Discovery Park of America, currently under construction in Union City, TN, will soon offer visitors a world-class educational experience that many expect to find only in large metropolitan areas. The 50-acre complex will focus on nature, science, technology, history, and art.
Mission
Discovery Park’s mission is education: To enhance children’s and adults’ educational experiences and to inspire them to reach their full potential. Discovery Park’s exhibits and programs will compel visitors of all ages to “see beyond” their current level of knowledge in many areas.
The Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Foundation is Discovery Park’s principal benefactor. The Kirklands are long-time supporters of educational pursuits in the area, and they share in the vision and mission of Discovery Park. Their foundation has donated or committed approximately $60 million to the creation of Discovery Park as well as an additional $2-3 million per year after opening for operational support and expansion.
Cooperation and Involvement
Discovery Park of America is a cooperative endeavor with the citizens of Union City, as well as Obion and surrounding counties. Hundreds of dedicated volunteers are planning each area of the venue. Local and state government has also taken an active role in the Park’s development. The state of Tennessee is considering the construction of a Welcome/Tourism Center on the property when I-69 is built adjacent to the west side of the property.
Discovery Center
The centerpiece of Discovery Park will be Discovery Center, a 100,000-square-foot building that will showcase nine exhibit galleries: Alternative Energy, Children’s Exploration, Enlightenment, Military, Native Americans, Natural History, Regional History, Science/Space/Technology, and Transportation.
The new building will be a compelling landmark featuring white curving forms, expansive glass areas, and a tower that soars 200 feet into the sky. The tower and outdoor observation area will provide a spectacular view of the Discovery Park site and surrounding area.
Discovery Center’s multi-story atriums will be filled with exhibits that invite visitors to open their minds to a greater understanding and appreciation of the world in which we live. Highlights include:
- A simulation of the 1811-12 earthquakes that shaped the land in this region.
- A planetary tour in Discovery Center’s starship theater.
- A 20,000-gallon aquarium revealing the underwater life of Reelfoot Lake.
- A 60-foot replica of a human body with a 30-foot slide.
- Dinosaurs, fossils, Native American artifacts, military equipment, vintage automobiles, and dozens more hands-on experiences for children.
Discovery Center will also include a Grand Hall with space for meetings and social events for groups of approximately 250 people, as well as a Tower Room that will accommodate about 50 people.
Verner Johnson and Associates, a firm specializing in museum architecture and planning, designed Discovery Center
Verner Johnson has designed more than 200 museums and will oversee the implementation of the site master plan. The firm, in partnership with Thinc Design, is also responsible for exhibit design and fabrication.
Outside at Discovery Park
Discovery Park’s 50-acre site will offer visitors memorable outdoor experiences. Highlights include:
- A water feature that bisects the site, flowing north to south. Originating at the circa-1800s gristmill, the water feature includes waterfalls and bridges along with gardens and extensive landscaping.
- Historical log structures and items associated with life from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s.
- A large Farm Equipment Showcase building that demonstrates how farming equipment has changed through the years.
- An amphitheater and great lawn area ideal for outdoor events.
- Several spectacular themed gardens offering visitors an opportunity to connect with nature and raise their awareness and appreciation for families of plants and flowers.
Ritchie Smith Associates of Memphis developed the site design and is responsible for overseeing construction and completion.
Schedule
Discovery Park is scheduled to open in early 2013.