Spring Break in Your Own Backyard – Nashville Style
Spring is in the air and many schools are closed for spring break in the next few weeks. Even If a trip to the beach isn’t in your near future, that’s no reason for your family to suffer through a dull week at home. Nashville is hopping and there’s plenty to explore, right here, in your own backyard.
Start a Garden
Dust your green thumb off with an inspiring trip to the demonstration gardens at Ellington Agricultural Center. Take a formal tour of Carnton Plantation’s restored 1847 garden, or check out the herb garden at the Grassmere Historic Farm at the Nashville Zoo. Then get your plan together and get growing. If you start your cold weather seedings now, you could have a homegrown salad by Easter.
Take a Hike
The weather in Nashville is perfect this time of year to explore the many nature preserves and green spaces around Franklin. Pack some snacks, put the dog in the car and enjoy the rewarding scenic views that are only awarded to those willing to scale the heights to the top of some of Nashville’s best vantage points. We highlighted some of the most accessible places on our last blog.
Cook up a Storm
Even if the weather is balmy, you can create your own storm of flavor that the family won’t mind getting caught up in. Spring break is a great time to add a new dish to your repertoire through a cooking class at Whole Foods in Franklin. Looking for a challenge? Try cooking around the world where each person chooses a country and develops a dish from that locale. It’s especially fun for older children and gives you a well deserved night off.
Explore the Arts
The arts community in Nashville and Franklin continues to blossom. Children under 18 years of age always get in free at the Frist Arts Center. Kids and parents alike can enjoy creating their own masterpieces at Third Coast Clay in the Factory at Franklin. Plus, they make great Easter gifts for grandparents.
Mission Work at Home
Traveling to different countries to help others in need can be profoundly rewarding but you don’t have to go far to give of your talents. Nashville’s own Hands on Nashville Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) has big plans for its 2016 Hands-On Spring Break. Youth 11 to 18 have the opportunity to make a difference through multiple tasks right here at home.
Plan a Get-Together
Odds are good that you’re not the only family who decided to forego the beach this spring break. Take the time to get together with some of your favorite friends “family style” with a potluck. Whether it’s a group picnic or a weeknight dinner, you’ll enjoy a slow, easy time catching up with friends while the kids entertain themselves.
Spring Break is also a perfect time to get your kids in for those semi-annual cleanings and have them bright white for Easter.
