March 23, 2020 – The Tyrannosaurus rex specimen on display in Dinosaur Hall at Discovery Park of America is a plaster replica of one of the most famous dinosaurs ever recovered – Stan the T. rex. Stan was discovered in the spring of 1987 in Harding County, South Dakota by an amateur paleontologist named Stanley Sacrison. It is customary for a dinosaur to be given a common name after its finder (hence Stan), although each has a distinct catalog identification number as well. At the time of his discovery, Stan was the largest T. rex to have been found, though he is now third in that category.
During his life, Stan fought with another T. rex and suffered a broken neck as a result – this is indicated by a number of puncture wounds near the base of the skull that match T. rex teeth, as well as fused cervical vertebra. The fusion of the vertebra suggests than Stan survived this attack and lived for years afterwards! It is believed that Stan died at about 24 years old before being buried in sand and lost to time for 65 million years before being unearthed by humans. In 2013, Discovery Park of America joined a small elite family of museums that house a replica of this historically and scientifically significant dinosaur.
For more “Did You Know” articles, check out our latest blog posts.
March 24, 2020 – This is a challenging time for many in Northwest Tennessee, so we’re sharing this list of just some of the places with resources for those in need in our community.
Northwest Tennessee Economic Development Council
They provide help with rent, energy bills, food, and other aid in Benton, Carroll, Crockett, Dyer, Lake, Gibson, Obion, Henry, and Weakley Counties in Tennessee.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The federal government funded program was created to help qualified households who are considered low income, and who currently pay a high portion of household income for their home energy bills. The program can provide grants to pay energy bills, and money to prevent a disconnection.
Energy Bills
Get help with your energy bills from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
March 11, 2020 – As always, the safety and wellbeing of our guests, employees and volunteers is of the utmost importance to us at Discovery Park. Like you, we are monitoring the developing COVID-19 situation closely and following all guidelines from local authorities. We wanted to let you know about the precautions we are taking to maintain a safe and healthy environment at Discovery Park.
We have increased our cleaning protocols and the disinfection of frequently touched, high traffic surfaces such as doorknobs, exhibit counters and bathroom faucets. Hand sanitizer and tissues are available throughout the museum and park.
We have instructed our staff, and ask our guests as well, to follow the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control:
Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
Avoid touching your face
Where possible, practice social distancing and avoid handshakes
Sneeze or cough into your sleeve or a tissue
Remain at home if you feel sick
Should you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 731.885.5455 orinfo@discoveryparkofamerica.com.
March 6, 2020 – With spring break and summer vacation right around the corner, many are looking for fun trips for families in Northwest Tennessee. Whether you’re in search of a quick, family-fun getaway or you have several days to explore the area, children and adults of all ages will have a unique, one-of-a-kind experience at Discovery Park of America in Union City, Tenn.
Today, Discovery Park is famous for its iconic 100,000-square-foot building, interactive galleries, educational exhibits, and 50 acres of heritage park that is a blast to explore. However, one of the best parts of a visit to this Tennessee gem involves meeting a host of incredible people as you explore.
Here are a few of the most fascinating people you’ll discover at Discovery Park:
10. A Collector of Scales The interesting collection of scales on display in the Enlightenment Gallery were donated by Phil Wehman, a Union City-native, who collected scales with his wife, George Anna Wehman, since 1970. George Anna first started the collection and joined the International Society of Antique Scale Collectors (ISASC). Phil Wehman’s photographs of their many scales have been featured in the ISASC publications over time. Their collection amounted to over 1,000 scales.
9. Kimberly and Ian – Two Real Mosasaurs The large fossil reproductions of dinosaurs and marine reptiles that dominate Dino Hall, part of the Natural History Gallery, are all from the Mesozoic Era. The dinosaurs on display include a Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus rex, Apatosaurus, and Appalachiosaurus. The marine reptiles on display include two Mosasaurs named Ian and Kimberly. Kimberly was discovered by Aaron Scott, a University of Tennessee at Martin student, during a dig cosponsored by Discovery Park of America and Triebold Paleontology. He named the fossil after his mother. Scott has visited Discovery Park several times, speaking with guests about the dig and the process of unearthing a fossil.
8. Slingshot Charlie While most hunters prefer shotguns for shooting ducks, one became famous for his skill with a slingshot. “Slingshot Charlie” Taylor worked as a hunting guide on the lake. One of his clients represented a traveling sportsman show, and he recognized Taylor’s skill and offered him a role in the show. “Slingshot Charlie” later traveled with vaudeville shows and appeared in a Hollywood newsreel. Artifacts from Slingshot Charlie can be found in the Regional History Gallery.
7. The 100-year-old Photographers
Verne and Nonie Sabin illuminated the wild beauty and life around Reelfoot Lake in the 1920s, and a century later their photographs remain some of the most captivating ever produced of this area. Prints of their photos can be found in Sabin’s Café—named in honor of the legendary photographers—and on display in the Reelfoot Room on the entry level of Discovery Park.
6. The Press Master The Gutenberg Press on display in the Technology Showcase is a full-scale, fully functional reproduction. It was built by Pratt Wagon and Press Works of Cove Fort, Utah. Included with the printing press were plates containing the story of Gideon from Judges Chapter 7. These plates are on display with the press and can be used for printing demonstrations. Pratt Wagon and Press Works was run by Stephen Pratt and his son Ben. They built meticulous replicas, using detailed mechanical drawings as their starting point and the finished pieces were noted for their accuracy. Stephen did all the woodwork while Ben forged the metal pieces. The Gutenberg Press displayed in Discovery Center is among the last printing presses Stephen Pratt built before his death from cancer in 2012.
5. Dolly Dear
A special collection of Dolly Dear dollhouse accessories call the Fantasy Forest Children’s Play Area home. Dolly Dear was founded by Rossie Turner Kirkland of Union City in 1927. She was the grandmother of Discovery Park Founder, Robert Kirkland. By 1944, the company was operating from a factory on First Street and employed 30 people. The dollhouse accessories were sold nationwide through a mail order catalog as well as through other popular mail order catalogs such as Sears and Montgomery Ward.
4. David Crockett Discovery Park is proud to feature American folk hero, frontiersman, solider, and politician, David Crockett, who lived in West Tennessee from about 1822 to 1835. In The Settlement, guests will find a statue dedicated to Crockett standing near the middle, while his political career is documented in an exhibit in Liberty Hall on the south side of the park. A print of his portrait by John Gadsby Chapman is on display in The Regional History Gallery.
3. Sleeping Beauty Inside the one-room Hicks Family House in the Settlement, guests experience the story of Susan Godsey who was born in Obion County sometime between 1835 and 1842. When she was around nine years old, she became sick and then fell into a semi-comatose state. Every day, for the rest of her life, she would only wake up for a very short time. When she was awake, her family would feed her and give her water. Doctors from all over the world came to try to solve the mystery of the sleeping beauty, but no one was able to provide any kind of remedy. She died on Oct. 27, 1873 having been asleep for most of 25 years.
2. Hoot Gibson and Rhea Seddon The two NASA flight suits on display in the Moon Dome at STEM Landing were used by married astronauts Robert “Hoot” Gibson and Rhea Seddon and were loaned to the park by the astronauts themselves. In 1978, Seddon was selected as one of the first six women to enter the Astronaut Program. After three successful space shuttle flights and 30 days in space, she left NASA to become the Assistant Chief Medical Officer at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
1. Robert Kirkland, the Man who Dared to Dream Discovery Park founder Robert Kirkland began his business with a rented office on First Street in Union City, Tennessee. For a desk, he had an old door set atop a pair of sawhorses. Whatever he may have lacked in furniture, Kirkland more than made up for in determination, inquisitiveness and work ethic. He grew his business and made his fortune in home décor, first in retail, then in imports. His career allowed him to travel the world, exposing Kirkland to sights, sounds and ideas that many live a lifetime without ever experiencing. As his business and fortune continued to grow, Kirkland and his wife, Jenny, committed themselves again and again to supporting their community in powerful ways. Today, Discovery Park of America stands not just as a life-changing gift to West Tennessee, but to the entire world.
Here at Discovery Park, you’ll discover a premier world-class museum and heritage park that provides you and your family a transformational experience with the mission of inspiring both children and adults to see beyond. In addition to these fascinating people, you’ll find fascination around every single corner.
Competing in the 2024 Cardboard Boat Regatta? But maybe you have no clue where to even begin with the fun project. Never fear, because Commodore John Watkins is here to give you some tips and tricks on how to build the best cardboard boat that will be the best on the water on race day.
ITEMS NEEDED AND RECOMMENDED FOR A SUCCESSFUL BUILD
Undamaged cardboard. If you break it, crush it or cut through it, the cardboard may fail while in use. No-brainer: Don’t step on it.
Water-based wood glue
A paint roller. This will help to spread the glue over large surfaces and remove excess glue. Too much glue is not good for you!
Clamps and weights. These will help press the glue joints and layers together. Be sure to use a large flat surface in between the clamp or weight and cardboard. This will protect the cardboard corrugations from damage.
Silicon sealant. This will help keep your cardboard dry when it’s in the water! Remember to seal the ends of the cardboard with caulk or silicone, or you’ll have great fun watching the water draw up into the corrugations just like in a drinking straw.
Paper tape/Reinforced paper tape. Paper tape helps join the pieces of cardboard and also works well over caulked edges and seams. This won’t shrink like duct tape when you paint it!
Water-soluble outdoor latex-based primer. Try saying that five times fast! This is for your initial coats of paint. Avoid oil-based paints, stains, caulk, and glue because the oil soaks into the cardboard, which weakens and damages it. The cardboard may never dry!
TIPS WHEN BUILDING
Try building a model first. Scale down your design and cut its “flat-pattern” shape out of a manila folder. Use stones or small weights to test the buoyancy. Tape together and seal it from the water using scotch tape. This could give you an idea if the boat will float the way you want.
Layer cardboard. This will give you additional strength. Layer the cardboard with the corrugations going in different directions. This will make for a stronger laminate. You can have strength and still keep your boat light if you place the second layer so that the corrugations run at a 90-degree angle to the first layer.
Fold your cardboard. To fold cardboard across the corrugations, consider scoring the line of the fold with the butt end of your utility knife or other rounded edge of a tool.
Building location is important. Try to build the raft in a warm, dry, low humidity location. This will speed up the glue drying process. Be sure your boat will be able to get out the door of wherever you build it!
Channel your inner Van Gogh. Remember to decorate your boat (highly rewarded by the judges on race day) and bring your own wooden paddles or oars.
BONUS TRICKS
A flat bottom is recommended. A V-shaped bottom is likely to tip over unless the V is very gentle.
The lowest center of gravity is the most stable. Kneeling or standing will cause you to tip over.
Longer boats go faster, but they are harder to turn.
Boats shorter than 10 feet are difficult to steer.
For height, allow about 18 inches for you to sit and paddle effectively without the edge of your boat blocking your arms.
Figure about 30 inches maximum for 1 person, 48 inches for two people.
Clear tape melts when it is painted.
Forget about “glue guns” because that type of glue melts on hot days.
Alice Fennel, a lifelong resident of Obion County, Tenn., was presented with the 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award at a volunteer appreciation luncheon on Thurs. in the Cooper Tower at the park.
March 3, 2020 – The Discovery Park of America Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes one outstanding volunteer for their valuable and selfless commitment to Discovery Park’s mission to inspire children and adults to see beyond.
Fennel has been volunteering with the organization in various ways since Robert Kirkland first began exploring the idea of an educational facility with the community. She currently works at the information table, assists with educational classes, is a board member and has been a passionate advocate for the upcoming exhibit on innovation in agriculture, “AgricCulture: Innovating for Our Survival.”
“Alice is a vibrant, active member of the volunteer team who is always prepared and willing to help. Over the years, she has remained consistent and dependable; she has personally inspired hundreds of children here at the park,” said Polly Brasher, Discovery Park’s education director. “Her work in our children’s music program and agricultural field trip programs has helped Discovery Park create unique, memorable experiences that will be cherished by students for years to come. Even when she isn’t present at the park, Alice constantly displays her dedication as our top recruiter for other excellent volunteers.”
Fennel was selected for the award by employees of the museum and heritage park.
“As a museum with so many visitors from out of town, it really helps them to have a smiling face of a volunteer from the community—like Alice—at the information desk,” said Scott Williams, Discovery Park president and CEO. “And I can personally share that her support, suggestions and connections have been especially valuable in my first year on the Discovery Park team.”
For others in the community who would like more information about the Discovery Park of America volunteer program, there will be an information session and behind-the-scenes tour with a customer service training session immediately following for those who would like to seriously consider joining the program after learning more at the information session.
Fri., Feb. 21
Discovery Park of America Volunteer Info Session Segment One
8 – 9 a.m., Overview of Discovery Park’s Volunteer Program
9 – Noon, Behind-the-scenes Tour and Customer Service Training
Mon., Feb. 24
Discovery Park of America Volunteer Info Session Segment Two
8 – 9 a.m., Overview of Discovery Park’s Volunteer Program
9 – Noon, Behind-the-scenes Tour and Customer Service Training
To RSVP, please email info@discoveryparkofamerica.com and let them know which day you plan to attend, your name and phone number.
June 19, 2020 – Do you want to be part of the upcoming permanent exhibit, “AgriCulture: Innovating for Our Survival” in the in the Simmons Bank Ag Center? Simply make a pledge to contribute any amount to the funding of the exhibit no later than Wed. Sept. 30, 2020. Everyone who provides a gift of any amount will be included as a “Champion of Agriculture” on the exhibit’s partnership wall. This will enable you and your family to support the mission of Discovery Park to inspire children and adults to see beyond and to help us tell the story of innovation in agriculture. All donors plus one guest will also be invited to the private exhibit launch party on Fri. Dec. 4, 2020, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Pledges may be made here.
Champions of Agriculture Numerous gifts by farm families and individuals who support this project
Carol and Charles Steer | Yeargin Farms | Veronica Steer- Sunbow Jerseys | Matthew, Colby, Harrison, Carsen, Mattie Jane and Ally Anne Gray | Alice and Marcus Fennel | Mike and Penny Holman | Platt Farms- Jeanne and Chuck McMillen | David W. Howell | Grady J. Buttrey | Rachel C. Buttrey | Brad and Emalee Buttrey | BERG Livestock | Tony and Margie Jones | Mr. and Mrs. Tim Hazlewood |Flynn Jowers (Farm Bureau Insurance Agent) | Chad and Healther Hardy in memory of Robert Bain Hill | Clinton Evans & Family | Scott, Michelle, Alex and Liv Williams | Polly Brasher | Ginger C. Terry | C&W Farms | Buckles Family- 1700’s-2020 | Woodard Family – 1800’s-1900’s | Johnson Family – 1800’s-2020 | Wilmot Family – 1800’s- 2006 | Snelling Family – 1800’s- 1900’s | John Watkins | Vicki & Glenn Heatherly | Lelia & John Warner | In honor of Gordon Henshaw by William G. Henshaw | To the continued education of the next generation- Jenny & Danny Fields | Ervin Feed & Grain | Rance and Keisha Hooper Farms | Sellers Farms | Dominick Lee | Linda & Dave Rizzuto | T. Jack’s- Fredricks Family Apiary | In Memory of Edgar Hilliard, my farmer dad | Warterfield Grain Company | In Honor of Eul Britt | Pamela & Jack W. Sloan | Matt and Kelly Griggs- Griggs Farms LLC | Shannon & Charley Deal | Ms. Penny Fleming, USDA Retired | Jennifer & Gary Hooks | From Brokenness to Wellness | Kathy and Johnny Bacon and family in honor of Margaret and John Bacon | Todd, Brittany, Ellie & Henry Gregory | Lynn and Kay Barnes Farms | Ben Harrison Farms | Patti & Jim Leeke family | Carter Century Farms, est. 1879 Owner Barry (Buck) Carter and family 7th Generation of true farmers | Nell & Jacky Gullett | In loving memory of Larry Fluty | H & H Farms of TN |Pat & Phillip Watkins |In honor of Herman Dietzel, Jr Tennessee State DEKALB* Corn Growing Contest Champion 1956 | Black Monocle Disc Golf | Mike Cox | Michelle and Al Creswell | Betty Ann and John Tanner | Lindsay, Alli Kate, Houston Frilling | Jack R. Parker | Tri State International Trucks- Union City, TN | Union City Energy Authority/TVA | Tyson- Union City, TN | Brian, Deanna and Rebecca Jones | The Jim and Mary Nita Bondurant Family | Karl, Sandy and Kelsey Johnson
The mission of Discovery Park of America, a premier world-class museum and heritage park located in Union City, Tennessee, is to inspire children and adults to see beyond. Included in the complex is a 50-acre heritage park and a 100,000-square-foot museum featuring ten interactive exhibit galleries with additional space for temporary exhibits from around the world. Discovery Park of America is a 501(c)(3) public charity funded by generous individuals, corporations and foundations including its principal funder, the Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Foundation.
Feb. 5, 2020 – Attendees of the 2020 Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Discovery Awards at Discovery Park of America on March 7, 2020 are in for a fun-filled night as they pay tribute to the inaugural event’s honorees and support the mission of Discovery Park to inspire children and adults to see beyond. Proceeds raised from the silent auction will benefit the Kirkland Scholarship that provides free admission for students from all K-12 schools where 75 percent of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch.
After checking in and taking a selfie on the red carpet with the Discovery Park cave bear—who will be decked out for the occasion—guests will receive a complimentary glass of champagne provided by Recreational Concepts of Cookeville, Tenn. with background music provided by Charles Lewis on the flute and Dr. Chan Mi Jean on the keyboard.
Guests will then make their way to the museum’s military gallery where popular West Tennessee duo Steve Short and Keith Brown will be providing live entertainment as guests mix, mingle and bid on some unique and one-of-a-kind experiences and rare items in the silent auction sponsored by Eller Enterprises of Mount Juliet, Tenn., Whitehorn Tankersley & Davis CPA of Memphis and Hub City Blueprint of Jackson.
As they bid, guests will want to be sure to purchase the evening’s signature cocktail sponsored by Solid Light of Louisville, Ky.
The entertaining award ceremony, hosted by entertainer Bill Minihan who owns and operates Badgett Playhouse in Grand Rivers, Ky., will include an impressive and delicious formal dinner prepared and served by Sodexo of Martin.
During the salad course, music will be provided by The Jackson Symphony featuring violinists, Grace Shaw and Elise Dougan and celloist Daniel Strawser. They will present music from the Classical & Romantic eras. Included will be works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Robert Schumann and Ludwig van Beethoven.
Once the presentation of the Discovery Awards to the 2020 honorees Kevin Coby; Carl and Alice Kirkland; Jon and Jaimie Robinson; and Stephen Vaden has ended, the evening will still be in full swing as one of the country’s premier auctioneers, Jay Cash, takes the stage. The live auction portion of the evening, sponsored by Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical of Jackson, will feature some items that you simply will not be able to find anywhere else in the world. And even if guests don’t win an item, they may win one of the games during the event that are sponsored by Cowart Reese Sargent, CPAs of Jackson and Lanzer Printing and Office Supplies of Union City.
One of the most popular live auction items is sure to be an autographed football from the Titans that includes two tickets to a pre-season game and the opportunity to join the Titans on the field.
Money raised during the silent auction will benefit the Kirkland Scholarship, and all other proceeds raised from this exciting event will support every aspect of the museum and park—from regular maintenance and day-to-day operations to allowing educators to creating new interactive exhibits and develop programs and classes. Gifts further STEAM and history education and help deliver a transformational experience to visitors of all ages. Contributions will go to work immediately and are essential to implementing Discovery Park’s mission to inspire children and adults to see beyond.
The Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Discovery Awards Gala and Fundraiser will be held on Sat., March 7, 2020 with cocktails at 5:30 p.m. and an awards dinner at 7 p.m.
For more information or to purchase sponsorships, tickets and tables, click here.
Jan. 2, 2020 – Happy New Year! All of us at Discovery Park are excited about the opportunities for you and your family to explore coming in 2020.
From science to history to music to art, there will be many ways for children and adults to see beyond this year. Here are just a few of the highlights.
NEW HOURS
Low Season
Jan. – Feb., Aug. – Dec.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Tues. and Wed.
High Season
March – July
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Open 7 days a week
If you are looking for overnight accommodations, you’ll be glad to know that two new hotels, Sleep Inn and MainStay, are open right next door—with a third, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, coming later in 2020. For reservations or more information, call 731-599-7272 for Sleep Inn or MainStay or 731-599-7990 for Holiday Inn Express & Suites.
In January, Magnolia Place Assisted Living will pay for admission to Discovery Park for all children 17 and younger as a way to pay tribute to and memorialize Jenny Kirkland. Tickets will be available at the Discovery Park ticket counter Jan. 2 – Jan. 31. Student groups must be arranged in advance by calling 731-885-5455 or emailing reservations@discoveryparkofamerica.com.
Coming Jan. 17 – May 3 is “Astronaut,” an exhibit that features hands-on interactive displays that allow guests to investigate the reality of what it takes to be a space explorer.
Members will have the first opportunity to explore this temporary exhibit before it officially “launches” at the Members-Only Sneak Peek on Thurs., Jan. 16, 5-7 p.m. with special guest Dr. Lawrence DeLucas. A much-honored biochemist, Dr. DeLucas flew aboard NASA Space Shuttle mission STS-50 as a payload specialist. This was the longest space shuttle flight to date making 221 orbits of Earth. Check out the School and Visitors Guide for more information about the exhibit and plan to attend the exciting members-only event. Not a member? Join Today!
Beginning in March, the Starship Theater will feature two new enhanced films from Giant Screen Films, a leader in the large format/IMAX® industry:Journey to Space and Wild Africa. Both are action-packed experiences that will enhance anyone’s visit to Discovery Park.
“The Southern Artist Showcase: Works by Southern Self-taught Artists” will be open May 14 – Sept. 28 and “The Fascinating World of Murray Hudson’s Globes and Maps” will be on display June 12 – Sept. 14.
Finally, we’re all very much looking forward to “AgriCulture: Innovating for Our Survival,” the new permanent exhibit dedicated to telling the story of innovation in agriculture that will open Oct. 22.
Of course, fun and educational events are a big part our mission at Discovery Park. Below are dates for some of our very special events in 2020.
NEW THIS YEAR: If you’re a Discovery Park member, be sure to stop by the ticket counter and ask for your free magnet that lists the events, so you won’t miss a single opportunity.
Our founder Robert Kirkland said on our opening day, “Discovery Park of America should enhance education for children as well as adults and do it in an entertaining way.” He added, “I hope it will be a destination that people will visit again and again and walk away each time with an expectation for continued innovation.”
We’re excited that 2020 will be another year filled with exhibits, events and activities that make his vision a reality.
Dec. 4, 2019 – If you are looking for a fun and unique place to bring the family this Christmas season, look no further than Discovery Park of America, located in Union City, Tenn. With all the hands-on exhibits, ranging from dinosaur bones to vintage cars to the beautiful 50-acre heritage park and the “Hot Wheels: Race to Win” temporary exhibit, you are surely to find something that everyone in the family will enjoy.
After you have spent your day exploring new surprises around every corner within the museum, be sure to stay until closing time because that is when the holiday surprises are lit up! The “Let It Glow” Light Show is open 5 – 9 p.m., now through Dec. 30, 2019 and is only $10 per car to drive through over ONE MILLION LIGHTS that are synced with your favorite Christmas jingles.
Purchase your tickets online or when you arrive at the ticket hut near the entrance for the light show.
So bring everyone, the young and the young-at-heart, to experience Discovery Park as well as the “Let It Glow” Light Show this year. Open now through Dec. 30, 2019. Sponsored by McDonald’s.
Discovery Park and the Light Show will be CLOSED Dec. 24 and 25 for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Want to hear the behind-the-scenes scoop on how these twinkling lights go up? Listen to the end of this episode of “Reelfoot Forward: A West Tennessee Podcast” for the challenges of putting up ONE MILLION LIGHTS for all to see!
Oct. 3, 2019 – From eagles to white squirrels and sunken cypress trees to dinosaurs, Northwest Tennessee is filled with unique attractions just waiting to be explored. While the area has long been a mecca for hunters, birdwatchers and outdoor water sports enthusiasts, today you’ll also find family-friendly experiences around every corner. Conveniently located only an hour-and-a-half from Jackson, two hours from Memphis and three hours from Nashville, the area is an easy day trip.
Discovery Park of America
If you are looking for a quirky, eclectic, one-of-a-kind museum that rises up out of a cornfield in the middle of rural America, then you must check out Discovery Park of America in Union City, Tennessee. The iconic 100,000-square-foot museum and beautifully landscaped 50-acre heritage park is something to see. Inside, you are greeted by friendly staff who are happy to point you in the right direction to begin your adventure. Bring your stroller, backpacks and definitely walking shoes because you will be covering a lot of ground.
The exhibits inside the museum are incredible. Stand right next to dinosaur skeletons, crawl inside the fish tank, experience an earthquake, wind through an impressive collection of military artifacts, learn all about science, technology, engineering, the arts and math, feel nostalgic standing next to the collection of more than 35 vintage cars and so much more. Insider tip: we highly recommend booking a room at the Sleep Inn right next door to Discovery Park and taking advantage of the park’s two-day VIP pass because you will want two days to explore everything.
Sabin’s Café is on-site, so you don’t have to leave for lunch. But, if you are looking for something local to try, check out their blog on the “Best Diners and Dives in Union City.”
Open Tues. – Sun. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
New hours in 2020:
Jan. and Feb. / Aug. – Dec.: Open Thurs. – Mon. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
March – July: Open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Reelfoot Lake State Park
Experience the great outdoors at Reelfoot Lake State Park in Tiptonville, Tennessee. This beautiful scenic lake has 12,500 acres of water with an abundance of crappie, bluegill, catfish, bass, wildlife, birds, bald eagles and beautiful scenery. What used to be swamplands was then turned into Reelfoot Lake caused by the 1811-12 earthquakes, which they say made the Mississippi River run backward and fill in the swamplands.
While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Reelfoot Lake Visitors Center to see bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, barred owls and more. You can camp down at the lake or rent one of the newer cabins through Tennessee State Parks.
Looking for good food? We highly recommend Blue Bank Resort or Boyette’s Dining Room. If you want to have dinner with a view, head over to Blue Bank resort. They have a delectable menu as well as a bar inside their dining room. Be sure to arrive just before sunset to experience one of the most beautiful views of Reelfoot Lake imaginable. No picture online can do it justice. Blue Bank Resort also has lodging if you wanted to eat, drink and sleep by the lake.
Lunch or dinner at Boyette’s is like an experience as if you were walking into your grandma’s home. The atmosphere is quaint, the wait staff is as sweet as pie, and if you don’t try the catfish, are you really having the true experience at Reelfoot Lake?
White Squirrel Winery in Kenton, Tenn.
Surrounded by the beautiful fields of Kenton, Tenn., is White Squirrel Winery and Vineyard run by the Sanderson Family. Pop in and enjoy their tasting room where you can try several different wines and experience one of the most peaceful views of rural Tennessee anywhere. They harvest eighteen acres of grapes, fruit from the orchard and bramble bushes to make their well-known wines. Shop in the tasting room where you can find an assortment of made-from-scratch jams and jellies, as well as hand-poured candles.
Tastings on Friday and Saturdays are from 1-6 p.m. and on Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Be sure to check their Facebook page for live music events, dinner theaters and more.
Full Throttle Distillery
Photo Submitted by TripAdvisor reviewer ShopGirl_71
Want to have the Sturgis experience without riding all the way to South Dakota? Cruise in to the small West Tennessee town of Trimble to Full Throttle S’loonshine, owned and operated by Michael Ballard, who was born and raised in Trimble and is well-known for opening the world’s largest biker bar in Sturgis. Full Throttle S’loonshine is an authentic Tennessee moonshine distillery that uses an early 1900s recipe along with an authentic copper still to make the moonshine. Walk in to the tasting room surrounded by the rustic wooden barrels, shiny bottles of moonshine and get ready to taste some of the best moonshine in West Tennessee. And if you’re lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of Michael walking around the distillery, making sure everything is running smoothly (including the shine) in his hometown.
Outdoor recreation lovers – this is your oasis. The beautiful 841-acre Paris Landing State Park is located on Kentucky Lake, which is right off of the majestic Tennessee River and only a one-hour drive from Discovery Park of America. Enjoy all kinds of water activities such as fishing, skiing, boating and swimming, as well as dry land experiences of hiking, camping and golfing.
If you want to explore the charming town of Paris, Tenn., the locals welcome you to shop in their quaint downtown shops, eat at fun restaurants and just enjoy some small town charm. Be sure to visit the Paris town square for great shopping and eclectic gift shops. Don’t forget to try the wines at Paris Winery while you’re there. And yes, there is an Eiffel Tower. Experience Paris without hurting your wallet.
Unique shopping experiences and one-of-a-kind dining venues are lined up and down Lindell Street in historical downtown Martin, Tennessee. Pop in and out of quirky antique stores, gift shops and cute boutiques and even get your caffeine fix at the Martin Coffeehouse. Mix with the locals at several restaurants in downtown Martin, with our favorites being The Opera House, A.B Cheatham’s Downtown Tavern and the newly opened Blue Oak Oyster Bar. Oh, and even though it’s technically not downtown, you must head over to The Grind Mac-and-Cheese Burger Bar. It’s just around the corner right next to the University of Tennessee at Martin. You will not be disappointed.
Insider tip: If you are in town the first week of September, head downtown to experience the award-winning Tennessee Soybean Festival. Shop local vendors, eat delicious food, walk the midway and enjoy live music. The city shows out during this jam-packed week-long festival, and it is something everyone should experience.
Charlene’s Colony of Shoppes and Murray Hudson’s Antique Maps and Globes
Nestled about a mile off Highway 51 in Halls, Tennessee, is the cutest little colony of shoppes. Charlene’s is loved by locals and travelers who just so happen to know about this well-kept secret. When you arrive at Charlene’s Colony of Shoppes, you will feel as if you have found the hidden treasure. Shop in the quaint antique store and find some of the most exquisite home décor in West Tennessee. From Christmas decorations and one-of-a-kind rugs to elegant throw pillows and glitzy chandeliers, Charlene’s has it. After shopping, pop inside the Just Divine Tea Room next door for a light lunch or dinner. Be sure to leave time when you are in Halls to stop by Murray Hudson’s Antique Maps, Globes, Books and Prints. With 24,000 maps and 760 globes, you’ll find his cartographic stash full of unique treasures, many of them one of a kind.
Charlene’s
Open Tues. – Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Facebook Page
Murray Hudson’s Maps
Open Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Facebook Page
Safari Park
Get ready for your very own safari experience without leaving the great state of Tennessee! Located in Alamo, Tennessee Safari Park is a place where memories are made. It’s a drive-through safari ride where you can see buffalo, zebras, antelope, giraffes and more! Purchase some animal feed, roll down your windows and get ready for the ostriches to walk up and eat the food right out of the bucket!
Open Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Open Sun. 12 – 5 p.m.
Oct. 3, 2019 – Joel Harris of Troy, Tennessee was a pioneer of waterfowling in the Reelfoot Lake region of Northwest Tennessee and he made his mark through the art of Reelfoot style call making. This style of call making is unique with detail, wood working design, and a metal reed gut system. When I asked Ryan Graves, renowned waterfowl artifacts historian and consultant, about Joel, he didn’t have to tell me much to get his point across. Ryan stated, “He was one of the best at the game and exceptional at checkering. His calls are very desired by contemporary call collectors.”
Joel wasn’t just a consumer of what call making could provide him, but he was a strong producer of giving back to the art of it and the community that shared the same passion. Joel served as President of the Reelfoot Lake Waterfowl and Duck Call Collectors Association which was created in order to bring more revenue, preservation, and awareness to the Reelfoot Lake Region. Joel’s life is celebrated through the continued admiration of his work, and his legacy lives on through the community of call makers and waterfowl artifacts collectors.
Through celebrated collaboration, the duck call featured with this article, a Joel Harris masterpiece, will now be featured in the call collection at Discovery Park of America. That means your ability to see the value of this call is not only digitally available, but it is available for you to see in person in an environment that will enhance and educate you. Go experience a deeper appreciation of the Reelfoot Lake Region at Discovery Park of America, and see beyond.
About the region: The Reelfoot Lake Region of Northwest Tennessee has a narrative like no other, and its’ regional history of waterfowling not only runs deep locally, but it spans wide internationally. This region sits right in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway which is a geographical highway as waterfowl migrate from the prairies of northern Canada, to the flats of the North American south coast. Out of those roots has grown multi-generational family traditions, culture, craftsmanship and industry. Because of this, not only is the region celebrated among the waterfowling community, but the region has cultivated pioneers of waterfowling. Pioneers like Kelley Powers, 3x World Goose Calling Champion, and Final Flight Outfitters Inc, a nationally renowned outdoor retailer located in Union City, have been strong advocates of the region and for the waterfowling community. Final Flight Outffiters Inc. is a strong partner with Discovery Park of America, and is owned by Jon Ed, Tripp, & Kelley Powers who are locals of this region.
Guest Blogger: Seth Dortch is the marketing and media manager for Final Flight Outfitters, Inc. Visit www.sethdortch.com
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10. A Collector of Scales
3. Sleeping Beauty
