Nashville, with its vibrant energy and diverse attractions, is a playground for families seeking memorable experiences. Although we don’t have rollercoasters, we have outdoor adventures, music, and indulgent treats! Your ultimate guide is here. Discover a world of entertainment, education, and fun as we take you through a journey of iconic spots, hidden gems, and delightful surprises that will create lasting memories for your entire family.
Nashville Adventures
Explore the heart of Nashville on “lower Broadway”, where family fun lasts until 7 pm. Take in the lively Honky Tonk atmosphere and enjoy a stroll along this iconic street, filled with music, entertainment, and dining options suitable for kids.
Take in the breathtaking views of the city from Acme Rooftop, a great spot for families to enjoy delicious food and vibrant ambiance before or after exploring the pedestrian bridge over the Cumberland river. Access the bridge from 3rd ave just south of Broadway.
Dance and groove at the Wildhorse Saloon, where kids can enjoy live music and even learn a few line dances in a family-friendly environment.
Cool down with a scoop of artisanal ice cream at Hattie Jane's, offering unique and delightful flavors. Located at Assembly Food Hall on Broadway & 5th (the less crazy end of lower Broadway). If you're near the river, check out Mike's Ice Cream, where your family can savor a variety of homemade ice cream flavors crafted with care.
See our Broadway Dining Guide Here
Step back in time and explore the historic Bell Meade Plantation, where guided tours offer insights into Tennessee's rich history. Located about 20-25 minutes southwest of downtown.
Adults & kids alike will love seeing weird cars, tiny cars, cool cars, european cars, old cars, and even an amphibeous army vehicle that is a barge with wheels. The unique and odd bikes here are also a treat. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Open 10am-5pm otherwise. Kids 5 and under are free.
The Fanny Mae Dee Park has giant porcelian and concrete dragons to climb all over. Great for kids of all ages and even adults.
Discover the legends of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame, where interactive exhibits engage young minds and celebrate the genre's heritage. Younger kids may get bored here, but most adults and teens should find plenty of entertaining exhibits, including the Taylor Swift section.
Embark on a wild adventure at the Nashville Zoo, where you'll encounter fascinating animals from around the world such as lemurs, leopards, meerkats, gorillas, and tigers.
Engage in hands-on learning and exploration at the Adventure Science Center, where interactive exhibits and activities spark curiosity in young scientists.
Introduce your kids to the Man in Black's legacy at the Johnny Cash Museum, a must-visit for music enthusiasts of all ages.
With an array of water attractions suitable for all ages, your family can enjoy a day of laughter, fun, and relaxation. From thrilling slides to lazy rivers, the water park offers the perfect setting to create lasting memories. Both indoor and outdoor areas are HUGE. Nashvilleguru.com has a great article on all the fun!
Satisfy your sweet tooth and learn about Nashville's confectionery history at the Goo Goo Cluster Factory.
Immerse yourselves in Tennessee's history and culture at the Tennessee State Museum, where free admission offers an educational and enjoyable experience.
Experience the world of "The Dukes of Hazzard" at Cooter's Museum, where memorabilia and interactive displays bring the beloved TV show to life. Located near Opryland.
Meet lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds, an exciting and interactive experience for the whole family. Located at Opryland Mall which also hosts Sound Waves Water Park, a place for year round fun.
Transport your family to ancient Greece at the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original Athenian monument located in beautiful Centennial Park. This is a great place for a picnic on a cool day or in the evening of a hot day. The Parthenon provides so much shade on its huge steps. You can also get tickets to go inside the building and explore the museum.
Be a kid again. This mostly-adult hangout in the trendy Gulch area of downtown hosts mini bowling, giant jenga, oversized beer pong, rope toss, tons of pinball machines and more. Adults can buy alcoholic beverages from the skilled bartenders. 21+ after 8pm. This is a great area to ride electric scooters.
Rev up the excitement with a visit to K1 Speed, where high-speed go-karting awaits! Feel the rush as you and your older kids navigate the twists and turns of the track, experiencing the thrill of racing in a safe and controlled environment. It's an exhilarating activity that promises heart-pounding fun for everyone. Not recommended for young kids; these cars are fast!
Venture to the Adventure Park for a treetop adventure like no other. Traverse thrilling zip lines, tackle challenging obstacles, and navigate through aerial courses set amidst the natural beauty of Percy Warner Park. This outdoor attraction provides a unique opportunity for your family to embrace adventure and test your limits in a stunning natural setting.
Experience nostalgic charm at Elliston Place Soda Shop, a classic diner serving up mouthwatering comfort food and sweet treats. Located close to the Parthenon.
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Hotel
Take a leisurely boat ride around the river and explore the enchanting beauty of the Opryland Hotel. Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and Sound Waves waterpark are also in Opryland.
Enjoy a fun-filled day of arcade games, entertainment, and family-friendly dining at Dave and Buster's.
Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort
During the summer, splash and play at Nashville Shores, a resort where you can zipline (Youtube video), swing, walk on ropes courses or enjoy a water park offering thrilling rides and aquatic adventures.
There's always something great happening at this 55 acre estate, from live music to dog shows. Click here for the event calendar. Located about 25 minutes Southwest of downtown.
Franklin and Brentwood Excursions (20-30 minutes south of downtown)
Start your Nashville escapade by channeling your family's artistic talents at Hawaii Fluid Art. Watch in awe as your kids create mesmerizing fluid art masterpieces using vibrant colors and innovative techniques. These hands-on workshops provide the perfect opportunity to bond as a family while creating unique souvenirs of your Music City adventure.
Embark on a scenic hike around Radnor Lake, where your family can immerse themselves in nature and spot local wildlife. It's a half hour drive straight south from downtown.
Bowling, arcade games, and family fun await at the Franklin Family Fun Center.
Lace up your skates and glide around the rink at the Skate Center in Brentwood.
Bounce and play at Urban Air Trampoline in Franklin, a haven of trampolines and exciting activities.
Challenge yourselves at SOAR Adventure Park in Franklin, where aerial ropes courses, climbin walls and mini-golf promise outdoor excitement.
Visit the Owl Sanctuary in Brentwood for a unique opportunity to learn about these majestic birds.
Let your kids explore the wood play structure at Pinkerton Park, a green oasis perfect for outdoor play. Enjoy a walk over the Harpeth river.
Experience farm life and enjoy family-friendly activities at Ladd Farms in Franklin.
Discover the joy of ice skating and hockey at the Hockey Lab in Franklin.
Get up close and personal with adorable alpacas at Mistletoe Farm Alpacas. This place is rated very highly.
For younger kids, The Monkey's Treehouse offers a safe and imaginative indoor playground. This imaginative indoor playground offers a safe and creative space for your kids to climb, explore, and engage in imaginative play. Watch as their faces light up with joy as they navigate through the treehouse's enchanting features.
Enjoy open play at We Rock the Spectrum, an inclusive indoor play space for children.
Experience horseback riding and connect with nature at Franklin Riding Academy.
Lodging in Nashville - Check out these gorgeous vacation rentals all close to downtown!