22 Things To Do in Nashville With Kids

Pastries at Five Daughters Bakery are made fresh daily from scratch, always non-GMO, sourced locally and organic when possible.

Kristy Pepping said:  Five Daughters Bakery has several locations around the area. It was started by a husband and wife team who have five daughters. Basically, if you are a donut lover, you must stop at one of their restaurants. These baked fresh donuts include everything from a s'more-inspired creation to a cinnamon cream donut. They also have cookies and other pastries. You can either order out or dine in.

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint is known for its authentic whole-hog barbecue, smoked low and slow each day. The lively atmosphere and Southern hospitality make it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. With a menu full of classic sides and bold flavors, it’s a must-try for barbecue lovers.

Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort is home to a first-class waterpark, ziplines and ropes courses, cabins, an RV campground, boat rentals, and more. Enjoy all nature has to offer on Percy Priest Lake, just 10 minutes from downtown Nashville.

Families staying at Nashville's Gaylord Opryland can book a premium package that includes their luxury SoundWaves water resort, with four sprawling acres of indoor and outdoor fun. Play structures for all ages, lazy (and not-so-lazy) rivers, waterslides with sound and light effects, and a FlowRider surfing experience are a hit with kids.

Visiting the Grand Ole Opry House offers a glimpse into the heart of country music history. Guests can enjoy live performances from legendary and rising artists in an iconic venue. Backstage tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happens.

Lane Motor Museum is fun for the entire family. It features a few kid-friendly activities and indoor play, too! A remarkable collection of unique automobiles, each with its own interesting history, makes this museum a great place to wander and learn. More than just cars, the museum's extensive collection of motorcycles, aircraft, and other items will wow you! The indoor kids ' play area has car toys, coloring, and plenty of space to let little imaginations grow!

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, located about six miles southeast of downtown Nashville on the historic 188‑acre Grassmere plantation, features more than 300 species and over 3,000 animals housed in immersive, award‑winning exhibits like the Andean Bear Trek and Tiger Crossroads.

Nashville Children's Theatre is the country's oldest youth-centered professional theatre, nationally recognized as a premier culture, entertainment, and education destination for hearts and minds of all ages.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co. is the home of Nashville’s iconic Goo Goo Cluster, a delicious mix of caramel, nougat, peanuts, and chocolate. Visitors can explore the store, watch candy being made, and even create their own custom clusters. It’s a sweet stop that blends history, creativity, and irresistible treats.

Taking a stroll down Honky-Tonk Highway? Ole Red Nashville is a Music City must for dining, drinks, and Blake Shelton-level live music on Broadway Ave. Just put your name in with the hosts once you get there. If there’s a wait, you can wander around the shop or check out the view from The Lookout (fan-voted Best Rooftop Bar in Nashville).

Kristy Pepping said:  If you want to listen to live country music, Nashville is a great place for it. And when you have your family in tow, a great stop for lunch or dinner is Ole Red Nashville, Blake Shelton's restaurant. This place offers two stories with great views of a central stage where your group can listen to great artists. The menu is simple American favorites and they do have a dedicated kids menu.

The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the evolving history and traditions of country music. Through exhibits, publications, and educational programs, the Museum teaches its wide range of audiences about the enduring beauty and cultural importance of country music.

Vanessa M. said:  A visit to Music City isn't complete without a trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Kids can explore a few dedicated hands-on exhibits that cater to young musicians, learn about many favorite country music stars, and see exclusive memorabilia (like Elvis Presley's Cadillac!). Check the calendar for special exhibits and live concerts. The iconic rotunda features plaques of the Country Music Hall of Fame members - make this your stop for your family photo op!

Located amid a sea of party buses and nightclubs branded after contemporary stars, Robert’s Western World serves as a stubborn symbol of history and tradition. They are 'Nashville's Home of Traditional Country Music'. Come on down and grab a fried bologna sandwich, hit the dance floor, and listen to the 'Music that Made Music City'. They are an all-ages honky tonk until 6 pm.

When you walk through the doors of The Pfunky Griddle, you're the boss of your pancakes. They've got the classics like fluffy buttermilk, but with their scrumptious batter and array of toppings, mix-ins, and classic syrup, you've got the power to create pancakes that'll blow your taste buds away. Grab a spatula, flip that pancake like a pro on the griddle at your table, and let your imagination go wild.

For 80 years, Adventure Science Center has been bringing science to life for students, teachers, and families in Middle Tennessee and across the U.S. The science center offers engaging learning experiences and science fun through hands-on, interactive exhibits, innovative programs, and full-dome productions in the state-of-the-art Sudekum Planetarium.

Biscuit Love is a family-owned eatery offering Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch favorites with a twist!

Kristy Pepping said:  A family favorite spot to eat, Biscuit Love offers three locations around the Nashville area. While their biscuits are great, they do have other favorites on the menu like french toast, eggs and oatmeal. While all locations offer the same menu, the Franklin location is housed in the home of a former civil war soldier so if you have a history buff, head to this one. The walls are adorned with memorabilia as well.