Charlotte’s Discovery Place just unveiling the final plans for their new flagship ‘Charlotte Museum of Nature‘.
Currently under construction on the site of the original Discovery Place Nature in the heart of Freedom Park, the new Charlotte Museum of Nature will join the Discovery Place nonprofit family of museums. Expected to open in 2026, the new Museum will be a world-class destination that redefines nature exploration and education for the Carolinas while serving as a dynamic space for community connection and learning for all ages.
The new name of Charlotte Museum of Nature is rooted in the desire to better reflect an expanded mission, vision and audience. The new name represents a space that serves as a cornerstone for learning and a gathering place for the entire community, while also aligning with Discovery Place’s commitment to education, innovation, sustainability and accessibility.
“The new Charlotte Museum of Nature will be a treasured institution in our community and its new name underscores our deep ties to Charlotte while honoring our organization’s roots,” said Catherine Wilson Horne, Discovery Place President and CEO. “We’re creating a museum for everyone—one that will inspire joy, wonder and understanding in the heart of our growing city.”
Along with its new name, Charlotte Museum of Nature will debut with a new visual identity, including a modern fractal tree logo symbolizing growth, interconnectedness and exploration, all with a foundation in science education. The new brand aesthetic has been carefully crafted to resonate with audiences across generations and backgrounds. Charlotte Museum of Nature’s new brand was developed by The Creative Organization with support from research firm Medallia.
“It was a true joy to help the Discovery Place board and leadership team develop a compelling brand story and image to reflect the ambitious vision of the new Charlotte Museum of Nature and to deliver on their mission of empowering lifelong learners,” said Hunter Tura, CEO of The Creative Organization.
Following a groundbreaking and ceremonial tree planting in May 2024, construction has moved steadily along on Charlotte Museum of Nature. A topping out celebration was held December 16, 2024 to mark the significant milestone of placing the last steel beam on the structure.
Once open, Charlotte Museum of Nature will provide opportunities for learners of all ages to explore the natural world and local ecosystems. Features will include nature trails and outdoor experiences like a treetop canopy walk, owl aviary, frog bog and North American river otter habitat. The new Museum also will have interactive exhibits and innovative programs, a state-of-the-art naturalist lab and animals representing species native to the Piedmont.
The design of Charlotte Museum of Nature also places priority on becoming more accessible and integrated with Freedom Park through public gardens and community spaces that will be available to all park visitors. This reimagined Museum for our community ensures opportunities for exploration, learning and leisure and welcoming spaces that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of the Charlotte region. The new Museum will further Discovery Place’s commitment to economic accessibility through the Welcome Program.
Charlotte Museum of Nature is a public-private partnership between Mecklenburg County and Discovery Place. Liollio Architecture and Hood Design Studio comprise the architectural team behind the new Museum’s planning and design, with construction led by Rodgers Builders.
The unveiling of the new name and visual identity is part of several upcoming milestones leading up to the opening of Charlotte Museum of Nature in 2026. For more information about Charlotte Museum of Nature and updates on progress, visit charlottenature.org.
