Fundraisers

The Discovery Center at Murfree Spring hosts a variety of fundraisers each year to support its mission of inspiring lifelong learning through hands-on exploration and play. As a vital resource for young learners, the Discovery Center provides innovative exhibits and educational programming that spark curiosity, creativity, and a love for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). These fundraising events not only help sustain and expand the center’s interactive experiences but also ensure that children of all backgrounds have access to enriching educational opportunities. Through community support and engagement, these efforts make a lasting impact on future generations, fostering a spirit of discovery that extends beyond the walls of the museum.

The Secret Garden Party

The Secret Garden Party — Friday, June 4, 2027

Discovery Center’s Secret Garden Party returns on Friday, June 4, 2027. This enchanting gala creates a magical evening inspired by nature and whimsy, bringing together donors and supporters for a night to remember.

Guests will enjoy fine dining, live music, and an immersive garden-themed atmosphere. It’s an unforgettable celebration for community leaders and supporters who believe in the power of hands-on learning.

Supporting Conservation and Nature Education in Middle Tennessee

Every ticket and sponsorship directly supports Discovery Center’s nature-based exhibits, outdoor exploration areas, and sustainability initiatives. Proceeds help us maintain and expand the environmental education programs that connect families across Middle Tennessee with the natural world.

The Secret Garden Tour

The Secret Garden Tour — June 5–6, 2027

The Secret Garden Tour returns Saturday and Sunday, June 5–6, 2027, offering a rare opportunity to step inside some of Murfreesboro's most beautiful private gardens. These hidden gems are thoughtfully cultivated and generously shared by local homeowners for this special weekend.

Presented by Discovery Center in partnership with the Master Gardeners of Rutherford County, this self-guided garden tour is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking for inspiration for their own outdoor spaces.

Meet the Master Gardeners

Representatives of the Master Gardeners of Rutherford County will welcome guests at each garden and answer gardening questions, from plant selection and landscape design to growing tips for Middle Tennessee’s climate.

Supporting Nature Education at Discovery Center

Proceeds from the Secret Garden Tour support Discovery Center’s nature-based exhibits, outdoor exploration areas, and environmental education programs for families across Middle Tennessee.

The Secret Garden Party
The Secret Garden Tour
A Night at the Museum: Featuring Wine, Whiskey & Ale
A Night at the Museum: Featuring Wine, Whiskey & Ale

A Night at the Museum: Featuring Wine, Whiskey & Ale

A Night at the Museum — Saturday, March 13, 2027

Rediscover your sense of wonder at A Night at the Museum, Discovery Center’s 21+ fundraiser in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Sample wines and spirits donated by Stones River Total Beverage, enjoy tastings from local brewers, and explore the museum in a way you’ve never experienced. It’s your chance to feel like a kid again in our vibrant, hands-on exhibits… but with a grown-up twist.

Playful, Elevated Fun for Grown-Ups

Explore your inner child with an evening of adult-only activities, including:

  • A Sophisticated Scavenger Hunt
  • Silent Disco
  • Interactive Surprises

Supporting Play for Every Child

Every moment of the night helps support Discovery Center’s mission to ensure all children in our community have access to joyful, safe, and inspiring play. Your ticket makes a direct impact on families across Middle Tennessee.

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, March 13, 2027
  • Time: 5:30–8:30 p.m.
  • Location: Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, Murfreesboro, TN
  • Tickets & Sponsorships: Email Beth Cope at bcope@explorethedc.com for information
  • Ages: 21+ only; valid ID required

 

Supporting Hands-On Learning in Middle Tennessee

Together, these fundraising events provide critical financial support while strengthening Discovery Center’s role as Murfreesboro’s hub for interactive, hands-on learning. By bringing the community together for unique and entertaining experiences, Discovery Center continues to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of discovery in young learners across Middle Tennessee.

Children’s Museum Corporation of Rutherford County is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization.

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Donation Requests

The Discovery Center supports local nonprofit organizations and educational institutions by donating admission passes. The standard donation is two admission passes valued at $24. Donation Requests are processed monthly, and it may take up to two months for a response depending on your requested event date. One request per organization will be considered per calendar year. Please keep in mind that while each request receives careful consideration, we regret that we are unable to accommodate all requests. All requests must be submitted through the form below. Please do not call, email or mail your requests. You will be emailed if your donation is approved. Donations will be emailed to the email address indicated below prior to the event. Organizations must meet the following guidelines to be considered:

  • Donation requests for charitable events must be in the middle Tennessee area.
  • Organizations benefiting children and education receive priority.
  • Fundraisers to benefit an individual or families are not generally honored.

Organization Information

Your Name(Required)
Organization Address(Required)

Event Information

How will the donation be used?(Required)

By checking this box, I understand that the Discovery Center reserves the right to refuse any donation request upon their discretion. In the event the Discovery Center donates an item, it will be used strictly for charitable purposes through auctions, door prizes, raffles, etc.(Required)

Young Leaders Council Application

Please respond to each of the following questions in order to complete your 2025-2026 Discovery Center Young Leaders Council Member application. Each section must be completed fully in order for your application to be accepted. Please email Rachel Hooper at rhooper@explorethedcorg.dreamhosters.com with any questions. Thank you for your interest in Discovery Center's 2025-2026 Young Leaders Council! Applications are due June 15, 2025. Acceptance letters will go out by July 31, 2025.

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Step 1 of 3

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Applicant Name*
Address*

Gift Memberships

Give the Gift of Discovery
Gift Certificates must be redeemed at the Discovery Center front desk and should be treated like cash. Memberships become active once redeemed and remain valid for a full year.

Membership Benefits

BUY ONLINE

Sustaining Membership

$330 for 1 year

The Discovery BIG Family Fun Pack!

Membership Benefits

BUY ONLINE

Deluxe Membership

$170 for 1 year

The Discovery BIG Family Fun Pack!

Membership Benefits

BUY ONLINE

Discovery Membership

$140 for 1 year

Discovery fun for the whole family and a friend!

Membership Benefits

BUY ONLINE

One + One Plus Membership

$115 for 1 year

One + One PLUS One = Fun for Three!

Membership Benefits

BUY ONLINE

One + One Membership

$90 for 1 year

One + One = Fun for Two

Membership Benefits

BUY ONLINE

Counselor in Training Volunteer Application

Discovery Center at Murfree Spring is seeking reliable, upbeat and positive youth ages 14 - 17 as summer day camp Counselors in Training (CIT) assisting counselors and educators with children in grades K – 6. CITs will assist day camp counselors and educators in delivering age-appropriate activities and crafts and may assist Discovery Center education staff with programming focused on nature, animals, science and design.

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Name*

Summer General Availability


Please select which weeks you are available during the summer. Make sure to check your family calendar before selecting. We ask that you are available to assist each day during the selected week.

Camps
Camp themes are listed next to each week. Please consider this when making your selection(s).
Camp Times
All Camps are from 9:00-4:00 Monday- Friday. We ask that you are able to arrive early and stay after to set-up for the next day. By checking the box below, you agree to this time slot.
Availability
When signing up for Camps, please note your available days.
Please list some of your hobbies/interests/activities that you feel would be valuable for the camp selection(s) you have made.

Parent or Guardian Information

Parent/Guardian Name*
Please include name, email, and phone number.
If there are learning, behavioral or medical issues (such as allergies) you feel we should be aware of, please list and explain. Also please let us know if your child has any special dietary requirements. Enter none if there is nothing to note.
Consent*