WHO: Laura (Mom), Everett (age 7) and Ames (age 3)
WHAT: Lil’ Learning Lane
WHERE: Lane Motor Museum, 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville
WHEN: Ongoing program; check website for updated schedule
INFO: 615-742-7445 | lanemotormuseum.org
Lane Motor Museum is a Nashville gem, boasting a collection of over 150 unique cars and motorcycles. As the Mom of two “motor head” sons, visits to the museum have been a special treat. Although we have explored Lane Motor Museum in the past, this was our first time attending the Lil’ Learning Lane program.
Lil’ Learning Lane is an early childhood education program intended for children ages 3 – 5. The program occurs every fourth Friday from 10:30 – 11 a.m., and each month involves a different theme. We attended the Dan Auerbach: Rat-Rod Motorcycle program, during which the kids learned about rock-star Auerbach’s collection of vintage Harley Davidson motorcycles. After checking out the motorcycles and playing a quick game of “I Spy," the kids worked on a craft to decorate their own “rat rods,” complete with gluing dirt to their designs in true rat rod fashion. Not surprisingly, Ames (age 3) loved the dirt component!
Although the program lasts 30 minutes (perfect for short attention spans), you are able to spend as much time as you like at the museum. I was surprised that our visit ended up lasting more than two hours!
The boys and I had a great time checking out the amphibious and flying cars, and especially enjoyed the micro car collection. Their curiosity was evident and so fun to see as we examined all the vehicles. As you explore, make sure you peek out the back window of the museum to catch a glimpse of the enormous military vehicle parked outside. This is always a favorite for my boys, who are amazed by the size of the wheels.
It’s important to note that this diverse collection of cars is for eyes only. “Please don’t touch” may be uttered a few times during your visit! However, there is plenty to touch and play with in the children’s activity section of the museum. Younger children will get a kick out of the small ride on toys, playing with the car and train tables and the many small vehicle toys. Motor-related books and coloring pages are also available. Make sure to also check out the car near the children’s area that kids can climb into for a photo opportunity!
At the entrance to museum there is a small gift shop with model cars as well as books (including children’s books and activity books) available for purchase. If time allows, check out the parking garage on your way out as there are more unique cars and trucks parked inside.
As we drove away from the museum, Ames asked when he could visit again. Clearly, Lane Motor Museum has my boys’ seal of approval!
If You Go
Admission: The Lil’ Learning Lane Program is free with admission. Registration is available by phone or online. Adults $12, seniors $8, youth $3, ages 5 and younger are free.
Hours: Lil’ Learning Lane is an ongoing program; check the website for schedule. Lane Motor Museum is open Thu – Mon 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Parking: Free and convenient in parking lot or attached parking garage
Attire: Lane Motor Museum is housed in an old factory. As such, the temperature can vary. On colder days, make sure you wear a sweater, and on warmer days dress with light clothing for your maximum enjoyment.
Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller accessible: ramps to front door and to play area.