Things To Do With Kids in East Nashville, TN

The Gaylord Opryland Resort is a wonderland for kids with nine acres of stunning indoor gardens under glass atriums, complete with cascading waterfalls, koi ponds, and winding pathways to explore. Even if you're not staying overnight, families can visit to ride the Delta Flatboat along the indoor river, watch fountain shows, and let kids marvel at the lush tropical environment,all climate-controlled year-round.

Adventure Science Center is Nashville's ultimate hands-on science playground where kids can touch, explore, and experiment with over 175 interactive exhibits. The showstopper 75-foot Adventure Tower challenges kids to climb through multiple levels while the state-of-the-art Sudekum Planetarium takes families on immersive journeys through space, making this a can't-miss destination for curious minds.

Rudy's Jazz Room offers a unique cultural experience for families looking to introduce children to live jazz music in an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. Located in historic Nolensville, this restaurant combines Italian-inspired cuisine with Louisiana Cajun/Creole flavors, creating a sophisticated dining experience that accommodates families during earlier evening hours before the late-night lounge crowd arrives.

Parlor Doughnuts is a sweet treat destination that kids absolutely love, offering colorful, creative donuts that are almost too pretty to eat (almost!). This cozy cafe provides a welcoming, casual atmosphere where families can grab delicious breakfast items, fresh-baked donuts, and quality coffee without breaking the bank or worrying about little ones making a bit of a mess.

Logan's Roadhouse offers a casual, laid-back steakhouse experience where kids can enjoy tossing peanut shells on the floor while waiting for their meals. Located in the Music Valley area near Opry Mills, this roadhouse-style restaurant features a dedicated kids menu with American favorites and a relaxed atmosphere where parents don't have to worry about noise levels.

Hattie B's Hot Chicken in Midtown brings Nashville's most famous culinary tradition to families with a dedicated Lil' Uns Kid's Plate that offers milder options for young palates. The spacious outdoor patio provides plenty of room for restless kids to move around while you wait for your food, making this iconic Nashville spot surprisingly family-friendly despite its spicy reputation.

The Pancake Pantry has been a Nashville breakfast institution since the 1960s, delighting families with fluffy pancakes in dozens of creative flavors and a charming tradition of featuring local children's artwork on their menus. This cozy, family-owned spot embodies Southern hospitality and makes every child feel like their creativity matters, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps generations of families coming back.

Las Paletas is a delightful Mexican popsicle shop in Nashville's trendy 12 South neighborhood that transforms a simple frozen treat into a cultural adventure for kids. With authentic paletas in vibrant flavors ranging from fresh mango and watermelon to creamy avocado and horchata, children love picking out colorful popsicles while parents appreciate the all-natural, high-quality ingredients and reasonable prices.

Centennial Park is Nashville's most beloved family destination, offering 132 acres of green space perfect for active kids and relaxed parents alike. The expansive playground features modern equipment for all ages, while the scenic duck pond provides endless entertainment for little ones who love feeding the ducks and spotting turtles along the one-mile paved walking trail.

Step into ancient Greece without leaving Tennessee! This stunning full-scale replica of the original Parthenon houses a breathtaking 42-foot statue of Athena covered in gold leaf, plus rotating art exhibits. Kids can burn off energy at the adjacent playground while parents soak in the incredible architecture and beautiful Centennial Park setting.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Green Hills is a must-visit treat destination where kids can explore adventurous flavors like Wildberry Lavender and Brambleberry Crisp alongside classic favorites. The friendly staff encourages sampling, making it fun for even picky eaters to discover new favorites, and the locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients mean parents can feel good about the splurge.

The Butter Milk Ranch is a beloved Southern comfort food destination where families can enjoy hearty, homestyle breakfasts and brunches without breaking the bank. With generous portions that please even the pickiest eaters, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and freshly baked treats, this local favorite makes family dining easy and enjoyable.

White's Mercantile offers a delightful shopping experience where kids can explore a curated collection of Southern goods, vintage treasures, and unique gifts in a welcoming general store atmosphere. The charming shop makes browsing fun for the whole family, with plenty of interesting items to discover, from locally-made treats to quirky home goods that spark children's curiosity.

While primarily a denim boutique, imogene + willie's converted gas station setting offers a unique Nashville experience that makes for a quick, memorable stop in the trendy 12 South neighborhood. The vintage aesthetic and historic architecture provide excellent photo opportunities with kids, and the shop's welcoming atmosphere makes browsing enjoyable even with little ones in tow.

Fonda On 12th brings vibrant Mexican flavors to Nashville's trendy 12 South neighborhood with a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes kids with open arms. The tapas-style small plates make it easy for picky eaters to find something they'll love, while parents can explore the diverse menu featuring creative Mexican dishes and fresh salads.

Frothy Monkey in trendy 12 South is a neighborhood café that welcomes families with open arms and a relaxed atmosphere where parents don't have to stress about a little kid noise. With a full menu of breakfast and lunch favorites, fresh pastries, quality coffee for grown-ups, and outdoor seating perfect for wiggly little ones, it's an ideal spot for a casual family meal before or after exploring the 12 South district.

Fido is a laid-back neighborhood café in Nashville's Hillsboro Village that welcomes families with open arms and a diverse menu spanning breakfast, brunch, and baked goods. With its spacious outdoor patio and genuinely pet-friendly atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for casual family meals where parents can enjoy quality coffee while kids dig into pancakes or fresh pastries without worrying about stuffy dress codes or noise levels.

Bongo Java in Forest Hills offers a relaxed, neighborhood coffee shop vibe perfect for a casual family breakfast or afternoon treat. With freshly baked pastries, bagels, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for parents to grab their caffeine fix while kids enjoy a sweet treat and some downtime between activities.

Peeler Park Greenway in Goodlettsville offers families the perfect combination of outdoor recreation and playground fun in a welcoming neighborhood setting. With its well-maintained walking paths winding through the park, multiple sports facilities, and quality playground equipment, it's an ideal spot for families who want to pack several activities into one visit without driving all over town.

While Draper James is primarily a women's boutique in Nashville's trendy 12 South neighborhood, it offers a quick, Instagram-worthy photo stop for families exploring the area. The colorful, Southern-charm storefront provides a perfect backdrop for family photos, and kids often enjoy the bright, cheerful aesthetic while parents browse the curated collection of clothing and home goods.

Edley's Bar-B-Que in Nashville's trendy 12 South neighborhood serves up authentic Tennessee barbecue in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where kids are genuinely welcome. The casual vibe means parents don't have to stress about little ones being a bit messy while tackling ribs and pulled pork, and the outdoor seating is perfect for letting kids decompress between bites.

Burger Up in the trendy 12 South neighborhood serves up delicious grass-fed burgers with creative toppings that adventurous eaters will love, alongside classic options for picky kids. The welcoming, laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to dine with children of all ages, and the thick milkshakes are a guaranteed hit that'll have your kids talking about this meal long after you leave Nashville.

Stones River Greenway offers families a beautifully maintained paved trail system that winds along the peaceful Stones River, perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventure without the challenge of rough terrain. Whether your family prefers biking, scootering, walking, or jogging, the smooth pathways make it accessible for strollers and young riders while offering enough distance for older kids to burn energy and explore nature.

Lipscomb Academy Athletic Complex in Green Hills offers families a premier sports facility where kids can participate in organized youth leagues, tournaments, and active recreation. With multiple fields and courts, this well-maintained complex provides an excellent environment for young athletes to develop skills, compete, and stay active in a safe, supervised setting.

Altitude Trampoline Park Nashville delivers high-energy fun for the whole family with wall-to-wall trampolines, competitive dodgeball courts, slam dunk basketball zones, and exciting foam pits. Located in Mount Juliet, this spacious indoor park features dedicated toddler areas so even your youngest bouncers can safely join the action, making it an ideal destination rain or shine.

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a spectacular 200-acre adventure featuring over 360 animal species and one of the country's most impressive zoo playgrounds,a massive 66,000-square-foot Jungle Gym that's worth the visit alone. With consistently high ratings from thousands of families, this zoo masterfully combines wildlife education with high-energy play, making it a must-visit destination where kids can burn energy while experiencing animals from around the world.

The Fontanel Mansion offers a unique blend of country music history and outdoor adventure that keeps kids entertained for hours. This sprawling 27,000-square-foot former celebrity estate combines mansion tours showcasing Music City heritage with thrilling activities like zipline canopy tours and scenic nature trails, making it an exciting destination for families who want variety beyond Nashville's typical downtown attractions.

Hermitage Golf Course offers an excellent introduction to golf for young players through their family-friendly junior programs and coaching. With beautiful, well-maintained grounds and a welcoming atmosphere, this public course makes learning golf accessible and fun for kids while parents can enjoy playing alongside them or taking lessons together as a family.

The Mall at Green Hills offers more than just shopping,it's a family destination with dedicated play areas, a diverse dining court, and regular community events that keep kids entertained. This upscale Nashville shopping center provides a comfortable, climate-controlled environment perfect for rainy days or escaping the summer heat while parents browse quality retailers.

Tito's Playland in Nashville offers an energetic indoor escape where younger kids can burn off energy rain or shine. With multi-level climbing structures, slides, and interactive play zones, this amusement center keeps little ones entertained while parents can relax in the viewing areas. The combination of arcade games and active play equipment makes it a hit for birthday parties and spontaneous play dates alike.

Richland Creek Greenway offers families a beautifully maintained, paved trail system perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventures in Belle Meade. The smooth, flat surface makes it ideal for young cyclists learning to ride, jogger strollers, and little legs still mastering walking, while the scenic natural surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the city hustle without leaving the Nashville area.

Battery Lane is a charming neighborhood park in Forest Hills that offers families a peaceful escape for outdoor play and relaxation. With its well-maintained playground, scenic walking paths, and plenty of open green space, it's the perfect spot for letting kids burn off energy while parents enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. This local favorite provides a more intimate, less crowded alternative to larger municipal parks.

The Nashville Public Library Hermitage Branch is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering families an excellent resource for learning and entertainment. With an extensive children's section, regular storytimes, and year-round educational programs, it's a perfect free activity that keeps kids engaged while fostering a love of reading and learning.

Percy Priest Lake is a sprawling 14,000-acre playground for water-loving families just minutes from Nashville. With multiple access points featuring sandy beaches, boat ramps, and picnic areas, this reservoir offers everything from gentle shoreline wading for toddlers to kayaking and fishing adventures for older kids,all with stunning views of the Tennessee hills.

The legendary Bluebird Cafe offers a rare opportunity for families to experience Nashville's iconic songwriter culture in an intimate setting. While primarily an evening venue for adults, they occasionally host special early shows that welcome families, giving kids a front-row seat to the storytelling and musicianship that made Nashville famous. It's a unique cultural experience that music-loving families will treasure.

Turn grocery shopping into a fun family outing at this beloved Green Hills Trader Joe's! Kids love hunting for the hidden stuffed animal mascot, collecting treasure hunt stickers at checkout, and sampling kid-friendly treats throughout the store. The welcoming staff and manageable store size make it easy to navigate with little ones in tow.

While primarily a grocery store, the Green Hills Whole Foods offers a surprisingly family-friendly dining experience with its extensive prepared foods bar and spacious outdoor seating area. It's perfect for a casual, flexible meal where picky eaters can choose exactly what they want, and parents occasionally find kids' activities and events that make grocery shopping feel more like an outing.

Step back in time at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, where history comes alive for families on this sprawling 1,120-acre presidential estate. Kids can explore the mansion where America's 7th president lived, wander through beautiful gardens, and engage with interactive exhibits that make early American history tangible and exciting for young learners.

The Green Hills Family YMCA is a comprehensive recreation hub where families can swim, play sports, and stay active together under one roof. With dedicated youth programs, multiple swimming pools, childcare services, and family-friendly fitness activities, it's a go-to destination for Nashville families looking to build healthy habits while having fun.

Nashville Shores Waterpark is Nashville's premier aquatic destination, offering families a full day of splashing fun with its impressive lazy river, wave pool, eight thrilling water slides, and a unique sandy beach area. With attractions ranging from gentle waters perfect for little ones to adrenaline-pumping slides for thrill-seekers, this expansive waterpark provides entertainment for every member of the family under the Tennessee sun.

Smoothie King in Green Hills is the perfect pit stop for health-conscious families looking to refuel after a morning at the park or between errands. Kids love choosing from colorful, fruit-packed smoothies while parents appreciate the nutritious options that feel like a treat without the guilt of traditional fast food.

Belle Meade City Hall offers a quiet, no-frills outdoor space perfect for letting kids burn off energy between errands or activities. While primarily a government building, the surrounding grounds provide open green areas and walking paths ideal for a quick play break, picnic, or teaching moments about local government.

West Meade Pools is a private member facility serving Belle Meade residents and club members, offering a welcoming community atmosphere for family swimming throughout the summer season. With organized swim lessons and summer activities, it's a neighborhood favorite where families can enjoy quality pool time in a safe, monitored environment.