About
One family-friendly attraction that will keep everyone interested is the Memphis Museums of Science & History (MoSH). This museum has evolved into a dynamic space dedicated to education, history, and inspiration.
Located in what locals nicknamed the Pink Palace, the 1922 mansion has evolved into a hub for interactive exhibits, fun programs, and thought-provoking displays. We'll examine the story behind this former mansion in more detail in our next section.
MoSH features various permanent and rotating exhibits that explore topics from natural history to paleontology. Among its notable attractions are a state-of-the-art planetarium, a CTI 3D Giant Theater offering immersive cinematic experiences, and a natural science center filled with fascinating collections.
The natural history exhibits are another top attraction—these range from dinosaur fossils to rocks, minerals, and preserved plants and animals.
Centrally located, the museum is near other top Memphis attractions, making planning an itinerary easy. One could spend a day exploring Bluff City's landmarks, such as the Memphis Botanic Garden, the Children's Museum of Memphis, and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens. With so many options, the sky's the limit when planning!
MoSH invites you to see the world in new ways, sparking curiosity and conversation long after you leave.
Memphis Museums of Science & History: Fun Facts & Cool Features
As promised, let's dive into the story behind the Pink Palace. In 1922, Clarence Saunders, the father of self-service grocery shopping and founder of Piggly Wiggly, began building a mansion.
The 36,500-square-foot house was faced with pink Georgia marble, which earned the nickname the "Pink Palace." Saunders lost a battle on the New York Stock Exchange in 1923, forcing him into bankruptcy. Unable to finish the home, developers took over and later gave it to the city, which transformed it into a museum in 1930.
One must-see attraction in the mansion is one of the oldest planetariums in the region. Newly renovated, the theater-in-the-round uses the latest technology to project stars, visual images, and patterns on the domed ceiling. The state-of-the-art sound system accentuates the programs, making visits a treat for the senses.
The Giant Theater takes storytelling to new heights with its 40-foot-tall screen. Here, visitors can watch educational films that both delight and educate. The screen can be raised for lectures in the spacious room.
Several off-site branches of the museum are worth investigating. The Lichterman Nature Center is a 65-acre retreat featuring various plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The Mallory-Neely House has all of the original historic interiors, furniture, and artifacts. You'll walk through a home that is over one hundred years old.
After working up an appetite at MoSH, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the nearby eateries. Standouts include Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, which serves dinner, and Brother Juniper's, offering breakfast and brunch classics.
With so much to see and explore, it's no wonder the Memphis Museum of Science & History is a popular attraction. Add it to your Memphis itinerary for a thrilling time on your vacation.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown to the Memphis Museum of Science & History:
- Head south on North Front Street.
- Turn left onto Union Avenue and follow for 2.5 miles.
- Merge onto East Parkway South; continue for one mile
- Address: 3050 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111.
Local Tips
- Book MoSH for your wedding or special event.
- Check their website for upcoming events and movies.
- Consider becoming a member for ticketing discounts to multiple locations.
- Summer camps are ideal for rising 6th graders.
