When people picture Nashville, they often think of country music legends, Broadway’s neon lights, and honky-tonks open until 3 a.m. But there’s another side to Music City, one that families love. As the owner of a food tour company that’s hosted more than 21,000 guests and earned over 2,400 five-star reviews, I’ve seen firsthand how much families enjoy exploring Nashville together.
Over the past seven years, I’ve welcomed parents with toddlers in strollers, multi-generational groups with grandparents in tow, and teenagers tagging along (sometimes reluctantly), and I’ve learned exactly which activities light them up. Nashville isn’t just for bachelorettes. It’s for families who want to connect, learn, and have fun.
This guide pulls from that on-the-ground experience to give you a trustworthy list of family activities. You’ll find sightseeing tours that keep kids entertained, outdoor adventures that burn off energy, all ages live music spots, cultural stops that mix fun with education, and a list of family friendly restaurants in downtown Nashville. I’ll also share practical tips, like when to go, what to pack, and how long to spend at each activity, so you can plan with confidence.
Family-Friendly Nashville Tours and Experiences
Family tours are some of the best ways to see Nashville because they take the planning stress off your plate. Instead of figuring out logistics, you just show up and enjoy. Tours also strike a nice balance: parents get engaging storytelling, and kids get a sense of adventure.
General Jackson Showboat (Lunch and Dinner Cruises)
For families who want a little bit of everything, dining, live music, sightseeing, and something kids will talk about long after the trip, the General Jackson Showboat delivers.
This giant paddlewheel riverboat cruises the Cumberland River, offering panoramic skyline views and entertainment that appeals across generations.
Lunch Cruise: Families with younger children love the relaxed daytime vibe. A Southern buffet keeps kids fed quickly, and the lively music show feels upbeat without being too long.
Dinner Cruise: Better for families with teens or older kids who can stay up later. The Broadway-style evening performance is impressive, and the city skyline glowing at night is unforgettable.
Time Commitment: 4 hours, including hotel pickup, boarding, and cruising.
Family Tip: Bring a sweater for the theater deck and let kids explore the open-air areas between acts.
Discover Nashville Bus Tour (Gray Line)
If you want to see the highlights of Music City without wearing out little legs, the Discover Nashville Bus Tour is perfect.
Why Families Love It: The climate-controlled bus makes it comfortable in summer or winter. You’ll cover big landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Bicentennial Mall with narration that’s educational but easy to follow.
Best For: First-time visitors, grandparents, or anyone who wants to maximize sightseeing in a short time.
Time Commitment: About 3 hours.
Local Note: I’ve had many families pair this bus tour with my walking food tour — they love getting both a broad overview and a more personal, local experience.
Book Now: Reserve your Discover Nashville Bus Tour
Underground Donut Tour
Breakfast doubles as entertainment on the Underground Donut Tour. Over two hours, you’ll stroll through downtown Nashville, stopping for donut tastings while learning about the city’s entertainment district.
Stops: Parlor Doughnuts, Arts District bakeries, and a finale inside Assembly Food Hall.
Walking Distance: About 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace.
Good to Know: Vegan and gluten-free options are limited.
Family Insight: Parents tell me their kids remember this tour as much as the zoo. The sugar helps, but so does the relaxed pace and chance to see Broadway without the bar crowds.
Time Commitment: 2 hours in the morning.
Goo Goo Candy Making Class
Nothing wins over kids faster than chocolate. At the Goo Goo Chocolate Co., families can design their own version of Nashville’s signature candy bar.
Activity: Each person picks fillings, pours chocolate, and decorates.
Learning: Hear how Goo Goo Clusters became the country’s first combination candy bar back in 1912.
Takeaway: Everyone leaves with a custom cluster.
Why I Recommend It: I’ve seen guests from ages 4 to 74 light up in this class. It’s one of the few downtown activities where parents and kids are equally hands-on.
Time Commitment: 1–1.5 hours.
Active Sightseeing in Nashville for Families
Not every sightseeing option works for kids, we know that long walks or big crowds can drain them fast. These tours keep the energy high and give families a way to see the city that feels more like an adventure than a chore.
E-Bike Tours with Music City Adventure Company
For families with older kids or teens, e-bike tours are a hit.
Tour Choices:
Mural & Street Art Tour: Perfect for photo-loving teens.
Hidden Gems Tour: Explore spots locals love.
Neighborhood Explorer: Learn about Germantown, East Nashville, and 12 South.
Why It Works: E-bikes flatten Nashville’s hills, so everyone can ride together.
Age Requirement: Most operators set a 12+ minimum for independent riders.
Nashville Mural Tour by Golf Cart
Nashville’s mural scene is world-famous, and kids love seeing the giant, colorful artwork up close. The golf cart mural tour makes it easy to hop between neighborhoods without tiring out little legs. As a bonus you’ll get some wonderful family photos of your trip to Nashville.
Popular Stops: “I Believe in Nashville,” “Wings of Nashville,” and hidden gems you’d never find alone.
Perks: No parking hassle, and you’ll get great family photos at every stop.
Time Commitment: 1.5–2 hours.
Why the Grand Ole Opry Is a Must with Kids in Nashville
No trip to Music City is complete without experiencing the Grand Ole Opry, and it’s one of the most family-friendly live music venues in Nashville. Known as the “home of country music,” the Opry has been running since 1925 and remains the longest-running radio broadcast in history. Families from all over the world come here to see country legends, bluegrass performers, gospel singers, and contemporary artists all share the same stage.
What makes the Opry different from other music venues is its all-ages accessibility. While many live music options downtown are restricted to 21+ after dark, the Opry offers a safe, structured, and welcoming concert experience for everyone. With assigned seating, no standing crowds, and a family-oriented atmosphere, it’s an easy way to introduce kids and teens to Nashville’s musical heritage.
Parents often appreciate that the show format is fast-paced, with multiple acts each night instead of one long headliner. This variety keeps children engaged and gives families a sampling of different musical styles in one evening. Shows typically run about 2.5 hours, with intermissions to stretch and grab snacks.
For an even deeper look, families can also book a backstage tour of the Opry House. These guided tours let kids see dressing rooms, learn the history of the stage, and even step inside the famous circle of wood where so many legends have performed.
Nashville Outdoor Adventures for Families
Kids need space to run, climb, and test their limits. Luckily, Nashville’s outdoor adventures are just minutes from downtown. These activities balance sightseeing with adrenaline and are especially great for families who want to avoid too much screen time.
Ziplining at Fontanel
Just 15 minutes north of the city, the Fontanel Zipline Adventure lets families soar over an old-growth forest.
Course: 9 ziplines covering 1.5 miles of terrain.
Unique Twist: The property was once the estate of Barbara Mandrell, a country music legend.
Safety: Children ride with adults, and guides provide full instructions.
Best Ages: 7+ (depending on height and weight requirements).
Family Tip: Book earlier in the day during summer to avoid the heat.
SOAR Adventure Tower (Franklin)
If your family enjoys climbing, balancing, and teamwork, the SOAR Adventure Tower in Franklin is worth the 25-minute drive.
Design: Over 100 obstacles up to four stories high.
Options: A kids’ course with gentle challenges and a main tower for bigger kids and parents.
Bonding: Families often say this is where they laughed the most together on vacation.
Time Commitment: 2–3 hours.
Educational and Cultural Attractions in Nashville
Travel is always more meaningful when it teaches kids something new. Nashville’s educational attractions strike the right balance between fun and learning.
Adventure Science Center
Families can easily spend half a day at the Adventure Science Center.
Exhibits: Space capsules, human biology, physics, and a massive climbing tower.
Planetarium: Stunning shows that transport kids to the stars.
Practical Tip: Pack snacks; the on-site café is limited.
Why It’s Great for Families: Kids can climb, touch, and explore in a place where nothing is off-limits.
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
The Nashville Zoo combines classic exhibits with interactive fun.
Animals: Red pandas, clouded leopards, giraffes, and kangaroos.
Playgrounds: The Jungle Gym is one of Tennessee’s largest.
Extras: Train rides and a small on-site zipline.
Local Tip: Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Arrive when gates open for the best animal activity.
Where to Enjoy Live Music With Kids in Nashville
Nashville is Music City, so of course families want to experience live music together. While nightlife dominates after dark, there are plenty of options for kids and teens to enjoy the city’s sound during the day.
Acme Feed & Seed
In addition to great food, Acme Feed & Seed offers live music daily, and it’s all ages, all the time. That makes it one of the most reliable spots downtown for families who want a taste of Nashville’s music scene without worrying about age restrictions. Pro Tip - Don’t forget to check out their famous rooftop.
The Listening Room Café
The Listening Room Café is one of my personal favorite venues for families.
What to Expect: Songwriters perform their original music in an intimate, sit-down environment.
Why It Works for Families: All ages are welcome, and the format is quieter and more focused than Broadway’s rowdy honky-tonks. Kids get a true sense of Nashville’s songwriting culture here.
Broadway Honky-Tonks (Before 5 or 6 p.m.)
Many of Broadway’s famous honky-tonks allow kids and teens during the day.
Timing: Most establishments are 21+ only in the evenings, but during the afternoon (generally until 5–6 p.m.), families can go inside to hear live bands.
Best For: A quick peek into the honky-tonk scene and a chance to dance together before the nightlife crowds arrive.
Tip: Go earlier in the day when it’s less crowded and easier to find seating.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Downtown Nashville
Eating well is half the fun of visiting Nashville, and downtown has plenty of restaurants that welcome families with open arms. Whether you’re after a quick bite between tours or a sit-down meal that pleases both kids and adults, these are top picks I often recommend to families on my food tours.
Pancake Pantry (Downtown Location)
The Pancake Pantry is a Nashville institution, famous for its scratch-made pancakes and Southern breakfast classics. Originally located in Hillsboro Village, it now has a convenient downtown spot.
Why Families Love It: Generous portions, a menu that pleases even picky eaters, and service that keeps things moving for families on the go.
Insider Tip: Expect a line on weekends - go early if you can.
Acme Feed & Seed
Right on Broadway, Acme Feed & Seed is a four-story restaurant and entertainment space that’s all ages all the time.
Food: From hot chicken sandwiches to sushi, there’s something for everyone.
Atmosphere: Casual and lively, with live music and a rooftop view of the Cumberland River.
Why Families Love It: Parents get a “real Nashville” experience while kids enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
417 Union
Step back in time at 417 Union, a diner-style restaurant known for hearty breakfasts and historical décor.
Menu Favorites: Biscuits, gravy, omelets, and comfort food classics.
Unique Touch: The upstairs dining room is filled with WWII memorabilia, which can be a fun conversation starter with older kids.
Why Families Love It: Friendly service and a relaxed environment right in the heart of downtown.
Martin’s BBQ Joint
No Nashville trip is complete without barbecue, and Martin’s BBQ Joint near Broadway is one of the best.
Food: Ribs, brisket, turkey breast, smoked wings, and giant baked potatoes.
Seating: Multiple levels, including an open-air beer garden that’s family-friendly during the day.
Why Families Love It: The casual vibe makes it easy to bring kids, and the variety of house-made sauces means everyone can find a flavor they like.
Other Family-Friendly Activities
Nashville has endless extras that round out an itinerary:
Frist Art Museum: The ArtQuest Gallery is hands-on.
Centennial Park: Picnic, play, and snap photos of the Parthenon replica.
Country Music Hall of Fame: The Taylor Swift Education Center adds kid appeal.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall: Wide open lawns and splash fountains.
FAQ: Things to Do in Nashville With Families
Is Nashville family-friendly?
Yes. I’ve guided thousands of families here, and the mix of tours, food, and activities appeals across all ages.
What Are the best rainy-day activities with kids?
Adventure Science Center or Goo Goo Candy Making Class are two fantastic options. You can also stroll through the country music hall of fame or head to Acme Feed and Seed for all ages live music.
What are the best free family activities?
Centennial Park, Bicentennial Capitol Mall, the Nashville Farmer’s Market, and mural spotting.
How many days should we plan for a family trip to Nashville?
Three to four days is the sweet spot, it gives you enough time to explore but not so much that you’re going to burn out your kids.
Final Thoughts
As someone who’s spent nearly a decade running one of Nashville’s top-rated tours, I know how much families can get out of this city. Nashville offers more than nightlife, it offers shared memories, new discoveries, and a balance of fun and culture that few destinations match.
Whether you’re ziplining through the trees, making your own candy, or watching the city glide by from a riverboat, you’ll leave with more than just photos. You’ll leave with stories your family will retell for years.
If you use this guide to plan your trip, you won’t just have a fun vacation, you’ll see why so many families fall in love with Nashville.