Nashville is often known for neon lights, bachelorette parties, late night honky-tonks, and country music, but there’s another side to Music City: it’s a fantastic destination for families. Whether you’re bringing toddlers, tweens, or teens, Nashville has a mix of hands-on experiences, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions that keep kids engaged and parents happy. From ziplining through old-growth forests to hands-on candy-making classes, families can fill a Nashville itinerary with kid friendly things to do in Nashville that appeal to every age.
As the owner of a local food tour company that has hosted 21,000+ guests, earned 2,400+ five-star reviews, and invested over $1 million into locally owned restaurants, I’ve spent years helping families experience the real Nashville. In this guide, I’ll share the best family activities, restaurants, and planning tips, along with insider insights you won’t find in a generic travel blog.
While this guide covers activities for all ages, families with teenagers should also check out our dedicated teen activity guide for age-specific recommendations like ziplining, e-bike tours, and line dancing.
Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, this Family-Friendly Nashville Activity Guide will help you plan a trip that’s memorable, fun, and stress-free.
How to Plan a Family Trip to Nashville
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal due to their mild weather and lots of outdoor events. Summer is fun but hot, so plan more indoor activities in Nashville mid-day, and the holiday season has a ton of festive family friendly activites.
Getting Around: Downtown is very walkable, but families love hop-on-hop off busses, golf cart tours, and e-bikes (for teens) as creative ways to get around Nashville without a car. Parking can be tricky and very expensive, so leave the car when you can.
Budgeting: Expect $20 to $40 per person for ticketed activities like the Nashville Zoo, science center, or candy-making classes. Save money by mixing in free attractions like Centennial Park.
Where to Stay: Downtown hotels keep you close to the action, but families sometimes prefer Midtown, West Nashville, Germantown or the Opryland / Airport areas for quieter neighborhoods and easier and cheaper parking.
Activities by Age Group (all expanded below)
Toddlers and Younger Kids
Nashville Zoo (kangaroo walk-through, jungle gym).
Adventure Science Center (hands-on exhibits).
Pancake Pantry or Goo Goo Candy Making Class (easy food fun).
Dragon Park for a unique play sculpture that kids love
Centennial Park for free play and picnics.
Elementary-Age Kids
Underground Donut Tour (walking + sweets).
Acme Feed & Seed (all-ages live music till 11pm every night).
Adventureworks Zipline (for braver kids).
Martin’s BBQ for casual family dining.
Tweens & Teens
General Jackson Showboat (dinner cruise for the “wow” factor).
E-Bike Tours (mural and neighborhood options).
SOAR Adventure Tower in Franklin.
Grand Ole Opry for a legendary concert experience.
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Top Family-Friendly Activities in Nashville
General Jackson Showboat Cruises
If your family wants an unforgettable Nashville memory, step aboard the General Jackson Showboat, a 300-foot paddlewheel riverboat that feels like something straight out of history. Cruising along the Cumberland River, you’ll get skyline views, live entertainment, and a meal, all rolled into one experience.
What to Expect
Lunch Cruise: Families board in the late morning for a buffet meal and a lively country revue show. It’s upbeat, colorful, and designed to keep even younger kids entertained. You can take them out on the deck between acts for fresh air and photo ops.
Dinner Cruise: This option includes a plated dinner and a Broadway-style evening performance. Teens especially love the atmosphere because it feels more “grown up” without being inappropriate for younger family members.
Why Families Love It
It’s more than a meal: kids get the excitement of a boat ride, parents enjoy live music, and everyone gets stunning river views.
Assigned seating means no jostling for space, which makes it easier to relax with kids in tow.
The format (meal + show) keeps kids occupied for the whole 2.5 to 3 hours.
Family Tip: Bring a light sweater because the indoor theater deck can get chilly. And arrive early to avoid a rushed boarding experience.
Teens especially love the dinner cruise experience - learn why in our teen activity guide.
Underground Donut Tour
Breakfast is better when it’s an adventure. On the Underground Donut Tour, families get to sample Nashville’s sweetest treats while exploring downtown on foot. This is one of my favorite kid friendly things to do in Nashville.
What to Expect
Start at Parlor Doughnuts in SoBro with unique flavors like maple bacon or caramel cold brew.
Walk a mile and a half at a kid-friendly pace, with stops at two more bakeries in the Arts District.
Finish at a Nashville institution inside Assembly Food Hall - the perfect place for parents to grab coffee or a second breakfast while kids finish their donuts.
Why Families Love It
Kids never complain about walking when there’s a donut waiting at the next stop.
Parents enjoy learning tidbits about Broadway and the Arts District along the way.
It’s stroller-friendly and easy for grandparents to join, making it ideal for multi-generational groups.
Family Tip: Bring water bottles because sugar + walking can make kids thirsty.
Hi, I'm Christine Wheatley, owner of A Little Local Flavor. Eight years and 22,000+ guests later, I've hosted more multi-generational groups and families than I can count. The activities below are the ones that genuinely work for kids, teens, and adults all at the same time, no compromises required.
Goo Goo Candy Making Class
The Goo Goo Chocolate Co. is one of downtown Nashville’s most popular family stops. Goo Goos were America’s first combination candy bar (created in 1912), and today, you can make your own version in a hands-on class.
What to Expect
A friendly chocolatier walks your family through the candy-making process.
Kids get to choose fillings like pretzels, caramel, or marshmallows, then decorate their cluster.
Everyone leaves with their own custom Goo Goo plus sweet memories (and sticky fingers).
Why Families Love It
It’s an activity where everyone participates, not just the kids. Parents get to join in the fun.
The class doubles as an indoor, air-conditioned break on hot summer days.
The downtown location makes it easy to pair with the Country Music Hall of Fame or a mural photo stop.
Family Tip: Reserve your spot in advance - classes often sell out on weekends. This is one of our favorite indoor activities in Nashville
Grand Ole Opry
No Nashville trip is complete without a night at the Grand Ole Opry, and yes, it’s one of the most family-friendly live music venues in town. This is one of the best indoor things to do in Nashville.
What to Expect
A 2.5-hour show featuring multiple artists, from country legends to rising stars.
Assigned seating in a smoke-free, alcohol-controlled environment (a relief for parents worried about honky-tonk chaos).
Backstage tours available before or after, where families can step inside the famous circle of wood onstage.
Why Families Love It
Kids and teens stay engaged because of the rotating lineup — it’s never just one long headliner.
Parents get the once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing the “world’s most famous stage.”
It feels like a cultural rite of passage for visiting Nashville.
Family Tip: Make this your “special night out” it’s fun to dress up a little and make dinner reservations nearby.
Discover Nashville Bus Tour
The Discover Nashville Bus Tour is one of the easiest ways for families to see the city’s highlights without breaking a sweat. If it’s your first visit, this tour provides a comfortable overview of the landmarks that define Music City.
What to Expect
A climate-controlled bus with large windows for sightseeing.
Narration from a professional local guide who shares stories about Nashville’s history, music, and culture.
Stops at two of the city’s most famous attractions, the Ryman Auditorium (known as the “Mother Church of Country Music”) and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
A drive through key neighborhoods, including downtown, Bicentennial Mall, and Music Row.
Why Families Love It
It’s a stress-free way to cover a lot of ground. No hunting for parking or navigating city traffic.
Kids enjoy the novelty of a bus tour, while parents can actually relax and enjoy the sights.
Perfect for multigenerational groups where grandparents and kids travel together.
Family Tip: Use this tour early in your trip. It helps kids orient to the city, and parents get ideas for what to explore later at a slower pace.
Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
Families who want flexibility love the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour. With one ticket, you can explore Nashville at your own pace, riding as much or as little as you want and getting off in key areas of interest. Pro Tip: for just a few dollars more you can book a 2 day pass and skip renting a car all together!
What to Expect
The trolley makes a continuous loop through downtown and nearby neighborhoods, with 10+ stops at top attractions like the Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, Frist Art Museum, and Centennial Park.
You can hop off to explore, then catch the next trolley (they run about every 20 minutes).
Guides narrate history and fun facts along the way, making even the ride itself an experience.
I recommend getting off at Centennial Park, the Nashville Farmer’s Market for a fun treat, lunch, and a walk around BiCentennial Park. Marathon Village is great for shopping and some time indoors if the weather isn’t great.
Why Families Love It
Eliminates parking headaches - a big plus in busy downtown Nashville.
Kids love riding the open-air trolley, while parents appreciate the narrated sightseeing.
Works especially well for families who want a flexible schedule and may need to pause for naps or meals.
Family Tip: Sit near the front for the best view and easiest on/off with kids. If you can, start early in the day to make the most of your pass.
Outdoor and Active Things to Do in Nashville with Families
E-Bike Tours with Music City Adventure Company
Families with older kids or teens will love exploring Nashville by electric bike with Music City Adventure Company. The motor assist makes hills easy, so everyone can keep up, and the guided tours focus on different sides of the city.
Tour Options
Explore Nashville's famous murals and hidden street art with plenty of time for photos. Teens especially love this one for the Instagram factor.
Book Mural TourGo beyond Broadway and discover Nashville's lesser-known spots, including tucked-away bars, neighborhood hangouts, and secret photo ops.
Book Hidden Gems TourLearn the stories behind Nashville's distinct neighborhoods (Germantown, East Nashville, 12 South) all while riding breezily between stops.
Book Neighborhood TourWhy Families Love It
Teens get the independence of riding their own e-bike while parents feel secure with a guide.
Each tour shows a side of Nashville you wouldn’t see from a car or bus.
It’s active but not exhausting thanks to the electric boost.
Family Tip: Most tours require riders to be at least 12 years old. Dress comfortably and bring water.
Adventureworks Ziplines at Nashville West
The Adventureworks Ziplines combines nature, adrenaline, and fun just 15 minutes from downtown Nashville. Families step out of the city and into the treetops for an unforgettable bonding experience.
What to Expect
A guided zipline course with 9 ziplines stretching over 1.5 miles of old-growth forest.
Views of the rolling hills and woods that once belonged to country legend Barbara Mandrell’s estate.
Knowledgeable guides who keep things fun, safe, and educational, pointing out plants, wildlife, and Nashville history.
Why Families Love It
It’s a thrilling adventure that gets everyone off their phones and into the moment.
Kids and teens love the feeling of “flying,” while parents often find themselves just as excited.
It’s a break from downtown crowds and a chance to see Tennessee’s natural beauty.
It’s one of the most fun things to do in Nashville for young adults
Family Tip: Wear sturdy shoes (no flip-flops) and secure anything that might fall out of pockets. Morning tours are cooler in summer, while fall zips give stunning foliage views.
Nashville Mural Tour by Golf Cart
Nashville is home to some of the most famous murals in the country, and a Golf Cart Mural Tour makes it easy for families to see them all without wearing out little legs. As a bonus you’ll have great family photos of your memorable trip to Nashville.
What to Expect
A small-group tour guided by a local who knows the hidden mural gems as well as the big-name ones.
Stops for photos at iconic spots like “I Believe in Nashville,” “Wings of Nashville,” and vibrant murals in The Gulch and East Nashville.
A breezy, open-air golf cart ride through neighborhoods that might be tricky to navigate on your own.
Why Families Love It
Kids love hopping in and out for photos, and parents get Instagram-worthy family shots without walking miles.
The pace is fast enough to keep kids engaged, but relaxed enough to enjoy the ride.
Families discover local areas they wouldn’t have found otherwise.
Family Tip: Bring a camera or make sure your phone is charged - you’ll want photos at every stop.
SOAR Adventure Tower (Franklin)
For families willing to drive a little outside the city, the SOAR Adventure Tower in Franklin offers a ropes course unlike anything else in Middle Tennessee.
What to Expect
A four-level tower with 100+ climbing, balancing, and swinging obstacles.
A kids’ course on the ground level designed for younger climbers.
Staff on hand to ensure safety and provide encouragement.
Why Families Love It
It’s pure family bonding - parents and kids cheer each other on as they tackle obstacles together.
The challenges build confidence for kids while giving everyone a workout disguised as fun.
It’s one of the few activities that works equally well for kids, teens, and adults.
Family Tip: Wear athletic shoes and bring sunscreen. Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours here.
Educational and Cultural Stops - Kid Friendly Things to Do In Nashville
Adventure Science Center
The Adventure Science Center is one of Nashville’s most popular attractions for kids, combining hands-on STEM exhibits with a state-of-the-art planetarium. Located just south of downtown, it’s a perfect half-day outing that mixes fun with learning.
What to Expect
Interactive Exhibits: Kids can explore topics like space, biology, physics, and weather through hands-on displays. The BodyQuest exhibit lets them climb through a giant human heart, while the Space Chase section features simulators and experiments about astronomy.
Planetarium Shows: The Sudekum Planetarium hosts dazzling shows about the stars, black holes, and even laser light shows set to music. These shows rotate daily and are a highlight for both kids and adults.
Climbing Tower: A three-story Adventure Tower encourages kids to climb, slide, and explore while learning about energy and motion. Parents can sit back and relax while still keeping an eye on the action.
Why Families Love It
It’s engaging for a wide age range; toddlers love the play-based exhibits, while older kids and teens are fascinated by the space and science features.
Parents appreciate how educational it is without feeling like schoolwork.
It’s indoors and air-conditioned, making it a perfect summer or rainy-day option.
Family Tip: Plan at least 3 to 4 hours here. Bring snacks and water; the small café has limited options. Check the planetarium schedule ahead of time to choose the best show for your kids’ ages.
Planning for bad weather? We've got a complete rainy day guide with indoor museums, tours, and activities that work when the forecast isn't cooperating.
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is one of the fastest-growing zoos in the country and a top choice for families looking to spend a full day outdoors. It combines animal encounters with playgrounds, rides, and walking trails, so kids are constantly entertained.
What to Expect
Animals: The zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, including red pandas, clouded leopards, giraffes, elephants, and a huge collection of birds and reptiles.
Kangaroo Kickabout: One of the zoo’s signature attractions, this walk-through exhibit lets families get up close with kangaroos in their habitat.
Playgrounds: The Jungle Gym is one of the largest playgrounds in Tennessee, featuring climbing nets, towers, and slides that let kids burn off energy while parents take a break in the shade.
Extra Experiences: The Wilderness Express Train and Soaring Eagle zipline inside the zoo add a thrill factor that keeps older kids entertained.
Scenic Grounds: The zoo is built around the historic Grassmere property, giving families a glimpse into Nashville’s past while exploring animal exhibits.
Why Families Love It
The mix of animals and play areas makes it feel like more than a zoo, it’s a full family outing.
Kids can interact with animals in unique ways, from feeding lorikeets to walking among kangaroos.
Parents appreciate the variety of shaded areas and rest spots, especially in summer.
Family Tip: Arrive right when the gates open for cooler weather and to see the animals at their most active. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll do a lot of walking. Seasonally, the zoo offers fun events like “Boo at the Zoo” in fall and holiday lights and Zoolumination in the winter.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Downtown Nashville
Pancake Pantry (Downtown): Famous pancakes and hearty breakfasts.
Acme Feed & Seed: All ages until 11pm daily, with live music and a rooftop view.
417 Union: Comfort food in a diner setting with WWII memorabilia.
Martin’s BBQ Joint: A casual barbecue favorite with house-made sauces.
Puckett’s: Famous downtown Southern restaurant with evening live music.
All-Ages Live Music
Acme Feed & Seed: Live music daily, all ages till 11pm daily
The Listening Room Café: Songwriters perform original music in an intimate setting.
Broadway Honky-Tonks (Before 5–6 p.m.): Families welcome earlier in the day.
Grand Ole Opry: Legendary family-friendly shows, with backstage tours available.
General Jackson Showboat: This is a great option for evening live music.
Free and Low-Cost Family Activities
Centennial Park & The Parthenon replica.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (fountains, wide lawns).
The Nashville Farmers Market (great stop for lunch)
Murals throughout 12 South, The Gulch, and East Nashville.
Live music at family-friendly restaurants.
These free options work especially well with younger children - see our complete kids guide for more budget-friendly ideas including parks, playgrounds, and free museum days.
Rainy-Day Family Fun in Nashville
Adventure Science Center.
Country Music Hall of Fame (Taylor Swift Education Center).
Frist Art Museum (kids’ ArtQuest gallery).
When Tennessee weather doesn't cooperate, Nashville has plenty of indoor options. For our most comprehensive list of indoor activities, see our complete rainy day guide.
Sample Itinerary for Families in Nashville
Day 1: Donut Tour + Adventure Science Center + Acme Feed & Seed for dinner/live music.
Day 2: General Jackson Lunch Cruise + Goo Goo Candy Class + Centennial Park.
Day 3: Zoo in the morning + Golf Cart Mural Tour + Grand Ole Opry show.
This sample itinerary works well for elementary-age kids. Traveling with teens instead? Check our teen-focused itinerary for a different pace and activity mix.
FAQ: Family-Friendly Nashville Activities
Is Nashville family-friendly?
Yes. Nashville has a balance of tours, outdoor adventures, museums, and restaurants that welcome kids of all ages.
What are the best indoor activities for kids?
The Adventure Science Center, Goo Goo Candy Making Class, and Country Music Hall of Fame are top choices.
Are there free things to do with families in Nashville?
Yes! Centennial Park, Bicentennial Mall, murals, and many daytime live music spots are free.
Can kids go to Broadway honky-tonks?
Yes, most allow accompanied minors until 5 or 6 p.m. on weekends, and often a little later during the week if it isn’t busy. This is based on the rules of each establishment, so just because one turns you away doesn’t mean that you won’t get in somewhere else. Acme Feed and Seed has all ages music every evening till 11pm.
How many days should families spend in Nashville?
Three to four days is perfect for hitting highlights without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts
Nashville offers so much more than nightlife, it’s a city where families can create lasting memories. From making your own candy bar downtown to ziplining through the trees at Fontanel, every day brings a mix of adventure, music, and great food.
With this Family-Friendly Nashville Activity Guide, you’ll know where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of your trip. Book your experiences early, pace your days, and get ready to discover why families fall in love with Music City.
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