Nashville pulses with a vibrant energy, offering a rich tapestry of culture, legendary music, and fascinating Tennessee history around every corner. While Music City is most famous for its lively entertainment scene, it also boasts an incredible array of free activities perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and budget-conscious travelers alike. The best free things to do in Nashville include Dragon Park and the Tennessee State Museum, and cheap lodging can be found at Unhitched RV campgrounds and parks.
Family-Friendly Free Things To Do in Nashville
There are plenty of fun and free must-do Nashville activities that will keep the whole family entertained without breaking the bank. Don’t leave town without trying at least one or two of these free activities in Nashville:
1. Music City Walk of Fame Park
Stroll through this park dedicated to country music legends. Kids will enjoy spotting the names of their favorite stars embedded in the sidewalk medallions.
2. Adventure Science Center (Free Events)
While general admission to the Adventure Science Center has a fee, keep an eye on the attraction’s calendar for occasional free outdoor community events such as Touch-a-Truck. This event is an especially big hit with kids.
3. Story Time at the Library
Library branches throughout the Nashville metro area regularly host delightful, interactive story sessions—a perfect free activity for younger children and families.
4. Fannie Mae Dees Park (Dragon Park)
Let the kids’ imaginations run wild at this whimsical park, famous for its large, colorful mosaic dragon sculptures and engaging playground.
Free Nashville Museums & Attractions
Nashville’s free museums include the Tennessee State Museum, the “Dukes of Hazzard”–themed Cooter’s Place, and the Frist Art Museum (which offers free admission to certain guests on select days). The city is also home to a number of other free attractions, including the Bicentennial Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers’ Market. Immerse yourself in local culture and history with these free Nashville must-visits:
1. Tennessee State Museum
A clear leader among the free must-dos in Nashville, this museum just north of downtown invites visitors to explore engaging exhibits detailing Tennessee’s rich history, diverse culture, and unique natural heritage.
2. Cooter’s Place
This quirky, family-friendly museum dedicated to “The Dukes of Hazzard” offers free admission to view original costumes, vehicles (including famed Dodge Charger the General Lee), and other memorabilia from this popular 1970s and 1980s TV show.
3. The Frist Art Museum
Housed in a stunning Art Deco building, the Frist offers rotating art exhibitions featuring classical to contemporary works from local, national, and international artists. Admission is free for all Bank of America cardholders during the first full weekend of each month and is always free for youth 18 and under.
4. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
This unique outdoor park acts as a living museum, featuring historical markers, fountains representing Tennessee rivers, and impressive views of the State Capitol.
5. Nashville Farmers Market
Wander through stalls filled with local produce and crafts. While shopping costs money, exploring the vibrant atmosphere of the Nashville Farmers Market, enjoying food samples, and catching occasional live entertainment is completely free.
6. Downtown Art Crawl
On the first Saturday of each month, downtown art galleries open their doors for free evenings of art viewing, often accompanied by complimentary wine and refreshments.
Free Outdoor Activities & Parks in Nashville
Enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Music City in these fantastic free outdoor spaces:
1. Shelby Park and Bottoms
Perfect for walking, biking, or wildlife watching along the Cumberland River, this attraction offers an expansive greenway and adjacent park, both among the best free activities in Nashville. It welcomes leashed pets and offers miles of paved and unpaved trails, along with playgrounds, sports facilities, a dog park, and a nature center.
2. Radnor Lake State Park
Discover 7.75 miles of free hiking trails offering scenic lake views and opportunities to spot deer, otters, birds, and other wildlife in this protected natural area. Note: The trails are for hiking only; pets and bikes are not allowed on most trails.
3. Cumberland River Greenway
Take a picturesque walk or bike ride along the river as this 3.4-mile paved path winds through downtown. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
4. Percy Warner Park
Explore expansive trails through forested terrain, ideal for peaceful day hikes. This park features paved multi-use paths suitable for pets on leash and offers a beautiful escape within the city limits.
Cheap Nashville Lodging With Entertainment
Nashville is an RV-friendly destination, with numerous RV parks and campgrounds both in and around the city. For RV travelers seeking cheap lodging in Nashville, Unhitched Nashville North and Owl’s Roost Campground both provide an ideal home base for your Music City adventure. Each delivers convenience and a comfortable place to relax after a day of exploration. Both of these Unhitched RV campgrounds and parks near Nashville offer great value for budget-conscious travelers, combining affordability with stay-enhancing amenities.
Choosing an Unhitched RV park for your Nashville vacation means you get more than just a place to park your rig—you get cheap Nashville lodging without skimping on the fun. Rates at our Nashville-area campgrounds/RV parks start at under $50 per night. Consider these other free-of-charge inclusions that add to the value of a Nashville-area Unhitched RV stay:
Free Things To Do at Unhitched Nashville North RV Park
At Unhitched Nashville North, located just 20 minutes north of downtown, the fun doesn’t stop when you return from exploring the city! We offer fantastic free entertainment and amenities right here at the resort:
- Free shuttle to downtown: There is no free trolley in Nashville, and it can be challenging to find spots to park a car in the city, so trying to park an RV in downtown Nashville is definitely not recommended. Guests at Unhitched Nashville North RV Park can leave their RV at the campground and take advantage of our complimentary shuttle service for easy access to downtown Nashville’s attractions, without the hassle of parking.
- Live music nights: Enjoy the sounds of Music City with frequent acoustic sets by talented local artists at our outdoor concert pavilion.
- Bonfires: Gather around the campfire under the stars for marshmallows, storytelling, and socializing with fellow travelers.
- On-site nature trails: Stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery on accessible walking trails connected directly to the property.
- Playground: An on-property playground provides the perfect spot for the kids to burn off energy while parents relax nearby.
- Dog park: Let your furry companions run and play safely off-leash in our fenced dog park—and save money on boarding.
- Pool: Cool off on warm Tennessee days in our refreshing swimming pool, complete with lounge chairs for ultimate relaxation.
Free Entertainment at Owl’s Roost Campground, Nashville
Owl’s Roost, nestled in the peaceful countryside less than a half-hour north of downtown, offers cheap Nashville lodging while still being close to the action. Its free activities are centered around nature and relaxation:
- Birdwatching and wildlife viewing: Embrace the tranquility of our wooded setting. Known for owl sightings, the campground is a perfect spot to observe local birds and other wildlife.
- Trail access: Enjoy peaceful walks along wooded trails lined with interpretive signs that highlight local flora and fauna.
- Stargazing nights: With lower light pollution away from the city center, our campground is a great place to gather for informal stargazing sessions and admire the beauty of the night sky.
- Dog park: Our fenced dog park provides a convenient and safe space for your pets to play and socialize.
Stay at Unhitched RV for Your Next Budget-Friendly Trip to Nashville
Ready to explore the best of Nashville, Tennessee, while enjoying cheap and comfortable lodging with convenient, included amenities? RVing offers incredible value and flexibility, especially when you choose the welcoming atmospheres and budget-friendly rates at Unhitched Nashville North and Owl’s Roost Campground. Be sure to pack your RVing essentials, then get ready to pair exciting days exploring free Music City attractions with relaxing evenings back at camp. Book your stay today and discover how affordable and fun a Nashville RV trip can be!