The 42,169 square miles of Tennessee are ripe with activities to entertain the grade-school set and that will please their parents, too. Home to Appalachian hiking trails, ample opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, animal sanctuaries of both land and sea, a lively farmers' market scene and the Nashville state fair grounds, the "Volunteer State" is an ideal place to immerse kids in a healthy, fun and lively atmosphere.
Hiking and Trails
Tennessee state parks are home to an abundance of trails that provide outdoor fun and recreation for families. Whether you choose to bike, run, walk or climb your way through the mountain and forest paths, the trails do more than point you towards your destination; they are an opportunity to marvel at the over 1,000 miles of natural Tennessee scenery while offering a wealth of recreational opportunities under the Southern sun.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Tennessee rivers and creeks offer the perfect opportunity to take part in some wet and wild fun that will both help you beat the heat and explore the local environment. Boating the local rivers and lakes offers the opportunity to escape the city and reconnect with nature. You can observe wildlife, go fishing, battle river rapids or simply paddle your way to a leisurely afternoon. The Duck River, southwest of Nashville, offers weekend trips for those looking for adventure, while the Elk River in South Central Tennessee offers more temperate day treks. Most lakes have rental facilities for easy and affordable access to the fun.
Zoos and Aquariums
The Nashville Zoo is just one of the many zoos in Tennessee and is the perfect place to entertain children with its ever-growing menagerie of animals and activities. Exotic animals are housed in various exhibits, including changing exhibits such as the African Giraffe and Elephant Savannas and Alligator Cove. Kids can also climb on the 66,000-square-foot community playground or visit primates on Gibbons Island. The highly rated Tennessee aquarium in Chattanooga offers riverboat excursions, an IMAX movie theater and the opportunity to see undersea animals up-close.
Farmers' Markets
Farmers' markets are a Tennessee tradition that offer local fare at affordable prices and are a great way to teach kids about enjoying healthy food. Consumers are apt to find not only nutritious fruits and fresh vegetables, but also crafts from local artisans. Kids can learn about the production of both the foods and the crafts when they buy directly from the farmers and artists at their booths. Markets throughout the state--in cities including Memphis, Jacksonville, and Knoxville--are open year-round and provide an outdoor experience for kids and adults while supporting local products and merchants.
The Tennessee State Fair
The Tennessee State Fair is a nearly 150-year-old tradition that is chock-full of kid-pleasing treats and activities in the spirit of good old-fashioned fun. Featuring an array of activities that include agricultural competitions, crafting opportunities, traditional rides, livestock racing, a multitude of fair food, grilling contests and farm-based exhibitions, the autumn fair is a sure crowd-pleaser and a Tennessee tradition.
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