Nature & natural history museums in Tennessee

The Tennessee Aquarium, a non-profit public aquarium, is situated in Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States. It was inaugurated in 1992 along the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga. A significant expansion was added to the aquarium in 2005, enhancing its appeal and offerings.

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is not just a zoo, but also a historic plantation farmhouse. It is conveniently located just 6 miles southeast of Downtown Nashville, making it easily accessible for tourists. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and also offers a glimpse into the history of the region.

Cheekwood is a historic estate located on the western edge of Nashville, Tennessee. This 55-acre property is home to the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, a beautiful combination of nature and architecture that offers a unique experience for visitors. The estate was once the residence of the Cheek family, a prominent family in Nashville's history. Today, it serves as a botanical garden and art museum, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Norris Dam State Park is a state park located in Anderson County and Campbell County, Tennessee, in the southeastern United States. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and boating. It is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park, located in Benton County, Tennessee, is a significant natural and historical site. Established in 1929, the park is managed by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists interested in both nature and history.

The Lichterman Nature Center, a certified arboretum and nature center, is situated in East Memphis, Tennessee. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in nature and learn about various plant and animal species. The center is part of the Pink Palace Family of Museums, making it a significant part of the local cultural and educational landscape.

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a vast 96-acre botanical garden situated in Audubon Park at 750 Cherry Road, Memphis, Tennessee. This expansive garden offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a variety of plant species and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The location is easily accessible and provides a serene environment for relaxation and exploration.

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a renowned art museum nestled within 17 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Established in 1976, the museum is conveniently located at 4339 Park Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee, United States. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore a wide range of art collections while enjoying the serene beauty of the gardens.

The Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park spans 45 acres and includes a restored log cabin, which is a representation of the place where Hull was born in 1871. The park also houses a museum that displays a number of Hull's personal items, including a replica of his 1945 Nobel Peace Prize.

The Gray Fossil Site, located near the town of Gray in Washington County, Tennessee, is a significant Early Pliocene assemblage of fossils. These fossils, dating between 4.5 and 4.9 million years old, provide a unique glimpse into the past. The site is a testament to the rich history of the region and offers a fascinating exploration for those interested in paleontology and geology.

The C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa is a significant location that showcases the excavated materials of the Mississippian culture archaeological site known as Chucalissa. This site provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and understand the rich history and culture of the Mississippian people. The museum's exhibits offer a comprehensive view of the artifacts and materials excavated from the site, providing a tangible connection to the past.

The Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center is a multifaceted destination located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. As a nonprofit organization, it serves as an arboretum, botanical garden, nature center, and historical site. It is situated at 400 Garden Road, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The University of Tennessee Arboretum is open to the public free of charge. The outdoor areas are accessible daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, providing ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy the arboretum. The office and visitor center operate on weekdays during normal office hours for any inquiries or assistance.

The Coon Creek Science Center, located at 2985 Hardin Graveyard Road in Adamsville, McNairy County, Tennessee, serves as both a science center and a site for fossil discovery. This unique combination offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the science behind fossils and paleontology, while also providing a hands-on experience of discovering fossils.

Bays Mountain Park, located in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a vast nature park and planetarium that spans 3,750 acres. Established in 1971, the park offers a diverse range of natural and educational attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in astronomy, wildlife, or outdoor activities, Bays Mountain Park provides a unique and enriching experience.

The Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park, established in 1937, is a 13-acre zoological park located in Warner Park in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1998, ensuring high standards of animal care and conservation. Over the years, the zoo has expanded and improved its facilities, becoming a significant attraction for both locals and tourists.

The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture is situated on the campus of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors, as it is nestled within the vibrant university environment. The museum offers a unique blend of natural history and culture, providing a comprehensive view of the world's history and diverse cultures.

Zoo Knoxville, previously known as the Knoxville Zoo, is a 53-acre zoo situated just east of downtown Knoxville, Tennessee. It is conveniently located near exit 392 off Interstate 40, making it easily accessible for visitors. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals and is known for its conservation efforts.

The Pinson Mounds are a significant prehistoric Native American complex situated in Madison County, Tennessee. This complex is located in a region known as the Eastern Woodlands, which is rich in cultural and historical significance. The site offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient history of Native American civilizations and their architectural prowess.

The Memphis Zoo, situated in the city of Memphis, Tennessee, has been a significant part of the city since its opening in 1906. As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the zoo adheres to high standards of animal care and conservation. This ensures that visitors can enjoy a variety of animal species in a well-maintained and ethical environment.

The University of Tennessee Botanical Gardens is not just a separate entity but rather, it is the entire 250-acre campus of the University of Tennessee. This means that visitors to the gardens are also exploring the university campus, providing a unique blend of educational and natural experiences. The botanical gardens serve as a practical and educational support for the university's biology studies, but they are also open to the public for enjoyment and exploration.

The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee is not open to the public, ensuring the elephants' privacy and well-being. The sanctuary spans over 2,700 acres and consists of three separate and protected natural habitat environments for Asian and African elephants. This vast space allows the elephants to roam freely and live as naturally as possible.

The Discovery Center, located near downtown Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is a unique combination of a children's museum, nature center, and wetlands boardwalk. It offers a variety of exhibits and activities that cater to the interests of children and adults alike. The center is designed to provide an engaging and educational experience for visitors, with a focus on exploration and discovery.

Johnsonville State Historic Park offers a variety of activities for visitors. One of the highlights is a wooded trail where you can observe several species of birds, including Gulls, Sandpipers, Woodpeckers, and White-breasted Nuthatches. Occasionally, you might even spot Bald Eagles. During winter and migration seasons, Bay Ducks and Ring-tailed Gulls are also visible. Additionally, the Tennessee River's impoundment of Kentucky Lake provides opportunities for fishing.

Bonny Oaks Arboretum is situated at 6183 Adamson Circle in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This location is easily accessible and provides a serene environment for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Hermitage Arboretum is a significant part of the historical Hermitage, which was once the cotton plantation of President Andrew Jackson. It is situated in the Hermitage neighborhood, just outside Nashville, Tennessee. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the area while enjoying the natural beauty of the arboretum.

The Deerwood Arboretum and Nature Area is a city park and arboretum situated along the Little Harpeth River in Brentwood, Tennessee. This location offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature. The park is easily accessible and provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration.

The Louise Pearson Memorial Arboretum is situated in the Green Frog Historic Village, Crockett County, Tennessee. This location is a part of the rich history of the area and provides a serene environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the diverse tree species present in the arboretum.