Chasing Memories: A Family Travel Blog.

Family Fun in Nashville: Honky-Tonks, Chicken Tenders, and Kid-Friendly Adventures!

Cover Image for Family Fun in Nashville: Honky-Tonks, Chicken Tenders, and Kid-Friendly Adventures!
Audrey Rose
Audrey Rose

Our Family Adventure in Nashville: Honky-Tonk and Chicken Tenders!

Nashville, USA! A city where country music lives, barbecue flows like rivers, and the only thing louder than the live bands is the laughter of my two little boys. When Noah, my husband, proposed a family trip to the heart of Tennessee, I was all in—mainly for the Southern food but also for the chance to create some incredible memories. So buckle up as I take you through our thrilling adventure in Nashville, complete with all the beautiful highs and the humorous lows of traveling with kids!

Highlights of Our Trip

Oh, where do I begin? The moment we stepped onto Broadway Street, we were engulfed by honky-tonk sounds and vibrant lights. Max (our 5-year-old) was already channeling his inner cowboy and dragging me into several shops for cowboy hats. Note to self: Never underestimate the persuasive powers of a five-year-old in a rhinestone-studded hat shop. A candid photograph of a 5-year-old boy named Max, wearing a sparkling rhinestone-studded cowboy hat, as he joyfully explores a hat shop on Broadway Street in Nashville. The background is lively, filled with sparkling lights and honky-tonk music signs, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling street. The image is brightly lit, enhancing the colorful surroundings, and it conveys a sense of excitement and happiness.

One of our absolute favorite experiences was visiting the Adventure Science Center! This fantastic place is like a Costco for curious minds. They had everything from physics demonstrations to a fun, hands-on area designed specifically for young kids. Leo, our 2-year-old, was particularly enchanted by the bubble station, and honestly, I think Noah and I enjoyed it just as much—don't judge us! Wide-angle shot of the Adventure Science Center's bubble station, featuring children joyfully playing with bubbles while adults watch in the background. The scene is filled with vibrant exhibits, and the lighting is soft and playful, enhancing the atmosphere of wonder and curiosity.

Challenges Faced—Traveling with Tots

Is it even a family trip if there isn't a meltdown or two? Let's just say my boys have a unique ability to decide that they hate the scenic walk RIGHT after I've committed to it. Pro tip: Carry snacks that are NOT just fruit snacks. We learned this the hard way when Leo decided he wanted a sausage on a stick at the Nashville Farmers' Market—which, spoiler alert, was over-priced but, wow, did it keep us going! Candid street photograph of the Nashville Farmers' Market, featuring vibrant food stalls filled with colorful produce and prepared foods. People are seen enjoying their meals, with children happily holding snacks. The scene captures a lively atmosphere characterized by a sense of community and warmth, illuminated by the golden hour lighting that casts a delightful glow over the market.

Also, if you're planning to explore the beautiful Centennial Park, be prepared for a game of toddler tag—our boys were more interested in running their own Olympic marathon rather than admiring the Parthenon replica! A wide shot of Centennial Park's Parthenon replica, surrounded by lush green lawns and families engaging in leisurely activities. Children are seen running around, with the majestic structure beautifully illuminated by warm afternoon light, captured using a Fujifilm GFX 100 with a 32-64mm lens.

Tips for Traveling to Nashville with Kids

  1. Stay Central: If you can, choose a hotel or Airbnb close to downtown Nashville. You can quickly pop back for naps (or meltdowns) and gear up for more adventures later!

  2. Plan for Flexibility: While it's great to have a plan, kids often have a mind of their own. We learned to build in extra time (and ice cream!) to account for any spontaneous detours.

  3. Find Kid-Friendly Restaurants: Nashville has plenty of dining options that cater to families! We loved Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant where Max became obsessed with the "squeaky cheese" (what?!) and Leo enjoyed some southern-style mac 'n' cheese.

Must-Try Local Foods

You simply cannot visit Nashville without indulging in some hot chicken. Trust me, you might want to leave the spicy stuff for after the kids are in bed. We took the mild route at Hattie B's, because, you know, I can only juggle so many tantrums and taste buds at once. And did I mention the banana pudding? You'll find all the kids congregating around this like a moth to a flame. It's practically a requirement!

Budget-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Nashville is truly bursting with free or low-cost activities!

  • Explore the Frist Art Museum (kids under 18 are free!)
  • Stroll through the Nashville Public Library—yes, it's just as exciting as it sounds for a 5-year-old who suddenly thinks he's an author.
  • Enjoy outdoor fun at Shelby Bottoms Greenway. It's a great place for riding bikes, and it kept the boys entertained while Noah and I enjoyed a peaceful moment on a bench (finally!).

Cultural Customs

Just a lovely reminder, Southern hospitality is a real thing! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Don't be surprised if people randomly strike up conversations in line or at the park—it's all part of the charm of Nashville. Also, saying "y'all" adds at least 10 points to your Southern cred, so lean into it!

Wrapping Up Our Nashville Adventure

As I sit here, reminiscing about our adventures in Nashville, I realize every challenge we faced just added another layer to our family experience. Traveling with young kids can certainly be chaotic, but the laughter, the spontaneous selfies, and the joy of trying new things make it all worth it. I urge you, pack your bags and hit the road—Nashville—even with kids—has so much to offer! So go on, grab those cowboy hats and create those unforgettable memories. Happy travels, y'all! 🥳🎸