I had several people mention to me on our latest trip to Nashville that they wanted to visit in the future. I decided to create a list of my favorite family friendly areas around town if the bar scene isn’t your scene. We’ve had family in town for many years now so I’ve tried to recall all of my favorites and a few other ideas for your future trip.

Get Outdoors – Exploring Nature

I would say my favorite part about Nashville is how easy it is to get outdoors even in the heart of the city. There is almost an endless amount of parks and green space to get some fresh air.

•Radnor Lake State Park- We have hiked this park and it’s definitely at the top of my list if you’re wanting to add nature to your trip. It boasts beautiful views, lake activities, lots of spots for picnics or to rest and relax with your little ones/fur babies.
•Nashville River Front- I’d say this is a must if you’ve never been to Nashville. This is where you’re going to get the best city views + lots of photo opportunities for your family vacation picture.

•Centennial Park- This is a huge park on the west end. We loved the history here, seeing the Parthenon and the ability to be in the city but have plenty of space to never feel crowded.
•Cheekwood estates and garden- This is a botanical garden that is absolutely gorgeous. There’s a gift shop, dining and 55 acres of beauty. Perfect city escape.
•Nashville Zoo- A great stop for young ones, bring your walking shoes!
•Nashville Shores Water Park- It can certainly get pretty hot in Nashville during the summer months. We haven’t visited but there have been many days where this would’ve been perfect.

There’s sure to be a playground/park area around every corner when you need to take a breather from the city life.

The shopping/dining scene is also top-notch obviously. Green Hills, The Gulch and 12 South are a few very trendy spots in the heart of Nashville where you will find exactly what you’re looking for. Bar Taco is a favorite of many and we liked their 12 South location.

Outside of town, I LOVE downtown Franklin for lots of boho clothing stores, unique to Tennessee gift shops, home decor stores that leave me swooning and cafes fit to spend the day in. City Farmhouse was my favorite downtown find! Frothy Monkey has a location here and 12 South and this is a MUST when visiting Nashville. Get there early to avoid a wait! We also love Franklin Mercantile for a unique to Frankin experience. Biscuit Love is settled in a historic home that is as charming as delicious and I highly suggest their chai latte!
MAFIAoZA’S is an Italian restaurant just outside the old factory where it would be impossible to leave hungry. We were also extremely pleased with staff here. With a highly rated restaurant on every corner, this is truly a perfect destination for foodies.

Brentwood is also a great stop for shopping/dining at Hill Center. There are lots of upscale and unique shops and the best part is that Jeni’s is there for your ice cream needs at the end of the day. I can’t get enough of their buttercake flavor but my nephew highly recommends lemon. 💛 There are also miles of gorgeous homes to see and lots are owned by celebrities.

Westhaven (Franklin) is a great destination for boutique shops but also unique dining. Locals drive golf carts and there’s even a lake and boat shop that rents for the perfect family day on the water. There’s also catch and release fishing and lots of park beaches. Be sure to check my Instagram highlights for several posts here. It is beautiful!

If history is your thing, there are so many attractions for you. You can tour Opryland as well as the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum, take a home of the stars bus tour to check out where celebs like Taylor Swift live, take a trolley/carriage tour downtown, take a bus tour of the battle of Franklin and even do a walking ghost tour downtown.

Regardless of your interests, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Nashville!