The Discovery Center for Family Fun in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Sometimes, it is hard to satisfy that non-stop curiosity (the kind that keeps them constantly on the move, turning over rocks and fishing through mud puddles to see what they can find) that children have. However, I think I might have found a place that could at least keep them stimulated for a few hours and also educate you along the way.

Located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, at the mouth of Murfree Spring, The Discovery Center sits waiting for children to venture in and learn about the world around them. Inside, there is a hands-on museum and activity center that allows kids to interact with the exhibits around them. A giant fresh water aquarium holds salamanders, turtles, and fish allowing them to be seen up close and personal. Programs and games are scheduled that your child can join and someone is always around to educate your family with any questions they might have. Also, if you'd like to schedule a group activity, there are rooms for birthday parties, home school groups, and Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops.

Outside, there are 20 acres of wetland for the family to explore. Stations are set up to tell you about the different types of wildlife that live in the wetlands. There are also viewing devices installed that allow your family to see the critters at a more up close and personal view. Ducks, geese, and various types of birds can be spotted on a daily basis, and beavers and otters have also been seen swimming in the spring fed waters. There is also a small playground for children to enjoy and water for them to run through on a hot day. The activities are endless!

What does all of this nonstop fun cost, you might ask? Well, if you simply want to walk around outside, the entertainment is free. After enjoying a family meal at your favorite restaurant, you could simply stop and take along the wetlands and help your kids wind down before bedtime.

However, if you want to plan an all day event and enjoy inside activities, there is a five-dollar fee for each adult and child. Children under two years of age can get into the museum for free. This is a small price to pay for satisfying that endless curiosity your youngster might have and not to mention the knowledge that they will gain from a day spent learning about the world around them. Plus, the smile they will have after a day spent at the center will be priceless.

Hours of operation for The Discovery Center at Mufree Spring is Monday through Saturday, 10am-5pm, and Sunday from 1pm until 5pm. A schedule of events and more details on the interactive museum can be found at http://www.discoverycenteronline.org/index.htm.