Discovery Center at Murfree Spring Murfreesboro Tennessee
An interactive science and culture museum with engaging exhibits, live animals, and outdoor programs for kids.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Discovery Center at Murfree Spring Murfreesboro Tennessee
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An interactive science and culture museum with engaging exhibits, live animals, and outdoor programs for kids.
"It's great for kids and families to explore and interact with the many displays and activities they have."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfortable footwear is a must for all ages.
Check for free events :money_with_wings:
The museum offers free entry during special events like Hispanic Day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant Slide
First floor to bottom floor
A thrilling spiral slide that's a guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike. Pure joy!
Rainforest Exhibit
Indoor exhibit
Immerse yourself in a vibrant, educational rainforest environment with fascinating creatures.
Outdoor Trails & Animals
Outdoor area
Explore scenic trails and encounter a variety of live animals in a natural setting.
Interactive Science Displays
Various exhibit areas
Hands-on exhibits covering science, culture, and dramatic play that spark curiosity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Interactive Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfortable footwear is a must for all ages.
Check for free events :money_with_wings:
The museum offers free entry during special events like Hispanic Day.
Pack a change of clothes :shirt:
Water play and active exhibits can sometimes lead to spills or damp clothes.
Bring your own snacks :apple:
While there are exhibits to explore, bringing your own snacks can be helpful for little ones.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfortable footwear is a must for all ages.
Check for free events :money_with_wings:
The museum offers free entry during special events like Hispanic Day.
Pack a change of clothes :shirt:
Water play and active exhibits can sometimes lead to spills or damp clothes.
Bring your own snacks :apple:
While there are exhibits to explore, bringing your own snacks can be helpful for little ones.
Consider a membership :key:
If you have young children who love to play and learn, a membership offers great value for frequent visits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Discovery Center for its engaging, interactive exhibits that captivate children of all ages. The friendly staff and the blend of indoor and outdoor activities, including a popular giant slide and animal encounters, are frequently highlighted as major positives. While some note it can get noisy and chaotic, and seating for taller adults is limited, the overall experience is highly recommended for families seeking fun and educational outings.
"As always my kids have a great time. I know I enjoy the fact that they changed the exhibit fairly often. I do wish they had seating for taller people. My husband is very tall and there’s really no seating for him except for outside. Everything‘s very low, which I understand. It is a kid museum, but when the kids are drawing or their excavating dinosaurs, it would still be kind of nice to be able to sit down."
Jill Phillips
"Fantastic! I loved how all the exhibits were interactive and fun! My three year old had so much fun we bought a membership! Now not a week goes by the we haven’t visited at least twice! 🤣❤️"
lyndsey sansone
"The museum is free entry during special events like Hispanic day!
It's great for kids and families to explore and interact with the many displays and activities they have, scattered across the first floor. The employees here are very kind, and present in activity areas so kids are guaranteed under supervision at all times. It can get very noisy and chaotic, which is expected in a place full of children - but nonetheless, I recommend visiting the Discovery Center."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Discovery Center is located at 502 SE Broad St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors arrive by car for day trips or as part of a larger Tennessee road trip.
Public transportation options may be limited in Murfreesboro. It's generally recommended to travel by car. Check local Murfreesboro transit schedules if you are relying on public transport.
There is parking available at the Discovery Center. It's usually sufficient for visitors, but can fill up during peak times or special events.
Yes, the Discovery Center is a popular day trip destination from Nashville, located about 30-40 minutes south. It's a great option for families looking for an engaging activity outside the city.
Murfreesboro offers other attractions like Stones River National Battlefield and Cannonsburgh Village, making it possible to create a full day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is reasonably priced, making it an accessible option for families. Check their official website for the most current admission fees.
Yes, the museum offers free entry during special events like Hispanic Day. They also offer memberships which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors.
Tickets can be purchased at the door. The staff is welcoming and helpful with the ticketing process.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the Discovery Center's official website before your visit. They are typically open on weekdays and weekends.
Advance booking is generally not required for general admission, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially for special events or group visits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Discovery Center features a variety of interactive exhibits focusing on science, culture, art, music, dramatic play, and nature. Highlights include a giant slide, a rainforest exhibit, and outdoor trails with animals. 
Absolutely! The museum is designed for children of all ages, with many areas and activities perfect for toddlers to explore and interact with.
Yes, while it's great for younger kids, older children can also enjoy the interactive science displays, the racetrack, and the outdoor exploration.
It can get noisy and chaotic, especially on weekends and during special events, as expected in a place full of children. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.
Yes, the employees are very kind and present in activity areas, ensuring kids are supervised and can assist with exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Discovery Center primarily focuses on exhibits and activities. While they may have limited concessions, it's advisable to check their current offerings or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Bringing your own snacks is generally a good idea, especially for younger children. There are often designated areas or outdoor spaces where you can enjoy your packed food.
Murfreesboro has a wide variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to family-friendly dining options, located a short drive from the Discovery Center.
Many local restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere, making them suitable for families after a day of exploration.
Seating can be limited inside, especially for taller individuals, as exhibits are low. Outdoor seating is available and can be a good option for enjoying packed meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to take photos and videos to capture memories. It's a great place for candid shots of kids enjoying themselves.
While generally allowed, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. Check for any specific signage regarding photography in certain exhibits.
The giant slide, the vibrant rainforest exhibit, and the outdoor animal enclosures offer great photo opportunities. Candid shots of children interacting with exhibits are always a hit.
Definitely! The colorful and engaging exhibits provide plenty of visually appealing backdrops for Instagram-worthy photos.
It's best to avoid flash photography, especially around live animals, as it can disturb them. Always be considerate of others and the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
The giant slide is a huge hit, providing pure fun for kids and adults alike. Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as seating can be limited inside.
Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding peak crowds and ensuring your little ones have plenty of space to explore. Budget-Conscious Visitors
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on potential concession costs.
Day-Trippers from Nashville
Plan your timing: Aim for weekday mornings to avoid the busiest periods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits
Visitors can also explore areas dedicated to art, music, dramatic play, and science, allowing for a well-rounded educational experience. The hands-on nature of these displays ensures that children are not just passive observers but active participants in their learning journey. Beyond the indoor wonders, the Discovery Center boasts beautiful outdoor trails where families can encounter a variety of animals.
This blend of indoor and outdoor exploration provides a dynamic and engaging environment. The exhibits are frequently updated, offering new discoveries even for repeat visitors. Making the Most of Your Visit
For families with young children, bringing a change of clothes can be a lifesaver, especially if water play is involved or if your child is prone to spills.
Don't forget to check their website for any special events or free admission days, such as Hispanic Day, which can make your visit even more economical. Family Fun and Learning
The museum strikes a good balance, offering stimulating activities without being overly overstimulating, which is a common concern for parents of young children. Many reviews highlight the welcoming and kind staff who are present to assist and supervise, providing peace of mind for parents.
The fact that exhibits are changed fairly often means there's always something new to discover, encouraging repeat visits and sustained interest. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit