I’ll admit it, I’m a winter person. There’s something about the sweaty, sticky, humid, southern heat that makes me long for those cool, crisp winter days (and yes, I’m from Tennessee). Don’t get me wrong, I love a good splash in the pool or a lengthy bike ride, but as the days get hotter, I look to the great indoors.
I know I’m not alone in my quest for coolness. That’s why I want to share with my fellow air-conditioning seekers some family-friendly ideas that can help beat the Nashville heat! Check them out and don’t forget to share with us what you like to do during the ‘dog days’ of summer.
Indoor Activities to Help Beat the Nashville Heat
The Parthenon
As the world’s only exact-size replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, this museum not only offers a break from the summer sun, but it allows visitors a chance to dive into the rich history of Nashville and its comparison to the ancient city as “The Athens of the South.” Take advantage of the wonderful exhibits, architect tours, museum tours, ‘Kidsville’ activity and craft stations, community activities, and more! For information about general admission and events, visit www.nashvillparthenon.com. Location: 2500 W End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Nashville Children’s Theatre
1931 was the first time audiences were invited into the magic and wonder of the Nashville Children’s Theatre as its very first play, “Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp” was performed- and they have been entertaining and inspiring the minds of young Nashvillians ever since. If you haven’t already attended one of the theatre’s plays, I encourage you to make your way there. It’s the adventure you (and your littles) didn’t know you needed. Please visit www.nashvillechildrenstheatre.org for details on what’s playing now and ticket info. Location: 25 Middleton Street, Nashville, TN 37210
Frist Art Museum
Did you know that the Frist has free admission for visitors 18 and under? This historic Nashville Museum quickly established itself as a centerpiece of cultural focus enlightening and inspiring its guests with some of the most sought-after exhibits and collections in the world. What’s more, the award-winning Martin ArtQuest located at the Frist Art Museum invites art lovers of all ages to create, interact, and be inspired by the incredible activities and art stations made available to each visitor. A place to be delighted, a place to be enlightened. Visit www.fristartmuseum.org to learn much more! Location: 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Tennessee State Museum
Located directly across from the popular Nashville Farmers’ Market, The Tennessee State Museum invites visitors to experience Tennessee through the history and fascinating stories related to our great state. According to the Museum, “The mission of the Tennessee State Museum is to procure, preserve, exhibit, and interpret objects which relate to the social, political, economic, and cultural history of Tennessee and Tennesseans, and to provide access to educational and cultural programs and exhibitions for the people of the state,” – www.tnmuseum.org. Admission is always free to all visitors. A must-see for anyone looking to build their knowledge of Tennessee! Location: 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
Hatch Show Print
Operating as a working museum, over 100,000 visitors come for a glimpse of a truly singular piece of Nashville history each year that is the beloved Hatch Show Print. Since 1879, the print shop has continually adapted to keep its place as a mainstay in the print world- and there’s no sign of stopping. Visitors delight in activities, programs, and collections and can even watch the letterpress’s inner workings in real-time. You simply cannot let yourself miss an experience like this one. Check it out! Visit www.hatchshowprint.com for ticket info and more details. Location: 224 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203
Do you have any favorite spots to beat the Nashville summer heat?
Also be sure to check out our Guide to 65+ Nashville Summer Activities!
