Top 9 Things to Do in Nashville TN with Family | 2025 Guide

TL;DR: Nashville's Best Family FunThis guide covers the top 9 family-friendly attractions in Nashville. Must-visits include the interactive Country Music Hall of Fame, the expansive Nashville Zoo, and the hands-on Adventure Science Center. For a perfect home base, a spacious vacation rental like [Underwood Manor](https://www.underwoodmanor.com) is ideal for families, sleeping 10 with amenities like a hot tub and fire pit just 5 minutes from downtown.

Welcome to Music City, a destination famous for its legendary music scene but equally packed with unforgettable experiences for the whole family. While Nashville is a hotspot for bachelorette parties and group getaways, it boasts a treasure trove of attractions that will delight kids and adults alike. This guide is designed to help you navigate the best things to do in Nashville, TN with your family, moving beyond the honky-tonks to discover the city's kid-friendly soul. We've curated a comprehensive list of can't-miss spots, from interactive museums that make learning fun to sprawling parks perfect for burning off energy.

Planning a family trip means finding activities that engage everyone, and Nashville delivers. Whether you have toddlers, teens, or a mix of ages, our roundup covers everything you need to build the perfect itinerary. You'll find detailed insights into the Country Music Hall of Fame, the wild adventures at the Nashville Zoo, and the scientific wonders of the Adventure Science Center. For families looking for the ideal home base for their Music City adventure, a spacious and amenity-rich vacation rental is key. If you're looking for a place that checks every box, Underwood Manor offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, putting you close to all the action.

This listicle cuts through the noise to provide actionable tips and clear information, helping you make the most of your time together. We’ll explore outdoor escapes, historical sites, and unique Nashville experiences that create lasting memories. For families who love to mix city fun with nature, getting comfortable with outdoor planning is key; you can find great tips on [camping with kids](https://trekology.com/blogs/camping/camping-with-kids) that translate well to any park or nature outing. Get ready to discover a side of Nashville your family will be talking about for years to come.

1. Underwood Manor – Your Family's Perfect Nashville Home Base

Before diving into the city's top attractions, let's talk about the perfect home base. If you’re traveling with family or a group, Underwood Manor is a top-tier choice that combines style, comfort, and an unbeatable location. This one's made for groups that want comfort and character close to the action.

As an incredible Nashville Airbnb for groups, it sleeps 10 comfortably, making it ideal for families traveling together or for larger family gatherings. The private, 7-person hot tub and smokeless fire pit in the string-lit backyard are perfect for relaxing evenings after a day of sightseeing. Plus, it's just 5 minutes from downtown Nashville, meaning less time in the car and more time enjoying the city. With thoughtful extras like unlimited Nespresso, a Pac-Man machine, and Insta-worthy photo spots, it’s a destination in itself.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

Underwood Manor offers the space and amenities that hotels can't match. A full kitchen makes meal prep easy, the washer/dryer is a lifesaver for family trips, and multiple smart TVs keep everyone entertained. Free parking eliminates a common downtown hassle, making it a stress-free choice for your Nashville vacation.

Practical Tips for Your Stay

• Book Early: As a popular vacation rental with fire pit Nashville, it books up fast, especially during peak seasons.

• Plan Family Dinners: Use the BBQ grill and fully equipped kitchen to enjoy a few meals "at home."

• Enjoy the Extras: Don't forget to spin some vinyl on the record player or challenge the family to a game of Pac-Man.

2. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Often called the "Smithsonian of country music," the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a cornerstone of Nashville's cultural landscape and a surprisingly engaging destination for visitors of all ages. This isn't just a quiet gallery of artifacts; it’s an immersive journey through the history of a uniquely American art form. The museum skillfully blends historical exhibits with modern, interactive technology, making it one of the most dynamic and educational things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family.

Families can explore two expansive floors filled with everything from Elvis Presley’s "Solid Gold" Cadillac to Taylor Swift’s tour costumes. The core exhibition, Sing Me Back Home, provides a rich narrative, while rotating special exhibits keep the experience fresh for repeat visitors. The museum offers much more than just displays; it’s an interactive hub perfect for keeping kids and teens engaged.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

The museum excels at creating experiences that appeal to a multi-generational audience. Younger children can participate in hands-on activities in the Taylor Swift Education Center, which often hosts instrument petting zoos, songwriting workshops, and art-making sessions. For a structured adventure, ask about the museum's family scavenger hunts, which turn your visit into a fun and competitive quest. This focus on interactive learning solidifies its reputation as a must-visit attraction. For more details on this and other iconic Music City spots, you can explore the best of Music City while staying at Underwood Manor.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Book in Advance: Purchase tickets online to secure your entry time and bypass potential lines, especially during peak tourist season.

• Plan Your Time: A thorough visit can easily take 2-3 hours. Factor this in to avoid rushing through the exhibits.

• Check the Calendar: Look for special family programs or events scheduled during your visit. These are often included with admission and add significant value.

• Go Early: To avoid the biggest crowds, plan your visit for a weekday morning right when the museum opens.

3. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Spanning 188 acres of lush, rolling hills just south of downtown, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is far more than a collection of animal exhibits; it's an expansive adventure park dedicated to conservation, education, and family fun. Home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 350 species, the zoo offers a dynamic environment where families can connect with wildlife from around the globe. This combination of beautiful habitats, engaging activities, and a commitment to animal welfare makes it one of the most rewarding things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family.

The zoo is thoughtfully designed with wide, walkable paths leading to diverse habitats like the African Savanna, home to giraffes and rhinos, and the bamboo-filled trails of the red panda exhibit. Beyond the animal encounters, the grounds include the historic Grassmere mansion and gardens, offering a peaceful glimpse into the area's past. The zoo expertly blends natural beauty with interactive fun, ensuring a full day of exploration and discovery for all ages.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

The Nashville Zoo excels at creating hands-on experiences that captivate children and adults alike. Kids can burn off energy at the massive, 66,000-square-foot Wild Animal Planet playground, one of the largest community-built playgrounds in the country. For more direct interaction, families can participate in the Lorikeet Landing feeding experience or get up close with kangaroos at Kangaroo Kickabout. Special programs like the Zoo Snooze overnight camping adventures offer a unique, immersive way to experience the park after hours. For more inspiration on kid-friendly outings, you can discover other fantastic options for Nashville family fun.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive Early: The animals are generally most active in the morning coolness. An early start also helps you beat the largest crowds and the midday heat.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The zoo is large, and you’ll be doing a significant amount of walking. Comfortable footwear is essential for everyone in the family.

• Check the Schedule: Before you go, look up the daily schedule for keeper talks, feeding times, and special presentations to plan your route and not miss out.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring reusable water bottles to fill up at stations throughout the park. Staying hydrated is key, especially on warm Tennessee days.

4. Adventure Science Center

For families eager to blend education with excitement, the Adventure Science Center is an absolute must-visit. This isn't your typical quiet museum; it's a dynamic, multi-story playground of discovery where hands-on learning is at the heart of every exhibit. From the towering Adventure Tower at its core to interactive displays on biology, physics, and space, it provides a full day of engaging activities that make it one of the most rewarding things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family with curious kids.

The center features hundreds of interactive exhibits covering a vast range of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) topics. Kids can explore the final frontier in the Space Chase exhibit, experience simulated weightlessness, or climb through a giant heart. The state-of-the-art Sudekum Planetarium offers breathtaking journeys through the cosmos and dazzling laser light shows set to popular music, providing a perfect break from walking the exhibit floors.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

The Adventure Science Center excels at making complex scientific concepts accessible and fun for all ages. Younger children love the imaginative play areas, while older kids and teens are captivated by challenges like the virtual reality experiences and flight simulators. Live science demonstrations, often involving bubbling potions or surprising chemical reactions, are a major highlight and consistently draw enthusiastic crowds. Its focus on tactile, immersive learning makes science feel less like a school subject and more like a grand adventure. To fit this and other top spots into your trip, you can build your perfect weekend in Nashville itinerary with a balanced mix of fun and discovery.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Check Showtimes: The Sudekum Planetarium shows have specific schedules. Check times online and book your spot when you purchase admission to avoid missing out.

• Allow Plenty of Time: A comprehensive visit can easily take 3-4 hours, especially if you plan to see a planetarium show and participate in live demonstrations.

• Visit During School Hours: For a less crowded experience, plan your visit for a weekday afternoon when school groups have typically departed.

• Combine Your Outing: The science center is located near Fort Negley Park and the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, making it easy to combine your visit with some outdoor recreation.

5. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

Known as the "Queen of Tennessee Plantations," Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery offers a fascinating look into 19th-century Southern life and is a standout among the historical things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family. This isn't just a static display of old buildings; it's a living history destination where stories of the past are brought to life. The beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion and sprawling grounds provide a scenic and educational escape from the city's hustle.

Families can take guided tours of the mansion led by costumed interpreters who share tales of the Harding and Jackson families who lived there, as well as the enslaved individuals whose labor built and sustained the estate. The "Journey to Jubilee" tour, in particular, offers a crucial and powerful perspective, focusing on the lives and stories of the enslaved African Americans at Belle Meade. The expansive grounds, which include original outbuildings like a massive carriage house and a dairy, are perfect for letting kids explore and stretch their legs.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

Belle Meade masterfully balances in-depth history with accessible, engaging activities for all ages. The site frequently hosts living history demonstrations, outdoor summer concerts, and special holiday events that transform the grounds into an interactive experience. Children are often captivated by the costumed guides and the chance to see a world so different from their own. The open spaces also provide a welcome opportunity for kids to run and play, making it a well-rounded outing that combines learning with outdoor fun.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Check Tour Times: Call ahead or check the Belle Meade website to confirm tour schedules, especially for specialized tours like "Journey to Jubilee," and book in advance if possible.

• Explore the Grounds: Even if you skip the mansion tour, the grounds, gardens, and outbuildings are worth exploring. There's plenty to see and the photo opportunities are endless.

• Ask About Family Options: Inquire at the visitor center about any family-specific guides or activities available that day to help keep younger children engaged.

• Look for Events: Check the site's calendar before your visit for special events like antique car shows or holiday celebrations that add extra value to your admission.

6. Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort

When the Nashville summer heat kicks in, Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort offers the ultimate aquatic escape for families. Located on the picturesque shores of Percy Priest Lake, this seasonal attraction is more than just a water park; it's a comprehensive destination for summer fun, combining thrilling slides with the natural beauty of a lakeside beach. It stands out as one of the best things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family looking to cool off and create lasting memories.

The resort features an impressive array of attractions designed for all ages, from giant water slides and a massive wave pool to a lazy river perfect for a relaxing float. For those who prefer a more natural setting, the sandy beach area provides a classic lakeside experience right in Music City. At Nashville Shores, beyond the main attractions, families can discover a range of diverse outdoor water activities that make for a full day of adventure.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

Nashville Shores excels at providing a complete entertainment package for families and larger groups. Younger kids have their own dedicated splash zones like the Kowabunga Beach, a massive water treehouse and activity pool. The park's layout allows families to easily transition from high-energy slides to lounging by the wave pool or building sandcastles on the beach. This variety ensures that every family member, from toddlers to teens and adults, can find their perfect pace of fun. With options for birthday parties, day camps, and group events, it's a versatile venue for any celebration. If you're coordinating a trip for multiple families, you can explore great options for Nashville group activities here.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive Early: Get there before opening to claim a prime spot with shade and beat the initial rush for popular slides.

• Pack Water Shoes: The pavement can get hot. Water shoes will keep everyone's feet comfortable as you move between attractions.

• Sunscreen is a Must: Reapply sunscreen frequently throughout the day, especially after being in the water, to avoid sunburn.

• Consider a Season Pass: If you plan on visiting more than once, a season pass often pays for itself in just a couple of visits and can offer additional perks.

7. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

For a dose of natural beauty and artistic inspiration away from the downtown buzz, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a breathtaking retreat. This stunning 55-acre botanical garden and art museum is set on the historic Cheek family estate, offering a peaceful and enriching experience for all ages. It's a place where magnificent landscapes, world-class art, and history intersect, making it a truly unique and memorable thing to do in Nashville, TN, for a family looking for a change of pace.

Families can wander through 13 distinct gardens, including the whimsical Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden, explore intricate outdoor sculptures, and view rotating art exhibitions inside the elegant Georgian-style mansion. Seasonal events, like the brilliant Holiday LIGHTS display in winter or the vibrant Cheekwood in Bloom festival in spring, transform the grounds into a magical wonderland, ensuring there's always something new to discover.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

Cheekwood excels at making its expansive grounds accessible and engaging for its youngest visitors. The dedicated Children’s Garden is a highlight, featuring a charming playhouse, a story and learning garden, and interactive elements designed to spark curiosity about nature. Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts family-focused programming, from art-making workshops and summer camps to special weekend events. This blend of structured activities and the simple joy of exploring wide-open, beautiful spaces provides a perfect balance for a family outing.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Check the Calendar: Cheekwood’s programming is highly seasonal. Always check their website for special exhibitions, festivals, or family-day events before you go.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking to see everything, so comfortable footwear is a must for the whole family.

• Time Your Visit: Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully experience both the gardens and the art museum without feeling rushed.

• Pack Accordingly: Bring strollers for little ones. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds in designated areas for a relaxing meal.

8. General Jackson Showboat

Step aboard one of the largest showboats ever built for a truly classic Nashville experience on the water. The General Jackson Showboat offers a unique blend of dining, live entertainment, and sightseeing as it cruises down the scenic Cumberland River. This majestic, four-deck paddlewheel riverboat provides a fantastic alternative to the city's land-based attractions, making it one of the most memorable things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family looking for a special outing.

The experience is centered around a grand Victorian-style theater where guests enjoy a Southern-style meal followed by a professional-level stage show. The performances vary by season and cruise time, often featuring country music revues, gospel tunes, or festive holiday shows. Families can choose from midday lunch cruises, which offer stunning daytime views of the Nashville skyline, or evening dinner cruises that showcase the city lights.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

The General Jackson Showboat packages dining and entertainment into a single, seamless event, which simplifies planning for parents. The ever-changing scenery from the outdoor decks keeps children fascinated, offering a great opportunity to spot landmarks from a new perspective. The lively, family-appropriate shows are designed to entertain all ages, with upbeat music and engaging performers that capture the attention of kids, teens, and adults alike. Special themed cruises, like the popular holiday voyages, add an extra layer of magic to the experience.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Reserve in Advance: Cruises, especially weekend and holiday-themed ones, sell out quickly. Book your tickets online well ahead of your trip.

• Arrive Early: Boarding typically begins 30-45 minutes before departure. Arriving early ensures you get settled without rushing and can explore the boat's decks.

• Request a Window Seat: When booking, you can often request a table by the window for the best views during your meal, though this is not always guaranteed.

• Prepare for Motion: While the Cumberland River is generally calm, consider motion sickness remedies for sensitive family members just in case.

9. Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

While Nashville celebrates its stars, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum shines a much-deserved spotlight on the instrumentalists, session players, and producers who created the soundtracks of our lives. This unique museum is dedicated to honoring the talented musicians behind the artists, making it a fascinating and educational stop. It offers a different perspective on music history, focusing on the craft and collaboration that happens behind the scenes, a perfect activity for families looking for unique things to do in Nashville, TN.

The museum is filled with the actual instruments used in countless hit recordings, from the gear of the Motown-era Funk Brothers to the Wrecking Crew of Los Angeles. Families can explore exhibits dedicated to iconic musicians from all genres, not just country. The interactive elements, including a hands-on recording and mixing station, allow visitors to feel like they are part of the creative process, making music history accessible and engaging for all ages.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum excels by making music creation tangible and fun. It's less about quiet observation and more about active participation. Kids and teens are often captivated by the chance to play electric drums, guitar, bass, and keyboards in the interactive exhibit space, providing a hands-on experience they won't forget. The focus on the "how" of music-making offers a rich educational layer that complements the star-focused stories found elsewhere in Music City. This is a great place to inspire a budding young musician in your family.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Allow Plenty of Time: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the interactive stations without feeling rushed.

• Check for Demonstrations: The museum sometimes hosts live instrument demonstrations or special events. Check their schedule online before your visit to see if you can catch one.

• Combine Your Visit: Located in the historic Nashville Municipal Auditorium, it's an easy walk to other downtown attractions like the State Capitol or Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.

• Encourage Interaction: Motivate your kids to try every interactive station. It’s a core part of the experience and a fantastic way for them to connect with the music-making process.

10. Radnor Lake State Park

For families looking to trade the city's neon glow for the tranquility of nature, Radnor Lake State Park is a perfect escape. Just a short drive from downtown Nashville, this 1,368-acre protected natural area is a pristine oasis dedicated to wildlife observation, environmental education, and peaceful outdoor recreation. It offers a refreshing change of pace and is one of the most serene and educational things to do in Nashville, TN, for a family seeking a connection with the great outdoors.

The park features over six miles of trails strictly for hiking and wildlife viewing, winding through forests and along the picturesque lake. Unlike other parks, activities like jogging, pets, and bicycles are restricted to the paved Otter Creek Road trail to ensure the environment remains undisturbed for its animal inhabitants. This commitment to conservation makes it an exceptional spot for spotting deer, turtles, and a wide variety of bird species.

Why It’s a Family-Friendly Hit

Radnor Lake excels at engaging families through its robust environmental education programs. The visitor center often hosts guided nature walks, Junior Naturalist programs for kids, and seasonal events that turn a simple hike into an immersive learning experience. These activities are designed to foster a deeper appreciation for nature. For those interested in more of Nashville's memorable attractions, you can learn more about unforgettable things to do in Nashville in our 2025 guide. The gentle, well-maintained trails are suitable for most ages, making it an accessible adventure for the whole family.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Go Early: Arrive in the early morning for the best chances of seeing wildlife and to find parking, as the lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

• Bring Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience by bringing a pair of binoculars for a closer look at birds and other animals from a respectful distance.

• Check the Schedule: Visit the park's website or visitor center for a list of scheduled ranger-led programs and guided hikes.

• Stay on the Path: To protect the delicate ecosystem and for your own safety, always stay on the designated trails.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most family-friendly area to stay in Nashville?

Areas like the Gulch, 12 South, and East Nashville are great for families. They offer a mix of residential quiet, local parks, and family-friendly restaurants away from the late-night noise of Broadway. For the ultimate convenience and family-centric amenities, booking a spacious vacation rental like Underwood Manor provides a comfortable home base just minutes from downtown attractions.

Is downtown Nashville kid-friendly?

Yes, downtown Nashville is kid-friendly, especially during the day. Families can enjoy attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Musicians Hall of Fame, and the riverfront. While the honky-tonks on Broadway become 21+ venues in the evening, the daytime atmosphere is welcoming to all ages, with plenty of street performers and music to experience.

How many days do you need in Nashville with kids?

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal for a family vacation in Nashville. This gives you enough time to visit a few major attractions like the Zoo and Adventure Science Center, explore a historic site like Belle Meade, enjoy some outdoor time at a park, and still have downtime to relax without feeling rushed.

What are the best free things to do in Nashville with a family?

Nashville offers many great free activities. You can walk across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for amazing skyline views, explore the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, hike at Radnor Lake State Park, or window-shop and enjoy the atmosphere in neighborhoods like 12 South and Hillsboro Village.

Your Unforgettable Nashville Family Trip Awaits

Nashville has officially rolled out the welcome mat for you and your family. As we’ve explored, the city is far more than just a haven for country music fans; it’s a vibrant, dynamic playground brimming with activities that cater to every age and interest. From the awe-inspiring history housed within the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to the wild encounters at the Nashville Zoo, your itinerary can be as packed or as relaxed as you wish.

The true magic of planning the perfect family trip to Nashville lies in its diversity. One day you could be splashing down water slides at Nashville Shores, and the next you could be stepping back in time at Belle Meade. This variety is what makes Nashville such a standout family destination. You aren't limited to a single type of activity; you can mix and match experiences to create a truly customized adventure that keeps everyone, from toddlers to teenagers to parents, completely engaged.

Whether you're planning a family reunion, a special birthday trip, or a fun-filled weekend getaway, Underwood Manor delivers comfort, style, and location in one unforgettable stay. With room for 10 and amenities designed for group fun, it’s one of the best vacation rentals in Nashville for families — hands down.

After a day packed with Nashville's best family activities, you’ll need a comfortable and spacious place to call home. For families or larger groups, Underwood Manor provides the perfect retreat with room for 10, a relaxing hot tub and fire pit, and a prime location just 5 minutes from downtown. Explore Underwood Manor to secure a stay that combines the comforts of home with the excitement of Music City.