If you’re looking for some fun ways to explore Nashville with your family but don’t want to break the bank, you’ve come to the right place! Finding new and creative ways to venture out with your family without stretching your budget can be challenging. That’s precisely why we’ve created this special guide showcasing Nashville’s many free family activities—from musical events and museums to story times and festivals.
Free Live Music
What would Music City be without live music? There are endless opportunities for families to relax and take in some tunes. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Musicians Corner
- Every spring and fall, this free outdoor concert series is held in the heart of Nashville’s Centennial Park. There are always activities for children, along with food trucks and local artisans to discover. The event is held each Friday and Saturday in May and June and on Thursday and Friday evenings in September.
- Jazz on the Cumberland
- Every third Sunday from May until October, Nashville jams out at Cumberland Park to music provided by local jazz acts. Pack a picnic or grab dinner from one of the food trucks on site. There’s also a Kids’ Fun Play Zone that overlooks the amphitheater.
- Pickin on the Plaza
- Every summer, Nashville’s beloved Ryman Auditorium hosts Pickin’ on the Plaza, a free concert featuring a top bluegrass band, before their ticketed Bluegrass Nights. This is a fun way to enjoy music with the family without being in the hustle and bustle of Broadway!
Museums and Art
You can absorb more of Nashville’s music scene and history at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum! Admission is free at both museums for children under five with the purchase of adult admission.
- Parent Tip: At the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, local youth ages 18 and under who are residents of Davidson and bordering counties, including Cheatham, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson, are always free, plus 25% off admission for up to two accompanying adults.
If you want to take a break from the music and see a different side of Nashville’s cultural scene, head to the Frist Art Museum. It features rotating exhibitions throughout the year and hosts Free Family Days and Family Mondays for children to discover, explore, and create art. The Frist is always free for children under 18.
One of our favorite annual festivals in Nashville is the Tomato Art Fest! The free festival takes place every summer in East Nashville’s Five Points neighborhood. It showcases art and live music on multiple stages to celebrate beloved summer tomatoes!
Story Time Awaits
The Nashville Public Library system has over 20 branches across the city that host a variety of story times for little ones. Along with a good book or two, many story times also feature music, songs, dancing, and crafts! These events are a fantastic way to develop early literacy skills while having fun (for free).
In addition to your local library, bookstores like Parnassus Books in Green Hills and Fairytales Bookstore in East Nashville host free story times.
Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets are lively spots for children to learn about food while enjoying a bustling atmosphere! Our favorite neighborhood markets in Nashville are the Richland Park Farmer’s Market and the 12 South Farmers Market. Both are held in parks with great playgrounds, so you can easily spend a couple of hours hanging out while your little ones explore and play!
Nashville Farmers’ Market is a popular destination for families year-round. First, explore the farm sheds and nearby garden center. If you need to cool off or grab a snack, pop into the market house and enjoy an international experience.
A Partner for Parents
The Gardner School is proud to partner with parents to provide support as you introduce your children to new experiences. Take a look at our blog page for inspiration and helpful tips on a variety of family-focused topics.
Interested in enrolling your child at one of our Nashville-area locations? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out any time to schedule a tour.