Country Music Hall of Fame Family Thanksgiving Weekend Instrument Petting Zoo

About this adventure

Celebrating the musical soul of Music City, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum welcomes families during Thanksgiving weekend to the Taylor Swift Education Center for its beloved Instrument Petting Zoo. This engaging hands-on program invites children and beginners of all skill levels to try playing real musical instruments, including acoustic guitars, banjos, fiddles, ukuleles, mandolins, and lap steels, under the friendly guidance of professional musicians and educators. Young visitors discover how different strings vibrate to produce sound and learn simple holiday chords. Following the hands-on session, families can explore museum galleries filled with rhinestone stage costumes, historic recording gear, and the iconic Cadillac once owned by Elvis Presley, completing a scavenger hunt booklet to earn commemorative museum stickers. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Spacious, museum-grade galleries with wide carpeted floors, smooth elevators, and accessible ramps accommodating strollers throughout. • Nursing & Rest Spots: The Taylor Swift Education Center and museum concourse feature private nursing rooms, changing stations, and comfortable lounge seating. • Age Suitability: All ages; the Instrument Petting Zoo is especially tailored for children ages 3 to 12 and their families. • Sensory Tips: Moderate acoustic instrument sounds in the education room; educators provide gentle volume guidance and soft seating for sensory comfort.