As Family Weekend and fall break quickly approach, many relatives are planning a Vanderbilt visit. While it can be tempting to remain on campus or within the Vanderbilt bubble, Nashville has plenty of other options perfect for a family weekend.  

Since I’m not a parent myself, I turned to an expert for this guide: my mom. After visiting me in Nashville several times throughout my years at Vanderbilt, she has cultivated her own list of “Nashville Do’s and Don’ts.” With her guidance, I built a list of Nashville activities that have something for everyone. I’ve organized the guide into categories for all kinds of families, from Nashville first timers to foodie families, sightseers, music lovers and more. From one parent-child duo to another, I hope this list gives you a little guidance in planning your parents’ weekend and helps you make lasting memories of your own. 

Never been to Nashville 

Old Town Trolley Tours

This tour is great for those who are new to Nashville and want to learn more about its history, icons and monuments. There are stops all over downtown, near campus and more, including the Nashville Farmers Market, Broadway, Marathon Village and Centennial Park. I have done this tour a few times with family and friends and I especially love the hop on, hop off feature as it allows you to take your time exploring certain stops. 

Farmers markets

Having been in Nashville for three years now, one of my favorite ways to experience different neighborhoods and seasonal trends is through farmers markets. Not only is this a great way to see a variety of places around the city as well as shopping and food options, but it is also a way to support local small businesses. Some of my favorite markets include 12 South on Tuesday evenings and the Richland Farmers Market on Saturdays. 

Foodie Families  

Underground Donut Tour

This tour is not for the weak, as you spend your day eating donuts and walking all over Nashville. Throughout this walking tour of Nashville, you are paired with humorous tour guides who take you around to four different donut shops near the Broadway area. This tour allowed us to not only experience the hustle and bustle of the heart of the city but also taught us a lot about different types of donuts and local eateries.  

Nashville’s big thing is brunch

One thing that surprised my parents and I the most when we first visited Nashville was how many brunch spots there are. While there are many spots near campus, especially in Hillsboro, there are some great options outside the Vanderbilt area as well.  For a dressier brunch, I highly recommend Liberty Common, where the food is almost as pretty as the interior. For something more cafe style that completely transports you to another time and place, try Cafe Intermezzo. If you are looking to turn your brunch into an all-day affair, The Loveless Cafe and The Buttermilk Ranch at 12 South are both situated in areas with lots of shopping, perfect for walking around after your meal. 

Can’t decide on where to eat?

For those who don’t have their heart set on donuts or brunch, you’re in luck because Nashville is home to a few food court style options that eliminate the daunting process of picking a single restaurant. One of the more popular options is Assembly Food Hall, which has all of the classic options like Hattie B’s, The Pharmacy Burger Parlor and so much more. Just be sure to go during the week or during the day, as it can get crowded on weekend evenings due to its proximity to Broadway. Some other great food court options include the indoor part of the Nashville Farmers Market and the L&L Market. 

Sight Seers  

The center of Tennessee

For those hoping to immerse themselves in Nashville’s culture and history, the city offers no shortage of museums and landmarks to explore. Nashville is the capital of Tennessee, and you can experience that legacy at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, which features a striking timeline of Tennessee history, the State Capitol building and the Tennessee State Museum –– all with free admission. Another scenic yet historic option is the Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery, where visitors can learn about Tennessee’s role in the Civil War, explore its equestrian heritage and enjoy a wine tasting for those of age. 

Music City monuments

As Nashville’s nickname is Music City, you cannot visit without experiencing some of the iconic musical locations around the city. For more background and history, there is the iconic Country Music Hall of Fame and newer museums such as National Museum of African American Music and Museum of Christian Gospel Music, which opens in early October. If your family is more interested in listening to music rather than learning about it, there are iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and Bluebird Cafe worth visiting.