Family Travel Guide: Nashville, TN

I can’t believe it’s already been a month since our Nashville trip. It seems like just yesterday we were exploring this beautiful city. There is so much to do and see that we couldn’t possibly fit everything into our trip, unfortunately. My husband and I are planning a trip back there this Fall with just the two of us but in the meantime, I am so excited to share our weekend away with you so let’s dive in!

Where to Stay

Nashville has tons of beautiful hotels but when traveling with kids (and everything they need), renting a home is a much better option. We went with this Airbnb and it ended up being perfect. I have to admit that I booked it based solely on the decor and how cute the photos looked. The house has a huge fenced in grass lot where the kids could have some popsicles and play outside to burn off energy. There was also a splash pad and playground down the street from our rental which was perfect letting the kids get some playtime before turning in the for evening. If you’re a new Airbnb user, you can sign up with my code and save $40 on your first stay.

Where to Play

Nashville Zoo – I loved this zoo for many reasons. First, there is SO much shade which makes the hot summer days more bearable. Also, the admission prices are some of the lowest I have ever seen for a zoo so you can have a nice family outing and not spend a fortune.  It is very kid-friendly with a jungle gym and places to pet animals. I never thought I would be able to pet kangaroos or see them up close in my lifetime.

Nashville Shores – If your schedule allows, buy online tickets for entry after 4pm. The weather is cooler, the tickets are cheaper, and wear the kids out before bedtime! We loved going at this time because the weather had cooled down a tad and a lot of people had packed up and gone home. There is a lazy river, awesome wave pool, and amazing splash pad with slides. My kids never wanted to leave and even my husband and I had a blast.

Nashville Farmers’ Market – I wish we would have brought a cooler with us or lived closer because this market had the best produce, meat, cheese, and drinks. My favorite was the pink coffee truck which had the best iced lattes ever. There is an indoor food hall with air conditioning and several different cuisine options. The famous Amelia’s Flower Truck sets up shop here often too and you cannot miss her! {900 Rosa Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208}

Where to Take Pictures

Nashville is flooded with amazing murals and beautiful walls. We didn’t have time to visit all of them, but we definitely stopped by I Believe in Nashville, 2706 12th Avenue South, Draper James Stripes, 2707 12th Avenue South, What Lifts You Wings, 302 11th Avenue South – The Gulch. Geometric Wall, 11th Avenue South & Laurel Street. Here is a list of more murals to visit. Luckily the 4 murals we saw were at the same 2 locations, so if you’re planning a mural fun day, be sure to map them out so you don’t miss any near you!

Where to Eat

Kitchen Notes – We had breakfast here Friday and it was to die for. Read my full review here!

Five Daughters Bakery – The best donuts in town are without a doubt served here. Their combination of flavors and textures are beyond what my tastebuds thought they could handle. There are also paleo and vegan options which I will be sure to try next time. Fun fact: There is a donut cam you can check on before you come so you know what donuts are in stock. Pretty cool, right? The shop is also super adorable and great for photos. If weather permits, eat your donuts outside on their front patio and do some people watching.

Mas Tacos – This is authentic Mexican to a T in East Nashville. The portions are huge and everything is fresh and original with vegetarian options too. They also serve beer which is needed with two small kids in tow. You’ll see all kinds of people here so don’t be intimidated! It’s laid back and kid friendly with indoor and outdoor seating. TIP: Be sure to bring cash because they don’t take cards.

I Dream of Weenie – This is the cutest hot dog food truck that is made out of an old WV van. There are picnic tables with umbrellas next to it so you don’t have to stand in the sun with kids trying to eat a hot dog. Try the jalapeño dog and the mac and cheese dog. OR, go for the pictures alone! It’s adorable.

Burger Up – We ate here our first night because it was so close to our house. Do not go here without ordering the fried mac and cheese bites. All the beef is sourced locally and the service was so outstanding and stood out as the most memorable from our trip. There’s a large patio where most of the families gathered which was nice because I didn’t have to worry about the kids being loud. There is a ton of seating inside too so I doubt anyone would ever have a long wait.

Biscuit Love – The line is worth the wait but if you can get there before it opens, do so. We had to wait in line about 30 minutes which basically feels like 12 hours with two kids. By the time we had finished breakfast, the line was 3 times as long. Of course you’ll need to order the famous Bonuts for the table (Fried Biscuit Dough, Lemon Mascarpone, Blueberry Compote). I ordered the Bill Neal: Cheese Grits, Gulf Shrimp, Mushrooms, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Lemon Tabasco Sauce & Green Onion. It was incredible and my mouth is salivating right now thinking about it. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu!

We had the best long weekend ever and it was so fun to explore the city with the kids. They are getting so much better at traveling with us and our hope is to start taking them places more. Have you been to Nashville with kids? What was your favorite part to explore?

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