Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Kid-friendly museums in Tennessee

A museum visit that engages children with genuine educational value rather than just serving as a place to burn off excess energy.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Lane Motor Museum image 1
Lane Motor Museum image 2
Lane Motor Museum image 3
View all

Museum occupies an old bakery building with open concept and natural light, showcasing a unique collection of mostly small, European, and micro cars. Atmosphere feels laid back and intimate, inviting close viewing without barriers. Family-friendly features include a car-themed play area and picnic spot.

Kids find the space suitable and engaging with a scavenger hunt designed for them. Children interested in cars enjoy the exhibits, and kids under a certain age get in for free.

This museum features a very unique collection of vehicles with only about 2% overlap with other automotive museums. It showcases several one-of-a-kind automobiles that make it stand out from any other car museum.

People are saying

"This museum has so many unique cars you won't see anywhere else."

"I saw so many unique foreign and classic cars here."

"The cars here are so unique and eye-opening, it's amazing!"

Good to know

1

The museum offers a guided tour of the vault on weekends for an extra $10.

2

Demonstrations of unique cars occur daily at 11 AM; don't miss it.

3

Expect to pay an additional fee for guided tours at 11:30 AM and 2 PM.

02
Tennessee State Museum image 1

Large, modern museum offers a well-laid-out space with immersive multimedia like music, sounds, and films enhancing exhibits. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxed to lively, with families and children enjoying interactive play areas and scavenger hunts. Views of the nearby capitol and skyline add to the visually engaging experience.

Kid's Area offers hands-on activities that keep children engaged. Exhibits teach the history of Tennessee in a way that appeals to both kids and adults.

Free admission makes this museum very accessible. It offers a deep dive into the state's history with exhibits that can fill an entire day.

People are saying

"I learned so much about Tennessee's history at this museum."

"The historical sites here offer free admission and parking."

"It's a nice, decent, free museum for families."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Tennessee State Museum is free.

2

The museum offers guided tours at 2pm highlighting the main exhibits.

3

Parking is extremely difficult to find, requiring patience and multiple drives around the area.

03
Earth Experience - Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History image 1

Natural history museum with a working paleontology lab where visitors watch scientists prepare dinosaur bones. Space feels cozy and well-organized despite being in an industrial complex. Features a giant T-Rex skeleton, extensive gemstone collection, and an engaging gift shop for all ages.

Real dinosaur bones and interactive fossil displays capture kids' attention. Staff engage children by explaining digs and showing large specimens like turtles. Recommended for kids aged 8 and up.

Hands-on exhibits and local fossils create an engaging learning experience. The museum features educational points and dinosaur bones that appeal to kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"I talked to scientists working on fossils at the museum."

"I found this natural history museum to be a great hidden gem."

"It's so Kid Friendly with all the cool rocks, minerals, and gems."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts a fundraiser DND night periodically; check their schedule for dates.

2

Parking is available on-site for visitors.

3

Visitors can see paleontologists in action at the working lab.

04
Cooter's Nashville image 1

Museum filled with Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia creates a nostalgic Southern atmosphere. Displays include General Lee, Daisy's jeep, and Cooter's tow truck, offering photo opportunities inside and outside. Free admission and a gift shop add to the welcoming, fun environment.

Kids enjoy exploring memorabilia from the Dukes of Hazzard show and sitting in the General Lee car. The place sparks excitement and nostalgia, making it a fun spot for families with children.

Entry to the museum is always free. It features an insane collection of memorabilia that offers a blast from the past and can be emotionally touching.

People are saying

"This free museum is packed with Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia."

"It's packed with so much Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, I felt like I was in a museum."

"It's so Kid Friendly seeing all the cool Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia."

Good to know

1

Entry to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

Parking is free at Cooter's Nashville.

3

The museum features memorabilia from The Dukes of Hazzard.

05
Stones River National Battlefield image 1

Historic battlefield offers quiet, solemn atmosphere with well-preserved grounds and informative visitor center. Walking trails showcase native plants and wildlife amid peaceful, beautiful scenery. The site balances reverence with accessibility through guided tours and educational signage.

Many trails and educational exhibits offer kids hands-on history learning. Rangers engage children with a Junior Ranger program that includes answering questions and earning badges.

Free admission lets visitors explore informative exhibits and a movie about the Battle of Stones River. The museum offers a well-done experience with indoor displays and outdoor markers that deepen understanding of the history.

People are saying

"I found the historical sites here to be a great place to learn about history."

"I found the museum here to be well done and informative."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place to learn a little history."

Good to know

1

Entry to the battlefield is free for all visitors.

2

Parking is available at the visitor's center, but it can fill up quickly.

3

The 163rd Anniversary event features historical reenactments and cannon firing demonstrations.

06
Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum image 1

Massive building filled with stunning replicas of recording studios and interactive music areas where visitors can play instruments and record vocals. Sounds from different sections create a lively but sometimes distracting atmosphere. Decorations include a record wall and a unique TV display syncing vintage sets to videos.

Interactive exhibits keep kids engaged, with plenty of guitars and instruments on display. The Grammy experience excites children and the museum suits kids, teens, and adults alike.

Exhibits showcase musicians who changed everything and offer a deep dive into the music industry. Visitors spend hours exploring and get a real sense of what it takes to work in music.

People are saying

"This museum is so fun and interactive with amazing music artifacts."

"I loved seeing the historical instruments and stage outfits of famous musicians."

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of interactive exhibits."

Good to know

1

Admission is $28 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

The museum features a special exhibit on Jimi Hendrix, showcasing rare memorabilia.

07
Madame Tussauds Nashville image 1

Wax museum with life-like wax figures and themed rooms creates an immersive, colorful atmosphere. Interactive exhibits include photo opportunities and a karaoke booth, adding energy and engagement. Layout flows well with diverse music eras, enhancing the experience.

Kids find plenty to enjoy here with interactive exhibits and familiar figures. The place offers a fun experience that appeals to children and makes it a great spot for families.

Wax figures capture legends like Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift with meticulous artistry. Interactive displays and a music-themed ambiance create an engaging, electric atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved taking photos with the wax figures at this museum."

"It's a lot of fun taking photos with the stars."

"The wax figures here are amazing and incredibly lifelike."

Good to know

1

The museum only accepts card payments; cash is not accepted.

2

Expect minimal wait times during weekdays, especially in the morning.

3

The museum is located inside Opry Mills Mall, making it easy to access.

08
Cannonsburgh Village image 1
Historical place museum

Replica of a 19th-century Tennessee town with 21 authentic buildings and historical artifacts creates a nostalgic, calm atmosphere. Visitors explore well-preserved structures and outdoor spaces featuring local art and chess tables. The site offers a free, educational experience focused on early American rural life.

Historical buildings and open grounds offer kids a chance to learn about early settlers and how life used to be. Plenty of space lets toddlers run and play games like checkers while exploring.

Exhibits include a tractor museum, historic buildings with detailed descriptions accessed via QR codes, and a local art gallery. All displays are well maintained and reflect the communities of their time.

People are saying

"It's interesting to see the old buildings and learn about past ways of life."

"The staff at this historical site were so nice and informative."

"The museum staff here is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The entrance to Cannonsburgh Village is free.

2

Harvest Day is scheduled for October 28, 2023, with seasonal activities.

3

Visitors can explore historical homes, businesses, and churches.

09
Tennessee Agricultural Museum image 1

Small museum showcases antique farm equipment and agricultural history across two floors in a quiet, calm setting. Outdoor area includes historic cabins and walking trails, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Free admission and family-friendly features make it accessible and educational.

A play area with fun toys for kids and toddlers keeps young children entertained. Kids enjoy interacting with artifacts inside cabins and exploring exhibits featuring wheels.

Free admission lets you explore a great collection of antique farm equipment and artifacts. Passionate staff share insights on Tennessee's farming history and rural life.

People are saying

"I loved seeing the antique farm equipment and tools at this historical site."

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of fun toys for toddlers."

"I loved seeing the antique farm equipment and artifacts at the museum."

Good to know

1

Admission is free, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

The museum has parking and restrooms available for guests.

3

The museum features a play area with toys for kids and toddlers.

10
Lotz House image 1
Historical place museum

Historic home restored to 19th-century period with authentic battle damage visible in the structure. Atmosphere remains ultra laid back despite the heavy history, with tours focusing on the human stories behind the Battle of Franklin. Grounds include soldier encampments and offer ghost tours that add to the immersive experience.

Tours explain information in a way that young kids understand. Guides like Chuck show patience and kindness with toddlers and make the experience enjoyable for the whole family. Older kids often find the tours engaging and not boring.

Tours focus on the Battle of Franklin through the Lotz family story. Guides share detailed history with passion and strong storytelling.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are brought to life by passionate, knowledgeable guides."

"The museum guides here are so knowledgeable and bring the history to life."

"The guide made it really interesting and funny for my kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for guided tours to ensure availability.

2

The Lotz House does not allow photos inside the museum.

3

Tours last approximately 90 minutes and cover the history of the Lotz family.

11
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage image 1

Expansive grounds with historic mansion and original features create a peaceful, serene atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy wagon rides and local wines while exploring beautiful gardens and shaded paths. The site balances authentic architecture with open space, offering a relaxing and immersive historical experience.

Kids explore a former president's house and learn about 1800s history firsthand. The free audio tour includes a children's version that keeps young visitors engaged and informed.

Exhibits focus on Andrew Jackson's life and stories of others tied to the property. Interactive displays, short films, and artifacts create an immersive experience. Electric carts assist with the long walk between exhibits.

People are saying

"I found the history here so interesting and still in tact."

"The museum guides here are so knowledgeable and informative."

"The guides here are so knowledgeable and answer all your questions."

Good to know

1

Tickets for the house tour should be booked in advance to avoid missing out.

2

Wine tasting is available on-site for $3 per flight.

3

Admission costs $20 per person to access the grounds.

12
Johnny Cash Museum image 1

Small museum space offers interactive listening stations and curated exhibits featuring photos, videos, and memorabilia. Atmosphere feels personal and respectful, with music playing that engages visitors. Layout is non-linear but provides plenty of photo opportunities and a friendly vibe.

Exhibits include interactive headsets and touch screens that engage kids. Tickets for children cost about the same as adults, and visitors are asked not to touch displays, which may affect younger kids' experience.

Extensive exhibits showcase the life and music of Johnny Cash with high information density. The museum offers a phenomenal collection that appeals strongly to fans of Cash and country music.

People are saying

"I found the Johnny Cash Museum to be a wonderful tribute."

"I found the historical sites here packed with Johnny Cash's amazing history."

"It's really well curated and fantastic with lots to see."

Good to know

1

Tickets are required for entry; check for pricing details.

2

Expect crowd flow issues during peak visiting hours.

3

The museum features a variety of Johnny Cash memorabilia.

Discover more

Tennessee

Area guide
Loading Map...