Lichterman Nature Center Memphis - Closeup on a dragonfly.
1 / 10

Lichterman Nature Center Memphis

4.6
·528 reviews·Memphis, United States

A 65-acre urban oasis in Memphis, offering woodland trails, live animal exhibits, and educational programs for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Avoid school groups

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Lichterman Nature Center Memphis - Closeup on a dragonfly.

Lichterman Nature Center Memphis

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Avoid school groups

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 65-acre urban oasis in Memphis, offering woodland trails, live animal exhibits, and educational programs for all ages.

4.6
(528 reviews)

"This place has amazing potential and would love to see the City of Memphis and surrounding suburbs visit this oasis more often!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore miles of trails! Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying the 65 acres of nature.

☀️ Pack for the Weather

Be prepared for Memphis weather; bring sunscreen, hats, or rain gear depending on the forecast.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Trails

Outdoor Trails

65 acres of woodland, meadow, and lake

Wander through diverse habitats, discover native plants, and enjoy serene lake views. Perfect for a peaceful nature escape.

Live Animal Encounters

Live Animal Encounters

Backyard Wildlife Center

Meet native Tennessee animals like snakes, birds, and bunnies up close. Educational and engaging for all ages.

Children's Imagination Play Area

Children's Imagination Play Area

Outdoor area

A fantastic space for kids to explore, play, and connect with nature in a safe and stimulating environment.

Educational Exhibits

Educational Exhibits

Visitor's Center

Discover interactive displays on local wildlife, habitats, and environmental education. Informative and engaging for curious minds.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors, Rain or Shine

Lichterman Nature Center is an urban oasis with 65 acres of woodland, meadow, and lake. While perfect for sunny days, indoor exhibits and animal encounters offer engaging experiences even in inclement weather. Check their schedule for special events and educational programs.

Plan for Exploration Time

With extensive trails and diverse exhibits, Lichterman Nature Center is best enjoyed with ample time. Visitors recommend dedicating at least a few hours to fully explore the outdoor areas, indoor exhibits, and the children's imagination play area. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid school field trips.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Avoid school groups
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Fall afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Post-event crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Catering Service in Lichterman Nature Center😉🫶 A beautiful place in Memphis 😉 If you need our service contact us! 901.4255889 #memphis #cateringservice #restaurant #food #venezuelanfood
@saborcaribememphis
9 likes • 1.2K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore miles of trails! Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying the 65 acres of nature. Reddit

☀️ Pack for the Weather

Be prepared for Memphis weather; bring sunscreen, hats, or rain gear depending on the forecast. Instagram

Toddler Friendly places to visit in Memphis, TN 📍 I have to say we had a ball at The Lichterman Nature Center which is a part of @memphismuseums . This was definitely in our top 5 of places that we’ve visited around the city. Be sure to check them out over on Quince Rd. #naturevibes #naturecenter #toddlerfun #thingstodoinmemphis #memphistn #choose901
@_hillms
1.3K likes • 20K views
Memphis, two great events are around the corner! On November 9th, immerse yourself in a rejuvenating experience at the Lichterman Center. Surrounded by the healing embrace of nature, you'll savor a complimentary lunch and engage in discussions about the powerful link between nature and neurofibromatosis. This is an opportunity for renewal that you simply can't pass up. http://weblink.donorperfect....
nfnetwork
9 likes • 182 views

📸 Capture the Beauty

Bring your camera to photograph the diverse wildlife, plants, and scenic views. Reddit

🧒 Toddler-Friendly Fun

The nature center is a hit with toddlers! The outdoor play area and animal encounters are big draws. TikTok+1

Here we show you a little of our catering service at the Lichterman Nature Center!😉🫶 A beautiful place in Memphis❤️. If you are interested in our catering service, contact us at 901.425.5889 or send your request through our website (Link in Bio) . . . . . . #MemphisTN #downtownmemphis #BealeStreet #FedExForum #SouthMainMemphis #AutoZonePark #MemphisRiverfront #TomLeePark #ilovememphis #saborcari...
saborcaribememphis
25 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore miles of trails! Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying the 65 acres of nature. Reddit

☀️ Pack for the Weather

Be prepared for Memphis weather; bring sunscreen, hats, or rain gear depending on the forecast. Instagram

📸 Capture the Beauty

Bring your camera to photograph the diverse wildlife, plants, and scenic views. Reddit

🧒 Toddler-Friendly Fun

The nature center is a hit with toddlers! The outdoor play area and animal encounters are big draws. TikTok+1

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look out for special events like guided walks, plant sales, and community expos. Instagram+2

What Travellers Say

4.6
(528 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lichterman Nature Center as a beautiful urban oasis with great potential for nature exploration and education. Highlights include the diverse trails, live animal exhibits, and family-friendly play areas. Some reviews mention a desire for increased maintenance and upkeep of certain facilities, but the overall sentiment is positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit for nature lovers and families.

"This place has amazing potential and would love to see the City of Memphis and surrounding suburbs visit this oasis more often!

A popular field trip spot, Lichterman creates a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a few hours.

Just wish there was an emphasis on keeping it well maintained. In a matter of a few months, it looked like the new addition for children isn’t getting any TLC.

We ❤️ this place and want to always be able to visit!"

Ryan Carey

"I enjoyed this museum probably better than any other museum in Memphis that I have visited! I loved the fact that they had both live animals and wildlife and life like statutes. There was many different sections of the museum that you could go to, but I didn’t have a chance today to visit them all. I liked that they had an event hall (in which a wedding was taking place at the time of my visit) and I thought that was really cool. I loved the lake part that allowed us to see catfish and many other small fish in the area. We also saw live snakes, birds, and my favorite, a bunny! The young lady who allowed to us to get up close and personal to the bunny was super sweet! She was knowledgeable about the breed and everything concerning him! The bunny was super soft and did not bite at all. We took walks around the outside nature area & I wish we had enough time to follow the whole trail. This is a great family museum and it is a must that I return with my children and nieces and nephews. I recommend this place to anyone who loves science, history and nature!"

Queen Lovely

"Beautiful spot to stop and take the kids. The outdoor imagination play area is nice as well. Of course the reptiles could do with some improvements to their enclosures (linear UVB, for example), but otherwise pretty neat."

Samuel Robinson

What People Like

Beautiful natural setting
Live animal exhibits
Great for kids

What People Dislike

Maintenance could improve

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lichterman Nature Center is located at 598 South Shady Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38120. It's easily accessible by car and is part of the Memphis Museums system. Parking is available on-site. TikTok

While specific bus routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check with Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) for the most current routes and schedules that service the area near the nature center.

From downtown Memphis, take I-240 East to exit 15 for Ridgeway Road. Turn left onto Ridgeway Road, then turn right onto South Shady Grove Road. The entrance will be on your left. Always check a GPS for real-time traffic updates.

Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the Lichterman Nature Center, making it convenient for those driving to the location. TikTok

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Memphis and can drop you off directly at the Lichterman Nature Center entrance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, and it's best to check the official Lichterman Nature Center or Memphis Museums website for the most up-to-date pricing. Special events may have separate admission costs. TikTok

Operating hours can change seasonally and may be affected by holidays or special events. It's recommended to check the Memphis Museums website for current hours before your visit. Some days may be closed for daytime operations for private events. Instagram

For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or for a special event. TikTok

Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or members of the Memphis Museums. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for details on any available discounts. TikTok

Yes, Lichterman Nature Center is a popular venue for events, including weddings and private parties. They offer pavilions and an event hall. TikTokInstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore 65 acres of trails, visit indoor exhibits, see live native animals, enjoy the children's play area, and attend educational programs. TikTokInstagram+1

The trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for walking. Some may have natural terrain, but they are not considered strenuous hikes, making them accessible for many. Reddit

You can see a variety of native Tennessee wildlife, including snakes, birds, amphibians, and mammals like bunnies. They also have fish in their lake area. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it's highly recommended for toddlers and young children! The outdoor imagination play area and live animal encounters are particularly popular. TikTok+1

Some trails are paved or have packed surfaces suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, but it's advisable to check with staff upon arrival for the most accessible routes. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, there doesn't appear to be a dedicated cafe or restaurant on-site. However, they do host events where catering is provided, and visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks. TikTokInstagram

Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during their visit, especially for picnics in designated areas. This is a great option for families. TikTok

Yes, Lichterman Nature Center offers pavilions and outdoor spaces that are suitable for picnics, making it a great spot for a family lunch amidst nature. TikTok

The nature center is located in a suburban area of Memphis. You'll find various restaurants and fast-food options a short drive away on major roads like Ridgeway Road or Poplar Avenue.

Yes, Lichterman Nature Center is a venue for various events, and catering services are often utilized for these occasions. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

The walking trails around the lake, the diverse plant life, and the live animal exhibits offer excellent photographic opportunities. The natural light filtering through the trees is beautiful. Reddit

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed and encouraged throughout the nature center. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Reddit

You can photograph the live animals, but always be respectful of their space and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb them. Instagram

Typically, drone usage is restricted in most nature centers and parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to confirm with the center's management if you have specific drone photography needs.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. This also coincides with lower crowd levels. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lichterman Nature Center is a top-tier destination for families with children. The children's imagination play area is a major draw, offering a space for kids to explore and have fun outdoors. TikTok+1 The live animal encounters, featuring native Tennessee wildlife like snakes and bunnies, are both educational and exciting for young visitors. Instagram The nature center's 65 acres provide ample space for running around and discovering the natural world, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid large school groups. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers

For those who love the outdoors and photography, Lichterman Nature Center offers a beautiful escape. The 65 acres of diverse habitats, including woodland, meadow, and a lake, provide stunning scenery and ample opportunities for capturing nature's beauty. InstagramReddit Photographers will appreciate the varied landscapes, native plant life, and opportunities to photograph local wildlife. The walking trails are well-maintained and offer peaceful routes for exploration. Reddit Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography. Reddit

🎓 Educators and School Groups

Lichterman Nature Center is a renowned educational resource for schools in the Memphis area. Its extensive grounds and engaging exhibits make it an ideal location for field trips focused on environmental science, local ecosystems, and wildlife. TikTokInstagram The center provides hands-on learning experiences that complement classroom instruction, helping students connect with nature. Educators can leverage the live animal displays and guided programs to enhance their curriculum. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails and Habitats

Lichterman Nature Center boasts 65 acres of diverse natural landscapes, including woodland, meadow, and a serene lake. The well-maintained trails offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature right within the city. Visitors often praise the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to observe native flora and fauna. InstagramReddit It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquility.

Each habitat within the center is designed to showcase the unique ecosystems of Tennessee. You can learn about the interconnectedness of plants and animals and how they thrive in their specific environments. The trails are generally easy to navigate, making them accessible for most visitors, including families with young children. TikTok Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months.

Beyond the main trails, keep an eye out for smaller, less-traveled paths that can lead to hidden gems. The center also features an observation porch for birding and a lake area where you can spot various aquatic life. The variety of natural settings ensures that every visit can offer a new discovery. Instagram

Meet the Wildlife: Live Animal Encounters

A major draw for many visitors to Lichterman Nature Center is the opportunity to see native Tennessee wildlife up close. The Backyard Wildlife Center houses a variety of animals, including reptiles, amphibians, and birds. These exhibits are not only fascinating but also serve an educational purpose, highlighting the importance of conservation and the unique adaptations of local species. TikTokInstagram

Visitors often rave about the knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the animals' behaviors, diets, and habitats. Encounters with creatures like snakes, owls, and even bunnies are common and can be a highlight for children and adults alike. The center also focuses on rehabilitation efforts for injured wildlife, offering a glimpse into conservation work. TikTokInstagram

While the exhibits are designed to be engaging, it's important to remember these are wild animals. Visitors are encouraged to observe respectfully and avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could startle them. The live animal encounters provide a memorable and educational experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Instagram

Family Fun and Educational Programs

Lichterman Nature Center is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of outdoor exploration and educational activities. The dedicated children's imagination play area is a huge hit, allowing kids to engage with nature in a fun and interactive way. TikTok+1 This space encourages creativity and provides a safe environment for little ones to explore. The center also hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year.

Beyond the play area, the entire nature center serves as an outdoor classroom. Educational exhibits within the visitor's center delve into local ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental science. School field trips are a common sight, underscoring the center's role in environmental education for young minds. TikTokInstagram Parents often find that their children learn a great deal while having a blast.

Throughout the year, Lichterman Nature Center organizes special programs, workshops, and guided walks tailored for different age groups. These can range from birding expeditions to seed swaps and craft activities. Checking their schedule in advance is highly recommended to make the most of these enriching experiences. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2