Discovery Park Competitors

Most people know that the National Park Service cares for national parks, a network of over 420 natural, cultural and recreational sites across the nation. The treasures in this system – the first of its kind in the world – have been set aside by the American people to preserve, protect, and share the legacies of this land. People from all around the world visit national parks to experience America's story, marvel at the natural wonders, and have fun. Places like the Grand Canyon, the Statue of Liberty, and Gettysburg are popular destinations, but so too are the hundreds of lesser known yet equally meaningful gems like Rosie the Riveter in California, Boston Harbor Islands in Massachusetts, and Russell Cave in Alabama. The American system of national parks was the first of its kind in the world, and provides a living model for other nations wishing to establish and manage their own protected areas. The park service actively consults with these Nations, sharing what we've learned, and gaining knowledge from the experience of others. Beyond national parks, the National Park Service helps communities across America preserve and enhance important local heritage and close-to-home recreational opportunities. Grants and assistance are offered to register, record and save historic places; create community parks and local recreation facilities; conserve rivers and streams, and develop trails and greenways.

Located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga and surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains, the Tennessee Aquarium tells the story of the river – following the path of a raindrop from the streams of an Appalachian Forest to the Gulf of Mexico – from the mountains to the sea. Although the Aquarium has grown in size and in animal population since it’s opening in 1992, its story and its mission as a private, non-profit institution have remained the same; ‘to inspire wonder, appreciation and protection of water and all life that it sustains.’

Our vision is to be one of the world's best Zoos by preserving wildlife through education, conservation, and research. Our team and volunteers are dedicated to providing an enriching sanctuary for our animals and an entertaining and educational experience for our guests. Today, the Memphis Zoo is one of Memphis’ highest-attended attractions seeing over a million visitors each year. Memphis Zoo is proud of its worldwide conservation and research efforts. We are committed to protecting and preserving Sumatran tigers, biodiversity in Sri Lanka, Dusky Gopher frogs, Louisiana pine snakes, Grauer's (Eastern Lowland) gorillas, and African elephants through our partnerships. These species are all facing critical endangerment in the wild.