Nashville: Not Just Hot Chicken and Honky Tonk (Although Those Are Pretty Great Too)
So you're wrangling the kiddos to Music City and wondering if it's all just bachelorette parties and line dancing? Well, hold your cowboy hats, pardners, because Nashville is a secret haven for family fun! Here's how to turn your trip from "yeehaw" to "YEEESSSSS" for everyone involved.
What Can Kids Do In Nashville |
Activists in the Making: Science, History, and Nature
Adventure Science Center: Get ready for a brain blast! This interactive museum is crawling with cool exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to robots. There's even a planetarium for a stellar light show (get it?).
The Frist Art Museum: Think museums are stuffy? Not this one! The Frist has kid-friendly exhibits that let them get creative and explore their inner Picasso. Plus, the building itself is a work of art – a giant, sparkling fish!
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: Spread out those picnic blankets! Cheekwood is a mansion surrounded by gorgeous gardens, perfect for a little outdoor adventure. Kids can explore the different plant life, chase butterflies, and pretend they're characters in a storybook.
Bonus: Take a walk (or trolley ride!) through Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. It's a great way to stretch your legs, see some historical landmarks, and maybe even spot a squirrel or two.
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Wild Wild West (Without the Wild West Part)
Nashville Zoo: Lions, tigers, and… oh wait, no bears (but there are Andean bears!). The Nashville Zoo is a fantastic place to see all sorts of amazing animals. They even have a zip line for some extra thrills (adults can join in on the fun too!).
Lane Motor Museum: Calling all car buffs (big and small)! This museum is packed with all kinds of vehicles, from classic muscle cars to futuristic prototypes. It's a great way to spark some curiosity about how things work.
Double Bonus: Catch a minor league baseball game with the Nashville Sounds. It's a fun and affordable way to experience the energy of live sports, plus there's a good chance you'll see some wacky mascots and between-inning shenanigans.
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Honky Tonk Lite: Music for Tiny Music Lovers
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Learn all about the history of country music, from its roots to the superstars of today. There's even a chance to try your hand at playing some instruments!
Grand Ole Opry: While a nighttime Opry show might be a bit late for little ones, there are daytime tours available. Kids can peek behind the scenes of this legendary venue and soak up some musical history.
Pro Tip: Check out local listings for kid-friendly concerts or open mic nights at smaller venues. There's nothing quite like seeing live music up close!
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Howdy Partner! You've Got Questions? We've Got Answers!
How to keep my little adventurer cool in the summer heat? Nashville summers can be scorchers. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats. Hit up the zoo or museums in the morning or later afternoon to avoid the peak heat.
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How to find kid-friendly restaurants? Nashville has tons of great restaurants, but not all are created equal for tiny taste buds. Look for places with kids' menus or outdoor seating for some wiggle room.
How to navigate the city with little legs? Nashville is a walkable city, but for longer treks, consider using the Music City Circuit, a free bus system that hits many of the major attractions.
How to score kid-approved souvenirs? Hit up the Country Music Hall of Fame gift shop for quirky music memorabilia, or grab a guitar pick holder from a local music store.
How to make sure everyone has a blast? Relax, have fun, and don't be afraid to get a little silly! Nashville is a city that thrives on energy and enthusiasm, so let your inner child loose and enjoy the ride!