Frequently Asked Questions

Memberships

Where can I become a member?

You can join or purchase a gift membership online.

What special benefits do I receive for becoming a Discovery Park member?

Discovery Park of America Member benefits are:

  • General Admission into the park FREE with an annual membership pass
  • 10% off any purchase in the Gift Shop
  • 10% off any food purchase in Sabin’s Cafe
  • Member emails about all the upcoming events and activities at Discovery Park each Wednesday
  • Discounts on select ticketed classes and events at Discovery Park

May I share my season passes with someone else?

No, each membership is meant to be exclusive to the person for whom it was purchased.

Will I receive the same benefits at reciprocal museums as I do at Discovery Park?

Discovery Park is a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Travel Passport Program and the Southeastern Reciprocal Membership Program (SERM) of the Southeastern Museums C0nference.

What if I lose my season pass?

Just let us know at the ticket counter, and we will print you a new ID card.

Do Members pay for Special Attractions?

Members receive unlimited access to the Tower Observation Deck. Tickets to the Earthquake Simulator, Starship Theatre films and some temporary exhibits must be purchased.

How often may I visit as a Member?

As many times as you would like!

What special shopping benefits do I receive for becoming a member?

You will receive a 10% discount in the gift Shops and restaurants.

How do I renew my membership?

You can renew your membership online here, by calling us at 731-885-5455 or stop by the ticket counter the next time you visit.

I am a CHARTER MEMBER. How do I renew?

If you wish to retain your Charter Membership price of $50 (Ages 13 up) and $25 (ages 4-12), please call 731-885-5455 before it expires to renew. Otherwise, renew online at the current rate.

Admissions

Do you offer any discounts?

Discovery Park of America offers a discount to AARP member, AAA members, educators, college students and anyone with a Military ID (these discounts are for the cardholder only.) You can also receive 15% off all tickets if you purchase them online in advance.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Cash, Master Card, Visa, American Express and Discover.

Where can I purchase a ticket?

Tickets may be purchased online or at the ticket counter when you arrive.

What if I have trouble using your online ticketing?

If you have a problem with purchasing online, please call Discovery Park at 731-885-5455 or email info@discoveryparkofamerica.com.

How do I reprint my tickets?

When you get your online ticket, you can save it to your computer. Should you fail to do so, we will have a record of your purchase by name at the park.

What if I couldn’t print or have lost my ticket?

We will have a record of your purchase, by name, so come to the ticket counter when you arrive.

Plan your Visit

How do I get to Discovery Park?

We are located at 830 Everett Blvd., Union City, Tenn.

Where can I get information on the area and where to stay while visiting the Discovery Park?

Discovery Park has three hotels right next door. You can find out more about those here. That page also includes a link to some additional hotels in the area. You can find a blog post about fun restaurants to try here. Information about Everett-Stewart Regional Airport can be found here, or you can call 731-885-1221.

What are your hours?

September – December 2024
Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Tuesday- Saturday
Open 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday
Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Open on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, 2023

January and February 2025
Closed Mondays and New Year’s Day
Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Tuesday – Saturday
Open 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday
Open on MLK Day, Monday, Jan. 20, 2025 and Presidents Day, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025

March – August 2025
Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Monday – Saturday
Open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday
Closed on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025

Do you sell food and drink onsite?

Yes, we have Sabin’s Cafe at Discovery Park of America. We also have an outdoor eatery that is open during seasonal hours called Eats & Treats that serves quick lunches, ice cream and slushies!

My child has food allergies. Are there allergy-free options for us in Sabin’s Cafe?

Yes, and you may discuss your child’s food allergy needs in advance by calling Sabin’s Cafe at Discovery Park at 731-885-5455.

Can I bring my own food and/or beverage to Discovery Park of America?

No outside food or beverages are allowed at Discovery Park of America.

What activities are available for a young child? 

We offer many activities to entertain your little one including the Simmon’s Bank Exploration Gallery, Children’s Discovery Garden and the Energy Gallery.

Do you allow backpacks?

Yes. All backpacks, purses and bags are subject to search when you arrive.

Do you have strollers and wheelchairs for rent?

We have a limited number of strollers and wheelchairs available to our guests at no charge.

Is the Park accessible to guests with disabilities?

We are 95%+ ADA accessible.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, but we do ask that you do not use a flash when taking pictures of the artifacts.

Are pets allowed at Discovery Park of America? 

We do not allow pets inside Discovery Center or our Heritage Park. You are allowed to come and go on the day of your visit.  A limited number of pet-friendly rooms and suites are available at the Sleep Inn right next door to Discovery Park. You can easily book your dog a comfortable room at the hotel while you enjoy Discovery Park.

Do you have an area for nursing mothers?

We allow nursing mothers to use our Nurses Station to nurse. Simply ask for the location at the ticket counter.

Is there something to do for children who don’t know how to walk yet?

We have a toddler play area and 1 ½ miles of sidewalk for strollers

What do I do if I lost something at the museum?

Please call us at 731-885-5455 and let us know. We will do our best to find it for you.

How long will it take me to go through Discovery Park of America?

People have told us that they cannot see everything in one day! We have a general admission ticket, a VIP pass and an Explorer Plus Package. Learn more about the tickets and hours on our ticketing page.

Is RV parking available?  How far is the nearest RV Park/Campground?

We do have available parking for RVs during business hours, however, we do not offer any overnight parking. There are a couple of options near our facility that offer overnight parking.

Group Sales:

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes. please visit the Group Admission section of our website. We require 15 or more people for group rates. Educators, see below.

How do I purchase group tickets?

You must purchase group tickets two weeks in advance of your visit by calling 731-885-5455 and asking for the reservations department. Group tickets are never sold on the date of your visit and may not be purchased online.

Will I receive confirmation of my group order?

Yes, you will receive an email copy of your receipt.

How does our group check-in?

There are several options, depending on your group and the method of arrival. When you call to book your group, you will be given complete check-in instructions.

Where can our bus park?

We have ample bus parking and your driver will receive directions upon arrival.

Special Events:

Can I hold my event at The Discovery Park of America?

Yes. please visit the Venue Rentals section of our website.

What is your pricing structure?

Please visit the Venue Rentals section of our website.

Do you have specific service providers and vendors for my event?

We will provide you with a list of approved caterers and vendors. Please call 731-885-5455 and ask for the events department for details.

Can my event be the only one on at Discovery Park?

That is determined on a case-by-case basis based on the event size and other requirements.

Can I bring my own entertainment to my event?

Yes, you may book your own band or DJ. The entertainment that you plan to provide must be prior approved by the Discovery Park Events Director.

Do you offer group discounts for package events?

Yes. Please call 731-885-5455 and ask for the events department.

School Field Trips:

Where can I find tips for planning a field trip for my class?

Please visit the student group visits page of our website for complete details.

How much is it for a field trip?

Please visit the student group visits page of our website for details about field trip pricing, policies, and procedures.

Where can I find other teacher resources?

Check out our Teacher Resources page!

What are your resources for visits from home school families?

We offer homeschool programs once a month beginning in September and ending in April. Check out our Homeschool page for more details.

Involvement

Where can I find tips for planning a field trip for my class?

Please visit the student group visits section of our website for complete details.

How much is it for a field trip?

Please visit the student group visits section of our website for details about field trip pricing, policies, and procedures.

Where can I find other teacher resources?

Check out our Teacher Resources page!

From here, you can find information about purchasing tickets and saving 15%, hours and directions, group admission, our education resources, hotel accommodations, and visiting Northwest Tennessee.  Curious about what you’ll find at Discovery Park? You’ll find photos and more information about our museum and heritage park here.

Explore more when you purchase the Discovery Park of America Guidebook on Amazon.