Trex room at the museum
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Earth Experience Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History

4.8
·557 reviews·Murfreesboro, United States

Discover dinosaur bones, fossils, gems, and local artifacts at this hands-on natural history museum in Murfreesboro.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday afternoons

Less crowded than mornings

CrowdMedium
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Trex room at the museum

Earth Experience Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History

Best Time

Saturday afternoons

Less crowded than mornings

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover dinosaur bones, fossils, gems, and local artifacts at this hands-on natural history museum in Murfreesboro.

4.8
(557 reviews)

"This natural history museum is a hidden gem in Murfreesboro that I really feel lucky to have heard about."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allocate Enough Time

Don't rush! You can easily spend 2+ hours exploring the diverse exhibits. :clock1:

Engage with Staff

The staff are knowledgeable and eager to share info about the exhibits. Ask questions! :speech_balloon:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 557 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Skeletons

Dinosaur Skeletons

Main Exhibit Hall

Stand in awe of impressive dinosaur bones and fossils, a major draw for visitors of all ages.

Instagram
Paleontology Lab

Paleontology Lab

Paleontology Lab Area

Witness real paleontological work in progress, including the cleaning of a Triceratops skull.

Reddit
Gems and Minerals

Gems and Minerals

Gem and Mineral Exhibit

Discover a dazzling array of colorful gems and minerals from around the world.

Instagram
Local Tennessee Finds

Local Tennessee Finds

Tennessee Exhibit Area

Explore a significant collection of archeological finds and fossils specifically from Tennessee.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Unearth Ancient Wonders

This natural history museum is a hidden gem! Plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore dinosaur bones, fossils, gems, and local artifacts. It's a hands-on experience perfect for all ages, but younger kids might need a bit more guidance to appreciate the exhibits fully. Instagram

Value for Your Adventure

While some find it a bit pricey for its size, many visitors agree it's a worthwhile 'side quest' for the unique finds and knowledgeable staff. Consider it an investment in a fascinating, educational outing. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Less crowded than mornings
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter for focused exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Head over to Earth Experience - Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History in Murfreesboro for a prehistoric adventure! Step into a world of fascinating fossils, incredible exhibits and hands-on learning! 🦖 Explore ancient wonders and discover something new at Tennessee's only natural history museum. Perfect for curious minds of all ages! #earthexperiencetn #explorehistory #rutherfordcountytn #ho...
visitrutherfordtn
59 likes • 1.2K views

Allocate Enough Time

Don't rush! You can easily spend 2+ hours exploring the diverse exhibits. Reddit :clock1:

Engage with Staff

The staff are knowledgeable and eager to share info about the exhibits. Ask questions! Instagram :speech_balloon:

Did you know that there is a dinosaur museum in Murfreesboro? The Earth Experience, is a Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History and is the only natural history museum in Middle Tennessee. The museum has displays from all over the world but has a very large number of items from Tennessee. Go check out their dinosaurs, fossils, gems, minerals, rocks and archeological relics. Also, they have a Tr...
bethany.trainer.tn.realtor
12 likes • 271 views
Fin! A representation of Earth Experience: Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History. 🪨 🦖 🦕 You know I had to watch Jurassic Park while I was painting this. 😆 #earthexperience #earthexperiencemiddletennesseemuseumofnaturalhistory #middletennesseemuseumofnaturalhistory #museumofnaturalhistory #dinosaur #tyranosaurusrex #dinosaurbones #palientology #lizard #trex #rawr #dinosawrs #fossil #murfrees...
meaganarmesart
11 likes • 153 views

Hands-On Fun

Many exhibits are interactive, perfect for kids who love to touch and learn. Reddit :handpointingdown:

Hidden Gem Discovery

It's a unique spot, great for a 'side quest' or unexpected adventure. Reddit 💎

🦖 📍Earth Experience - Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History in Murfreesboro Brandon took us to see Dinosaurs 🦕 for my early birthday. We will be at the beach next weekend 🥳 This was the coolest collection of fossils, gems, minerals, meteorites, and so much more! It’s definitely worth an hour or so of your day, if you’re in or around the area! They also have a pretty awesome gift shop!! @ear...
ashley_thetravelingmama
5 likes • 287 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Allocate Enough Time

Don't rush! You can easily spend 2+ hours exploring the diverse exhibits. Reddit :clock1:

Engage with Staff

The staff are knowledgeable and eager to share info about the exhibits. Ask questions! Instagram :speech_balloon:

Hands-On Fun

Many exhibits are interactive, perfect for kids who love to touch and learn. Reddit :handpointingdown:

Hidden Gem Discovery

It's a unique spot, great for a 'side quest' or unexpected adventure. Reddit 💎

Check Water Fountain

One visitor noted the water fountain was out of order. Bring your own water bottle. Reddit :water_wave:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(557 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Earth Experience as a hidden gem with a diverse collection of fossils, gems, and local artifacts, highlighting the engaging hands-on exhibits and knowledgeable staff. While some find the admission price a bit high for the size, most agree it's a worthwhile and educational adventure for all ages, offering a unique glimpse into natural history.

"Wonderful place for a Saturday adventure! This natural history museum is a hidden gem in Murfreesboro that I really feel lucky to have heard about. We came in on Saturday and ended up staying for over 2 hours. With a vast collection consisting of bones (including dinosaur!!!), rocks, minerals, fossils, various animal taxidermy and artifacts, there is something here for everyone to enjoy! I highly recommend a visit.
There is a paleontology lab! You can get a look at a Triceratop's skull that is in the process of being cleaned and processed. The staff is amazing too. Overall, it's a great place. I will definitely be going back 🫶🏻"

Jennifer Gelvin

"Neat, but expensive for the size. It has kind of a dentist office vibe and is about that scale. It probably won't be worth the money if you're going there with a young child. There are a couple neat items but we paid about $40 for three of us, and spent less than 15 minutes walking through.

Also the water fountain didn't work."

Jacob Duchaine

"Pretty cool experience you can say it’s earthly! Loved my time there, my wife works at the Gray Fossil Site and was giving me lessons on the trip. Also the history side of radium was really cool to see on display. Best $20 for a side quest we spent!"

Matthew Carr

What People Like

Fascinating fossils & bones
Hands-on exhibits
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Can be pricey for size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors find it a convenient stop if they are in or around the Nashville area. Instagram

Information on public transportation options to the museum is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of arrival for most visitors. Instagram

The museum typically offers on-site parking, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Instagram

While specific accessibility details aren't widely publicized, natural history museums generally aim for accessibility. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for detailed information. Reddit

Yes, many visitors treat it as a unique day trip or a stop on their way to other destinations. It's about an hour's drive from Nashville. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, with one review mentioning around $20 per person for an adult ticket. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing. Reddit

Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their website for any special events or recommendations, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, but the museum is often open on Saturdays and weekdays. It's recommended to verify the current hours on their official website before your visit. Reddit

Information on specific discounts isn't widely available. It's worth inquiring directly with the museum about potential group rates or special offers. Reddit

Refund policies are typically determined by the venue. It's best to review the museum's ticketing terms and conditions or contact them directly for refund information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a diverse range of exhibits including dinosaur bones, fossils, gems, minerals, meteorites, taxidermy, and local archeological finds. Instagram+1

Yes, the museum has many interactive elements that young children enjoy, though some exhibits might be better appreciated by older kids or adults. Reddit

While many items are behind glass, the museum offers numerous hands-on exhibits that visitors are encouraged to interact with. Reddit

Most visitors spend at least an hour to two hours exploring the museum, with some staying even longer to absorb all the information. Reddit

Information about a gift shop is not widely available. It's best to check with the museum directly if you're looking for souvenirs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no widely reported food or dining facilities within the museum itself. Visitors often plan to eat before or after their visit. Reddit

It's generally recommended to check the museum's policy on outside food and beverages. Many museums prefer that food and drinks are consumed in designated areas or outside. Reddit

Murfreesboro offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. You can find many choices close to the museum's location. Reddit

Based on visitor feedback, there isn't a dedicated cafe or snack bar within the museum. Reddit

While not specifically mentioned, nearby parks or public spaces in Murfreesboro might offer picnic facilities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography or professional shoots. Instagram

The dinosaur skeletons, the paleontology lab, and the vibrant gem and mineral displays offer excellent photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Flash photography can sometimes damage delicate exhibits. It's best to avoid using flash or confirm with museum staff if it's allowed. Instagram

Yes, the exhibits featuring local Tennessee fossils and archeological finds provide unique photographic subjects. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, as some exhibit areas might be dimly lit. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors. Instagram

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