Indoor activities are great to have in your pocket for when your family is ready to get out and play—no matter the weather. To inspire your next outing, we asked our TGS families about their favorite kid-friendly indoor activities in Nashville. We hope you see a few of your favorites and maybe add a few new ideas to your list, too!
1. Adventure Science Center
S.T.E.A.M. lessons are always the focus of The Gardner School’s research-based curriculum because we see the importance of teaching these concepts early. You and your child can have hands-on S.T.E.A.M. experiences at the Adventure Science Center that they will remember for years to come. With plenty of exhibits, events, and a planetarium, there’s something new for you to try every time you return!
2. Rivergate Skate Center
For active play indoors, the Rivergate Skate Center is popular among Nashville families. This center features themed skate nights, special events, birthday parties, and a family skate day. With arcade games, concessions, and other fun amenities, the Rivergate Skate Center has something for the entire family, no matter their skating ability.
3. Little Art House
Little Art House encourages art education as well as confidence in art for all ages. Early experiences with visual art can help your child develop creativity and imagination, giving them a new way to process the world and express themselves.
4. Nashville Children’s Theater
Nashville Children’s Theater is on a mission to be “an accessible and inclusive haven empowering all young people in Middle Tennessee through cultural literacy and creative exploration.” The organization accomplishes this goal by making theater more accessible to children. It’s known for putting on productions that reflect community, empathy, and personal discovery. Check out the upcoming shows that you and your child will love! With favorites like Llama Llama Red Pajama, your child will feel more connected to theater than ever before.
5. Nashville Public Library
Public libraries are an amazing resource for young children. From reading challenges to puppet shows, the Nashville Public Library offers programs to ignite your child’s imagination and inspire them to learn and create. On top of its programs, the library offers thousands of children’s titles, blogs and podcasts, movies, music, and more for endless enrichment opportunities.
6. Plaza Mariachi
Looking for an immersive cultural experience? Located near downtown Nashville, Plaza Mariachi is a hub of Mexican culture, art, music, entertainment, and food. Your family will marvel at the architecture while enjoying Hispanic music, food, and fashion.
7. Urban Air Adventure Park
When it’s time to burn off some energy, Urban Air Adventure Park is the place to go! This indoor trampoline park offers open jump sessions, fitness classes, and dodgeball events. It can also be rented out for birthday parties. There’s something age-appropriate for everyone, no matter their fitness level.
8. Lane Motor Museum
The Lane Motor Museum features 150 unique cars and motorcycles for you and your family to explore. The museum features the largest European collection of vehicles in the U.S. that date from the early 1900s all the way up to modern-day. Stop by the expansive indoor play area for opportunities for children to play with toy cars or color pictures of different kinds of automobiles. Be sure to ask about the museum’s upcoming children’s events, too, as there are often special children’s events on the calendar.
The Gardner School Loves Nashville Families
Spending time with family and friends is an integral part of a child’s experience. We partner with parents to help enrich students’ time inside and outside the classroom. A big part of that is connecting them and their families with their community. To learn more about how The Gardner School connects our students and families with their communities, please visit our website to schedule a tour at one of our Nashville-area locations — The Gardner School of Nashville and The Gardner School of Midtown! We look forward to welcoming you into our schools and sharing our education philosophy, as well as a sneak peek of our colorful, engaging classrooms and playscapes.