The adult admissions fee to this Memphis Museums of Science and History. The falsely advertise free admissions apply to those with the museum membership. read more

Lichterman Nature Center - Museums Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

See all

I attended an event here and needed to use the elevator to access a classroom. I was able to use it once. The second time I attempted to use it, the doors kept opening / closing and an alarm went off. The security and staff stared at me like I was insane for asking about the elevator. I have a cane and had to ask more than once to use the elevator, and was warned that it doesn't always work. This is not ADA compliant and seriously needs to be fixed. This center isn't friendly to those with physical disabilities or wheelchair users. read more

How I have lived in the mid south for 29 years and never heard of this place,...idk. Thanks Yelp for connecting me to this gem. Spent the WHOLE day here. So many trails and buildings to explore. Great photography spot! read more

See all

We just had my daughter's birthday party here, and I cannot say enough wonderful things about the staff. Thank you to Beth for leading the kids in their nature walk even through the light rain . They loved interacting with the animals and learning about them. The birthday space indoors was large and inviting. The whole experience was amazing . read more

I saw that the Lichterman Nature Center was nearby so I figured that I'd stop in to check it out. I was greeted by a very sweet lady at the front. She provided me with a map of the grounds and on my way I went. At first glance a sign stuck out it read NESTING season geese are territorial LOL so after reading this sign I was totally focused on everything moving around me LOL and as I should be after I had my 10 month old in a stroller I literally was was watching everything at that point! But it was a really nice day outside and a good nature walk read more

Wonderful, peaceful, pleasant day Some of you may know of the hidden gem of Lichterman in East Memphis, some do not. It is possible to get away to a pleasant day amongst natural surrounding - and still be in Memphis. Amazing. My wife and I had been wanting to get to Lichterman for some time now. Well, we chose the perfect day. It was so pleasant - not too hot, not too cold, gentle breeze blowing through the trees. We enjoyed our walk down the trails around the lake and through the forrest. Seeing geese and turtles and birds and plants as we strolled along away from the maddening crowd was quite relaxing. There are other exhibits indoors to introduce you to some of the animals and plants that are native to Memphis and the surrounding area. I believe they have Plant Sales during certain times of the year as well. With so many different experiences available, there is something for most everyone. Be sure to check out their website for more information. If you're looking for an "escape from the hectic city pace" - but still stay in the city - consider taking a trip to Lichterman and get away from it all. You will be very glad you did. We were. read more

Lichterman Nature Center - Such a peaceful and pleasant day at Lichterman. - Museums Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

This is a kid's paradise hidden in plain sight - 65 acres of lake, meadow, and forest - smack dab in the middle of the city. I don't even really like kids, but this place made me excited about having a new place to go when I get conned into babysitting my friends' offspring. Because let's face it, it is incredibly rare for me to be entertained during "children" activities or places. But Lichterman somehow manages to keep adults' interest too. It is a certified arboretum and their Backyard Wildlife Center has live animals, hands-on explorations, microscopic discoveries, a forest boardwalk two stories high, as well as a pretty awesome underwater viewing area. I hadn't been here since I was little one myself (eeek, was that really 20+ years ago?!) and the improvements are fantastic. I enjoyed feeding the fish and walking on the trails (easy for small ones and the elderly - it is scenic but not "hiking"). My mother is a Master Gardener and loves their plant sales and seed swaps. Fun for all ages! read more

See all

First time visitor. I went for some forest bathing. You will find a beautiful tree canopy afforded by the many huge trees on the trails. I walked all their trails: lake, forest, meadow, forest ecology. Some are paved, most are not. Wear sturdy shoes. There are two buildings containing exhibits; the Visitors Center with its indigenous, stuffed animals (beautiful bison there) and a Backyard Habitat Building. Older children with an interest in science or the outdoor world would enjoy a visit. Unfortunately, on a weekday morning one is never far from the noise pollution of nearby Memphis. I applaud the fact that there is no gift shop with trinkets from China. Go and enjoy Mother Nature's acres on Quince. read more

This is my first time here and venturing into the unknown was fun for me plants and animals the I see on nature shows on television I enjoyed seeing them first hand here the employees were very nice and very helpful she gave me all of the brochures I needed to give me information and knowledge on what I would be looking at I must say this place is amazing. read more

See all

It was fantastic having the baby shower there an was able to look around at the animals and walk the trials and just enjoy the environment and the energy that was the best day ever read more

As stated in my previous review, the Lichterman grounds are beautiful and are a great background to a all kinds of wedding events. For under $2500, we held a ceremony in the outdoor amphitheater, cocktail hours on the covered balcony, and reception in the pavilion for 115 people. I am taking off one star because the center is so strict. Patti was very helpful when we were first booking the venue, but then was less communicative when we got closer and asked for very quick turnarounds on paperwork. We only had a two hour window to set up before the center closed and guests arrived, which was an extremely tight turnaround. We needed to hire a day of coordinator and extra help to meet the time. Set up and take down in short time windows was definitely stressful, especially for dear family members who helped set up. We also had to be out at a certain time (all individuals, not just guests). Patti extended the time for us, but I would have like to stay a few more hours. If you are a Saturday wedding, the center also closes on Sunday and Monday, so if I guest leaves their car that night, they can't get it back until Tuesday morning. Couple of pointers for people using the Pavilion. Be sure to plan out your floor layout to the letter. Less tables and people can fit under the roof with room for a dance floor than you might think. If you are hosting an evening, make sure to get overhead lighting. (The company that Pattie recommended, Over the Top, was great. Beautiful lighting, reasonable price, no stress). read more

See all

Today we rented the entire green room for a baby shower. I booked this facility over 4 months ago. Pattie is the best. We sat and picked out the best date, she guided me through everything needed to make it happen. She would call and email when something was need and for friendly reminders. The table plans we drew up was laid out exactly as we had set it up. The plans included another children's table kids activities to keep them busy, and their own food table. Our room was clean and the AC had our guest comfortable. Even though the Crepe Maker had 2 skillets going at the same time. Nor did our ice cream stand from Ben and Jerry's do any melting. The kitchen although we didn't utilize it) was clean spacious and well equipped. We had 79 registered guests attending. The bathrooms was clean and paper goods stocked. The children loved exploring the exhibits and venturing out on the grounds with an adult supervisor leading them on the trails. So much nature to explore. Over all I am very happy I selected this venue for our event. We will choose this facility to have our next event. One day soon!!!! read more

See all

Lichterman is a wonderful nature area in the middle of East Memphis. It features gardens with trees, plants, flowers and animals native to the area. I've been to fun birthday parties here with the kids and they rent it out for weddings and other special events. It is in a beautiful area and the Backyard Wildlife Center is a great way for the kid to learn with hands on exhibits. You can stay for an hour or for a few hours depending on what you do while you are there. Guided tours are also available and are good if you go with a few other people and it is your first time to visit. Tip- It is free on Tuesdays after 1:00. Adult - $6.00 Senior - $5.50 Child (age 3-12) - $4.50 Children Under 3 - FREE read more

When I visited the center, it was for a work seminar and it was raining outside, but I was very impressed with layout of the center. It is surrounded by trees and multiple trails. This truly reminds me of a mini park, but not as large. I wish I were able to to walk the trails, but the weather was just too wet that day. Inside boast a large auditoruim and displays of the different natural and native plants in TN habitat(Past and Present). I will be sure to visit this center on a sunny day to give a better review of the trails and more information of more of the surrounding area. Admission to the center is $7(adults) and $5(age 3-12). Tuesdays are free admission until 1PM. This is a great venue for kids of all ages to enjoy. I will be sure to be back because I enjoy green space! read more

Lichterman Nature Center - Museums Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

See all

You would think that it would be difficult to hide a 65-acre arboretum in the middle of a busy urban area. Apparently, it's easier than you'd think. The Lichterman Nature Center sits smack in the middle of East Memphis. Though the entrance is marked with a sign, it's easy to accidentally pass it if you're not paying attention. It's also surprising how easy it is to forget that you're in the middle of the city when you walk the trails at Lichterman. Its paved trails are peaceful and shady. The only reminder that the city is nearby is the occasional glimpse of office buildings peeking over the trees The trails wind through meadows and forest, through giant fields of powerline-eating Kudzu. There's a long boardwalk through a lily pad filled marsh and bridges over the lake. If you need some serious head-clearing, Lichterman is the perfect place to get it done. The center is also home to the Backyard Wildlife Center, an educational building that houses live animals and hands-on exhibits. When you're in the visitor's center, be sure to check out the huge display of various taxidermied Mid-South native critters. Lichterman Nature Center is part of the Pink Palace family of museums, so if you're a member at the Pink Palace, you can get into Lichterman for free. Admission is $6 for adults and $4.50 for kids. Admission is free on Tuesdays from 1 p.m. until close. read more

We usually love this place. Had a nice time today, but we were rudely reminded when we came back to get water that they close at 3pm. When asked what would happen to us if we hadn't returned to visitor center to get water, the woman said, "I guess you'd be locked in" and she left the building. Been coming here since I was a child, and now I bring my children here. However, Lichterman Nature Center should really rise itself of rude, unhelpful, antiquated employees. I'm pretty sure the woman didn't remind us that they closed at 3pm just to be a you-know-what. read more

Nice respite from urban and suburban Memphis. Shaded trails offer a cooler walk on hot days, plus, ponds and meadows offer local wildlife and flowers for viewing. Blooming water lilies on our recent visit were definitely a highlight. The only drawback I see is that you cannot access these trails unless you go through the visitor center. I'm used to living in places where trails are open and free so it feels odd to me that one has to pay in order to access "nature," but I understand needing to charge for the upkeep of indoor facilities. Overall still a nice place to visit. read more

We really enjoy taking our Grandkids to the Nature Center. It is a wonderful place for them to not only observe but, to learn about all things nature. The small, quiet atmosphere encourages them to actively participate in the many activities that are available to them. I suggest going early in the morning before the summer heat sets in. Don't miss this. read more

My step-daughter just had her wedding here. The grounds are beautiful and the museum itself is interesting, clean, and the perfect place for a small wedding. They have room for the bridge and wedding party to get dresses separately from guests. It was bitter cold and windy so she shifted the ceremony inside. The room was large enough to accommodate about 30 comfortably. I would recommend this venue for a smaller wedding if inside, and there is plenty of room for a larger guest list outside depending on the weather. read more

The kids and I visited Lichterman Nature Center for the first time a few weeks ago and I was so impressed with the tranquil and gorgeous surroundings right in the middle of one of the busiest parts of our city. It's like visiting another land. We strolled the trails for a while and admired the lake and huge lily pads and plants growing all over the property. There are cute wooden benches scattered throughout for short rests, many of them nestled in an opening and surrounded by trees. The Backyard Wildlife Center was a huge hit with my kids, and I enjoyed seeing the exhibits as well. Pricing is very reasonable, and if you're already a member of the Pink Palace, you get in for free. They also have free day on Tuesday afternoons. read more

$9/adult to go walk the trails. Not really a park at all. Museum with hiking trails but can't take trails without paying museum entrance. Off to another park that doesn't charge to walk..this is what taxes are for. read more

I love this place. I live right down the street from here, and it is so great knowing that this oasis is in the middle of the city. My wife and I also got married here, so that's a huge plus as well. read more

Amazing place thats beautiful year round! I love going on nature walks through the trails here especially during the spring. I also love how they have the backyard wildlife Center with live animals in it and the exhibits in the visitor center. I'm thinking about signing my girl scout troop up for one of their programs! It's a great place to bring the family as well. read more

So grateful for this urban oasis. When you drive in front of the Lichterman Nature Center, it's actually pretty unassuming. You may even drive past it without noticing. It's near the intersection of Quince & Ridgeway. And how they managed to preserve such a peaceful retreat in the middle of East Memphis, I have no idea. It's right next to a school, a fire station, a business building, and a pretty major road. But you wouldn't know it once you're inside. I wasn't that impressed with the visitor's center and supposedly they do have some gardening classes and such but I was more taken with the numerous trails. Put on your tennis shoes and check it out! read more

What a beautiful place to get married. My friends attempted to get married in front of the pond there, and if it hadn't started pouring they would have succeeded. But it was a lovely spot, looked like a painting...hmmm. But we ended up hightailing it up to the covered area. I will say this, be careful what time of year you decide to get married here because after the rain, it was insanely hot and muggy and there was nowhere to get away from that! read more

Been away for 20 years and discovered that the Lichterman center is a shadow of what it was. apparently real estate development has squeezed in. Everything looks run down and the displays of backyard wildlife contained mostly plastic models. This was a jewel. read more

Not at all what I thought...thought this place would be full of gross and annoying bugs and insects. Nice and tranquil!!!

I love coming here! They have so many fun hiking trails and the place is just beautiful. The main forest loop is so pretty and the meadow/lake loop is great too. There's plenty to see and photograph. They also have some indoor exhibits if you need to take a break from the heat! You can check out some of the indoor nature exhibits where you can observe live animals and critters and the main welcome center has a great taxidermy exhibit that's great for kids to see some larger animals up close and even feel samples of different types of fur! There are a lot of great places along the trails to take breaks and have a seat in the shade. Every Tuesday is free to the public after 1pm! (There are also a billion pokestops here just fyi!) read more

This place is huge -- about sixty-five acres worth of amazing trees, flowers, and places that are perfect for a special occasion or just lazing under a tree. I prefer the latter, and I love to come here to look out over the lake, or try to spot specific birds. You'll see plenty of wildlife roaming here if you stop for a minute to look. It's a great place on a sunny day. Only a little over five dollars admission, or free if you're a Pink Palace Museums member. read more

you probably pass lichterman nature center and never even think about it as a wedding or wedding reception venue. this past fall, we were investigating places to hold our reception. we thought maybe the zoo, botanical garden, children's museum or pink palace. as i started looking, i found that the lichterman had facilities. they were not too expensive. they do require that you use a list of approved caterers and get an event insurance policy (about $95). lichterman has a events coordinator, julie, who is really good. one thing that lichterman provides is table and chairs and you get a security guard included in your rental fee. the room that we used for our reception was the learning center which normally is used as a meeting facility. it has lots of windows and a deck/balcony area that overlooks the lake with ducks and the lily pads. since we got married outdoors in lake tahoe, ca, and came back to memphis to have the reception, we really wanted someplace that tied in the outdoor theme. we could have had the reception outside in the pavillion area but with october weather in memphis, we decided the indoor facility would be safer. if you have not been to the lichterman lately, you should go. it is really a lovely facility. it's like a hidden jewel. we got so many compliments from people who really enjoyed seeing it again. read more

Went many times as a young kid. Went back today for the first time in at least 15 years. Boy has it changed. Completely updated all the facilities and include some new buildings. The visitor center was very nice. Stuffed animals everywhere which is funny because the message is conservation lol. An elk, Bear, ducks hanging from the ceiling and even eagles in the visitor center. Right off the bat we noticed the gift shop has been closed. We were informed this was due to lack of staff which we were told was due to state budget cuts in the parks sector. There is no more gift shop. Lots of walking to do spread out over 64 acres of pure nature. trails through meadows, over lakes (bridges) and trails through forest. When by the lakes you can see acres upon acres of Lilly's in the water. They are very thick. This is an unseen sight around these parts so it is nice. There is a new facility called the 'Backyard something' I forgot. This building houses lots of live insects in glass windows like you might see in a zoo. I think only about half the insects exhibits actually had insects in them which kind of sucked. In one or two of the exhibits the insects were dead. It was a very nice set up but seemed to be a half ass kind of thing. They have a live feeding of an animal at noon some days. We showed up for this which was also located in the backyard building or whatever its called. The guy inside didn't even know about this. He had to ask someone about this. By the time this other guy showed up it was 12:30 and we just left. Ends up, and this will make you laugh. They were going to feed some very small snapping turtles. They said they were going to put a bowl of food out in the turtle exhibit and the turtles come out to eat. Im sure this would have been REAL exiting with two damn near baby turtles moving at the pace of a snail, that's it. No feeding an endangered hawk or some crazy animal, setting out a bow of food for some baby turtles. haha. This place seems to be hurting now due to state budget cuts. I hope it doesn't get to rough because this is an excellent place to take your kids and introduce them to nature. This is a fun place just seemed to be a half ass operation. I'm sure they need some good volunteers here to help out. Great place great fun to get out and enjoy nature but seems to be a half ass operation so I give it 3 stars which I rather give more. Sorry Lichterman. Take your kids they will enjoy it. Oh yeah, you can feed the fish in the lake. We bought a dollar bag of food to do this and when we got to the lake which is a huge lake we didn't think the fish would even be around or here it to come up it was so big, we couldn't see any fish at all. We threw a handful in and low and behold they showed up. lol. So did about 8 big turtles. lol. read more

love this place as a kid i fell into the pond when i was trying to feed the fish man good memories i go there sometimes just to get somewhere nature ey and stuff although if you want to get less tourists theres usually less people at the botanical garden read more