If you’re looking for a vacation destination, one that is out of the norm and family friendly think about visiting Nashville Tennessee. They aren’t just country music these days, although their country roots are hard to miss.

The recently renovated Nashville Zoo at Grassmere can easily become your favorite zoo. This zoo allows kids to get very up close and personal with the animals with their innovative and interacting exhibits. One of our favorites is the cat walk through the giraffe barn. Also a must see is the Jungle Gym. This is a huge wooden play area. It’s great to let the kids run around and burn some energy while you take a sit and rest a spell.

The Frist Center for the Arts is another great stop. The entire second story is a dedicated interactive area for kids to learn about the arts hands on. The first floor is a top notch art museum with interactive “guides” that help you navigate your way through the galleries and learn a little something too. Possibly the best part is that kids under 18 are free. Always.

Nashville may not be home to a theme park with Disney proportions, but Nashville Shores is a great water park absolutely worth the visit. Downtown is majorly fun. It’s clean for a city, and is full of fantastic shops and dives. You can’t escape the honky tonk here, but is sure is fun. While in downtown be sure to check out the River Front Park areas. Play areas, water play areas, climbing walls, and a huge walking trail, all with a stunning view of the river.

If you are a history buff, Nashville is a must. Civil war history is everywhere you look there.  You can tour battle sites, old plantation homes (one of my favorite things to do!) and visit the Hermitage home of Andrew Jackson. Speaking of Andrew Jackson, don’t forget to ride on the general Jackson showboat. Enjoy lunch or dinner on a replica 19-century riverboat. Of course, when you come to Nashville you cannot forget to visit the Grand Ole Opry. Catch a show, or get a tour, either way you will get the perfect Nashville experience!

-Stephanie Wright