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Discover What’s New at Discovery Park of America in 2026

Celebrate history, tradition and memories with family and friends at Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America in Union City, Tennessee, continues to inspire visitors of all ages with hands-on exhibits, incredible artifacts and memorable experiences across its 100,000-square-foot museum and 50-acre heritage park. From natural history and space exploration to art, agriculture and innovation, there’s always something new to discover.
 

Discovery Park of America

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Exciting 2026 Events and Exhibits

Two Native American dancers in colorful regalia perform at an outdoor event, crowd watching in background.

Visitors will find a full year of special events and exhibits in 2026, including: 

• POSH Bridal Show (Feb. 22) 
• Plant Sale (April 25) 
• Military Expo (TBD) 
• Cardboard Boat Regatta (May 9) 
• Antique Tractor Show (June 5–6) 
• Rhythm on the Rails Concert Series (May 22–July 3) 
• Juneteenth Celebration (June 19) 
• USA 250th Birthday Weekend (July 3–4) 
• Native American Culture Celebration (Sept. 19–20) 
• David Crockett Homestead & Heritage Festival (Oct. 23–25) 
• Pumpkin Village (October) 
• Discovery Dash (Dec. 10) 
• Let It Glow Light Show (Nov. 13–Dec. 30)
 

Seasonal pumpkins and autumn decor at a farm stand; pumpkins surround a hay bale display with a scarecrow and flowers.

Special exhibits include “Science Fiction: Science Future” (Summer 2026), a Southern Artist Showcase featuring H. David Wright’s “Tennessee Patriots” (June 30, 2026-Feb. 2027) and more.

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Year-Round Favorites

Beyond special events, guests can enjoy year-round experiences

- Climb Cooper Tower for views stretching to Kentucky. 
- Experience the Earthquake Simulator and Man Slide. 
- Explore dinosaurs, Native American artifacts, vintage automobiles and a flowing man-made river. 
- Watch a 3D film in Discovery Theater or dine at Sabin’s Café.

 

Family with a small child walks hand‑in‑hand along a park path, others sit on benches; a modern building is visible in the background.
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Plan Your Visit

Discovery Park of America is located in Union City, Tennessee, just two hours from Memphis and less than three hours from Nashville. Seasonal hours vary, so check discoveryparkofamerica.com for the most up-to-date schedule, including extended holiday hours and special event weekends. 

On-site dining is available at Sabin’s Café, and guests can enjoy shopping in the Gift Shop. Nearby hotels like The Meadows Hotel, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Sleep Inn and Mainstay Suites make it easy to turn your visit into a weekend getaway.

 

A man with two young children sits on a yellow tractor, with one child steering and the other sitting in the front loader, outdoors.

Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead for special festivals such as Rhythm on the Rails, the David Crockett Homestead & Heritage Festival and Let It Glow. Tickets and memberships can be purchased online for convenience.

Group of men and a boy in 19th-century western costumes with rifles and tents, posing for a historical reenactment.

General admission: $17.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (ages 4–17), and free for children 3 and under. Seniors (65+) and active military enjoy discounted rates. Discovery Park also welcomes school and group visits with special pricing for groups of 15 or more. Advance reservations are encouraged for group tours, field trips and large parties to ensure the best possible experience.

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Membership Opportunities

Family Memberships: 

- Two Adults: $140 
- One Adult & Children: $110 
- Two Adults & Children: $179 
- Additional children/adults may be added ($80/$50) 

Individual Memberships: 
- Adult: $80 
- Child: $50 
- Children 3 & Under: Free 

Charter Memberships: 
- Adult: $50 
- Child: $25 
- Children 3 & Under: Free 

Lifetime Memberships ($1,500 per person): Unlimited access, 10 guest tickets each year, presale access, discounts, name on Discovery Park’s partner wall and $500 goes to the Kirkland Scholarship Fund. 

Gift Memberships are also available. Learn more at discoveryparkofamerica.com.

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