Do you hear all those chirping birds in the morning? What do you think they’re trying to tell us? Well, they’re officially announcing spring, of course.
Warmer temperatures and sunny days herald in the start of spring, which means it’s time to shift from being stuck indoors to some outdoor fun.
If you’re ready to dig into spring and really enjoy the natural beauty and better temperatures, here are five local things to do in Nashville that will get you outdoors right now.
1. Zip down that line
For those seeking some springtime adventure, you don’t have to travel far. Adventure Park at Nashville is a massive ropes course and zip-lining park. Only a short drive from downtown, take the whole family on a self-guided, tree-to-tree climbing adventure. There are 162 treetop platforms connected by all kinds of crossings, including 25 zip lines.
With an area for those a little older, and an Adventure Playground for the little ones, each family member can move at their own pace through the obstacles.
2. Treat yourself like a tourist
While you may live in Nashville, how much of it have you really seen? Spend a day being a tourist, but make sure plans include the Music City Walk of Fame. Located on Nashville’s Music Mile, this star-studded walk highlights all the genres of music that played a part in establishing Nashville’s place in music history.
The stars are all there as you cruise along the sidewalk, including musical greats like Chet Atkins, Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Faith Hill, Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, and so many more. A few surprising finds include Ben Folds, Jimi Hendrix, and Elvis Presley.
3. Commune with the animals
If you’ve got animal lovers in your family, Nashville presents plenty of opportunities to get up close to some furry friends.
Lucky Ladd Farms not only has a perfect petting zoo, but there’s also pony rides, a barrel train, mega slides, and gem mining. The petting zoo itself is home to cows, goats, sheep, llamas, chickens, and more. Each animal is waiting for soft pets and sweet hugs.
For more exotic animal interactions, head to the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. Only six miles from downtown, this decent-sized zoo contains nearly 3,000 different animals. Receive welcoming greetings from the hyacinth macaws just inside the entry gate before moving along to other animals such as the clouded leopard or red panda.
4. Celebrate local artists and musicians
Happening every year in early May, the Sevier Park Fest is one long day full of art, live music, family activities, and shopping. Spend an entire day outside in the park thanks to a ton of activities, and plenty of food trucks. There’s even a criterium race to watch, which is a short-course bike race.
Although just a single day of fun, the beauty of Sevier Park is something to enjoy throughout the entire spring and summer.
5. Take to the races
Happening mid-May at Percy Warner Park, the Iroquois Steeplechase has been an annual event in Nashville for over 80 years. Spend a day in the stands watching some of the most talented riders and experienced horses hurdle along a three-mile track.
What’s even better about this particular event is it’s also a fundraiser. Ticket sales support a variety of local non-profits, including the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital.
Gas up and be on your way
Now that you’ve started thinking about how you’ll spend your spring in Nashville, it’s time to get ready to go. Before heading out to any of these particular springtime activities, don’t forget to gas up responsibly.
At Twice Daily, every time you fill up, you’re giving back to the community through the Twice Daily Thrive program. That’s because Thrive offsets up to 30% of your car’s tailpipe emissions with every visit to the pump.
So, not only are you getting outdoors and enjoying all the Nashville spring has to offer, but you’re helping your local community breathe cleaner air. Not a bad way to kick-off spring.