First of all, let’s shatter a common misconception: Nashville isn’t just for adults! Oh no, far from it. Nashville is teeming with kid-friendly attractions and activities, making it a must-visit destination for families! It’s not just about the music scene or the foodie culture here; there’s a whole different side of fun waiting for the kids too! From interactive exhibits at the Adventure Science Center to the magical performances at the Nashville Children’s Theatre, this city is packed full of fun things to do with kids. So pack your bags and prepare to explore Nashville’s vibrant child-friendly side!
As a Nashville resident for the past 12 years, I’ve had the absolute joy of taking my daughter to each of these fantastic spots. It’s been a fun-filled adventure, making memories and discovering all the kid-friendly things Nashville offers. From the thrilling outdoor spaces to the educational museums, there’s never a dull moment when you’re exploring Nashville with your little ones!
Here are my top picks for kid-friendly activities in Nashville. Be sure to also check out this post for additional things to do in Nashville and My Top 10 Kid-Friendly Nashville Restaurants.
Visit the Nashville Zoo
The Nashville Zoo is a great destination for the whole family. With over 200 species of animals, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences, your kiddos will have a blast exploring their surroundings. Whether they’re riding the carousel or checking out the reptile house, kids of all ages can find something to enjoy here.
One of the standout features at the Nashville Zoo is their new ‘Jungle Gym’. This 66,000-square-foot playground is one of the largest in the country—meaning there’s enough space for hours of fun and exploration. Climbable structures, swings, slides, and a thrilling 35-foot tall tree house are some of the exciting attractions here.
Beyond the daily fun, the Nashville Zoo hosts various special events throughout the year that are perfect for kids. From ‘Boo at the Zoo’, a cute Halloween event with trick-or-treating, hayrides, and more, to ‘Eggstravaganzoo’, the city’s largest Easter event—there’s always something fun happening. These events make for unforgettable experiences, creating magical moments for the whole family to enjoy. Be sure to check their calendar for more special events.
Adventure Science Center
The Adventure Science Center is a favorite for kids of all ages! This interactive science museum features an array of hands-on exhibits that explore the world of science and nature. From exploring space to examining different species, your kiddos won’t be disappointed as they learn through interactive play. The center also has live shows and demonstrations that are sure to keep their attention.
One of the most fun features at this museum is the Star-Spangled Spectacular show. Watch as stars, constellations, and planets appear in a brilliant display above your head—all while listening to patriotic music. For a truly unique experience, take advantage of the center’s ‘Laser Adventure’ program. Here, guests can explore the power of lasers and light with an engaging show that will have them on the edge of their seat.
The Hermitage
The Hermitage is the perfect place to bring your little history buffs! Explore one of the country’s most special homes—where President Andrew Jackson and his family once lived. As you take a self-guided tour, you’ll get a glimpse into what life was like in the 1800s. There are also several interactive activities available to keep kids entertained.
The Hermitage offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults alike. Check out their ‘Junior Ranger Program’ to learn more about national parks or join the ‘Play it by Ear’ program to explore music and sounds from different periods in history. You can even experience ‘A Day in the Life of a President’ program, which teaches children about the life and legacy of Andrew Jackson.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
The Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is another must-visit spot when in Nashville with kids. This historic 55-acre estate is home to an art museum, botanical gardens, and a whimsical Storybook Houses exhibit that will spark your child’s imagination. Whether you’re exploring the colorful botanical gardens, taking part in their art activities, or participating in their seasonal events, there’s always something fun to do at Cheekwood. This venue combines education, fun, and the great outdoors – making it one of the favorite fun things to do in Nashville with kids!
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is well-known for its special events that further enhance its charm, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. Every spring, the estate is transformed into a sea of color as over 150,000 vibrant tulips bloom across the grounds for the ‘Cheekwood in Bloom’ event. It’s a sight to behold and an absolute joy for both kids and adults. Alongside the breathtaking tulips are family-friendly activities like ‘drop-in ‘ART’ivities’, live music and more.
In the fall, Cheekwood becomes an autumnal paradise. The estate hosts ‘Cheekwood Harvest’, a celebration that includes a pumpkin house, scarecrows, and a unique collection of chrysanthemums. This event gives kids an opportunity to explore the fantastic colors and flavors of fall. These special events make Cheekwood Estate & Gardens stand out as a year-round destination, offering a memorable mix of fun and education, and making it an ideal spot for doing fun things in Nashville with kids!
The Frist Art Museum
Nashville’s artistic flair isn’t just for adults; kids can also get in on the action at The Frist Art Museum. Known for its dynamic schedule of exhibitions, the museum also boasts an interactive ArtQuest gallery where kids get to make their own masterpieces. With 30 hands-on stations, children can learn about art techniques and concepts through activities such as painting, printmaking, and collage-making.
The museum’s architecture is a marvel itself, and their Martin ArtQuest Gallery fosters creativity by allowing kids to create their own works of art to take home. Not only will your child be engaged, but they’ll also learn about different art genres from around the world. It’s a wonderful way to combine fun and education, making The Frist Art Museum another of the fun things to do in Nashville with kids!
Broadway
One can’t possibly talk about fun things to do in Nashville without mentioning Broadway. This vibrant, bustling street is the heart of Nashville’s entertainment scene and offers an eclectic mix of attractions for all ages.
For kids, Nashville’s Broadway is home to various, kid-friendly activities including the historic Ryman Auditorium and famed honky-tonks to live music showcases and dueling piano bars, you’ll find something here all ages can enjoy.
For some great live music and food, make sure to visit Acme Feed and Seed while on Broadway. This historic downtown establishment is a multi-level entertainment venue offering a unique dining experience. With a menu that caters to all tastes, even the pickiest of eaters will find something to enjoy. The first floor is home to a classic honky-tonk and the Acme Farm Store, which has the charm of a vintage general store. Upstairs, you’ll find a lounge with games, a sushi bar, and a rooftop patio for those who want to enjoy a meal with an amazing city view. Not only is Acme Feed and Seed a great place to grab some delicious food, but its rustic charm and lively atmosphere also make it one of the most fun things to do in Nashville with kids, and during the day, fairly safe from the debauchery that occurs at night. We like to visit for music on Saturdays 10am-2pm. Plus, you never know who you might run into.
Country Music Hall of Fame
When in Nashville, visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must! Situated in the heart of downtown Nashville, the museum is a treasure trove of rich music history that will captivate kids and adults alike. Its dynamic and interactive exhibits allow kids to immerse themselves in the world of country music. They can explore the vast collection of artifacts, photographs, recordings, and costumes that tell the stories of country music legends. From the interactive touch screens to the “Musical Petting Zoo,” where kids can try out various instruments, there’s no shortage of fun things to do at the Country Music Hall of Fame. The museum offers an engaging and educational experience that makes it one of the top fun things to do in Nashville with kids. Don’t miss out on their engaging storytelling sessions and musical performances. Be sure to add it to your Nashville itinerary for a day filled with music, fun, and learning!
Explore 12 South Neighborhood
The 12 South neighborhood is another must-visit spot when looking for fun things to do in Nashville with kids. This lively neighborhood offers a mix of unique boutiques, delicious food spots, and kid-friendly parks. Sevier Park is a fantastic place for kids to burn off some energy, with its wide open spaces, playgrounds, and a community center. For a sweet treat, head over to Five Daughters Bakery for their famous 100-layer donut. No trip to 12 South would be complete without snapping a picture in front of the iconic “I Believe in Nashville” mural. The 12 South area is a perfect blend of urban excitement and community charm, making it an ideal spot for family fun in Nashville.
Take a Mural Tour
One of the most kid-friendly and fun things to do in Nashville is to take a mural tour around the city. Nashville is known for its vibrant and colorful murals that are scattered throughout various neighborhoods. These public art pieces not only offer eye-catching backdrops for family photos but also serve as an open-air gallery that sparks curiosity and creativity in kids.
Start your tour at the Gulch neighborhood, where you’ll find the iconic “WhatLiftsYou” wings mural – a perfect photo-op for your little angels. Then head over to East Nashville for the whimsical “Make Music Not War” mural. Don’t forget to check out the playful “Nashville Looks Good On You” mural in Marathon Village. Each mural tells a unique story about the city, making this tour one of the most educational and fun things to do in Nashville with kids. Remember to pack snacks, water, and sunblock for your day of artistic exploration!
Experience the Magic at Nashville Children’s Theatre
Next on the list of fun things to do in Nashville with kids is a visit to the Nashville Children’s Theatre – one of the oldest professional theatre companies in the country dedicated to children and families. The theatre offers a variety of thoughtful, creative performances that are designed to entertain kids while also teaching them valuable lessons about life, culture, and empathy.
Whether it’s a playful adaptation of a beloved children’s book or an original production that tackles important social issues, each show at the Nashville Children’s Theatre is an immersive experience that will captivate your kids’ attention and stir their imagination. Don’t miss their drama classes and camps for kids who love the spotlight! Swing by their website to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance. This incredible cultural experience is definitely a must-do for families visiting Nashville!
Nashville is a vibrant city teeming with kid-friendly activities and attractions. From the open green spaces of Sevier Park, the mouth-watering 100-layer donuts of Five Daughters Bakery, to the Instagrammable murals scattered across the city, there’s always something fun and exciting for families to explore. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Nashville with kids, these unique experiences entertain and educate, making Nashville the perfect destination for a memorable family adventure. So pack your bags and gear up for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Music City. Remember, Nashville is always ready to welcome you with its southern charm and endless opportunities for fun.
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XO
Anna