Fun Winter Things to Do in Tennessee with Kids

You might think Tennessee is all backroads and country music, but for families, it just works, from toddlers to eyeroll-y teens. You can easily balance outdoor adventure, theme parks, aquariums and iconic city sights without overplanning. If you’re visiting in 2026, you’ll find brand-new attractions alongside iconic holiday celebrations like Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas and expanded mountaintop experiences in Gatlinburg.

Highlights

• Statewide Destination Guides: Explore top family-friendly attractions across Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga, Nashville and Memphis to help parents build complete winter break itineraries. 
• Seasonal Festivals and Events: Winter and holiday highlights including Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS, Gatlinburg Winter Magic and Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park. 
• Top Kid-Friendly Attractions: Must-see natural landmarks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, scenic winter drives through Cades Cove, panoramic snow-capped views at Kuwohi and subterranean waterfall tours at Ruby Falls. 
• Essential Travel Logistics: Updated 2026/2027 event dates, venue addresses, operating hours, ticket pricing and practical tips for family winter travel.

Why Book Your Tennessee Winter Holiday Early

• Holiday and Light Festival Travel: November through December is exceptionally busy across the Great Smoky Mountains and major cities, causing popular mountain resorts and cozy cabin rentals to sell out months in advance.
• Timed-Entry Reservation Limits: Major holiday light walkthroughs and popular attractions, like Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights, Ruby Falls cavern tours and Tennessee Aquarium entries, require advance booking to secure preferred time slots.
• Budget and Pass Savings: Booking early allows families to secure discounted family pass options, bundle lodging perks (such as early park entry) and reserve early-bird holiday event tickets.

Are you ready to explore more? Let us inspire your next family vacation!

Family-Friendly Winter Events and Festivals Across Tennessee

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

• Why Go: Dollywood’s signature holiday season brings more than six million twinkling lights, a nightly Parade of Lights and returning festive stage shows like “Christmas in the Smokies” and “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 6, 2026 – Jan. 3, 2027 | Location: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | Hours: Vary by date | Pricing: Included with Dollywood admission

Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas

• Why Go: Over a million lights transform the mountaintop park’s villages, and the Chondola or Crystal Express ride up doubles as a scenic lights tour of Gatlinburg below. Breakfast with Santa is a huge draw for younger kids!
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 13, 2026 – Jan. 3, 2027 | Location: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | Hours: Vary by date | Pricing: Included with Anakeesta admission; Breakfast with Santa requires separate tickets

Gatlinburg Winter Magic

• Why Go: More than 30 years running, this is the free, walkable counterpart to Anakeesta: downtown Gatlinburg lit end to end with millions of LED lights, featuring a kickoff street festival and chili cook-off, a Christmas parade, and nightly trolley light tours.
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 5, 2026 – Feb. 15, 2027 (Kickoff event Nov. 12) | Location: Downtown Gatlinburg, TN | Hours: Evening light displays daily | Pricing: Free to walk; chili cook-off wristbands $10

Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights

• Why Go: Rock City transforms into a festive wonderland featuring 32 years of holiday lights across six illuminated realms, a walk-through Christmas tree, seasonal treats and visits with Santa through Dec. 23.
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 13 – Dec. 31, 2026 | Location: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 | Hours: Opens 4:00 PM nightly | Pricing: Admission varies by date; advance timed-entry ticket required

Holidays at Ruby Falls

• Why Go: A cozy, less-crowded holiday stop just down the road from Rock City: festive lights on the Village Plaza, an interactive “Forest of Wishes” tree and Santa visits, paired with the iconic underground cavern tour that runs year-round.
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 27 – Dec. 24, 2026 | Location: 1720 S Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409 | Hours: Daily cavern operating hours | Pricing: Standard cave tour pricing applies; plaza lights and holiday activities are free to view

Cheekwood Holiday Lights

• Why Go: The same 55-acre botanical garden hosts a magical one-mile walking trail lined with over one million lights, featuring a new Historic Mansion display, s’mores pits, holiday cocktails and a festive market.
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 20, 2026 – Jan. 3, 2027 | Location: 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205 | Hours: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Pricing: Admission varies by date; advance booking recommended

Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park

• Why Go: Memphis’s premier holiday light show offers a massive West Tennessee option. Partnered with World of Illumination for a drive-through “Arctic Adventure,” it also features a walkable add-on called Afterglow on select nights.
• Logistics: Dates: Nov. 21, 2026 – Jan. 3, 2027 | Location: Shelby Farms Park, Memphis, TN | Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Pricing: Per-vehicle pricing; varies by night

Year-Round Family Activities By City

Things To Do In Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge sits nestled against the Smoky Mountains and feels like an action-packed hub built for family vacations. Its lively Parkway pairs easily with theme park thrills, interactive museums and scenic mountain backdrops. Fun-seekers can ride world-class coasters, step aboard historic replicas or relax at family-focused mountain resorts.

• The Magic: World-class coaster thrills set in a tranquil, garden-like theme park setting
• What We Loved Best: Visiting Dollywood without having to master an app or plot out every single move
• Must-Try Recommendation: Walk the replica grand staircase and feel real iceberg water at the Titanic Museum
• Here’s our guide filled with The Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, TN with Kids

1. Dollywood

Dollywood just might be the most effortless theme park for family fun. It’s surprisingly tranquil and filled with Dolly Parton nostalgia. My favorite part? You can buy a ticket, show up and enjoy without mastering an app or plotting every move.

• The Magic: Pure nostalgia mixed with world-class wooden coasters and festive holiday cheer.
• Best for: All ages and roller coaster enthusiasts
• What We Loved Best: Enjoying a major theme park without needing a complicated app.
• Must-Try Recommendation: Ride NightFlight Expedition, an immersive indoor adventure coaster that combines storytelling, special effects and moderate thrills. Since it’s fully indoors and climate-controlled, it’s the perfect way to stay warm on a chilly winter day
• Logistics: Location: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Varies seasonally) | Pricing: Adults & Children (4+) from $94.99; Ages 3 & under Free

2. Titanic Museum

Although the real Titanic sank far from Tennessee, this extensive museum makes you feel like you are walking through the halls of the fated ship. You can even get your picture taken on a replica of the grand staircase. Kids love the hands-on stations and sloped floors.

• The Magic: Standing on a replica grand staircase inside a half-scale ship.
• Best for: School-aged kids and teens who like hands-on, interactive history lessons
• What We Loved Best: Touching a real iceberg and feeling 28-degree water.
• Must-Try Recommendation: Walk the sloped decks that simulate the ship’s final moments.
• Logistics: Location: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Extended to 8:00/9:00 PM peak days) | Pricing: Adults and Children (5+) from $15; Family Pass $115; Ages 4 & under Free

Skip the ticket line and book Titanic Museum entry tickets ahead of time.

Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge

Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa and Dollywood’s Cabins

• Ideal options for Dollywood visitors across various price points.
• Offers park perks like early admission and free shuttle transportation.

The Lodge at Camp Margaritaville

• Great option for both RV travelers and resort guests.
• Features comfortable rooms and diverse amenities.
• King Deluxe Family Room: Provides extra space, privacy and a themed indoor tent for kids.

Things To Do In Chattanooga

Chattanooga sits on the state border and feels like a small city made for families. Its walkable downtown pairs easily with outdoor adventures, riverfront strolls and nearby trails. History lovers can explore Civil War landmarks, the Medal of Honor Heritage Center or the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

• The Magic: Pedestrian-friendly city streets connected directly to scenic mountain trails.
• What We Loved Best: Riding the free downtown shuttle to hop between attractions effortlessly.
• Must-Try Recommendation: Stroll across the iconic historic Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge.
• For even more ideas, read our guide about Fun Things to Do in Chattanooga with Kids.

3. Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center

• The Magic: Immersive storytelling exhibits detailing acts of bravery and military history
• Best for: History lovers, older kids and military enthusiasts
• What We Loved Best: Interactive displays that help kids connect deeply with real-life historical heroes
• Must-Try Recommendation: Walk through the life-sized historic dioramas outlining key battle moments
• Logistics: Address: 2 Aquarium Way, Chattanooga, TN 37402 | Hours: Daily 10 AM – 4PM | Pricing: Adults from $5.95-16.95; Aged 4 and under, free

4. Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium in downtown Chattanooga has two riverfront buildings: River Journey and Ocean Journey. One admission ticket grants entry to both buildings. Guests can follow the story of water from mountain streams all the way to deep ocean habitats filled with sharks, sea turtles and penguins.

• The Magic: Following freshwater rivers down to tropical ocean depths across two buildings
• Best for: Animal lovers, aquatic life fans and kids
• What We Loved Best: Watching playful river otters dive and glide through freshwater streams
• Must-Try Recommendation: Stand beneath the Secret Reef exhibit to view huge sharks swimming overhead
• Logistics: Address: 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402 | Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Pricing: Adults $39.95, Youth (4–17) $29.95; Ages 3 & under Free

5. Creative Discovery Museum

Ranked among the top children’s museums in the country, this downtown venue offers endless interactive fun for younger kids. Children can climb through two-story play structures, dig for dinosaur bones, conduct water experiments and unleash creative skills in dynamic art and music studios.

• The Magic: A multi-level play space designed entirely for hands-on, multi-sensory discovery
• Best for: Toddlers, young children and hands-on learners
• What We Loved Best: The huge water play zone featuring interactive dams, boats and splash channels
• Must-Try Recommendation: Let kids build, paint and create physical keepsakes inside the Make It studio
• Logistics: Address: 321 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37402 | Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Pricing: from $10.50-19.95; Aged 2 & under Free

6. Chattanooga Choo Choo Complex

Housed inside the historic 1909 terminal station, the Chattanooga Choo Choo complex mixes railroad history with entertainment, dining and tranquil garden courtyard strolls. Families can walk alongside restored vintage train cars, grab family-friendly bites or enjoy lawn games inside the historic station footprint.

• The Magic: Stepping back into the golden age of passenger rail travel inside a massive grand terminal
• Best for: Train enthusiasts, families and casual strolls
• What We Loved Best: Wandering through garden courtyards surrounded by authentic historic train cars
• Must-Try Recommendation: Grab an ice cream cone while exploring the open-air station platforms and gardens
• Logistics: Address: 1400 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402 | Phone: (423) 266-5161 | Hours: Open daily; vendor hours vary | Pricing: No entry fees

7. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Train lovers of all ages should add a stop to this operating railroad museum. Families can board historic steam or diesel locomotives for scenic trips through mountain tunnels, across historic bridges and over vintage railway lines, providing an authentic taste of historic train travel.

• The Magic: Feeling the rumble and whistle of a real vintage steam locomotive on open tracks
• Best for: Train lovers, kids and historical train rides
• What We Loved Best: Riding through the historic pre-Civil War missionary ridge railway tunnel
• Must-Try Recommendation: Take the Missionary Ridge Local train ride to watch the locomotive turntable demonstration
• Logistics: Address: 4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37410 | Phone: (423) 894-8028 | Hours: Hours vary by train schedule | Pricing: Varies by Train; Under 2 free

8. Rock City

Rock City is a nature center with rock gardens at the top of Lookout Mountain. You will find moderately easy walking paths and panoramic views across seven states. Despite being located six miles from downtown Chattanooga in Georgia, Rock City is still considered one of Chattanooga’s most popular attractions.

• The Magic: Standing atop Lookout Mountain to gaze across seven states at once
• Best for: Nature enthusiasts and panoramic view seekers
• What We Loved Best: Navigating narrow rock crevices and enchanted stone garden pathways
• Must-Try Recommendation: Cross the Swing-A-Long Suspension Bridge for dramatic canyon views
• Logistics: Location: 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 | Hours: Daily: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (3+) from $21; Ages 2 & under Free

9. Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls, a waterfall located deep inside Lookout Mountain, offers guided cavern tours lasting about an hour. Families visiting in 2026 can also check out the new Junior Caver Tour, an educational, kid-friendly experience that includes hands-on learning and take-home activities. For a treetop view, add on ziplining.

• The Magic: Descending 260 feet into a cavern by elevator to view a massive subterranean waterfall
• Best for: Cave explorers, families and adventure seekers
• What We Loved Best: Seeing the 145-foot waterfall illuminated by colorful cavern lights
• Must-Try Recommendation: Book the specialized Junior Caver Tour for hands-on, kid-focused learning
• Logistics: Location: 1720 S Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409 | Hours: Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (4+) from $19.95; Ages 3 & under Free

Where to Stay in Chattanooga: The Read House

• Location & Vibe: Situated in downtown Chattanooga, offering an elegant atmosphere alongside comfortable, kid-friendly rooms.
• Amenities: Features an indoor pool for year-round swimming and an on-site Starbucks.
• Dining: Includes an on-site restaurant that offers a relaxed, welcoming environment for families despite its initial upscale appearance.
• Read our review: The Read House Hotel Review: Historic Luxury in the Heart of Chattanooga

Things To Do In Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg (and Pigeon Forge) offer easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gatlinburg packs in treetop adventure parks, mini golf courses and world-class aquariums. Visitors can ride chairlifts up mountainsides, walk glass-bottom canopy bridges or embark on glass-bottom boat rides over shark tanks.

• The Magic: Riding gondolas up to mountaintop parks featuring views of the Smokies
• What We Loved Best: Boarding an incline train to play mini golf down a hillside at Hillbilly Golf
• Must-Try Recommendation: Glide over Shark Lagoon on a glass-bottom boat at Ripley’s Aquarium
• Anakeesta 2026: Ride the Crystal Express glass-bottom gondola for panoramic views across the mountains
• Where to Stay: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg offers a lively pool area, waterpark and outdoor games

10. Hillbilly Golf

There are many places to play mini golf throughout Tennessee, but check out Gatlinburg’s unique Hillbilly Golf. An incline train takes you up to the top of the hill, where you will choose between two courses and play your way back down.

• The Magic: Riding an incline train up a mountain just to play mini golf back down
• Best for: Mini golf fans and family friendly fun
• What We Loved Best: Negotiating creative, mountain-themed obstacles like moonshine stills and farm gear
• Must-Try Recommendation: Pick between two distinct 18-hole courses at the top of the ridge
• Logistics: Location: 340 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Operates March through November; weather permitting in winter) | Pricing: Adults and Children (4+) from $12.50; Ages 3 & under Free

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies houses sharks, stingrays, penguins and other marine life. Families can also take a glass-bottom boat ride over Shark Lagoon to see giant sea creatures swimming just inches beneath their feet.

• The Magic: Floating in a glass-bottom boat directly above massive sharks and stingrays
• Best for: Animal lovers and marine life enthusiasts
• What We Loved Best: Watching energetic penguins swim and play above and below water level
• Must-Try Recommendation: Step onto the moving glidepath tunnel through Shark Lagoon
• Logistics: Location: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (6+) from $24.99; Toddlers (2–5) from $9.99

12. Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park in Gatlinburg with treetop adventures, mountain coasters, ziplining, gardens, dining and views of the Smokies. The Firefly Experience is an immersive attraction inspired by the synchronized fireflies found in the Smokies, integrated into the expanded Treetop Skywalk.

• The Magic: Soaring up a mountain ridge inside a glass-bottom gondola surrounded by peaks
• Best for: Treetop explorers, mountain lovers and views
• What We Loved Best: Strolling through the illuminated Firefly Experience along the high canopy skywalk
• Must-Try Recommendation: Race down the mountain on the Rail Runner mountain coaster
• Logistics: Location: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (4+) from $27.99; Ages 3 & under Free

Lock in your date with Anakeesta entry tickets booked in advance.

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Caters well to families despite the Margaritaville branding.
• Pool & Activities: Features a lively pool area, a waterpark and outdoor games.
• Food & Beverage: Offers a wide selection of frozen cocktails for adults looking to indulge.

Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you are looking for outdoor things to do with kids in Tennessee, do not skip this popular national park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has 384 miles of mostly paved roads, making it a great national park to tour by car.

• The Magic: Panoramic ridgeline views through leafless winter trees that open up dramatic mountain horizons
• What We Loved Best: Scenic drives like Cades Cove Loop Road and Newfound Gap Road (check road conditions after snow)
• Must-Try Recommendation: Walk paved winter paths or check out snow-dusted historic cabins in Cades Cove
• Visitor Center Start: Stop at Sugarlands Visitor Center for interactive exhibits, ranger maps, and winter trail updates

One Park, Two States: Tennessee and North Carolina

Part of the park is in North Carolina, so check the National Park Service website to see which entry point works best for you. If you’re coming from Gatlinburg, you’ll enter the park via Sugarlands Visitor Center. The center has interactive exhibits, and you can check the availability of ranger-led programs and grab a map.

13. Kuwohi (Formerly Known as Clingmans Dome)

Kuwohi, which sits along the Appalachian Trail, ranks as the highest point in Tennessee. A half-mile paved trail leads to a 54-foot observation tower. The climb is quite steep, but the views from the top reward the effort. If you’re interested in camping or other hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, check the park’s website for more information, and make sure you’re up to speed on bear safety.

• The Magic: Standing on the highest peak in Tennessee along the iconic Appalachian Trail
• Best for: Sightseers, families and mountain view lovers
• What We Loved Best: Enjoying 360-degree views stretching over endless mountain ridges
• Must-Try Recommendation: Dress in warm layers because summit temperatures run much colder than in town
• Logistics: Location: Kuwohi Tower Rd, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN | Hours: Daily: Dawn to Dusk (Visitor Center 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM, closed Dec–Mar) | Pricing: Free admission (Parking pass required: $5/day, $15/week)

Want a guide to handle the mountain driving? Book a Great Smoky Mountains high points tour from Gatlinburg.

Where to Stay in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you don’t want to camp in the park or reserve space in one of the in-park lodges, check out these ‘Where to Stay’ sections for Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. You can also look at lodging options in Sevierville, a mountain town in the foothills of Smokies, most famous as the birthplace of the beloved national treasure, Dolly Parton. All of these locations are within an easy drive of the park.

Things to Do in Memphis

Memphis mixes legendary music history with high-energy attractions for kids. Visitors can tour Elvis Presley’s iconic estate at Graceland, view exotic wildlife at the world-class Memphis Zoo or climb high-ropes courses and ziplines at Shelby Farms Park.

• The Magic: Walking through Elvis’ mansion and stepping onboard his custom luxury airplanes
• What We Loved Best: Watching the famous duck parade inside the historic lobby of The Peabody Hotel
• Must-Try Recommendation: Use the interactive planning tool on the zoo website to map out your day
• Active Teens: Zip through forest canopies on treetop ropes courses at Go Ape Zipline Park
• Where to Stay: Book a room at The Peabody Hotel to catch the daily lobby duck marches
• Check out our guide for a Memphis Weekend Getaway: Where to Eat, Play and Stay for an Unforgettable 48 Hours in Tennessee

14. Visit Graceland

Graceland is far more than a museum for die-hard Elvis fans; it functions like an interactive, pop-culture entertainment complex that brings 1970s nostalgia and rock ‘n’ roll history to life for all ages. During the winter holidays, the mansion grounds feature traditional Christmas light displays first chosen by Elvis himself.

• The Magic: Walking inside the preserved living quarters and grounds of an iconic music superstar
• Best for: Music history fans and pop culture lovers
• What We Loved Best: Touring Elvis’ custom luxury airplanes and vintage automobile collection
• Must-Try Recommendation: Select the Elvis Experience Tour for access to the mansion and car museum. More extensive backstage-access tours cater to visitors with extra time and budget, although let’s be real: this tour probably holds little interest for most kids.
• Logistics: Location: 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (5+) from $41.30; Ages 4 & under Free

Make it easy with a Memphis city tour that includes Graceland entry.

15. Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo features a wide range of wildlife, including penguins and a Komodo dragon. An interactive planning tool on the zoo’s website helps visitors map out their day by arrival time and length of stay. Explore on foot or opt for a guided tram tour.

• The Magic: Getting up close to rare Komodo dragons, polar bears and giant pandas
• Best for: Animal lovers and families with strollers
• What We Loved Best: Riding the fun farm train and classic children’s carousel rides
• Must-Try Recommendation: Board the guided tram tour to easily navigate the expansive zoo grounds
• Logistics: Location: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (2+) from $21.00 | Under 2 Free

16. Go Ape Zipline Park

Go Ape Zipline Park is the perfect outdoor activity for adventurous tweens and teens. Climb and zipline through the treetops at this adventure park located inside Shelby Farms Park, suitable for kids 10 and up.

• The Magic: Gliding through canopy treetops on high-speed ziplines surrounded by forest
• Best for: Adventurous tweens, teens and active families
• What We Loved Best: Challenging high-ropes obstacles, suspended bridges and canopy crossings
• Must-Try Recommendation: Tackle the Treetop Adventure course for maximum elevation and zipline fun
• Logistics: Location: 651 N Pine Lake Dr (Shelby Farms Park), Memphis, TN 38134 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Seasonal variation) | Pricing: Adventures from $34.95

Where to Stay in Memphis: The Peabody Hotel

• Peabody Hotel: Iconic and widely considered the ultimate place to stay in Memphis.
• Signature Attraction: Features the famous daily duck parade through the lobby.
• Accommodations & Value: Offers upscale, high-end rooms at surprisingly affordable rates.
• Read our review of the Peabody Duck March Experience: Is It Worth the Hype?

Things to Do in Nashville

Music-loving families will find plenty to love about Nashville. Downtown Nashville’s music clubs make it a popular nightlife destination, but daytime offers plenty of family options. Families can visit iconic country music museums, explore art centers, tour zoos or marvel at a full-scale Greek Parthenon replica.

• The Magic: Seeing a 42-foot golden Athena statue inside a full-scale Parthenon replica
• What We Loved Best: Creating hands-on art projects inside the interactive Frist Art Museum studios
• Must-Try Recommendation: Tour the legendary Grand Ole Opry backstage corridors and historic stage
• Science Center Fun: Climb the two-story climbing structure inside the Adventure Science Center
• Where to Stay: Book Gaylord Opryland Resort to experience the upscale SoundWaves water park
• For a broader look for Nashville family fun, see our Fun Things To Do In Nashville With Kids

17. Country Music Hall of Fame

See artifacts and memorabilia from the genre’s biggest superstars over several decades. From country music pioneers to current favorites, there is something for everyone here. The exhibits are very well done, and there is a lot of space to move around.

• The Magic: Viewing historic stage costumes, gold records and instruments from famous musicians
• Best for: Music enthusiasts, families and pop culture fans
• What We Loved Best: Exploring interactive media displays and Taylor Swift’s donated education center
• Must-Try Recommendation: Walk through the rotating galleries showcasing modern country superstars
• Logistics: Location: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Pricing: Adults and Children (6+) from $21.95; Ages 5 & under Free

Book Country Music Hall of Fame tickets ahead so you can walk right in.

18. The Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry offers Nashville’s premier music experience. Check the website to plan your visit. From catching a live show to picking up souvenirs in the gift shop, the venue provides plenty of opportunities to create memories with the kids.

• The Magic: Standing inside the world’s most famous country music radio broadcast venue
• Best for: Country music fans, showgoers and families
• What We Loved Best: Seeing the iconic wooden circle embedded into the center of the main stage
• Must-Try Recommendation: Book a backstage tour to see artist dressing rooms and historic hallways
• Logistics: Location: 2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214 | Hours: Box Office: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Showtimes typically 7:00 PM) | Pricing: Backstage Tours $45.00–$46.65; Show tickets $40–$150+

Grab Grand Ole Opry show tickets or a backstage tour before your trip.

19. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Carve out a full day to explore the Nashville Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals, including spider monkeys, white rhinoceros, Masai giraffe and clouded leopards. The zoo offers behind-the-scenes animal experiences and special seasonal holiday light programs throughout the year.

• The Magic: Walking through expansive habitats featuring rare clouded leopards and spider monkeys
• Best for: Animal lovers and active kids
• What We Loved Best: Letting kids run wild across the massive Jungle Gym play area
• Must-Try Recommendation: Schedule a behind-the-scenes tour for up-close animal encounters
• Logistics: Location: 3777 Nolensville Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37211 | Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Pricing: Adults $16–$26; Children (2–12) $12–$22; Under 2 Free ($8 Parking fee)

Save time at the gate with Nashville Zoo admission tickets booked online.

20 . Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum displays a variety of art in its galleries, featuring both static and rotating exhibits. The museum ranks among the most family-friendly in the country, with interactive exhibits and free admission for anyone under 18, a definite win for family travelers.

• The Magic: Creating custom art prints and sculptures inside the interactive Martin ArtQuest gallery
• Best for: Art lovers, creative kids and budget travelers
• What We Loved Best: Free admission for all guests ages 18 and under every operating day
• Must-Try Recommendation: Visit the hands-on art making stations to create your own souvenir masterpiece
• Logistics: Location: 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 | Hours: Thu 10 AM–8 PM, Fri–Sat & Mon 10 AM–5:30 PM, Sun 1–5:30 PM (Closed Tue/Wed) | Pricing: Adults $20.00; Ages 18 & under Free

21. Adventure Science Center

Packed with dynamic hands-on science stations, this hilltop center makes learning an absolute blast for kids. Children can climb the giant central tower, experience simulated physics challenges, test flight simulators and explore outer space inside the Sudekum Planetarium.

• The Magic: Catching incredible full-dome astronomy and laser shows inside the Sudekum Planetariumwww.adventuresci.org
• Best for: Curious kids, hands-on science lovers and young explorers
• What We Loved Best: Climbing through the two-story Adventure Tower for panoramic downtown city views
• Must-Try Recommendation: Test your physical limits on the astronaut training gyro-sphere simulator
• Logistics: Location: 800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203 | Hours: Thu–Mon: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Fri–Sun open until 5:00 PM) | Pricing: Adults and Children (2+) from $16.00

22. The Parthenon at Centennial Park

• The Magic: Looking up at the towering 42-foot golden Athena statue inside the grand hall
• Best for: History fans, art lovers and outdoor park play
• What We Loved Best: Strolling around Lake Watauga in Centennial Park to feed the ducks and run out some energy before heading into see Athena
• Must-Try Recommendation: Explore the lower-level art galleries showcasing 19th and 20th century American paintings
• Logistics: Location: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203 | Hours: Tue–Sat: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Sun: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Closed Mon) | Pricing: Adults and Children (4+) from $4.50; Ages 3 & under Free

Where to Stay in Nashville: Gaylord Opryland

• Gaylord Opryland Resort: High-end hotel option located in Nashville, ideal for a family-friendly splurge.
• SoundWaves: Features an upscale, multi-level indoor/outdoor water attraction with rides, rivers and play areas for families.
• Read our review: Celebrating Christmas at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville

Here’s our guide for more kid-friendly stays in Nashville Fun for All Ages! Top Family-Friendly Hotels.

FAQs: Things to Do in Tennessee With Kids

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