Nashville offers plenty of fun and free activities for families to enjoy. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply exploring the city’s vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best free things to do in Nashville for families:
1. Centennial Park and the Parthenon
Centennial Park is a great spot for families to relax and enjoy nature. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful lake. A highlight of the park is the full-scale replica of the Parthenon, a unique piece of architecture that will fascinate both kids and adults. While entry to the Parthenon museum has a fee, you can explore the exterior and the surrounding park for free.
2. Nashville’s Public Library
The Nashville Public Library is more than just a place to check out books. It has a fantastic children’s section with free events, storytimes, and activities for young children. The library also has beautiful architecture and a lovely courtyard, perfect for relaxing or having a picnic.
3. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
This park offers a lot to explore, including the Tennessee State Capitol, beautiful fountains, and historical markers. Kids will enjoy running around in the open spaces and playing near the fountains. It’s an excellent place to take a walk and learn about the history of Tennessee.
4. The Pedestrian Bridge
Walking across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is a fun and free activity that provides amazing views of downtown Nashville and the Cumberland River. It’s a safe, family-friendly place to walk or take photos, and the bridge offers a great perspective of the city’s skyline.
5. Nashville Street Art & Murals
Nashville is home to some vibrant street art and murals scattered throughout the city. Many of these colorful artworks can be found in the Gulch and other neighborhoods. A mural scavenger hunt can be a fun way for families to explore different parts of the city while taking in some incredible art.
6. Cumberland Park
This urban park near the river is a great spot for families to play and enjoy the outdoors. It features a playground, splash pad, and walking paths. The park also hosts occasional free events, making it an exciting destination for kids.
7. Music City Walk of Fame Park
Located in downtown Nashville, this park honors the contributions of musicians from various genres. The park features plaques dedicated to famous artists and provides a fun way to introduce kids to the rich music history of Nashville.
8. Free Live Music at the Honky Tonks
While most honky-tonk bars in Nashville have a cover charge for evening shows, many of them offer free live music during the day, especially on Broadway. It’s a family-friendly way to experience Nashville’s famous music scene without spending any money.
9. Fort Nashborough
A reconstructed fort on the banks of the Cumberland River, Fort Nashborough offers a glimpse into Nashville’s early history. Families can explore the grounds, watch reenactments, and learn about the city’s founding and Native American history.
10. Nashville Farmers’ Market
The Nashville Farmers’ Market near Bicentennial Mall is a wonderful place to walk around and explore, even if you’re not planning to buy anything. The market features local vendors and occasional live music performances, and it’s a pleasant place to grab a bite to eat or enjoy some free entertainment.
These activities are just a few examples of how to experience Nashville on a budget with your family. From parks to museums and live music, there’s no shortage of free fun to be had!
