Family-Friendly Adventures in Nashville!

Ryman Auditorium

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary at Ryman Auditorium

Morning Visit: Start your day at Nashville"s historic Ryman Auditorium, famously known as the "Mother Church of Country Music." Open to the public for tours from 9 AM, it"s located in the heart of downtown Nashville, easily accessible via the Music City Circuit bus that"s free and convenient for families.

Guided Tour: Opt for the "Backstage Tour" available from 10 AM. This guided experience takes you behind the scenes where legends like Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline performed. Children will love hearing tales of performers" stage fright and standing on the famous stage themselves!

Lunch: After the tour, stroll down to Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant on 5th Ave, just a few blocks from the Ryman. Enjoy some Southern comfort food—a hit with kids and adults alike.

Afternoon Activity: Return to Ryman Auditorium for a hands-on experience with the "Record Your Own Song" booth available in the lobby. It’s a thrilling experience for kids to sing where so many stars have before.

Interesting Facts

- Ryman Auditorium was originally built as a church in 1892 and still has original wooden pews.

- It"s known for its exceptional acoustics, making it a perfect place for live recordings.

Souvenir Shopping: Before leaving, stop by the Ryman Gift Shop. Pick up some unique music-related gifts to remember your visit.

Travel Tips

- Parking can be tricky in downtown Nashville. Consider parking at the Library Garage, a short walk from the auditorium.

- Check the Ryman’s calendar for any special family events or concerts that might coincide with your visit.

With rich history and interactive experiences, Ryman Auditorium offers a memorable day for families exploring the roots of American music.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Grand Ole Opry House

Why Visit?

Start your family adventure at the iconic Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee, a beacon of country music history since 1974. Arriving is easy; located at 2804 Opryland Drive, the venue is accessible by car with parking available onsite, or by taking a local bus service.

Morning: Tour the Grand Ole Opry House

Begin your day with the fascinating Opry House Backstage Tour. Offered typically from 9 AM, these guided tours provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at where country legends and new stars alike have performed. Learn about the Opry’s unique traditions, peek into dressing rooms, and even step into the famous circle on stage—a coveted spot where countless artists have stood. Each tour runs about an hour, perfect to spark the curiosity of both kids and adults.

Lunch Break: Opry Mills

After your tour, head over to Opry Mills, Tennessee’s largest outlet mall just a short walk from the Opry House. Here you’ll find an array of dining options suitable for the whole family, whether you’re craving burgers, pizza, or international cuisine.

Afternoon: Madame Tussauds

Post-lunch, dive into the world of stars at Madame Tussauds, located within Opry Mills. This famous wax museum features a dedicated music section with life-like figures of Taylor Swift, Johnny Cash, and other music legends. It’s a fun opportunity for memorable photos with your favorite celebrities.

Evening: Live Show at Grand Ole Opry

Cap off your day with the highlight of the visit—a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry. Shows generally start around 7 PM. Experience the magic that has enchanted audiences for decades, featuring a mix of famous and upcoming country artists. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended as shows often sell out.

This itinerary offers a blend of education, excitement, and entertainment, ensuring a memorable visit to the historic Grand Ole Opry House for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Downtown Nashville

Why Visit?

Welcome to Downtown Nashville, a vibrant hub of music, culture, and Southern hospitality! Here’s a perfect one-day itinerary for a family adventure:

Morning: Adventure Science Center

Start your day at the Adventure Science Center, a fantastic spot for kids with interactive exhibits on biology, physics, and more. Located at 800 Fort Negley Blvd., it"s a short drive from downtown. Parking is available on-site. Don"t miss the planetarium shows that offer a spectacular celestial experience!

Lunch: Assembly Food Hall

Head to Assembly Food Hall at Fifth + Broadway for a variety of lunch options that cater to every palate. It"s around 10 minutes by car from the Science Center or you can catch a bus from 8th Ave S & Wedgewood Ave directly to Broadway. This place offers everything from sushi to burgers, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Afternoon: Tennessee State Museum

Just a 5-minute walk from Assembly Food Hall, visit the Tennessee State Museum at 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. to delve into the rich history of Tennessee. Admission is free, and the museum features engaging exhibits on the state’s natural history, art, and civil rights movements.

Evening: Walk the Music City Walk of Fame

Conclude your day with a stroll along the Musician’s Walk of Fame across from the Country Music Hall of Fame on Demonbreun Street. It"s a great way to walk off dinner and indulge in Nashville’s musical heritage. Each star on the sidewalk honors a different music legend connected to Nashville.

Dinner: Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant

For a taste of authentic Southern cuisine, head to Puckett’s (500 Church St.), just a 10-minute walk from the Walk of Fame. Enjoy live music with your meal – a perfect end to your Nashville day!

This itinerary offers a blend of education, culture, and fun, tailored to keep both kids and adults entertained throughout the day!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

Why Visit?

Start your musical journey at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Nashville, an essential stop for any music-loving family! Plan to spend at least half a day here to fully enjoy its rich offerings.

Morning: Explore the Museum

Arrive early to beat the crowds. The museum opens at 9 AM. It"s located at 222 5th Ave S, easily accessible by public transport (bus routes 1, 7, and 8 drop nearby) or by car (parking is available in the lot on Demonbreun Street between 4th and 5th Avenues). Begin with the "Sing Me Back Home" exhibit, a journey through the history and sounds of country music, featuring artifacts like Elvis Presley’s gold Cadillac and Dolly Parton’s handwritten lyrics.

Lunch Break

Grab a bite at the museum’s on-site restaurant, which offers kid-friendly meals and Southern specialties. This is a great time to discuss your favorite parts of the exhibits so far!

Afternoon: Hands-On Fun

Post-lunch, dive into the Taylor Swift Education Center on the same premises, where interactive exhibits allow kids to engage directly with the music-making process. Check out the "Musical Petting Zoo" where children can try out different musical instruments under the guidance of museum staff.

Wrap Up the Day

Before you leave, make sure to stop at the Hall of Fame Rotunda. It’s a breathtaking room where members are honored under a stunning dome. It’s a quiet place perfect for reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Interesting Fact

Did you know the building’s architecture is rich with musical symbolism? The windows mirror piano keys while the round, wooden hall represents a musical note!

End your visit at the gift shop for unique music-themed souvenirs, ensuring your family takes a piece of Nashville’s heritage home with them.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Centennial Park

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family adventure at Centennial Park, a lush oasis nestled in the heart of the city. Here’s a perfect itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Morning: Nature & Discovery

Arrive early to enjoy the cooler morning air. Park at the main entrance on Parkes Drive, which is close to public transportation routes and has plentiful parking. Kick off your day at the Ian Potter Children’s WILD PLAY Garden. It’s designed to engage children with the natural world, and they"ll love exploring its water play zones and climbing structures. It’s educational, too—kids learn about native plants and ecosystems as they play.

Lunchtime: Picnic by the Pond

Pack a picnic and head to the picturesque Lily Pond. It"s just a short walk from the Children’s Garden. The pond is not only a beautiful spot for a relaxed lunch, but it"s also home to an array of water birds. If you visit during spring, you might see ducklings or cygnets!

Afternoon: History Hunt & Outdoor Fun

Post lunch, take a leisurely stroll to the Federation Pavilion, about a 10-minute walk southeast from the Lily Pond. This historical monument marks the birthplace of the Federation of Australia. Here, engage the kids with stories of how Australia united into a single nation.

Next, head to the nearby Labyrinth, a recent addition to the park inspired by ancient patterns. Walking the Labyrinth is calming and offers a unique sensory experience.

Evening: Sundown and Sports

Wrap up your day at the Grand Drive, ideal for a family bike ride or a rollerblading session as the sun sets. You can rent bikes near the main entrance if you didn’t bring your own.

Centennial Park is not just green space; it’s a place of history, community, and endless fun. Each spot within the park has its own story, enhancing your visit with a blend of nature, learning, and recreation. Enjoy your family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.