Tennessee

Family Vacations to Nashville

Last updated 26th July 2022

Why Go?

Nashville may be the home of the Grand Ole Opry, but it is also the birthplace for much of the rock and roll that began in America, and the city’s musical roots have attracted visitors for years. More than just recording studios and honky tonks, Nashville’s nickname is the Athens of the South, a hotspot for learning and home to many universities and colleges. The combination of creativity and intelligence creates a charming city with a small-town feel that families of all ages can enjoy.

Where to Go

Stay in the heart of the city at the famed Hermitage Hotel, which has welcomed singers and celebrities since 1910. Near the new Grand Ole Opry is the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. While it can be quite busy and ratings find it skewed toward business travelers, the Gaylord provides ample fun for kids, including an enclosed atrium that is transformed during holidays, such as its legendary ICE! Installation. The space has more than two dozen restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, indoor boat tours on its atrium “river,” and more that the kids will love.

What to Do

When exploring Music City, U.S.A., there are a few must-see stops along the way: Ryman Auditorium, which was the original Grand Ole Opry and features interesting tours and concerts; the Country Music Hall of Fame, one of the largest museums and hall of fames with tributes to country and rock and roll legends like Elvis, who recorded in Nashville; and RCA Studio B, where the Everly Brothers, Elvis and today’s current artist record best-selling hits.

Stroll through Centennial Park and visit its Parthenon, a full-sized Greek landmark with a giant Athena statue inside. Live music can be found across the city on any given day, especially along Honky Tonk Highway, where music spills into the streets, and the famed Bluebird Café, where songwriters share their inspiration behind hits in an intimate, acoustic setting. There are museums, professional and college-level sports, outdoor recreation and more to experience. You’ll want to stay a week!

Getting Around

Nashville is a city of urban sprawl and you will definitely need a car to visit various sights and attractions.