How To Spend A Family-Friendly Day In Nashville

One of the great things about Nashville is that it’s a city for everyone. Singles, seniors, and families all fit right in because there is such a variety of activities, restaurants, and hot spots to enjoy. It’s also incredibly affordable and has no shortage of diverse people and places. If you’re going to be spending the day in Nashville as a family, here’s how to make the most of your time.

Morning

Have breakfast at Pancake Pantry

A favorite among Nashville residents and tourists alike, Pancake Pantry is more than just a place to eat. It gives guests a memorable experience with its waiting line that often winds around the block. Once inside, patrons dine on breakfast favorites in a quaint, yet bustling atmosphere that makes strangers feel like friends.

Both children and adults will enjoy the Adventure Science Center. Permanent and temporary exhibits give guests a comprehensive look at the way science, history, and medicine intersect. There are also several special events held throughout the year, including two created just for adults. Explore the human body, the solar system, and the animal world all under one roof.

Afternoon

Have a picnic lunch at Centennial Park

Unwind and enjoy a picnic at Centennial Park, where there are ducks, squirrels, birds, and lots of trees. Spend time on the playground and check out the Nashville Parthenon. You can even share your lunch with the ducks by tossing some bread into the pond.

Tour Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co.

A fun way to learn about chocolate while bonding as a family is to take a factory tour of Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co. Tours are conducted on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the hour, and cost $5 per person. Each tour includes free samples and walks visitors through the bean-to-bar chocolate making process. Tours are recommended for ages eight and up, and reservations must be booked in advance online (no tickets are sold online on Saturdays). However, sometimes walk-ins can be accommodated.

Evening

Have dinner at Five Points Pizza

Chow down on New York-style pizza or stromboli at Five Points Pizza in East Nashville. The dough is made from scratch each day, topped with hand-crushed plum tomato sauce and house shredded mozzarella cheese. Pizzas are made to order and offered in two sizes, 14-inch and 18-inch, as well as by the slice.

Stargaze at Second Friday Telescope Night

Head over to the Dyer Observatory at Vanderbilt University to gaze at the stars through on-site telescopes. This event is held once a month and has an “open house” system where you can come and go at any time. Due to variables in sunset times, times of the event vary. Tickets are available one month in advance and cost $6.24 per person. No tickets are sold at the door.

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