UNION CITY, Tenn. (Jun. 10, 2026) — Discovery Park of America has been selected as an official stop on the Great American Road Trip, a nationwide initiative encouraging Americans to explore destinations across the country as part of the celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday. 

The initiative, launched in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation and The Great American Road Trip, highlights more than 250 destinations across the United States, including museums, historic landmarks, cultural attractions and uniquely American experiences. Discovery Park is featured among the official destinations representing Tennessee. More information about the initiative is available at greatamericanroadtrip.org. 

In announcing the initiative, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the role travel plays in helping Americans better understand the nation. 

“Taking a road trip in America isn’t just a vacation, it’s a civic experience,” Duffy said. “It’s one of the most powerful ways to understand the vast, beautiful, complicated place we call home.” 

Learn more about the Great American Road Trip at greatamericanroadtrip.org. 

Located in Union City, Tennessee, Discovery Park of America welcomes guests from across the country to explore American history, innovation, science, agriculture, transportation and the military through exhibits, educational programs and special events. 

“Being selected as an official stop on the Great American Road Trip is an honor for Discovery Park and for West Tennessee,” said Scott Williams, president and CEO of Discovery Park of America. “Every day, we welcome guests from across the nation who come to learn more about our country’s history, culture and achievements. As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, we are proud to be part of an initiative that encourages families to explore and experience the stories that have shaped our nation.” 

The recognition places Discovery Park among a select group of destinations chosen to help tell America’s story through history, culture, innovation and exploration. 

According to The Great American Road Trip, the initiative is designed to inspire travel to destinations that help tell the story of America while encouraging tourism in communities across the country. The program is part of broader efforts leading up to the United States Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026. 

The recognition comes as Discovery Park continues its yearlong participation in America 250, a national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Upcoming programming includes the museum and heritage park’s “Celebrating 250 Years of Independence” event on July 3-4. The celebration begins July 3 with a free concert featuring Mo Pitney that will conclude Discovery Park’s Rhythm on the Rails summer concert series. 

The Independence Day weekend celebration will also mark the opening of “Southern Artist Showcase: Brushstrokes of a Young Nation: The Art of David Wright,” a special exhibition on display June 30, 2026, through Feb. 1, 2027. The exhibition features original paintings and prints by renowned historical artist David Wright, including work created in collaboration with the Tennessee Daughters of the American Revolution highlighting more than 370 men, women and children who supported the American Revolution and later became some of Tennessee’s earliest settlers. 

Additional programming throughout the two-day event will highlight Tennessee’s role in the nation’s history through exhibits, educational activities and special presentations. The exhibition serves as a centerpiece of Discovery Park’s America 250 programming, inviting guests to reflect on the people and events that helped shape both Tennessee and the nation. 

Since opening in 2013, Discovery Park has welcomed more than 2.25 million guests and has become one of Tennessee’s leading tourism destinations. The museum and heritage park includes a 100,000-square-foot museum and 50-acre heritage park featuring exhibits focused on American history, transportation, military history, agriculture, science and innovation. 

For more information about Discovery Park’s 250 programming and upcoming events, visit discoveryparkofamerica.com/america250. 

 

Photo Caption: Discovery Park of America has been selected as an official stop on the Great American Road Trip, a nationwide initiative highlighting destinations that help tell America’s story as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. The museum’s full-scale replica of the Liberty Bell is located in Liberty Hall in Freedom Square.

Download High-Resolution Photo