Nashville, Tennessee, is known as the Music City, USA, and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. If you're planning a trip to Nashville with teenagers, here are some of the best things to do.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
What is it? A world-renowned institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating country music's rich history and legacy. Located in downtown Nashville, the museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and live performances that offer visitors an immersive and educational experience.
Why should you go? A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the top fun things to do in Nashville. The museum houses an impressive collection of over 2.5 million artifacts, including iconic costumes, instruments, and personal items belonging to some of history's most legendary country music artists. You can see exhibits dedicated to stars like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Garth Brooks, among many others.
The museum also hosts live concerts and events throughout the year, making it an exciting and dynamic destination for music lovers of all ages. Whether you're a die-hard country fan or just appreciate great music, a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-do when in Nashville.
Ryman Auditorium
What is it? Built in 1892, this historic music venue originally served as a religious meeting hall before becoming one of the country's most celebrated music venues. The Ryman has hosted legendary performers such as Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley, as well as modern-day stars like Ed Sheeran and Chris Stapleton.
Why should you go? Visiting the Ryman Auditorium is a must-do experience for music lovers of all ages. It's a great opportunity to see a piece of music history and learn about the evolution of American music. The venue offers guided tours, which provide insights into the Ryman's rich history and offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to put on a show there. For teenagers, the Ryman Auditorium is the perfect place to catch a concert by their favorite artists or discover new ones. The venue has a range of concerts and events catering to different music tastes. Additionally, the Ryman is conveniently located in downtown Nashville, which makes it easy to explore the city and experience its vibrant music scene.
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
What is it? A zoo that spans over 200 acres and houses over 2,700 animals from all over the world. The zoo offers a variety of exhibits, including African Savannah, Jungle Gym, Gibbon Islands, Kangaroo Kickabout, and many more.
Why should you go? Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a great destination for teenagers as it offers a unique and exciting opportunity to learn about animals from all over the world. Teenagers can explore various exhibits, including the African Savannah and the Jungle Gym, where they can observe and learn about animals such as lions, tigers, monkeys, and more.
Moreover, the zoo offers interactive and hands-on experiences such as feeding lorikeets and petting kangaroos, which can be thrilling for teenagers. The zoo also has a zip line and aerial adventure park, perfect for teens looking for a more adventurous experience.
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Johnny Cash Museum
What is it? A museum dedicated to the life and career of the legendary country music icon Johnny Cash. The museum features a collection of memorabilia and artifacts, including handwritten lyrics, guitars, costumes, and personal items from Cash's life.
Why should you go? The Johnny Cash Museum is a must-visit destination for music lovers, especially for teens and young adults who want to learn more about the history of American music. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and career of one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. You can see firsthand the instruments and personal items that belonged to Cash and learn about his impact on music, civil rights, and social justice.
Belle Meade Plantation
What is it? A historic site and museum that used to be a plantation, founded in 1807 by John Harding and remained in his family for several generations. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the plantation home and grounds, which have been beautifully preserved to showcase the history of the site.
Why should you go? Belle Meade Plantation is a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about the rich history of Nashville. The site offers a unique glimpse into the antebellum South and the lives of the Harding family and their slaves. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about the family's history, as well as explore the surrounding grounds and gardens. The plantation also offers special events and programs throughout the year, including wine tastings, holiday events, and educational programs for children. Don't miss this chance to step back in time and explore one of Nashville's most fascinating historical sites.
Centennial Park
What is it? An urban park located in the West End neighborhood of Nashville, Tennessee. The park spans over 132 acres and features several attractions, including a replica of the Parthenon, a one-mile walking trail, a lake, and various sports facilities.
Why should you go? Centennial Park is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for people of all ages and interests. The park is a popular spot for outdoor picnics, walks, and runs, and it also hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
One of the best things to do in Nashville with teens is to visit the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Inside the Parthenon, visitors can see a 42-foot statue of Athena, as well as various other works of art and exhibits.
Nashville Shores
What is it? A waterpark and lakeside resort located in Hermitage, Nashville. The park features a variety of water attractions, including water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a beach area on Percy Priest Lake.
Why should you go? Nashville Shores is a perfect getaway spot for families with teens, friends, and couples seeking adventure and relaxation. The park offers a thrilling experience with its numerous water attractions, including the Big Kahuna, a massive water slide that is over four stories high. Moreover, visitors can spend their time soaking up the sun on the beach or floating along the lazy river. The lakeside cabins and campsites offer a unique outdoor experience and are perfect for those who love to be close to nature. Overall, Nashville Shores is a great destination for those looking for an exciting and fun-filled day out.
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The Frist Art Museum
What is it? An art museum housed in a historic Art Deco building that was once a post office. The museum hosts a variety of rotating art exhibits showcasing works by local, national, and international artists.
Why should you go? The Frist Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers visiting Nashville. The museum's rotating exhibits ensure that there is always something new and exciting to see. In addition to its art exhibits, the museum also offers a range of educational programs and events, including lectures, workshops, and performances. The museum's stunning Art Deco building is also a draw for architecture enthusiasts. And after exploring the museum, visitors can grab a bite to eat at the café or browse the unique gifts in the museum shop. Overall, The Frist Art Museum is a cultural gem in the heart of Music City.
RCA Studio B
What is it? A historic recording studio that has played a significant role in the development of country, pop, and rock music. Established by RCA Records in 1957, the studio was in operation until 1977. During that time, it served as the recording home for some of the era's most iconic musicians, including Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, and The Everly Brothers.
Why should you go? If your kid is a music lover, particularly of country, pop, and rock music, visiting RCA Studio B is a must. The studio is a time capsule of the Nashville sound, so you can see and hear the equipment and spaces where some of the most famous recordings of the 20th century were made. Guided tours of the studio take visitors through the various rooms, including the control room, the echo chamber, and the studio floor, where artists like Elvis Presley recorded hits like Are You Lonesome Tonight? and It's Now or Never.
RCA Studio B is also interesting for teens because it provides a window into the recording industry of the 1950s and 1960s, a time when artists didn't rely on digital recording technology and instead had to rely on their musical talent and creativity to make hit records. The studio's rich history and importance in the music industry make it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in music history or the creative process of making music.
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The Adventure Science Center
What is it? A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, planetarium shows, and an immersive virtual reality experience. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including astronomy, earth science, biology, physics, and technology.
Why should you go? The Adventure Science Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in science and technology. The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the world around us through interactive exhibits and engaging programs. Visitors can explore the mysteries of the universe in the planetarium, witness explosive science demonstrations, and experience cutting-edge technology in the VR exhibit. The Adventure Science Center is a fun and educational experience for people of all ages and backgrounds and is a perfect destination for families, school groups, and science enthusiasts alike.