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

TL;DR: The best things to do in Nashville with your family include the Nashville Zoo, the Country Music Hall of Fame, Centennial Park, and the Adventure Science Center. For a perfect home base that sleeps 10 and keeps you close to the action, consider [Underwood Manor](https://www.underwoodmanor.com), a top-rated Nashville vacation rental just 5 minutes from downtown with family-friendly perks like a Pac-Man machine and a backyard fire pit.

Welcome to Music City! While Nashville is famous for its honky-tonks and legendary nightlife, it’s also a fantastic destination packed with incredible activities for families. From interactive museums to sprawling parks and world-class entertainment, there is a diverse range of attractions to spark everyone's interest, no matter their age. Planning the ultimate family vacation means finding the right mix of fun, food, and a comfortable place to recharge after a long day of exploring.

The key to a stress-free group trip is having the perfect home base. If you're looking for a place that checks every box, [Underwood Manor](https://www.underwoodmanor.com) is a top recommendation for families and groups. It sleeps 10 and features amenities like a Pac-Man machine, a fun backyard, and free parking, all just minutes from downtown.

This guide details the best things to do in Nashville with your family, from can't-miss landmarks to hidden gems. When planning your itinerary, consider adding some backup options for unexpected weather, such as engaging creative indoor rainy day activities to keep the fun going. Let’s dive into creating your unforgettable Nashville adventure.

1. Underwood Manor – The Perfect Nashville Family Home Base

Your home base is the foundation of any great vacation, and finding the right fit is one of the most important things to do in Nashville for a family trip. While hotels offer convenience, a vacation rental often provides the space, amenities, and comfort that allow families to truly relax.

If you're looking for a place that checks every box, Underwood Manor is made for groups that want comfort and character. It’s an ideal Nashville Airbnb for groups and families, sleeping 10 comfortably across multiple bedrooms. With a full kitchen, you can prepare breakfasts and pack lunches, saving significantly on dining costs. After a long day exploring, kids can play Pac-Man or enjoy the string-lit backyard while the adults relax by the smokeless fire pit. Best of all, it's just a 5-minute drive to downtown, keeping you close to all the top attractions. You can explore this fantastic [Nashville vacation rental with a fire pit here](https://www.underwoodmanor.com).

🏡 Why Stay at Underwood Manor?✔ Sleeps 10✔ Hot tub + fire pit✔ 5 minutes to Broadway✔ Pac-Man machine, Smart TV, & games✔ Unlimited Nespresso, record player & more👉 View the full property

2. Explore the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

A trip to the zoo is a classic family outing, and the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere stands out as one of the best things to do in Nashville for families with kids of all ages. Spanning 200 acres on a historic plantation property, this incredible park is home to over 2,700 animals. It offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, education, and pure fun.

Beyond viewing animals like Sumatran tigers and red pandas, the zoo offers unique attractions that set it apart. Families can ride the Soaring Eagle zip line for a bird's-eye view, get hands-on at the Kangaroo Kickabout, or cool off at the Wild Animal Carousel. The 66,000-square-foot jungle gym is one of the largest community-built playgrounds in the country and a surefire hit with energetic kids.

Pro Tip: Download the zoo's mobile map app before your visit. It provides a GPS-enabled guide, daily schedules for keeper talks and feedings, and helpful information to plan your route, ensuring you don’t miss must-see exhibits like the Andean bear or clouded leopards.

For those planning multiple visits or looking for extra value, an annual membership is a popular choice among local and visiting families. The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, from educational summer camps focused on wildlife conservation to festive evening activities like Zoo Nights. You can find more details about why the [Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a family favorite here](https://www.underwoodmanor.com/post/top-9-things-to-do-in-nashville-tn-with-family-2025-guide).

3. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

No trip to Music City is complete without a visit to the epicenter of its most famous genre. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the most essential things to do in Nashville for a family, offering an immersive journey into the history and culture of country music. This isn't just a museum for die-hard fans; its interactive exhibits, stunning artifacts, and engaging stories captivate visitors of all ages and musical tastes.

From Elvis Presley's "Solid Gold" Cadillac to Taylor Swift's tour costumes, the museum brings music history to life. Families can explore the origins of country music, discover the evolution of its sound, and even try their hand at songwriting in interactive stations. The institution masterfully blends education and entertainment, making it a perfect indoor activity for any Nashville itinerary.

Pro Tip: Don't miss the historic RCA Studio B tour, which departs from the museum. This is where legends like Elvis, Dolly Parton, and The Everly Brothers recorded their hits. It's a fascinating step back in time that older kids and teens will especially appreciate.

A visit to the museum offers more than just a tour; it's a deep dive into American cultural history. For a more detailed look at what to expect and how to plan your visit, you can learn more about a tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum here. Also, be sure to check out the iconic Hatch Show Print shop located inside, where you can see letterpress printing in action and take home a piece of Nashville history.

4. Explore Centennial Park and the Parthenon

No family trip to Nashville is complete without a visit to Centennial Park, a sprawling 132-acre urban oasis that offers a perfect mix of history, art, and outdoor recreation. The park’s crown jewel is the magnificent Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original temple in Athens, which provides a stunning and unexpected sight right in the heart of Music City. It's an ideal spot for a low-cost, high-reward family outing.

The vast green lawns are perfect for picnics, flying a kite, or simply letting the kids run free. Inside the Parthenon (for a small admission fee), families can discover Nashville’s art museum and marvel at the colossal 42-foot statue of the goddess Athena. This unique blend of activities makes it one of the most versatile and engaging things to do in Nashville with your family.

Pro Tip: Time your visit for the "golden hour" just before sunset. The warm light creates a magical glow on the Parthenon, offering breathtaking photo opportunities that will become cherished family memories.

Whether you're exploring the walking trails, admiring the sunken gardens, or attending one of the park’s frequent cultural festivals, Centennial Park offers a refreshing break from the downtown hustle. It provides a beautiful backdrop for families to connect with nature and culture without straying far from the city's core. You can check for special events and hours on the [official park website](https://www.nashville.gov/departments/parks/parks/centennial-park).

5. Grand Ole Opry House Tour

No family trip to Music City is complete without paying homage to its most iconic stage, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Grand Ole Opry House is a fantastic way to do it. This experience offers more than just a peek at an empty theater; it's an immersive journey into the heart of country music history, making it one of the essential things to do in Nashville for a family with music lovers of any age.

Guided tours provide an intimate look at the venue’s legendary past, from its WSM Radio origins to the present day. Families can see artist dressing rooms, walk the halls lined with memorabilia, and even get the chance to stand in the famous six-foot circle of wood taken from the original Ryman Auditorium stage. It’s a tangible connection to the countless legends, like Dolly Parton and Hank Williams, who have performed there.

Pro Tip: Book your tour tickets online in advance, as popular times sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. To make the most of your visit, consider pairing a daytime tour with tickets to an evening Opry show for the full experience.

This activity is perfect for multi-generational families looking to share their love of music or for parents hoping to introduce their kids to a vital piece of American culture. After the tour, you can easily explore the adjacent Opry Mills mall for shopping and dining, making it a convenient and memorable half-day outing. You can find tour schedules and book tickets at the official [Grand Ole Opry website](https://www.opry.com/tours).

6. Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

While the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium celebrate the stars, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum shines a spotlight on the incredible instrumentalists behind the world’s greatest recordings. This unique museum is one of the most engaging things to do in Nashville for a family, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the session players, engineers, and producers who created the soundtracks to our lives. It’s a fascinating journey through music history that honors talent across all genres, from Motown to rock and roll.

The museum is packed with instruments played on iconic records and interactive exhibits that let kids (and adults) get hands-on. Families can see the gear used by legends like the Wrecking Crew and the Funk Brothers, providing a tangible connection to the music they love. The real magic, however, is in the stories told here, which celebrate collaboration and creativity and inspire a deeper appreciation for every song you hear.

Pro Tip: Don't miss the GRAMMY Museum Gallery located within the museum. It features highly interactive exhibits where you can try your hand at playing instruments, singing in a recording booth, and even producing a track. It’s a fantastic way to make music education fun and memorable for all ages.

This museum offers a refreshing and educational perspective on Music City that appeals to visitors of all musical tastes. It's a perfect indoor activity that complements other downtown attractions and is an excellent addition to any Nashville itinerary. To see how it fits into a larger tour of the city’s musical landmarks, you can explore some of the best Nashville music tours for your itinerary here.

7. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

For a dose of culture and natural beauty, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is a fantastic addition to any family's Nashville itinerary. This stunning 55-acre botanical garden and art museum, housed in a historic Georgian-style mansion, offers an elegant and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. It’s one of the most beautiful things to do in Nashville with a family, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

The estate is a living canvas that changes dramatically with each season, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the festive lights of winter. Families can wander through themed gardens, discover impressive outdoor sculptures, and explore rotating art exhibitions inside the mansion. Special family-focused programming, including kid-friendly activity stations and seasonal festivals, ensures there's always something new and exciting to engage young minds.

Pro Tip: Check the Cheekwood calendar online before your visit. Planning around seasonal events like Cheekwood Harvest or Holiday LIGHTS can elevate your experience from a simple garden walk to a truly memorable family outing.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll want to explore every corner of the expansive grounds. Whether your family is full of aspiring artists, nature lovers, or just looking for a gorgeous backdrop for photos, Cheekwood offers a perfect blend of education and outdoor fun. You can plan your visit and see what's in bloom by visiting their official [Cheekwood Estate and Gardens website](https://cheekwood.org/).

8. Splash and Play at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort

When the Tennessee heat hits, one of the most refreshing things to do in Nashville for a family is to spend a day on the water. Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort offers a fantastic combination of a water park and a lakeside adventure, all in one location on the beautiful Percy Priest Lake. It's the ultimate destination for a full day of aquatic fun for all ages.

The resort features everything from massive water slides and a lazy river to a wave pool and dedicated splash pads for younger children. Beyond the traditional water park attractions, its unique lakeside setting allows for even more activities. Families can rent jet skis or pontoon boats to explore Percy Priest Lake, creating a perfect blend of high-energy thrills and relaxed waterfront enjoyment. This variety makes it a standout choice for families with diverse interests.

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the largest weekend crowds. Don't forget to pack water shoes for comfort on hot pavement and consider bringing a cooler with your own lunches and drinks to save on costs and keep everyone hydrated.

Nashville Shores is an ideal spot for a day trip, especially when you need a break from the downtown hustle. Its blend of exciting rides and natural lake beauty provides a comprehensive summer experience. For more ideas on how to round out your trip with exciting activities, you can get additional details about family fun in Nashville here.

9. Explore the Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens & Attractions

Stepping inside the Gaylord Opryland is like entering another world, making it one of the most unique things to do in Nashville for a family, no matter the weather. This massive resort complex contains nine acres of stunning indoor gardens, complete with waterfalls, rivers, and thousands of tropical plants, all housed under soaring glass atriums. It’s an incredible, climate-controlled environment that offers a welcome escape from summer heat or winter chill.

Your family can wander through distinct, themed garden areas like the Delta, which features a quarter-mile-long indoor river. Here, you can take a ride on a flatboat and learn about the resort's history. Beyond the gardens, the resort is a destination in itself, offering seasonal attractions, dining, and shopping. During the holidays, "A Country Christmas" transforms the space into a winter wonderland with millions of lights and festive activities, making it a must-see Nashville tradition.

Pro Tip: You don't need to be a hotel guest to explore the atriums. Plan for at least 2-3 hours of walking, wear comfortable shoes, and visit on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds.

The sheer scale and beauty of the gardens offer endless photo opportunities and a memorable experience for all ages. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy nature's beauty indoors and see a side of Nashville that goes beyond the music scene. For more ideas on building the perfect family trip, you can find a comprehensive guide covering unforgettable things to do in Nashville.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best area to stay in Nashville for families?For families, areas like the Gulch, 12 South, or areas just outside downtown offer a great balance of accessibility and a quieter atmosphere. A vacation rental like Underwood Manor, located just five minutes from downtown, provides easy access to attractions while offering the space and comfort of a neighborhood setting.

Is Nashville a walkable city for families?Downtown Nashville is very walkable, with many key attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Ryman Auditorium clustered together. However, to reach attractions like the Nashville Zoo or Cheekwood Gardens, you will need a car or to use ride-sharing services.

What are some free things to do in Nashville with kids?Nashville offers many free family activities. You can explore Centennial Park and see the Parthenon, walk across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for amazing skyline views, stroll through the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, or window-shop in the charming 12 South neighborhood.

Your Next Steps for a Flawless Nashville Getaway

Now that you're equipped with a comprehensive list of family-friendly attractions, the next step is to bring your itinerary to life. Start by sitting down with your family and letting everyone pick one or two must-do activities from this list. This collaborative approach builds excitement and ensures everyone feels included in the planning process.

Next, map out your chosen locations to create a geographically logical schedule, grouping nearby attractions together to minimize travel time. Finally, secure your accommodations. A welcoming, well-equipped space is crucial for a successful family trip, providing the comfort and convenience needed to make your Nashville stay truly unforgettable.

Whether you're planning a Nashville family reunion or a fun 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.

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Ready to secure the perfect home base for your Music City adventure? With spacious accommodations for up to 10 guests, family-friendly amenities like a full kitchen and free parking, and a location just minutes from downtown, Underwood Manor is designed to make your family trip seamless and special. Book your unforgettable Nashville stay today and start making memories.