Leave after breakfast to avoid heavy traffic and get the kids settled early; expect rest stops every 1.5–2 hours for stretching and diaper/nappy changes.
A family-friendly chain with high chairs, simple menu choices for picky eaters, and hearty Southern comfort food that appeals to grandparents and little ones.
Choose a ground-floor or elevator-accessible hotel with a pool for the kids and comfortable seating for grandparents; allow quiet time for naps and settling in.
About 1h40m drive to Nashville; plan a stop midpoint if kids need a break; arrive before lunch to check into your Nashville family-friendly hotel (ask for crib/rollaway).
Wide lawns and paved paths are stroller-friendly; the Parthenon replica is accessible and interesting for grandparents while kids enjoy open space to run safely.
Famous for Southern biscuits and quick service; order kid-friendly items and save time by arriving early to avoid lines (opens ~7:30–8:00AM typical).
A hands-on children’s science museum with exhibits appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers; wheelchairs and strollers welcome. (Typical hours ~9:30/10AM–4/5PM; confirm day hours.)
Choose a nearby family restaurant with accessible seating; early dinner helps toddlers stay on schedule and makes evenings low-stress for grandparents.
Spacious zoo with a children's area, train ride, and shaded paths—great for toddlers and manageable for grandparents; typical hours 9AM–5PM but verify seasonally.
One of the best aquariums for families with gentle, stroller-friendly routes and exhibits that fascinate toddlers and adults; typical hours ~10AM–5PM (confirm current hours).
Stroll along the riverwalk and let the kids enjoy the historic hand-carved carousel — short, accessible, and a hit with toddlers and grandparents alike.
Short, flat, stroller-friendly walk across one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the U.S.; great for photos and a gentle final activity before the drive.