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Lichterman Nature Center facts for kids

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Lichterman Nature Center
Lichterman Memphis TN visitor center.jpg
Visitors center and nature museum at the Lichterman Nature Center
Type Arboretum, nature center
Location 5992 Quince Road
Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Area 65 acres (26 ha)
Operated by Pink Palace Family of Museums
Hiking trails 3 miles
Lichterman Nature Center Memphis
Entrance sign

The Lichterman Nature Center is a special place in East Memphis, Tennessee, where you can explore nature and learn about local plants and animals. It's like a big outdoor classroom with lots of fun things to see and do, both inside and outside. This nature center is part of the Pink Palace Family of Museums, which means it's connected to other cool museums in the area.

It is a certified arboretum, which is like a living museum for trees and plants. It is also a nature center, a place dedicated to teaching people about the natural world.

Discovering Nature at Lichterman

The Lichterman Nature Center covers about 65-acre (260,000 m2) of land. This large area is home to many different kinds of native plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. It's a great spot to see wildlife in its natural home.

Visitor Center and Exhibits

When you visit, you can start at the Visitor Center. Here, you'll find exciting exhibits that let you learn by doing. There are displays with preserved animal specimens, and you can even touch patches of fur from some of the animals. You can also watch a "lake cam" to see what's happening at the lake.

The Nature Store inside the Visitor Center offers many educational items. You can find gifts, books, and toys that help you learn more about nature.

Backyard Wildlife Center

The Backyard Wildlife Center is another cool part of the nature center. It has living exhibits that show you the three main types of habitats found at Lichterman:

  • The lake habitat
  • The meadow habitat
  • The forest habitat

These exhibits help you understand how different plants and animals live together in these environments.

Outdoor Trails and Wildlife

Outside, there is a three-mile (5 km) nature path that winds through the wildlife observation area. As you walk along the path, you can look for many different native plants and animals. It's a perfect way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors while learning about local wildlife.

Fun Events and Programs

Lichterman Nature Center hosts many special events throughout the year that are open to everyone. These events are a great way to learn more about nature and have fun with your family and friends.

Special Event Areas

The property has a special events pavilion. This covered area is perfect for meetings, family get-togethers, or even overnight programs for youth groups. There is also an amphitheater, which is a small outdoor stage area. It's used for different outdoor programs and shows.

Year-Round Activities

Some of the popular events held at the center include:

  • Plant sales: A chance to buy native plants for your own garden.
  • Earthfest: A celebration of our planet and how to protect it.
  • Discovery Days: Special days with extra activities and learning opportunities.
  • Privet Pulls: Events where volunteers help remove invasive plants to protect native species.

The center also offers special programs designed for both school-aged children and adults. These programs cover a wide range of nature topics and are a great way to deepen your understanding of the natural world.

Visiting the Center

The Lichterman Nature Center is easy to find. It is located at 5992 Quince Road in East Memphis, just off Ridgeway. When you arrive, you can get a free map to help you explore the property.

See also

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