Nashville, Tennessee, may be best known for its world-class country music scene and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also an incredible destination for families. From interactive museums to scenic parks and unforgettable animal encounters, the city is bursting with activities that will keep every member of the family entertained—whether they’re toddlers, teens, or grandparents.

If you're planning a family trip and are wondering about the best stuff to do in Nashville, this guide covers fun-packed options that everyone can enjoy together.

Discover Nashville’s Iconic Attractions

Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame

Even if you’re not a die-hard country music fan, the Country Music Hall of Fame offers an engaging and interactive experience for all ages. Children will love the hands-on exhibits, musical instruments they can try, and costume displays. For adults, it’s a journey through music history. Guided tours are available, and there’s even a family scavenger hunt to keep young visitors entertained.

Visit the Parthenon in Centennial Park

Right in the heart of Nashville stands a full-scale replica of the ancient Parthenon in Athens, Greece. It's one of the most unique architectural wonders in the U.S. and a surprising addition to any list of stuff to do in Nashville. The surrounding Centennial Park features walking trails, gardens, and plenty of space to picnic or let kids burn off some energy.

Get Up Close with Animals

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

A classic family favorite, the Nashville Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, ranging from playful red pandas to towering giraffes. There’s also a jungle gym, zipline, and a historic home tour on-site. Don’t miss the “Critter Encounters” where kids can pet goats and alpacas. The zoo is well-shaded, stroller-friendly, and has food stations to keep everyone refreshed during your adventure.

Lucky Ladd Farms

About 40 minutes from Nashville, Lucky Ladd Farms is worth the trip. This award-winning farm park offers petting zoos, pony rides, seasonal festivals, and educational tours. It’s an especially great option for younger kids and makes for a perfect day out in nature.

Dive Into Hands-On Learning

Adventure Science Center

Looking for educational stuff to do in Nashville that doesn’t feel like school? The Adventure Science Center offers over 175 interactive exhibits that inspire curiosity in subjects like astronomy, biology, and physics. There’s also a planetarium and a climbing structure known as the Adventure Tower, which provides incredible views of the Nashville skyline.

Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum might not seem like an obvious pick for kids, but it offers a Martin ArtQuest Gallery, filled with hands-on art stations. Children can paint, draw, build sculptures, and more. Meanwhile, adults can appreciate the rotating exhibitions of national and international art.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway

If your family loves being outside, Shelby Bottoms Nature Center provides a serene escape from city life. It offers paved walking and biking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and eco-focused learning exhibits. You can rent bikes or simply enjoy a stroll through the lush landscape.

Percy Warner Park

Another beautiful green space, Percy Warner Park is perfect for a family hike. The park has numerous trails of varying difficulty, many of which are shaded and offer scenic overlooks. It's a great place to introduce kids to nature without venturing far from downtown.

Experience Music and Theater

Grand Ole Opry – Family Tours and Shows

While evening shows may be more suitable for older kids and teens, families can enjoy a daytime backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry. Learn about the history of this iconic venue, visit the dressing rooms, and even step onto the legendary stage. It’s an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

Nashville Children's Theatre

For a more age-appropriate performance, check out the Nashville Children’s Theatre. Their productions are designed for kids but enjoyable for the whole family. They offer everything from fairy tale classics to educational stories that teach social-emotional learning.

Find Fun in Unexpected Places

Lane Motor Museum

This is one of the more surprising entries on any list of stuff to do in Nashville. The Lane Motor Museum features a quirky collection of rare and vintage cars, motorcycles, and even flying machines. Kids often love the wacky designs, and it’s a great way to sneak in some history and engineering lessons without any complaints.

SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland

If you're visiting in the warmer months—or staying at the Gaylord Opryland Resort—make sure to check out SoundWaves, a massive indoor/outdoor water park with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. It's one of the most exciting family activities in the city, and a great way to cool off in the summer heat.

The Escape Game Nashville

For families with older kids or teens, The Escape Game is a fun way to challenge yourselves as a team. Solve puzzles, find clues, and work together to "escape" from themed rooms. It’s mentally stimulating and a great bonding activity.

Seasonal Stuff to Do in Nashville

Holiday Lights at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

During the winter months, Cheekwood Estate puts on a magical display of holiday lights. Stroll through beautifully illuminated gardens, enjoy seasonal treats, and take part in festive crafts. During the spring and summer, Cheekwood is equally enjoyable with botanical gardens and rotating exhibits.

CMA Fest and Other Family-Friendly Festivals

Nashville hosts numerous events throughout the year, but CMA Fest stands out for families. There are free outdoor concerts, food trucks, and family zones with kid-friendly activities. Other festivals like the Tomato Art Fest and Southern Festival of Books also offer great entertainment for all ages.

Where to Eat with the Whole Family

Nashville has a wide variety of family-friendly restaurants, whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food or something more global.

• Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant – Classic Southern meals with a laid-back vibe.

• The Pfunky Griddle – Let the kids cook their own pancakes right at the table.

• Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – Spice levels range from “no heat” to “shut the cluck up,” making it fun for all.

• Five Daughters Bakery – For a sweet treat, try one of their famous 100-layer doughnuts.

Conclusion

When it comes to family-friendly stuff to do in Nashville, the options are practically endless. From cultural landmarks and wildlife adventures to interactive museums and outdoor parks, Nashville truly offers something for every age and interest. Whether you're traveling with little ones or planning a multigenerational vacation, the city delivers fun, learning, and unforgettable experiences in equal measure.

So pack your bags, gather your crew, and get ready to explore one of the most welcoming and exciting cities in the South. Your family adventure in Nashville is just getting started!