Animal 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.

Discovery Park of America is an amusement park with an attached museum, located in the far northwest of the state of Tennessee in Lake County. It is situated between the nearby Mississippi River in the west and the immediately adjacent city of Union City in the east, which is the administrative seat of the neighboring Obion County.

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.

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 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 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 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.

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 Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum, located in downtown Wartrace, Tennessee, is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to the Tennessee Walking Horse. This unique institution offers a comprehensive look into the history, culture, and significance of this distinctive breed of horse, making it a fascinating destination for horse enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Tennessee is home to a variety of museums that are run by different institutions including nonprofit organizations, government entities, and private businesses. These museums collect and care for objects of cultural, artistic, scientific, or historical interest, providing a rich and diverse experience for visitors.

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.