Real Bodies

Discovery Park visitors discovered the wonders of the human body in 2025.
“Real Bodies: The Exhibition,” took visitors on a powerful journey through anatomy, emotion and the human experience.

Dave Dunn Showcase

The Southern Artist Showcase featured an exhibit of
metal sculptures by Dave Dunn. Visitors who looked closely were surprised to see the creatures were created from repurposed materials like scrap metal, bicycle chains and bolts.

Facility Upgrades

Major progress was made in facilities, collections care, and infrastructure, including numerous exhibit updates.

Thanks to a $500,000 gift from the Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Foundation, a major restoration of historic 1913 steam locomotive No. 1149 and passenger cars was completed.

On Saturday evening, March 8, 2025, Discovery Park of America honored four individuals who, like the museum and heritage park, inspire others to see beyond.

In her acceptance speech, Betty Ann Tanner remarked, “Discovery Park stands as a testament to the power of vision and community. Robert Kirkland’s dream became a reality here in Obion County, thanks to the dedication of local volunteers who embody the spirit of the ‘Volunteer State.'”

The event was attended by a sold-out crowd from around the country who joined Discovery Park in celebrating the honorees:

• Lt. Col. Bernard House, director of ROTC battalions at Murray State University and the University of Tennessee at Martin
• Dr. Nassar Nassar, founder and CEO of Savant Learning Systems and Virtual Academy
• Betty Ann Tanner, community organizer and non-profit advocate
• Darryl Worley, platinum-selling, award-winning country music singer-songwriter

The inaugural David Crockett Homestead and Heritage Festival featured historical demonstrations, crafts and bluegrass music celebrating the lives of Crockett and other early settlers, while a new fundraiser for the Kirkland Scholarship Fund featured dueling pianos.Returning events in 2025 included Singer-Songwriter Night with Phillip Coleman, the Rhythm on the Rails spring concert series, Discovery Park’s Military Expo, The Native American Educational Event, Pumpkin Village, Pediatric Day, the Discovery Dash and Juneteenth.

The expanded Let it Glow Drive-thru and Walk-thru was our biggest yet as families from around the region celebrated throughout the entire holiday season with us.

And the best news? These popular annual events and other new ones will be taking place in 2026. For a complete list, visit our calendar of events.

Hands-on, meaningful learning remained at the heart of Discovery Park’s 2025 programming for both children and adults.

Throughout the year, the park’s calendar reflected a strong commitment to educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Homeschool Days, school group classes and Saturday programming continued to play a vital role, offering structured opportunities for students to engage with science, history and conservation in immersive ways.

These theme-based programs brought subjects to life through exploration and discovery, helping reinforce classroom learning while sparking curiosity in new and memorable ways.

Family Programming

Family learning was also a key focus. Events like the Discovery Park STEAM Festival, Ag Day and summer camps invited children and adults to explore science, technology, engineering, art and math together through creative, hands-on activities.

By designing experiences that encourage participation across generations, Discovery Park created shared moments of discovery that deepen understanding and connection.

Together, these programs reflect Discovery Park’s mission to inspire lifelong learning and create experiences that stay with visitors long after they leave.

The work of Discovery Park’s volunteers in 2025 was a vital part of our mission to educate, engage and inspire the community this year.

Our volunteers brought passion, creativity and expertise to every corner of the museum and park, supporting a wide range of programs and experiences that enriched the visitor experience. Whether working behind the scenes or interacting directly with guests, our volunteers helped make Discovery Park a welcoming place where curiosity thrived.

Engaged and Invested Members

Membership at Discovery Park of America went well beyond unlimited admission.

Our members were among our most engaged supporters, receiving regular updates, discounts in the Gift Shop and Sabin’s Café and early access to select programs and experiences. Their support played an important role in strengthening the Park and advancing our mission.

As a member, I’ve watched my children’s curiosity grow each time we explore something new. From the exhibits to the outdoor spaces, Discovery Park challenges us to learn and to wonder.

– Discovery Park member

Expanding Access Beyond the Park

Members also benefited from valuable reciprocal programs that extended their membership beyond Discovery Park. Through the ASTC Travel Passport Program, they enjoyed free general admission to hundreds of science centers and museums nationwide. The Southeastern Reciprocal Membership program provided additional access and benefits at participating museums across the Southeast, adding significant value for members who traveled.

The value of this place goes beyond membership — it’s a reminder of the wonder of discovery, the importance of preserving our past, and the joy of exploring together.

– Discovery Park member

Exclusive Experiences and Year-Round Value

In 2025, members received several exclusive experiences tied to our calendar of events. They were invited to a free sneak peek of the Real Bodies exhibition, attended the Let It Glow kickoff night at no cost and were welcomed to our inaugural members-only plant sale. These opportunities reinforced that membership at Discovery Park was about belonging, access and experiencing the Park in special ways throughout the year.

Become a member

This year, we will advance partnerships and fundraising for the Energy Gallery, a major new exhibit scheduled to open in 2027, while continuing critical work on infrastructure including repairs to The Tower, bridges, boilers and other areas throughout the museum and park.

Families will once again benefit from the return of Children Free in January, and we will begin implementation of a grant from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Forestry Division that will support new educational and environmental initiatives.

Discovery Park of America will also continue our exciting roster of events that our patrons have come to know and love.

Returning events will include:

• Southern Artists Showcase – Feb 1st – Jun 21st
• Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Discovery Awards – Saturday, March 21, 2026
• Military Expo – Apr 17th – Apr 18th
• Plant Sale – April 24th – 25th
• Singer/Songwriter Night – May 7th
• Cardboard Boat Regatta – May 9th
• Rhythm on the Rails – Fridays, May 22 – July 3rd
• Antique Tractor Show – June 5th – 6th
• Juneteenth – June 20th
• Celebration of Native American Culture – Sep 18th – Sep 19th
• Dueling Pianos – Sep 24th
• “Tennessee Kruzin’ Nationals” Car Show – Sep 25th – 26th
• Pumpkin Village – Oct 1st – 31st
• Discovery Dash 5K/10K/1-Mile Fun Run – Oct 10th
• David Crockett Homestead and Bluegrass Festival – Oct 23rd – 24th
• Let It Glow – Nov 13th – Dec 30th

View the Events Calendar

Each painting in Brushstrokes of a Young Nation celebrates a chapter of our Nation’s collective heritage. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Discovery Park of America’s mission and to connect with visitors who find meaning and pride in these stories.

– David Wright