GO! SEE! EXPLORE! :: Lichterman Nature Center
Part of the Memphis Museum of Science and History (MoSH) – think Pink Palace family – but located Germantown-adjacent, the Lichterman Nature Center is 65 acres of forest, meadow, and lake tucked away amidst neighborhoods, office parks, and highways. Stepping foot onto the Lichterman property, you’d never know from sight or sound that you are in the city.
Open year round, from 11 – 3 Tuesdays through Thursdays and 11 – 4 on Fridays and Saturdays, Lichterman Nature Center offers a variety of self-guided and programmed experiences. You enter through the main building – the Loewenberg Visitor Center – that houses the exhibit hall, event space, and restrooms (essential to anyone with children in tow). You can get more information from the staff at the front desk or download the site map via QR code.
Elsewhere on the property, connected by paved sidewalks, are the Backyard Wildlife Center (also housing restrooms), Greenhouse, Plant Propagation Center, and Davidson Pavilion. Veering off from multiple points along the way are gravel and dirt trails, and boardwalks.
Lichterman Nature Center offers:
- Ample parking
- Multiple restrooms
- Accessible restrooms, lifts, and ramps
- Picnic tables
- Benches throughout the property
If you’re interested in native plants and wildlife, Lichterman is the place for you.
The Exhibit Hall offers a display of native animals (taxidermy) and interactive information on how to be a steward of the environment. The Backyard Wildlife Center hosts another display of native animals (this time mostly alive and caged) – think reptiles, amphibians, insects. They also have a pigeon and (non-native) rabbit! The wildlife biologist on staff is likely to show you around, answering any questions you might have. If you’re lucky, you might be there for the animals’ mealtime! There is an area specifically for little kids, with books and activities, and an outdoor “explore your garden” path.
You can also explore the nature trails, stopping along the way to read informational plaques – my favorite being about the history of “Water and the City” – and learn about different species of trees (over 70 on site!) You will likely see geese and maybe a snake or two.
If you’re looking for programmed events, Lichterman offers those, too. Examples include, Talk and Walks where you learn about a specific topic such as birds or trees; and Nature by Firelight where you take a guided hike and dusk, sit around campfires, and make s’mores. Check the event schedule for more options!
Lichterman Nature Center is located at 5992 Quince Road, Memphis 38119.
Admission is $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for youth ages 3 – 12, and free for ages 2 and younger. Admission is included with a MoSH membership.
Hours are Wednesday – Sunday, 10:30 AM – 5 PM.
Call before visiting, as hours are subject to change based on private events and/or unforeseeable events such as mechanical or power issues. (901) 636-2211
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