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Alan Poizner
Petting zoo animals line up to greet people at Lucky Ladd Farms in Eagleville Sunday, Sept. 20, 2020. Nas Fall Activities Coronavirus 2 02
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Nashville is known for being Music City, and summertime here starts with the volume knob clocked to 10.
The first week in June, you’re grabbing peaches from the Peach Truck for a snack on the way to CMA Fest. Maybe the next weekend, you catch Dolly Parton’s Threads at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, or check out her exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Then there are art crawls, festivals, farmers’ markets, dozens of summer concerts, the pickleball craze, or swimming pools. Maybe you just want to decide your plans in the moment? Regardless, Nashville has enough things to do to keep you busy all summer long. Here are many of our favorite ways to spend the long, hot summer days and nights.
Lucky Ladd Farms, 4306 Rocky Glade Rd., Eagleville
Middle Tennessee’s largest petting farm blends classic barnyard charm with full-scale family entertainment. Visitors can interact with a wide range of animals while also enjoying pony rides, aviary experiences, and seasonal events. The expansive property is designed for a full-day visit, offering a lively, hands-on experience that balances education, play, and up-close animal interaction.
Sol Dorado Ranch, Hendersonville, Tennessee
Sol Dorado Ranch offers a hands-on, highly interactive farm experience centered on rescue animals. Guests can engage directly with the animals while learning about daily care, feeding, and what it takes to raise healthy livestock. The ranch also hosts custom equine and western experiences, educational tours, photo and video shoots, private events, and more for a personalized, immersive farm visit. To schedule a visit, or for more information.
Willis Willow Farm, 940 Harkreader Rd., Mt. Juliet
This appointment-based farm offers a more intimate alternative to larger attractions. Visitors can feed, brush, and interact with goats, pigs, chickens, and other farm animals in a relaxed environment. The focus is on connection and education, making it feel personal and unhurried — ideal for those who prefer a quieter experience.
Piccolo Farms Animal Sanctuary, 4371 Dry Fork Rd., Nashville
A nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to rescued farm animals, Piccolo Farms offers a purpose-driven experience rooted in compassion and education. Visits are typically scheduled or held during open farm days, allowing guests to interact with animals while learning about rescue and rehabilitation in an intentional setting.
Honeysuckle Hill Farm, 1765 Martins Chapel Church Rd, Springfield
Best known for its fall festival, Honeysuckle Hill Farm pairs seasonal attractions with a petting zoo component. Guests can interact with animals while also enjoying pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and dozens of activities.
The Gentle Barn, 9295 Christiana Fosterville Rd., Christiana
A nationally recognized sanctuary, The Gentle Barn invites visitors to hug cows, cuddle turkeys, and connect with animals rescued from difficult situations. Open on select days, the experience is deeply emotional and educational, focusing on healing, empathy, and meaningful human-animal connection in a peaceful farm setting.