There are lots of fun things to do in Nashville with kids. From teens to toddlers there is something in Nashville for all the younger crowd.
What things are there to do in Nashville with Kids? During certain hours teenagers and even smaller ones can get into the bars on Broadway. Go see some of the many murals around Nashville. Play in the many parks that kids would enjoy. Check out the many exotic animals at the Nashville Zoo.
But, that’s not all. Let’s go over even more of what Nashville has to offer for kids.
Where are kids allowed in Nashville?
Kids are allowed in many places throughout Nashville. I mentioned a few above, but there is so much more for kids in Nashville. There are parks, museums, petting zoos, the Nashville Zoo, and indoor go-karts, just to name a few. Don’t forget there are some awesome eateries and ice cream shops when you visit Nashville with kids!
Being that I raised my kids myself I am fairly familiar with what Nashville had to offer then. I say “then” because they are grown and gone. My youngest has kids of his own now, I love my little grandbabies. There is nothing like them!!
Times have changed and there is so much more for kids in Nashville now. So, in my research, I found many options. Buuuut …. I don’t agree with all of them. Me being a single dad that raised 3 boys, and now I’m a grandpa of a beautiful grand-daughter and a handsome grand-son, I think that qualifies me knowing a bit of what kids do and do not like.
Before we cover all those great places I want to answer one of the most asked questions about visiting Nashville with kids.
Can kids go to bars on Broadway in Nashville?
The short answer is yes, kids can get into bars on Lower Broadway. This varies from one bar to another but most places will allow 18 and under inside up till about 7pm. There are some establishments that will allow minors in much later for dining. There are a few establishments that still allow smoking inside, these places are a no-go for kids.
I hang out in several Nashville Facebook groups, this is the #1 question asked inside every group by parents coming to Nashville with kids. Some people may not understand why parents would do this. It’s simple, many kids enjoy the live music, the lights, and dancing so they want to be close to it. Being that I am a Nashville native, I’ve seen those little smiles just dancing to the music several times. Parents, just please be responsible and make sure your children are wearing hearing protection.
Also, read this article: Things to do on Lower Broadway.
Things to Do In Nashville with Toddlers and Small Children
Cumberland Park
On the bank of the Cumberland River downtown is Cumberland Park, this is a 6.5-acre park that is located between the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge and Koreans Veterans Memorial. From downtown Lower Broadway just walk across the pedestrian bridge you will see the park to your right as you cross. Or, if you happened to park in Lot R at Nissan Stadium, you are just a short walk away from it.
The little park is lots of fun for older children and toddlers alike. There is the splash pad that has water jets shooting around as the kids play and splash in the puddles. There are little rolling hills with artificial turf and a cute little bridge to cross from one hilltop to the other.
On down the park a bit are climbing ropes, a climbing wall, and a neat little walking trail.
More info: Cumberland Park
Nashville Adventure Science Center
For teachers and students, this is one of the most popular places in Nashville. The Science Center offers fun learning experiences that are hands-on, interactive, and educational.
When you visit make sure you have time to check out the Sudekumm Planetarium which is a 63-foot dome theater. I personally have seen shows about stars and constellations. I’ve also seen laser light shows and even concerts. It is a really neat place!!
It is worth mentioning that the Adventure Science Center does hold events that are strictly for adults as well. One such event is the Science of Beer.
More Info: Nashville Adventure Science Center
Nashville Zoo
There are 90 acres of critters to check out here at the Nashville Zoo The Tennessean newspaper has named this zoo one of the top attractions in the state, Best Regional Attraction, and Best Day Trip. It is also the 9th largest zoo in the country by landmass. There are another 98 acres that haven’t been developed yet.
The Nashville Zoo has nearly 3,000 animals from around the world representing more than 350 species. Also throughout the year, they have themed events for the different holidays, just for kids, and just for adults.
As of this writing on 05/2022 they have an awesome Dinosaur exhibit going on. If you come to Nashville with kids, this would be a must-do!!
More info: The Nashville Zoo
Defy Nashville
OK, I’m gonna be real with ya, anyone who any kid at heart left in them will have fun here. Defy Nashville has a trampoline area, a ninja course, a zip line and so much more.
This isn’t located downtown, it is actually in Brentwood which is a short drive from downtown Nashville. For you and your kids to have a great time, it is totally worth the drive.
More info: Defy Nashville
Little Art House
When you visit Nashville with kids, this Little House Art would be a great place to have some family creativity time. There are activities for adults and kids so you can create together. After you create your masterpiece you can take it home to hang it on the wall for your own legit personal decor.
Adults have classes taught by featured artists. Bring your wine to sip while you paint. That sounds like a fun outing for a group to have some creative fun .. right??
More info: Little Art House
Wildhorse Saloon
This 66,000 square foot live music venue is World-Famous! The Wildhorse Saloon has been featured in many movies and TV shows. LOTS of very famous musicians have graced the stage here.
There are 3 floors of fun. There is a restaurant, catering, a bar, a concert venue, a dance floor, and even a TV studio. The restaurant is of the southern smokehouse cuisine, yep there is a kid’s menu.
More info: The Wildhorse Saloon
Nashville Sounds
Love baseball? Catch a Nashville sounds game! The Sounds are a minor league team that Nashville has had since about 1978. Actually, Nashville has been a baseball town since about 1860.
More info: Nashville Sounds
Pins Mechanical
If you are in Nashville with Kids on a Sunday, here at Pins Mechanical kids bowl for free! They have Fooseball, Pinball, Duckpin, Ping Pong, Bocce so there is something foun for everyone!
There is an outside play area that is fur baby friendly along with really cool yard games.
Just a heads up, after 8pm it’s 21 and over.
More info: Pins Mechanical Company
Music City Indoor Karting
MCIK is a 77,000-square-foot facility with an indoor track that is approximately a 1/4 mile long. The karts can get up to 40 miles per hour. Younger drivers under 18 without a driver’s license or permit will be throttled down to a slower speed.
Also, they have Omni-VR at this location. Immerse yourself in a virtual reality game fighting zombies, or ghosts, be a gunslinger, fight in an elite force battle, or be a pirate!!
More info: Music City Indoor Karting
Soundwaves at Oprlyland Hotel
If you are in Nashville with kids and y’all really enjoy water parks, you may wanna consider staying at the Opryland Hotel. As a guest of the hotel you have the option of adding in a Soundwaves Water Experience package. There are many fun water attractions to enjoy such as Stage Dive the body surfing experience, Down Tempo Lazy River where you just chill as you float along the river in a tube and much more!
For the kids there is Groovin Lagoon Activity Pool which has a rock climbing wall, lily pad walk, basketball hoops, and a 30′ water curtain. Then there is Quarter Note Cove whish is a splash pad and pool designed for young children. The Half Note Cove has a multi-level play structure for kids of all ages with child safe water slides, shallow pool, and spray fountains.
As you reach the end of the hallway leading from the Magnolia area hallway leading into Soundwaves you will enter a really cool game room with a climbing wall.
Can anyone get into Soundwaves at anytime?
I have had conflicting information on gaining access to this place. Meaning … some people stated that you have to be a guest at the Opryland Hotel to get in. Other people says you don’t have to be a guest.
So, I called them myself. There are only 2 ways to get into Soundwaves. One … you have to be hotel guest and then add a Soundwaves Experience package.
Two … they have a “Party Play Area” where you can rent some time for a birthday party or other special event. There has to be atleast 8 in the party to qualify.
Due to how event packages can change at any given moment, I am not going to go into details as to what all you get access to for each package. You will have to contact them to see what is up for grabs at that time.
More info: Soundwaves Water park at Opryland Hotel
Where are the Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Nashville?
This was a bit of a tough one. Not because there are few restaurants that are kid-friendly, there are lots of restaurants and even some bars that have kid-friendly cuisine.
If you are in Nashville with kids, you want them to have a fun experience as well. I was looking for places that made sure the kids had fun stuff to experience, not only had a “kid menu” and accommodated seating.
Pfunky Griddle
I’ve eaten at the Pfunky Griddle a few times, I personally love this place. Why do I start by saying that? There are many people who are against going to a restaurant and cooking your own food.
I personally think that with the right people in your party you can have a lot of fun being creative with your food as you prepare it. If you are in Nashville with kids, they will really enjoy playing cook and then eating the food they made.
You can make pancakes with M&Ms to fruit as additions. Plus there are eggs, grilled cheese, and more. If making your own food isn’t your idea of “going out to eat”, you can order off of their menu as well.
More info: Pfunky Griddle
Hugh-Baby’s
The creator of one of the best barbeque places in Nashville also has one of the best burger places in Nashville. Check out Hugh Babys at one of their three locations. They have a great selection of burgers, bbq, and hot dogs. The little one get their drinks are free. That’s not all they do for the kids, there is a fun play area for them as well.
More info: Hugh Babys
Scoreboard Bar and Grill
I’ve been to Scoreboard Bar and Grill a time or two. It has a neat atmosphere and great food. On Sundays, they have Sunday Fun Day where they have live entertainment from their band called “The Spazmatics”. There are games for all to enjoy as well. The games aren’t just for Sunday, you can play them anytime. There is a fun play area outside with various yard games. I enjoy Scoreboards, you should check it out as well!
More info: Scoreboard Bar and Grill
Aquarium Restaurant
If you are in the Oprymills Mall with your child. Or even if you are alone, it would be a great experience to check out the Aquarium Restaurant. There is a huge aquarium inside with lots of saltwater fish just swimming around.
I’ve eaten here several times, the food is pretty good and I’ve always had good service. If you are in Nashville with kids, I do recommend checking this place out. I’ve had more fun watching the children’s faces light up at the cool fish than watching the fish themselves.
Be sure to check the website link for their calendar of events. They occasionally have the Mystic Mermaids show. This is where ladies dress up as Mermaids and put on an underwater show to music.
More info: Aquarium Restaurant
Caney Fork
Been here several times! Caney Fork is Nashville’s #1 Wild Game and Southern food restaurant. If you are an adventurous eater and want to try something new in the lines of wild game, this is your place.
There is one area that I really enjoy being seated, and that is right beside the live catfish pond! If you are Nashville with kids and want them to have a great eating experience at Caney Fork, request to be seated by the pond.
It is not just a pond, it is more of a nature scene that has “stuffed” deer, coyote, and other animals around the pond. If you get lucky an get there at the right time you may get to see the catfish being fed. I was there one night kinda late, the employee feeding the fish let a child throw the food into the pond. That little girl was so excited getting to “feed the big fish” as she kept saying.
More info: Caney Fork River Valley Grill
Dave and Busters
This is one big game room!! Dave and Busters is a nationwide chain that has everything from bowling to pinball. There are all kinds of choices for adults and if you are in Nashville with kids .. there is plenty for them as well.
There are differnt eateries inside D&Bs so there will be a good selection of food choices as well.
More info: Dave and Busters
Rainforest Cafe
Animated animals everywhere!! Wings flapping, hippos laughing, and monkey sitting in the trees. Kids visiting Nashville will have a really good time eating here. It is located inside OpryMills Shopping Mall in the Music Valley area of Nashville.
I can’t with a clear conscience not mention this. There are hundreds of people that eat there daily and enjoy everything about it. Rainforest has good reviews with locals and tourists. I’ve eaten there twice and both times I had the Chicken Salad. Both times I was really friendly with the toilet that night.
So, It is a fun great place to check out. I love the decor and “sights” inside. So, I can’t leave it out because it would be fun for the kids to experience all the mechanical critters. I will ALWAYS be honest about any experience I have at any place I visit. So, take what I told you in consideration if you wanna eat there or not.
More info: Rainforest Cafe
Is this all the kid friendly restaurants?
There are lots of other restaurants that are kid-friendly, maybe I’ll write a dedicated article to just child friendly restaurants so I can cover that topic in more detail. Save this site in your favorites so you can refer back to it as I update or add new information.
Is Nashville Child Friendly?
Based upon the information given in this article it feel its safe to say if you are in Nashville with kids, you have things to do and eat that they will enjoy.
Its one thing to accomodate a child coming into an establishment, but to make sure the child has fun and it truely entertained is another subject all together.
Throughout any of the writings I’ll ever do on this site, I do it from a personal point of view of what I might enjoy or in this case what a child will legitimately … actually … will not be bored … have a good time experience.
So, bring your kids of all ages to Nashville! There are LOTS of great stuff to do for all ages. Hope you found this article helpful!
Peace out!
P.S. I’ll add some pictures once I get the editing done on the ones I’m gonna use. It is a beautiful day outside and I got a Jeep to get built.
