Traveling with Kids to Nashvhille

Uniquely Nashville Kid-Friendly Fun  

Nashville may have a flourishing nightlife but it is also an incredibly family- friendly town. Though you can find fun for the family in almost any part of town, here are some of our favorite ways to spend your time with the little ones. 

Spend a Day (or Two) in Downtown Nashville 

• A fun way to explore Downtown Nashville and hit some of our family-favorite spots is on the Old Town Trolley Hop On/ Hop Off Tour (our guests receive 10% off with code 849). While it isn’t necessary to explore our suggestions below, it makes it more convenient. The kids love the trolley ride since you don’t have to shuffle them in and out of the car. 
• Nashville Public Library in Downtown (closest trolley stop would be Ryman Auditorium which is about a 5-7 minute walk). We suggest starting here as most days there are storytimes, puppet shows and other events in the morning. Even without an event, the kids floor is worth the visit with a train table, mini rock climbing wall and miniature Downtown area for the kids to explore.
• Honky Tonk by day (closets trolley stop would be Lower Broadway or Ryman Auditorium). The majority of Honky Tonks are family-friendly during the daytime. We suggest going either just before or around lunchtime during the week before things get a bit more wild. Our kiddo loves watching the live music and dancing to his favorite tunes at The Stage, Tootsies or any of the other favorites. 
• Check out 5th & Broad Assembly Food Hall (also across from the Ryman) for lunch. Everyone can choose what they want and the casual atmosphere if perfect with kids in tow. 
• Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (Farmer’s Market stop on the trolley would be the closest). Burn off a ton of energy walking through the park which doubles as a history guide, leisurely walk. You’ll enjoy views of the Capitol in the background. If weather isn’t cooperating, head over to the Tennessee State Museum instead – or if time permits, do it, too. They have a great kids area and entry is free. If you want a drink, snack or sweet treat, the Nashville Farmers Market is right there, too and open 7-days a week. 

Explore Nature & the Great Outdoors 

• Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a must visit the whole family can enjoy. The gardens are beautiful and with a large childrens play area, the kids will be entertained for hours. Throughout the year, there are various exhibitions and events as well like family fun days, Harvest, Lights and more so be sure to check the calendar for those when visiting. Entry is paid and most events are an additional cost. 
• Centennial Park is Nashville’s version of Central Park. It’s 132-acres, home to an exact replica of the Parthenon, has walking trails, a playground, dog park, hosts various annual events and more! Pack a picnic lunch and you can easily spend a morning, afternoon or even day there with the family. 
• Walk, bike or explore in our state parks and nature centers. Radnor Lake State Park is our favorite spot for a hike and if you take the paved area its stroller and dog friendly; Edwin and Percy Warner Parks offer a variety of trails for all skill levels however we find Edwin Warner to be best for younger children; Shelby Bottoms Nature & Greenway in East Nashville is another with a multitude of options ranging from walking and hiking trails to a nature center, playground and even a small lake to feed ducks! 

Come for an Event

• Bridgestone Arena is home to a lot of events but some of our family-friendly favorites include taking the kids to a Predators hockey game, Disney on Ice and of course, for our truck loving fellow he highly suggests the Monster Truck Jam. The Preds also host family days a few times each season that are good fun. 
• Nissan Stadium is home to the Tennessee Titans football team and day games are a great way to enjoy with the whole family. The stadium and Titans also host family events during season and pop up events, too so be sure to check their calendar.
• There are a variety of annual festivals throughout the year and the majority of them (unless obvious like beer / wine festivals) are family- friendly with specific kid zones for the littles. Tomato Art Festival, Musicians Corner, all Art & Craft Shows / Fairs, Nashville Symphony Family Series and even Pilgrimage Festival has a lil’ Pilgrim family stage are just a few.
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