Nashville sounds unpopular compared to cities like Chicago and California, but it has a lot of fascinating environments and activities. From a parent’s perspective, you tend to know some Nashville kids activities to engage your when going for a vacation or picnic.
Nashville is the capital and most populous city of the state of Tennessee, located in the United States, and is also the seat of Davidson County. Nashville is the 21st most populous city in the United States, and the fourth most populous city in the southeastern U.S. Located on the Cumberland River, the city is the center of the Nashville metropolitan area, which is one of the fastest growing in the nation.
Nashville is considered a global city type “Gamma” by the GaWC as of 2020.
A major center for the music industry, especially country music, Known as the “Music City,” Nashville has a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its contributions to country music.
But music’s not the only thing that makes the city famous. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun vacation destination, Nashville offers exciting and unique experiences for all ages and interests.
Why Nashville For Kids Activities?
Nashville, Tennessee, offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities that make it an excellent destination for families.
Overall, Nashville offers a fantastic blend of music, culture, nature, and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for families with children. The city’s diverse range of activities ensures that kids of all ages will find something exciting to do while creating lasting memories.
Who Are The Most Famous People In Nashville?
Nashville, Tennessee, is home to a vibrant entertainment industry, particularly in the field of music. As a result, numerous famous people have emerged from Nashville or have made it their home. Here are some notable individuals associated with Nashville:
1. Musicians
- Taylor Swift: Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her country and pop music.
- Johnny Cash: Iconic country music singer-songwriter.
- Dolly Parton: Country music legend, known for her powerful voice and songwriting.
- Elvis Presley: Although born in Mississippi, Elvis Presley made Nashville a significant part of his music career.
- Reba McEntire: Country music superstar and actress.
- Keith Urban: Grammy-winning country music singer and guitarist.
- Faith Hill: Country music singer and actress.
2. Songwriters and Producers
- Bob Dylan: Celebrated singer-songwriter who has spent time writing and recording in Nashville.
- Garth Brooks: Country music icon known for his songwriting and live performances.
- Sheryl Crow: Singer-songwriter and Grammy winner who has written and recorded in Nashville.
- Jack White: Musician and producer, known for his work with The White Stripes and The Raconteurs.
3. Actors and Actresses
- Reese Witherspoon: Academy Award-winning actress and producer.
- Nicole Kidman: Academy Award-winning actress who resides in Nashville.
- Tim McGraw: Country music artist and actor.
- Connie Britton: Actress known for her roles in TV shows like “Nashville” and “Friday Night Lights.”
4. Athletes
- Steve McNair: Former NFL quarterback, played for the Tennessee Titans.
- Pekka Rinne: Former goaltender for the NHL’s Nashville Predators.
- Carrie Underwood: Country music singer and former American Idol winner, married to NHL player Mike Fisher, who played for the Nashville Predators.
5. Politicians
- Al Gore: Former Vice President of the United States, who grew up in Nashville.
- Bill Haslam: Former Governor of Tennessee.
These are just a few examples of the famous individuals associated with Nashville. The city has a rich history of nurturing talent across various fields, and its influence on music, in particular, has earned it a prominent place in the entertainment world.
Here are some key aspects of Nashville
MUSIC
Nashville is internationally recognized as a center for music, particularly country music and it is the birthplace of bluegrass, with roots in R&B, and a thriving pop and rock scene.
HISTORIC SITES
Nashville has several historic landmarks and sites to explore. The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek structure and houses an art museum. The Belle Meade Plantation, Ryman Auditorium, and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage are other notable historic sites worth visiting.
SPORTS
Nashville has professional sports teams, including the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and the Nashville Predators (NHL). Nashville’s got sports fans covered, too. Whether you’re a fan of football, hockey, racing, or baseball, there’s a team for you to root for in Music City.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
The city offers various outdoor recreational opportunities. Centennial Park, Percy Warner Park, and Radnor Lake State Park are popular spots for walking, hiking, and enjoying nature. The Cumberland River also provides opportunities for boating and kayaking.
There are so many other aspects about Nashville that makes it so much fun and a beautiful place to be, the listed above are just some of them.
10 Best Nashville Kids Activities In 2024
Nashville’s reputation as Music City might lead you to think all the best things to do in Nashville are just for all adults. But, Nashville has plenty of family-friendly attractions.
From amazing parks to sporting events and performing arts, there are a ton of fun things to do in Nashville with kids.
1. Nashville Zoo
Fig: Macaws at the Nashville Zoo
For an outdoor adventure (along with some learning), stop by the Nashville Zoo. The zoo has over 350 species in habitats designed to mimic the animals’ natural environment as closely as possible.
Visiting the zoo is a mini-adventure around the world. Kids absolutely love the Lorikeet Landing and the Kangaroo Kickabout. There’s also a huge jungle gym, a carousel, and a zip line.
Young kids especially love riding the Wilderness Express Train. The zoo is a great place to spend several hours with kids of all ages.
2. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
Experience Cheekwood, a 55-acre botanical garden and museum located on the historic Cheek estate. Cheekwood presents family activities, year-round programs, seasonal festivals, and art exhibitions.
The two-acre Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden, inspired by Cheekwood’s historic landscape and architecture, offers an interactive, imaginative experience to inspire interest in art and nature, and the outdoor trains,
The exhibit is enchanting to the young and young-at-heart. Family programs include Tots! hands-on activities and storytime offered Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 12 noon; Summer Camps for kids ages 5-15; and a variety of hands-on learning activities.
3. Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is part of the reason Nashville became Music City. The radio broadcast (which is the longest-running broadcast in the world) introduced people all over the US to country music.
The show launched the careers of notable music legends and continues to be a platform for rising stars and country greats today. Kids who love music will enjoy getting a backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry House.
Watching the Grand Ole Opry is a great way to experience live music in Nashville.
4. Nashville Children’s Theatre
Nashville Children’s Theatre (NCT) is one of the oldest continually operating professional children’s theater companies in America.
NCT is the country’s oldest youth-centered professional theater, nationally recognized as a premier culture, entertainment, and education destination for hearts and minds of all ages.
The non-profit organization also has lots of options for kids interested in the performing arts. Throughout the year different acting classes and summer camps are available.
5. Goo Goo Chocolate Co
Head to the Goo Goo Chocolate Co. in downtown Nashville for a little bit of a Willy Wonka experience. The beloved candy bar was first produced in 1912 and has remained a Southern staple since.
Just looking at all the Goo Goo products on the storefront is an experience in itself. Kids will love getting to make their own candy bars on-site. Older kids may enjoy signing up for a candy-making class.
6. Bledsoe Creek State Park
Bledsoe Creek State Park is rich in history. It was once a prime hunting ground for the Cherokee, Creek, Shawnee, and Chickamauga Native American tribes.
Once English settlers arrived in the area, the once-great herds of animals were dispersed, never to return. The area is home to a wealth of Native American history along with various historical sites nearby.
The Bledsoe Creek territory became a Tennessee State Park in 1973.
The park features 57 campsites. There are more than six miles of scenic hiking trails. The trails meander through the forest and along the lakeshore of the park.
One mile of these trails is paved making it accessible to persons with disabilities. The trails are open year-round. Bledsoe Creek offers two boat launch ramps, one for registered campers only and the other open for the general public.
Other activities include fishing at Old Hickory Lake, picnic facilities (the largest able to accommodate up to 150 people), and park programs that provide entertainment for all ages and change annually.
7. Adventure Science Center
The Adventure Science Center allows kids to have a hands-on, fun experience while learning about science.
Kids get to enjoy exciting activities like climbing through a giant replica of a heart, going through an enormous guitar, and even trying to lift a car single-handed. Kids will want to stay for hours to try all the different exhibits.
8. Fannie Mae Dees Park (Dragon Park)
Thanks to the gigantic mosaic dragon featured at the park, Fannie Mae Dees Park is better known as Music City’s “Dragon Park.”
Metro Parks & Recreation is your gateway for all things green and healthy in and around Nashville and Davidson County. Kids of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy various activities in the 178 parks and 100 miles of greenways that are available.
It offers to engage nature-related programs for children at the sprawling nature centers, school and after-school programs, arts, music, and dance classes, water activities, sports leagues, and just fun and camaraderie at the many playgrounds.
9. Frist Center for the Visual Arts Nashville
Sure, this doesn’t exactly sound like something the kids would dig, but wait till they try out the interactive activities on offer.
Visitors to the Frist Center can easily end up spending hours here—the art section features a brilliant photography collection that mom and dad will enjoy, whereas the tots may not want to leave the kids’ section!
The kids’ section offers an array of interactive kids’ activities based on fine art and building, such as sketching, building, watercolor painting, and even stop animation.
Tots can unleash their inner Picassos and the whole family can make art together!
10. Cumberland Park and Walking in Downtown Nashville
Cumberland Park is not one of Nashville’s mainstream attractions; if you weren’t looking for it, you’d probably never find it.
Visiting this cool park is one of the top things to do with kids in Nashville, TN, thanks to its fun slide, rock walls, and gentle hills, all on the banks of the gentle Cumberland River.
You can also carry a picnic and relax at tables meant for eating and relaxation. The park also has a walking bridge that’ll take you to downtown Nashville.
Conclusion
There’s so much fun to be had in Nashville and It’s clear each of the most fun things to do in Nashville with kids has something unique to offer to the families also.
These fun Nashville kids activities offer a mix of educational, recreational, and cultural experiences that cater to children of various ages and interests in Nashville
Nashville offers a unique blend of history, music, cuisine, and Southern hospitality, making it an exciting destination for visitors from around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Nashville is a great family vacation spot. Fortunately, with a little forethought, you can take advantage of the greatest family activities in Nashville while still visiting some of the city’s most well-known landmarks.
Top talent in music, food, athletics, and business has been attracted to Nashville by its gracious hospitality. Live music may be found on the bustling “honky-tonk highway,” and Music Row continues to generate successful songs. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, outdoor activities, concerts, a wide variety of foods, and fun events.
Yes! Nashville is one of the best locations to live in the Southeast in Music City, which has plenty of family-friendly activities, reasonable housing options, low crime rates, and excellent schools.
Reference
- https://www.ryman.com/news/detail/what-is-nashville-known-for
- https://travellemming.com/things-to-do-in-nashville-with-kids/
- https://nashville.kidsoutandabout.com/content/top-20-places-take-kids-and-around-nashville
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nashville_Children’s_Theatre
