Northwest TN Tourism

Xtreme Bingo at Paris Station
2026-04-24 17:15 - 18:45 (America/Chicago) | Paris Station Station TN’s Home 304 West Washington Street Paris TN 37075 United States

Early Access Plant Sale | Members Only
2026-04-24 17:00 - 20:00
Members Shop First
Discovery Park of America members are invited to enjoy an exclusive first look at this year’s plant sale during a special preview evening on Friday, April 24, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Farm Credit Mid-America Greenhouses.
Spend the evening shopping for your favorite annuals, perennials, herbs and specialty plants before the public sale begins. Enjoy live musical entertainment while you browse, and purchase cocktails as you explore the greenhouses and plan your spring garden.
This relaxed, after-hours event gives members the first opportunity to select from the widest variety of plants in a festive, garden-party atmosphere.
Not a member? Join today to enjoy early access, special events and more!
Stay up-to-date on everything happening at Discovery Park by subscribing to our DiscoverMORE e-newsletter and following us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

Angelonia Serena (Purple, White, Raspberry)

Begonia Big Red Green Leaf

Impatiens Solarscape (Magenta, White, Pink)

New Guinea Impatiens

Petunia Easy Wave (Pink, Silver, Violet, White, Yellow)

Petunia Tidal Wave Red Velour

Petunia Opera Supreme Raspberry

Petunia Daddy Mix

Salvia (Hotline Improved Red, Vista Purple)

Verbena Obsession (Blue w/Eye, Red w/Eye)

Vinca Pacifica XP (Really Red, White, Deep Orchid)

Zinnia Profusion (Double Hot Cherry, Double Yellow)

Zinnia Magellan Mix

Zinnia Zahara Yellow Flame

Zinnia Queeny Lime Orange

Zinnia Crouching Tiger

Gazania (Frosty Kiss Mix, Zany Sunny-Side Up)

Dianthus Super Parfait Strawberry

Gaura Sparkle White

Sunflower Summer Lovin’

Inca II Gold

White Swan

Janie Deep Orange

Janie Yellow Detailed

Flamenco DTL

Durango Outback Mix

Premium Sun Pineapple

Premium Sun Coral Candy

Premium Sun Chocolate

Premium Sun Sweet Apricot

Ornamental Millet Purple Majesty

Lavender Ellagance Purple

Dahlia Bishop’s Children

Dichondra Silver Falls

Cineraria Silverdust

Geranium Maverick Mix (Hybrid)

Nicotiana Saratoga Mix

Moon Vine

Pentas Beehive Lipstick

Pentas Graffiti Mix

Pentas Lucky Star (Dark Red, White)

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Earth Explorer Days
2026-04-24 11:00 - 2026-04-25 14:00
Become an Earth Explorer
Friday and Saturday, April 24–25, 202611 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Discovery Park of America
Become an Earth Explorer at Discovery Park of America and take a journey through time to discover how our planet’s climate has changed and how we can protect its future.
Through hands-on lessons and interactive discussions, guests will explore how everyday decisions shape the environment around us. From the historic uses of plants for medicine and dyes to the modern science of renewable energy and urban forestry, this program highlights practical ways to live more sustainably.
You will discover:

How renewable energy supports modern life and protects natural resources

How plants have been used historically for food, dyes and medicine

How greenhouses support agriculture and conservation

Practical ways to reduce your environmental footprint

Energy Gallery Feedback Table — Open All Day Friday and SaturdayVisit the table anytime during the event to share your ideas and suggestions for the renovation of Discovery Park’s third-floor Energy Gallery. Your feedback will help shape the future of this exhibit. Read more about the renovation here.
Schedule
Friday Schedule
11:00 a.m. | GreenhouseEarth’s Natural Blanket: Greenhouse EffectExplore the fascinating science of the greenhouse effect. Using hands-on models and digital thermometers, this program demonstrates how transparent materials trap heat to create a perfect growing environment. Guests will see how this concept supports modern agriculture and how Earth’s atmosphere protects the planet.
12:00 p.m. | Tennessee RoomRenewables 101 LessonFrom wind power to bioenergy, discover how renewable energy integrates into daily life. This session explores how sustainable energy supports both modern conveniences and the ecosystems we depend on.
12:30-2:00 p.m. | Heritage GardenHeritage Garden Chat with MikeJoin historical interpreter Mike Ramsey for a walk through the Heritage Garden. Learn how everyday plants can be used for natural dyes, food and traditional herbal practices.
1:30 p.m. | Tennessee RoomPlastics in Our Environment LessonExplore the relationship between plastic waste and the natural world. This program offers practical ways to reduce your environmental impact.
Saturday Schedule
11:00 a.m. | ATA RoomRenewables 101 LessonLearn how renewable energy sources like wind and bioenergy are shaping a more sustainable future while supporting everyday life.
12:30 p.m. | GreenhouseEarth’s Natural Blanket: Greenhouse EffectExplore how heat is trapped to support plant growth and regulate Earth’s climate through interactive demonstrations and real-world applications.
1:00 p.m. | Dino Hall TourThe Climate TimelineExplore the intersection of paleontology and climatology through Dino Hall and the Natural History Gallery. This program examines how Earth’s climate has changed over time and humanity’s role in shaping its future.
1:30 p.m. | ATA RoomSmart Urban Forestry LessonDiscover innovative approaches to sustainability, from agrivoltaics to urban tree canopies, and how these strategies help manage heat and protect natural resources.
This program is included with general admission or a Discovery Park membership.
Interested in booking your school group? Learn more here.

OPEN 4pm-9pm at Paris Station
2026-04-24

Trivia with BrainBlast! At Paris Station
2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-04-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Paris Station Station TN’s Home 304 West Washington Street Paris TN 37075 United States

OPEN 4pm-9pm
2026-04-23

Fish Fry
2026-04-22 - 2026-04-25

NO LUNCH / CLOSED
2026-04-22

Get Fit at Paris Station
2026-04-20 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-04-13 18:00 - 19:00

Brunch 11am-2pm at Paris Station
2026-04-19 11:00 - 14:00

Brunch
2026-04-19 11:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-12 11:00 - 14:00

The Trace - LIVE at Paris Station
2026-04-18 | Paris Station, 304 W Washington St, Paris, TN, United States
7pm-10pm
$10 cover / no children after 8pm

Singo
2026-04-17 19:00 - 20:30

Astronomy Night – Blast Off! Physics of Space Travel and the New Moon
2026-04-17 18:00 - 20:00
Friday, April 17, 2026
6 to 8 p.m.
Location: Discovery Theater and Great Lawn
Prepare for an out-of-this-world experience at Astronomy Night – Blast Off! Physics of Space Travel and the New Moon. This exciting evening program invites guests of all ages to explore the science behind space travel while celebrating the wonders of the night sky in anticipation of the upcoming Artemis II launch.
Guests will witness an explosive liquid nitrogen rocket demonstration and then design, build and launch their own water-powered rockets. Inside the Discovery Theater, attendees can enjoy an engaging program focused on the phases of the Moon and the history of lunar exploration. The evening will also feature presentations from Dr. Lionel Crews and Dr. Jason Alexander of the University of Tennessee at Martin’s astronomy and physics departments, offering expert insight into the science of space. In the event of rain, rocket activities will move indoors, where participants will build rockets to take home and launch later.
Program Times:
New Moon in the Discovery Theater
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
Physics of Rockets in the Great Lawn
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
You will discover:

The physics principles behind space travel and rocket launches

How to design and build a water-powered rocket

The phases of the Moon and the history of lunar exploration

Insights from university astronomy and physics experts

This event is part of Passport to the Universe, Discovery Park’s ongoing astronomy series. This is the fourth class of the year, and guests who attend five or more classes in 2026 will receive a commemorative patch. Participants are encouraged to bring their passports if they already have one.
Passport to the Universe is a free program and open to all.

Extreme Bingo at Paris Station
2026-04-17 17:15 - 18:45

Extreme Bingo
2026-04-17 17:15 - 18:45

Garden Club Lunch at Paris Station
2026-04-17 11:30 - 12:30

2026 Military Expo
2026-04-17 - 2026-04-18
Dive Into America’s Military Past and Present
All active military personnel and veterans and their guests will receive free admission to Discovery Park on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18.
The 2026 Military Expo, sponsored by Dixie Gun Worksand Union City Coca-Cola and supported by Thompson CAT Machinery, is free with park admission or membership. Buy tickets online using this link to receive 10% off.
Purchase Tickets Join us for Discovery Park of America’s annual Military Expo, a two-day event that honors those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The weekend highlights military history and innovation with hands-on experiences, reenactors and interactive exhibits throughout the park. New this year is a live performance of A Revolution of Her Own, an acclaimed living history program about Deborah Sampson, the first woman to professionally fight in the American military.
Guests will have the chance to explore historic and modern military equipment, hear personal stories from veterans and engage with organizations that support today’s service members and their families.
Friday, April 17 will be planned with students in mind and will provide both military and history-related content perfect for school groups. For student group information, email our education department at education@discoveryparkofamerica.com or call 731-885-5455. Guests will experience:

Reenactors sharing stories from military history
Military vehicles and equipment on display
Experts on a variety of topics relevant to the past, present and future of the military
Gallery talks with Discovery Park educators
A live theatrical performance that brings a story from the Revolutionary War to life

A Revolution of Her Own!™
Deborah Sampson
from History At Play™, LLC

Experience the remarkable true story of Deborah Sampson in A Revolution of Her Own!™ Deborah Sampson, an acclaimed one-woman performance by History At Play™, LLC. Discover how Deborah disguised herself as a man to join the Continental Army and became the first woman to fight in and be honorably discharged from the American military. The show has been featured in major national media outlets and offers an engaging mix of history, theater and audience interaction.
Deborah Sampson’s story continues to inspire audiences of all ages. Through detailed research, authentic costuming and engaging storytelling, History At Play™, LLC brings her courage and determination into focus. The performance highlights Deborah’s early life, her enlistment under the name Robert Shurtlieff and her service in the Continental Army during the final years of the Revolution. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges she faced and the legacy she left behind.
Watch this demo clip for a sneak peek of the performance.

Full Schedule of events on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | The SettlementLiving historian reenactors will continue demonstrations and historical interpretation throughout the day.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | The Settlement Healing Flames Forge will host blacksmith demonstrations and share their mission of supporting veterans through hands-on forging experiences.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Dino HallMilitary vendors and partner organizations will be on site to meet with guests and school groups and share information about military history, service opportunities and support programs.
11 a.m. | Freedom SquarePlanting of the Liberty Tree with the Sons of the American Revolution.
Members of the Sons of the American Revolution, dressed in colonial attire, will lead a ceremonial Liberty Tree planting and posting of the colors in recognition of the nation’s founding ideals.
11:30 a.m. | Military GalleryGallery talk with David Heathcott.
David Heathcott will share stories and insights from the museum’s military collection and the role of innovation and service in American history.
Noon | Military GalleryA Revolution of Her Own: The Deborah Sampson Story
Performed by History at Play, this living history program tells the story of Deborah Sampson, the first woman to professionally fight in the American military during the Revolutionary War.
1:30 p.m. | Tennessee RoomThe Story of the Star-Spangled Banner with Michael Larkin.
Learn the history behind the national anthem and the events that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | The SettlementLiving historian reenactors will continue demonstrations and historical interpretation throughout the day.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | The Settlement Healing Flames Forge will host blacksmith demonstrations and share their mission of supporting veterans through hands-on forging experiences.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Dino HallMilitary vendors and partner organizations will be available to meet guests and provide information about military service, veteran programs and educational opportunities.
11 a.m. | Military GalleryGallery talk with David Heathcott.
A second opportunity to hear insights about artifacts and stories from Discovery Park’s military collection.
11:30 a.m. | The Lake at Mill RidgeRifle Firing Demonstration by Living Historians
Experience the power and precision of historic firearms during live rifle firing demonstrations presented by skilled living historians. Using period-accurate weapons and techniques, interpreters will demonstrate how soldiers loaded and fired their rifles, explain the role of these firearms in military history, and share insight into the training, timing and coordination required on the battlefield.
Noon | The SmithyHealing Flames Forge presentation.
Representatives from Healing Flames Forge will discuss their organization’s work supporting veterans and demonstrate traditional forging techniques.
1 p.m. | Tennessee RoomAmerican storytelling program presented by Discovery Park’s education department.
Guests will hear stories that highlight the experiences of service members and the role of military service in shaping American history.
2 p.m. | Military GalleryPerformance by Mike Holden Jazz Orchestra
This program will explore the role of music in military history and feature a live jazz performance highlighting the sounds of the wartime era.

Featured Guests

Judith Kalaora
Ms. Veteran America Semi-Finalist
Sons of the American Revolution

Reenactors / Living Historians

J.C. Stahlman’s Living Historian Group
Civil War Living Historians
WWII Living Historians

Demonstrators / Presenters

Mike Holden Jazz Orchestra
Healing Flames Forge

Vendors and Organizations

U.S. Coast Guard
Reelfoot Chapter DAR
Camp Rendezvous Veteran Housing and Work Center
Civil Air Patrol, Union City Cadet Squadron
Humana
U.S. Marine Corps
U.S. Army
U.S. Air Force and Space Force

Reenactment Groups
Want to be part of this event? Whether you’re interested in becoming a vendor or participating as a living historian, reenactor or demonstrator we’d love to have you! Click the button below to sign up. Register Check out this video from a previous Military Expo at Discovery Park of America. https://youtu.be/JbufQ3I15PM?si=w1FWg4mQA_JCQnPG Stay up-to-date on everything happening at Discovery Park by subscribing to our DiscoverMORE e-newsletter and following us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

Photos from last year’s Military Expo:

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Back Road Truckers at Paris Station
2026-04-17

Trivia with BrainBlast!
2026-04-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Paris Station Station TN’s Home 304 West Washington Street Paris TN 37075 United States

Trivia with BrainBlast!
2026-04-16 18:30 - 20:00

Homeschool Day on Tuesday, April 14
2026-04-14
Discovery Park of America invites homeschool families to continue the 2026 Homeschool Day season with another hands-on learning experience designed specifically for students. Homeschool Days offer two convenient session options, giving families flexibility when planning their day.
April Theme:
Da Vinci Day
Celebrate the genius of Leonardo da Vinci during a day that blends art, inventions and mathematics. Students will explore the mind of one of history’s greatest innovators through creative and problem-solving activities inspired by da Vinci’s work. From artistic expression to engineering ideas and mathematical thinking, this Homeschool Day highlights the curiosity and creativity that defined the Renaissance.
Da Vinci Art
Discover the secrets of Da Vinci! Students will explore the legendary artist’s techniques and bring history to life by crafting their own unique masterpieces in his signature style.
Da Vinci Inventions
From legendary flying machines to self-supporting bridges, students will explore the engineering marvels of Leonardo da Vinci. Inspired by his genius, they’ll collaborate to design and build their own innovative inventions.
Da Vinci Math
Discover how Leonardo da Vinci bridged the gap between art and equations. Explore how he used mathematical precision, from geometric spirals to perfect proportions, to create his masterpieces. Then, put your own skills to the test to see if you have the ‘math whiz’ instincts of a Renaissance genius.
Session Options
Choose one session when registering:
Morning Session: 9 a.m. to noon
Please arrive no later than 8:45 a.m.
Afternoon Session: 1-4 p.m.
Please arrive no later than 12:45 p.m.
Age Groups
Students will be grouped by age to create a more engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experience:
Ages 6–8
Ages 9–11
Ages 12–17
Purchase Tickets:

9 a.m. to noon:
Ages 6-8 (SOLD OUT)Ages 9-11Ages 12-17
1-4 p.m.:
Ages 6-8Ages 9-11
Pricing:
Members
Student Early Bird Fee: $7*
Student Regular Fee: $17
Non-members
Student Early Bird Fee: $17*
Student Regular Fee: $27
**Early bird registration closes the day before Homeschool Day.
Parent/Guardian Admission: $12
Not a member? Become one today to enjoy discounts on Homeschool Days and other member perks.

Gardeners & Foraging Meet Up
2026-04-11 11:00 - 13:00

Brain Awareness Day
2026-04-11 10:00 - 15:00
Brain Awareness Day
April 11, 2026 at 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Tennessee Room
Andrew Morency and the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Tennessee at Martin, in partnership with the education team at Discovery Park of America, will host Brain Awareness Day featuring five interactive stations throughout the museum. Guests of all ages are invited to explore how the brain and nervous system function through hands-on activities and live demonstrations. This engaging program provides an accessible introduction to neuroscience, showing how the brain processes information, controls movement and responds to stimuli.

You will discover:

How the brain processes information

The science behind movement and coordination

How the nervous system responds to stimuli

Interactive neuroscience demonstrations

Hands-on activities designed for all ages

About Andrew Morency
Andrew Morency is a lecturer in the Department of Biological Science at UT-Martin, where he teaches anatomy and physiology and coordinates laboratory courses. He is deeply involved in student mentoring, recruitment and community outreach, with a focus on making science engaging and accessible to learners of all ages. Andrew coordinates the Brain Awareness Day programming and works with student volunteers to transform complex neuroscience concepts into hands-on, interactive experiences for the public. His teaching emphasizes curiosity, critical thinking and real-world connections to biology.

This event is free with Discovery Park admission or membership.

Agriculture Showcase
2026-04-11 10:00 - 15:00
Agriculture Showcase
Saturday, April 11, 202610 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Farm Credit Mid-America Educational Pavilion and Greenhouses
Discovery Park of America will host an Agriculture Showcase designed for FFA members, agricultural students and anyone interested in learning more about careers in agriculture.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore agricultural vendors, participate in greenhouse learning sessions and compete in a poultry judging contest while discovering the science and innovation behind modern agriculture.
You will discover:

Agricultural vendors and organizations on site from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. including:

Nutrien Ag Solutions

Tennessee Forestry Association

Tennessee Department of Agriculture

UT West Tennessee Research and Education Center

Farm Credit Mid-America

UT Martin Agronomy Club

Obion County Farm Bureau

A poultry judging contest outside the Ag Building with three one-hour sessions at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Greenhouse learning sessions including “From Farm to Planet” and “All About Plants: From Roots to Leaves”

Career opportunities and educational pathways in agriculture

Discovery Park is inviting FFA and other agricultural groups to participate in a practice poultry judging contest where students will evaluate eggs and live birds utilizing production standards. Represent your chapter in a fun yet competitive environment.
Discovery Park will also host Brain Awareness Day on April 11 in partnership with Dr. Andrew Morency from the University of Tennessee at Martin.
Interested in booking your school group? Learn more here.
This event is free with Discovery Park admission or membership.

Heritage Series: Youth Woodworking Workshop (Ages: 11-13)
2026-04-11 09:00 - 13:00
Heritage Series: Youth Woodworking Workshop (Ages: 11-13)
Ages: 11–13
Saturday, April 11, 20269 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Wade Cabin
Introduce your child to traditional woodworking through Discovery Park of America’s Heritage Series. Led by master folk artist TJ Southard of Fresh Sawdust, this hands-on class teaches practical skills, creativity and confidence using basic hand tools in a safe and supportive environment.
Students will learn foundational woodworking skills such as measuring, cutting, smoothing and joining wood, along with proper tool safety and the use of hand tools like hammers, hand saws and hand planes. Each student will complete a quality project to take home.
You will discover:

Basic woodworking skills including measuring, cutting and shaping wood

Safe use of traditional hand tools

Techniques for building functional wooden projects

The craftsmanship behind handmade woodworking

Projects may include a toolbox, boot jack or small wall shelf.
About the Instructor
TJ Southard is the owner of Fresh Sawdust and a two-time Missouri Folk Art Master Artist. A longtime 4-H volunteer instructor and former visiting craftsman at Silver Dollar City, Southard specializes in teaching traditional woodworking skills to young makers while helping students create meaningful projects and learn the value of craftsmanship and creativity.
Purchase Tickets Please verify you are registering for the correct age group before selecting tickets below.
Have a younger student?Discovery Park is also offering a Heritage Series Youth Woodworking Workshop for ages 8–10 on Friday, April 10.

Andrew O'Rourke - LIVE
2026-04-11 | Paris Station, 304 W Washington St, Paris, TN, United States
7pm-10pm
$5 cover / no children after 8pm
