Family Activities in Nashville, TN — 2026 Guide
Nashville blends Southern charm with world-class family attractions. From free museums and interactive science centers to sprawling parks and the famous music scene, Music City offers an incredible variety of kid-friendly experiences year-round.
Get personalized ideas — text Emmie at (877) 703-6643Indoor Activities
Adventure Science Center
Hands-on science fun where kids can climb through a giant replica of a heart, explore an enormous guitar, and try to lift a car single-handed.
800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203
Visit websiteFrist Art Museum ArtQuest Gallery
Over 30 hands-on creative stations from digital drawing to clay sculpting. Free admission for anyone under 18.
919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Visit websiteTennessee State Museum
Explore Tennessee's history through six permanent exhibits. The Children's Gallery offers hands-on discovery inspired by Tennessee state symbols. Completely free.
1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37243
Visit websiteSlick City Action Park
Indoor playground focused on slides, laser tag, arcade, freestyle air court, and special sensory-friendly hours.
5765 Old Hickory Blvd, Hermitage, TN 37076
Nashville Zoo
An animal adventure with award-winning exhibits like Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear, plus a jungle gym and splash pad.
3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211
Visit websiteOutdoor Activities
Wasioto Park (formerly Cumberland Park)
Downtown park with a climbing wall, splash pad, maze, and cloud bridge. The best place for families to experience Nashville outdoors.
592 S 1st St, Nashville, TN 37213
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
A 55-acre botanical garden and art museum with a two-acre Bracken Foundation Children's Garden featuring interactive nature play.
1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205
Visit websiteShelby Bottoms Greenway
Over 960 acres of wetlands and woods with paved trails for biking and walking, a nature center, and wildlife viewing.
1900 Davidson St, Nashville, TN 37206
The Parthenon in Centennial Park
A full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon set in a beautiful park with playgrounds, walking paths, and open green space.
2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Percy Warner Park
Over 2,600 acres of trails, scenic overlooks, and nature areas. The park has trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
7311 TN-100, Nashville, TN 37221
Free Things to Do
Tennessee State Museum
Six permanent exhibits and a kids' gallery exploring Tennessee history, completely free.
Wasioto Park
Climbing wall, splash pad, maze, and playgrounds right in downtown Nashville.
Nashville Farmers' Market
Local produce, global bites, crafts, and weekend events including live music and kids' workshops.
900 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
Frist Art Museum (under 18)
Free admission for anyone under 18 with over 30 hands-on creative stations in the ArtQuest Gallery.
Rainy Day Plan
Adventure Science Center
A full day of interactive science exhibits plus a planetarium under one roof.
Tennessee State Museum
Free indoor museum with six exhibit halls and a dedicated children's gallery.
Slick City Action Park
Indoor slides, laser tag, arcade, and bounce areas for active play on rainy days.
Nashville Public Library
The main downtown branch has a fantastic children's section with regular story times and craft activities.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring
- •Cheekwood in Bloom with thousands of tulips and spring flowers
- •Nashville Earth Day Festival
- •Family-friendly concerts at the Ryman Auditorium
Summer
- •Splash pads at Wasioto Park and Nashville Zoo
- •Free concerts at Musicians Corner in Centennial Park
- •Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort water park
Fall
- •Fall foliage at Percy Warner Park and Cheekwood
- •Nashville Zoo Boo at the Zoo
- •Pumpkin patches and corn mazes around Nashville
Winter
- •Cheekwood Holiday Lights
- •Gaylord Opryland's ICE! and holiday events
- •Nashville Zoo holiday lantern walk
Nearby Day Trips
Mammoth Cave National Park
90 miles north
The world's longest cave system with family-friendly tours, plus hiking trails and camping above ground.
Stones River National Battlefield
30 miles southeast
A Civil War battlefield with easy walking trails, a museum, and junior ranger programs for kids.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
100 miles east
Tennessee's largest state park with the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, plus swimming, boating, and nature trails.
Local Parent Tips
Broadway can be loud and crowded for young kids. Try the Gulch or 12 South for more family-friendly dining.
The Nashville Zoo is less crowded on weekday mornings and offers excellent shaded walking paths.
Summer heat can be intense. Plan outdoor activities for mornings and save indoor spots for afternoon.
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