Living in Nashville, a.k.a. Music City, has its benefits. Not only do we as residents get spoiled with amazing live entertainment 24/7 and random celebrity sightings, but we also have plenty of attractions that keep everyone from kids to adults entertained on the regular.
So this summer, why not embrace all that Nashville has to offer and become a tourist in your own town? Take advantage of these fun tours (and many more!) that kids – yes, even teens – will love. You may even learn something new about the town you call home!
PUPPET CITY TOURS
tripadvisor.com
Cost: $23/child | $28/adult
Reservations are required.
Undoubtedly one of the most kid-friendly and unique sightseeing experiences in Nashville today! Explore Nashville with the help of knowledgeable and friendly puppets as they take you on a one-hour stroll through downtown Nashville. Professional puppeteers lead the way as they bring Nashville’s history to life through engaging stories and maybe even a few songs.
GOO GOO CHOCOLATE CO.
116 3rd Ave S. | Nashville
Cost: $55/person
Reservations are required.
Now you can try your hand at creating one of your very own cluster concoctions through the “Taste of Goo Goo” experience. While not a tour in the traditional sense, this experience takes guests through a history lesson on how these tasty morsels are made and welcomes aspiring chocolatiers of all ages to create a custom Goo Goo.
LANE MOTOR MUSEUM
702 Murfreesboro Pike | Nashville
Cost: $3/child (6-17) | Children 5 and under free | $15/adult (18+)
This museum boasts a collection of over 150 of the most unique automobiles in the U.S. and it is one of the most kid-friendly places in Nashville! Tour the museum and learn about one-of-a-kind vehicles, prototype vehicles and even amphibious vehicles. You’ll definitely want to check out their popular Guided Vault Tour and Vehicle Demonstration happening most weekends. The entire experience is indoors so you can enjoy yourself rain or shine!
COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME
222 Rep. John Lewis Way S. | Nashville
Cost: FREE admission for local kids (18 and under) | 25% off for two accompanying adults
This famous museum is filled to the brim with so many different activities for children of any age to enjoy. Their list of fun and interactive programming is diverse and family-friendly and includes experiences like illustrating a Dolly Parton lyric! Be sure to ask about their complimentary Young Explorer’s Kit, which includes activities to enhance their Museum experience. Best of all local kids ages 18 and under receive free admission!
MIDNIGHT SUN SCAVENGER HUNT
400 Main Street Suite 130 | Franklin
Cost: FREE (all ages)
Explore Franklin’s local history, as well as its deeply embedded equine culture, through this fun and immersive scavenger hunt for kids! Suitable for kids ages 6+, this hunt takes you through downtown Franklin on a quest to find 10 hidden horse statues that pay homage to the most famous Tennessee Walking Horse: Midnight Sun. This tour is free, self-guided and kids can collect a prize for solving all the clues!
RYMAN AUDITORIUM
116 Rep. John Lewis Way N. | Nashville
Cost: Self-guided tour – Ages 12 and under FREE w/ paying adult.
One of Nashville’s most iconic historic landmarks and music venues, The Ryman offers tours for all ages showcasing its unique history. Kids will love the immersive tour and get a kick out of the holographic storytellers they will meet at the beginning of their journey.
RIVER QUEEN VOYAGES
[email protected] | Nashville
Cost: starting at $65/single kayak
Reservations are required.
Adventurers can set sail on this three-mile kayaking scavenger hunt that follows Nashville downtown skyline. Paddlers will solve clues and riddles related to Nashville’s history as they make their way along the Cumberland River. Perfect for teens and prior kayaking experience is not required.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC
510 Broadway Ave | Nashville
Cost: Nissan FREE Wednesdays: Every first Wednesday of the month, enjoy complimentary access for all ages! Regular pricing: $30/child(5-17) | Children 4 and under FREE | $33/adult (18+).
This is not your typical history museum! Each step through this museum has been curated to educate and immerse its guests in the history of African American music. Visitors get to experience over 50 different music genres and styles as they walk through exhibits featuring early spirituals, gospel, jazz, blues, hip hop and more. Try your hand at mixing your own musical hits or matching dance moves with some of the best Motown, pop and hip hop performers. Don’t miss their RFID wristband, which allows you to capture your favorite exhibits, music and content and take it home. The perfect keepsake!
UNDERGROUND DONUT TOUR
undergrounddonuttour.com
Cost: $55/child | $65/adult (ages 11+)
Experience the sights and sounds of historic Nashville landmarks with a donut in hand! This tasty tour includes stops at Nashville’s finest donut parlors and bakeries as you stroll down historic streets that tell the story of how Nashville became Music City. And “do-nut” worry, there will be plenty of samples to go around.
For more kid-friendly adventures, check out these Top Farms to Visit in Middle TN and these Family Friendly Summer Concert Series near Nashville!
