Discovery Park of America

About

Discovery Park of America sits on 50 acres in Union City, Tennessee, combining a world-class museum with an outdoor heritage park that brings history, science, and nature to life. It's the kind of place that surprises you with its scope and ambition, especially for a small town in rural West Tennessee.

Inside the main building, you'll find galleries covering everything from regional history and Native American culture to space exploration and natural disasters. There's even an earthquake simulator and a full-size replica of a regional river system. The exhibits are hands-on and engaging, designed for curious minds of all ages.

The outdoor heritage park features a collection of historic buildings, including a one-room schoolhouse, a church, and several settler cabins relocated from around the region. A vintage train sits on display, and walking paths wind through gardens and past a lake. It's a peaceful setting that adds real depth to the indoor experience.

Plan for at least half a day here, though many visitors find they could easily spend a full day exploring. The park offers a cafe for lunch, and there's a well-stocked gift shop. Admission is reasonably priced, and combination passes are available if special exhibits are running during your visit.

Discovery Park has earned a reputation as one of Tennessee's hidden gems. Whether you're into military history, dinosaur fossils, or just want a place where the whole family can learn something new, this destination delivers far more than you'd expect.

Accessibility

Discovery Park of America is ADA accessible, with a few noted exceptions. The main museum building is fully accessible, with wide corridors and elevator access between levels. Wheelchairs and scooters are available for guests on a first-come, first-served basis at no extra cost.

Accessible parking spaces are located on each side of the parking lot, providing easy access to the main entrance. The path from parking to the front door is paved and level.

In the outdoor heritage park, most pathways are accessible, though some of the historic cabins in the settlement area and the vintage trains may not be wheelchair accessible due to their original construction. Visitors with mobility concerns should ask staff about which outdoor areas are easiest to reach.

Restrooms inside the main building are accessible. Staff members are available to assist visitors who need help getting around or accessing exhibits. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions about sensory accommodations, contact Discovery Park directly before your visit to confirm current features and any recent updates to their facilities.

More accessible places in Tennessee

• Adventure Science Center (Nashville)
• Ryman Auditorium (Nashville)
• Andrew Johnson National Historic Site (Greeneville)
• Obed Wild and Scenic River (Wartburg)
• Shiloh National Military Park (Shiloh)
• Stones River National Battlefield (Murfreesboro)