With summer vacations in full swing, Nashville is an ideal stop on any family vacation tour. Nashville has been known as Music City since the 1890s when Queen Victoria, after hearing the music of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, famously said that Nashville must be a “city of music.” For decades, visitors have found Nashville to be a welcome retreat for guests to explore and hear some of the best music in the country. Many of our top performers today were inspired by family visits to Music City. The family vacation tradition is as strong today as it has been through our past. As parents plan out vacations or fall break, Nashville offers myriad options for the family traveler. From reunions to grandparent trips to getaways, families are sure to find something that everyone will enjoy.
The Nashville Zoo, located south of downtown and open every day, is an amazing experience in exploration and fun for the entire family. Visitors will find a zoo like no other. While casually strolling the tree and grass-lined path, guests can happen upon a family of meerkats keeping watch over their surroundings. Or, a group may enjoy the new Andean bear exhibit. A favorite for kids and adults alike is the Kangaroo Kickabout where guests can interact with kangaroos. The Nashville Zoo is designed to be like a walk in the park, but with animals from all over the world.
Experience Andrew Jackson’s historic mansion, The Hermitage. Located 20 minutes east of downtown and the third-most visited president’s home, this is a great learning experience for the whole family. The exhibit hosts a large collection of the seventh President of the United States’ personal belongings. Guests may also stroll the expansive grounds and explore the garden of Andrew Jackson’s wife, Rachel. Tours are available daily and open to all ages.
Learn all about famous country stars with an exclusive tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Located in the heart of downtown Nashville near Bridgestone Arena, the Country Music Hall of Fame allows guests to explore the history of country music, including how the genre has impacted the world. Both individual and group tours are available.
The Parthenon, located in the center of Nashville’s Centennial Park, is a full-scale replica of the original temple in Athens, Greece. The Parthenon was originally built to celebrate Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, but it now serves as an art museum. In addition to the spectacular architecture, guests will also marvel at the Athena statue inside the Parthenon, standing 41 feet, 10 inches tall.
Enjoy the beautiful garden on this amazing 55-acre estate. Originally the home of the Cheek family, owners of Maxwell House coffee, Cheekwood has been transformed to a beautiful art gallery and botanical garden. Children and adults alike enjoy taking in the fresh air while exploring the expansive grounds, meticulously maintained, with each area creating a new experience.
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While the list of family friendly experiences is never-ending, this quick guide is perfect to give any Music City visitor a great start. The staff at the SpringHill Suites/Residence Inn/AC Hotel Nashville Downtown can also provide more suggestions to help personalize an itinerary. Whether families are looking for something educational to keep the kids engaged during a summer break or simply a place to enjoy and explore with new surroundings and experiences, Nashville has something for everyone.
