feature live bluegrass music. Bring a blanket, folding chairs, and a picnic dinner to set up on the grass in front of the stage. Buy tickets in advance at NowPlayingNashville.com to make sure you save a spot! All funds raised by the Pickin’ Parties go directly toward protecting the Warner Parks of Nashville.

4. Cheekwood

Visit the Cheekwood Gardens for a fun day of outdoor family activities in Nashville. The grounds are beautiful and open for family exploration year round and there is almost always some special exhibit or event going on featuring the diverse Cheekwood artist community. The property is located at 1200 Forrest Park Drive in Nashville, and offers a beautiful setting for a day of family fun. You can also tour the mansion and for a taste of history and to see some beautiful works of art.

5. Nashville Zoo At Grassmere

Visit the local Nashville Zoo At Grassmere for a full day of family fun. It is a very large zoo and with little kids, it can take a long time to get through the whole thing. When my kids were smaller, we would get the annual pass so we could just devote a day to a different area of the zoo each time we went and then allow the kids to play at the huge zoo playground. Tour the historic Croft House and explore its scenic lawn, garden, and farm. This presents a special opportunity to delve into Nashville history through a civil war display, pen and ink station, storytelling, and paper doll making. They also have various festivals and events throughout the year to celebrate live music, animal presentations, and other activities.

6. Edwin Warner Park

The Edwin Warner Park is a fantastic Nashville family resource. Whether you want to hike, run, or just hang out in Nature, Edwin Warner Park is always fun. You can play at the playground and make mud pies, check out the garden, visit the ponds and bird blinds. Additionally, there is a Nature Center at the Edwin Warner Park that is very fun to visit with your children and they offer lots of educational programming there as well.

7. Frist Art Museum

We love the Frist Art Museum. They always have really great exhibits going on. Most recently I saw a Native American Women Artist exhibit but over the years I have seen all kinds of great exhibits there. Plus, kids 18 and under get FREE admission to the Frist Center. They have an amazing kids area called Art Quest with hands-on fun, family activities and opportunities to try different art methods. Oh, and the building itself is a gem by Frank Lloyd Wright!

There are so many family activities in Nashville! I will keep adding to this list to keep the family ideas fresh. In the meantime, it is always the perfect time to celebrate family and get out and have some fun. You may enjoy this printable fall activities bucket list for more ideas of what to do this fall. What family activities in Nashville do you enjoy most?

8. Green Door Gourmet

The Green Door Gourmet is a farm right here in Nashville! On this 350 acre farm you can enjoy the on-farm market with CSA options and check out what crops are in season. It is pretty cool is have this agritourism destination right here in Nashville, Tennessee. My son went on a field trip last year and it was so fun to watch as he and his classmates got to tour the greenhouses, look at the farm equipment and learn about how food crops are grown.

9. Chuck E Cheese

If you are in the mood for food and fun there is also the classic Chuck E Cheese. Their arcade is loaded with fun games for the whole family. You can get arm bands to an hour of unlimited play if you like.

10. Percy Warner Park

There are big covered eating areas that can be reserved for parties or you can just enjoy the wide open spaces and have a family picnic in the park. So much to explore or bring along a frisbee for an active family game outdoors.

11. Golfing

Nashville has lots of great places to golf if your family is into the sport. You can hit the driving range at Topgolf Nashville (one of my son’s friends had his birthday party there). Alternatively, the Harpeth Valley Golf Center is perfect for beginners and families because they have a fun 9-hole, par-3 golf course.

12. Bowling

We love to go bowling as a family. The one we use as a family is Kings Bowl in Cool Springs. It is a great place to grab a bite, get a drink, and bowl. My son uses the Donelson Strike & Spare for his school team practices.

13. Explore the Adventure Science Center

The Adventure Science Center is home to hands-on science exhibits. They have fun things for the whole family. I first brought my kids there when they were toddlers (here is my review from back then). We took trips there regularly over the years. My daughter loved it so much she volunteered there throughout high school. They bring science to life in all sorts of fun way for kids of all ages. The state-of-the-art screen dome Sudekum Planetarium provides a thrilling exploration into space. Additionally, they often host special events like kids camps so check them out!

14. Nashville Shores

Embark on a thrilling adventure at the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort. This action-packed destination offers endless thrills and spills for kids of all ages. As you arrive at Nashville Shores, you’ll be greeted with the sight of towering water slides that beckon you to take the plunge. Whether your kids are adrenaline junkies or prefer a more relaxed experience, there’s something for everyone. For the brave souls, the thrilling water slides will provide an exhilarating rush as they twist and turn, leaving your stomach in knots and a smile on your face. If you’re looking to take it easy, you can grab an inner tube and float lazily down the lazy river, soaking in the sunshine and scenic views. Others can enjoy the wave pool or floating obstacle course.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the water park. Nashville Shores also boasts a sandy beach area, perfect for building sandcastles and basking in the sun. Your little ones can frolic in the shallow waters, feeling the coolness of the lake on their skin as they create memories that will last a lifetime. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can even rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the sparkling waters of Percy Priest Lake. So pack your swimsuits, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, and get ready to make a splash at Nashville Shores.

15. Immerse yourselves in history at the Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum is a great opportunity to immerse yourselves in the rich history of the state. As you step through the museum doors, you’ll be transported to a different time, surrounded by fascinating artifacts and stories that bring Tennessee’s past to life. From the Native American cultures that once thrived in this region to the pivotal role that Tennessee played in the Civil War, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the state’s history.

Walk hand in hand with your children through the exhibits, marveling at the carefully curated displays that showcase everything from prehistoric fossils to the iconic artifacts of the Civil Rights Movement. Let your little ones discover a newfound appreciation for history as they learn about the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. The Tennessee State Museum was surprisingly fun. Oh, and there is no admission charge so it is a FREE thing to do in Nashville with kids!

16. Enjoy a day of outdoor fun at Centennial Park

Centennial Park is nestled in the heart of the Nashville. It is really is something you should not miss as it hosts the life-size iconic Parthenon replica. That is itself worth the trip. In fact, it makes a great spot for a photo backdrop! It beckons with its wide array of activities and picturesque surroundings.

The sprawling green spaces of Centennial Park invite you and your children to revel in the beauty of nature. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined pathways, breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sound of birds chirping. Let the open expanse of grass serve as an impromptu playground, where your little ones can run freely and expend their boundless energy. It provides a great open space to fly a kite. Centennial Park is also home to an enchanting garden, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. Step down into this hidden gem and be greeted by a kaleidoscope of blooming flowers, perfectly manicured lawns, and peaceful water features. Sit on a bench and watch the ducks with your loved ones.

For a touch of culture, visit the Parthenon Museum. Admission is $10 but it is well worth it. You get to see the inside of the magnificent structure. It is fun to marvel at the grandeur of Greek architecture and learn about the history of why it is there. You will also see the incredible statue of Athena. As you explore the interior, art enthusiasts among your family will be delighted to discover the world-class art collection housed within- a very nice bonus.

17. Let your kids become musicians at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

As you step inside the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, you’ll be welcomed by the sounds of country music filling the air. Your kids’ eyes will light up with excitement as they see the impressive collection of guitars, banjos, and other instruments displayed throughout the museum. They’ll have the chance to learn about the history of country music, from its humble beginnings to the present day mega star scene, through interactive exhibits and engaging displays. You will enjoy seeing memorabilia from your favorite stars like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley.

But the real highlight for your little rockstars will be the museum’s hands-on activities. Here, your kids can try their hand at playing various instruments, from guitars to drums, under the guidance of experienced musicians. They can step into a recording booth and sing their favorite country tunes, just like their idols. The museum even offers workshops and classes where your kids can learn the basics of songwriting and music production.

18. Discover the magic of the Nashville Children’s Theatre

Step into the Nashville Children’s Theatre, and you’ll immediately be transported to a world of imagination and wonder. The theater’s productions are expertly crafted to captivate the minds of young children, with enchanting stories brought to life through colorful sets, lively music, and talented performers. From classic tales to original works, the performances at this theater are sure to spark the imagination of your little ones.

But the Nashville Children’s Theatre is more than just a place to watch shows – it’s an opportunity for your kids to become a part of the magic. They offer a range of interactive workshops and classes that allow children to explore their creativity and learn the art of storytelling. Whether it’s joining a theater camp during the summer or participating in a hands-on workshop, your kids will have the chance to unleash their inner actor and discover the joy of performance.

19. Downtown Nashville

Downtown Nashville is a hub of energy and excitement that will captivate both kids and adults alike. As you step out onto the streets of downtown, you’ll immediately be swept away by the vibrant atmosphere that fills the air. Stroll by the famous Ryman Auditorium and visit Assembly Food Hall. The lively sounds of music drift through the bustling streets, drawing you closer to the heart of Nashville’s entertainment scene. It’s a city that truly lives up to its reputation as the Music City.

If your little ones are aspiring artists, be sure to stop by Hatch Show Print. This historic letterpress shop has been creating vibrant posters for musicians and events since the late 1800s. Kids will be fascinated as they witness the traditional printing process and may even have a chance to design their own keepsake print. It’s a hands-on opportunity to appreciate the artistry behind music promotion.

One way to explore the big downtown sights with your kids is to do a Nashville scavenger hunt, like this one I did through Puzzling Adventures.

20. Grand Ole Opry

Known as the mecca of country music, the Grand Ole Opry is a must-visit destination for music lovers of all ages. Prepare to be dazzled by the sheer talent and passion displayed on stage as you witness live performances by both established and up-and-coming artists. From traditional country ballads to foot-stomping bluegrass tunes, the Grand Ole Opry offers a diverse range of musical styles that will surely captivate your entire family.

Beyond its historical significance and entertainment value, the Grand Ole Opry also provides an immersive experience that educates visitors about the evolution of country music and its cultural impact. Take a guided backstage tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of this iconic institution. From the dressing rooms once occupied by country legends to the stage where thousands of performances have taken place, the tour offers a glimpse into the magic that makes the Grand Ole Opry so special.

Then go shop at Opry Mills or visit Gaylord Opryland!

21. Lane Motor Museum

The Lane Motor Museum is an absolute must-visit for car enthusiast in Nashville. This hidden gem is home to a remarkable collection of automobiles from around the world, offering a unique and educational experience for kids of all ages.

As you step inside the museum, you’ll be greeted by a dazzling array of vehicles that showcase the evolution of automotive technology. From vintage cars to motorcycles and even microcars, the Lane Motor Museum has something for everyone’s interest. Your little ones will be fascinated by the vast assortment of vehicles on display, each with its own story to tell.

22. Cumberland Park

Cumberland Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Nashville, just waiting to be discovered by families looking for a fun and interactive outdoor experience. Located along the Cumberland River, this vibrant park offers a multitude of activities that will keep kids entertained for hours on end. There is even an impressive outdoor amphitheater.

One of the main highlights of Cumberland Park is its incredible playground. Designed to ignite children’s imaginations, the playground features whimsical structures and creative play areas. From climbing walls to slides, there’s something for kids of all ages to enjoy. The park has taken great care to ensure that the playground is not only exciting but also safe, making it the perfect place to let your little ones run wild while you relax and soak in the scenic views of the river.

For water lovers, Cumberland Park boasts an interactive splash pad that is guaranteed to create endless giggles and laughter. With its spraying water features and fountains, this refreshing oasis provides a welcome respite from the Nashville heat. Kids can cool off and make a splash as they interact with the different water elements, making memories that will last a lifetime.

13 More Fun Things To Do In Nashville With Kids:

I think that was a great start on fun things to do in Nashville with kids but there are even more ideas coming! Embark on an educational and fun-filled journey in Nashville with your little ones. This article highlights the best educational attractions and interactive experiences. These family activities are sure to captivate young minds whether you are enjoying a fantastic family vacation in the heart of Tennessee or just exploring more of where you live!

• Entertainment Shows At Bridgestone Arena like Disney on Ice, Monster Jam, and Marvel Universe LIVE!
• Broadway Theater Performances At TPAC like the SpongeBob Musical
• A Tasty Outing To A Southern Restaurant In Nashville
• Live Concerts (Always happening around town like at Bluebird Cafe, Live On The Green or Backroads Live.)
• Get A Tour of the Historic Belmont Mansion (Dates back to 1864.)
• Attend an annual festival like the Italian Lights Festival or the Music City Food Festival.
• Visit Gaylord Opryland Resort– amazing to just walk around and look at their beautiful indoor gardens, check out the shops, try their restaurants, and ride a gondola. You can also check out their SoundWaves indoor waterpark if you are in the market for a staycation.
• Trampoline Parks like Defy Nashville
• Rock Wall Climbing like The Crag
• Green Way Trail for running, rollerblading, walking the dog, etc
• Harpeth River State Park – Hidden Lake – for hiking, fishing, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding
• Dragon Park- also known as Fannie Mae Dees Park is a great playground with a large mosaic dragon sculpture
• Nashville Sounds- Catch a baseball game with your family. They have a lot of interactive activities for kids to make it a great time for everyone.
• Andrew Jackson Hermitage– home to the 7th US President.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nashville is a treasure trove of exciting activities that will keep your kids entertained and engaged. From the Adventure Science Center to the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort, the Tennessee State Museum to Centennial Park, there is an adventure waiting around every corner. Let your little ones unleash their inner musicians at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, experience the enchantment of the Nashville Children’s Theatre, or delve into history at the Lane Motor Museum. Whether you’re seeking educational experiences, outdoor adventures, or artistic pursuits, this city has it all.

So, pack your bags, gather your little ones, and embark on a memorable journey exploring the wonders of Nashville together. Create lasting memories, inspire curiosity, and foster a love for exploration. As the great Jon Krakauer once said, “The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon.” Nashville offers an endlessly changing horizon of fun and surprises for your kids. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to ignite their sense of wonder. Start planning your Nashville adventure today!

So there you have 35 fun family activities to do in Nashville to get you started. There are loads more family activity ideas and I’d love it if you tag me on social media as you discover them so I can add them to the list. Now, go enjoy some quality family time in Nashville, y’all!

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