Last week I had the honor of traveling to Nashville as the assistant to WGN’s Remarkable Woman finalist — and my dear friend — Ali Barnum. If you missed the news segment, you can catch our recap here. Being surrounded by so many women doing extraordinary things across the country was powerful, humbling, and energizing. And because it is Nashville, we also squeezed in a whole lot of exploring, eating, and people‑watching along the way.
🎶 Broadway With a Side of Chaos (and Kids Allowed… to a Point!)
Broadway is exactly what you’ve heard: loud, sparkly, chaotic, and wildly entertaining. What surprised me most on my first visit — and still does — is how family‑friendly it can be earlier in the day. Many bars and restaurants allow kids until a certain hour, and the live music pours out onto the street from morning to night.
A few things to prep your kids for (and maybe yourself):
- Party buses and party tractors are everywhere. Yes, tractors. Yes, full of dancing adults. Yes, it’s hilarious.
- Bachelorette groups are basically a Nashville landmark. The nicknames "NashVegas" and "Smashville" apply
- You will see… accessories… on the ground. If your child points to a certain phallic‑shaped straw rolling down Broadway, the correct response is: “Don’t touch that. Ever.”
It’s all part of the charm - and the comedy - of Music City.
🔥 The Great Nashville Hot Chicken Tour
We made it our mission to try as much hot chicken as humanly (and sweat‑ily) possible. Here’s the rundown:
- 400 Degrees — Surprisingly great airport food. Flavorful, solid heat, and honestly the right level of spice before boarding a plane home.
- Prince’s — The hottest. This is the original, and it does not mess around.
- Hattie B’s — The tastiest. Perfect heat, perfect crunch, perfect everything.
If you’re a hot chicken beginner, start mild. If you’re a daredevil, Prince’s will test your soul.
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👨👩👧👦 Family Fun in and Around Nashville
Even though this trip was mostly about the Remarkable Women events, Nashville is packed with family‑friendly things to do:
- The Country Music Hall of Fame — Even non‑country fans (hi, it’s me, the rock girl in Country Country) will find something cool here.
- The Adventure Science Center — Hands‑on, colorful, and great for a half‑day visit.
- Centennial Park & The Parthenon — A full‑scale replica of the Greek Parthenon, and a great place to run around.
- Gaylord Opryland Resort — Even if you’re not staying there, the indoor gardens and boat ride are a hit with kids.
- Airport Kids’ Play Area — If you’re delayed at BNA, there’s a dedicated kids’ zone to burn off energy before boarding.
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🚗 Getting There From Schaumburg
If you’re road‑tripping, the drive from Schaumburg to Nashville is roughly 7 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Three fun stops along the way:
- Fair Oaks Farms (Indiana) — Animals, food, and a great place to stretch your legs.
- Indianapolis Canal Walk — Quick, scenic, and perfect for a snack break.
- Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky) — A slight detour, but unforgettable if you have the time.
💛 Why Nashville Keeps Pulling Me Back
This was actually my third trip to Nashville in six months, each one completely different:
- September — A 10‑year anniversary getaway with my husband.
- December — A girls’ trip with my mom and daughter for the Disabled Fashion Girlies Soirée with the group Disabled&. Their holiday market was incredible, and we heard the Grand Ole Opry at Christmas is pure magic.
- March — This Remarkable Women celebration, where I got to cheer on Ali and witness so many inspiring stories.
Every visit has had its own flavor — from romantic to family‑focused to deeply meaningful — and Nashville somehow fits all of it.
🎤 Final Thoughts From a Rock Girl in a Country World
Even if country music isn’t your thing, Nashville has a way of winning you over. The food, the energy, the kindness, the creativity — it’s a city that celebrates people, stories, and joy. And after this trip, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
If you know anyone in the Nashville area who would make a great Macaroni KID publisher, I’d love to connect. Helping more families across the country find their fun is at the heart of what we do — and Nashville families deserve an amazing local guide! There's openings in our community too! Barrington and Buffalo Grove Friends: let's connect! I'd love to have more neighbors to collaborate with!
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