Here we grow — let’s get into how Adventure Science Center expanded from this property to the building we know and love today. | Photo via Tennessee State Library & Archives
For most, Oct. 31 means candy and costumes. For Adventure Science Center, the date marked what would become a place for laser shows, Way Late Play Dates, and a number of exhibits.
The venue’s original location on 2nd Avenue South in downtown’s former University of Nashville building opened in 1945 as The Children’s Museum of Nashville. Of those involved from the start, Anthony “Tony” Sudekum might stand out. He’s the namesake of the Sudekum Planetarium, which was the only planetarium in Tennessee at the time of its dedication in 1952.
Dr. Armand Spitz, the designer of the star projector, attended the planetarium dedication ceremony as the guest of honor. | Photo via NPL Digital Collections
The museum’s offerings have always been out of this world, but a lot can happen in nearly 80 years. Let’s break down the big stuff by decade:
Late 1960s
Space was becoming an issue, but the stars aligned. Thanks to two donations + negotiations with the Metro Parks Board of Commissioners, future plans for a location at Fort Negley Park were underway.
The Cumberland Museum and Science Center is almost complete at its new location in Fort Negley Park. | Photo via NPL Digital Collections
1970s
By fall 1972, trustees voted to rebrand to Cumberland Museum and Science Center, accounting for an increase in adult visitors. The museum’s new location opened two years later.
1980s + 1990s
This was a decade of many firsts, from laser shows and the earliest computer lab to new education initiatives like mobile outreach programming. The museum expanded once again, adding 16,000 sqft in 1986. StarLab, a dome showing off the stars and constellations, was also introduced in 1993.
2000s
The museum’s growth didn’t slow at the turn of the century.
2002: The 75-ft Adventure Tower opened.
2003: Another name change introduced Adventure Science Center.
2005: BodyQuest brought 9,000 sqft of interactive exhibits focused on the major body systems accompanied by science activities.
2008: Using $1.7 million from the last Sudekum daughter’s estate, the museum debuted the new Sudekum Planetarium and Space Chase exhibit gallery.
Consider this your (star) sign to add one of Adventure Science Center’s upcoming events to your calendar.
Asked
Asked
At one point in time, Adventure Science Center owned the Grassmere site now home to Nashville Zoo.
Grand Re-Opening | Thursday, Oct. 31-Sunday, Nov. 3 | Times vary | Smart Art + Craft Supplies | Cost of purchase | Fill a basket storewide for $35.95, and visit the make-and-take pumpkin station until 2 p.m.
Fright Night Funnies | 8-10 p.m. | Music City Vintage | $16 | Six comedians tell stories with a Halloween twist at this BYOB show.
Friday, Nov. 1
Old Hickory Social Holiday Bazaar | Friday, Nov. 1-Sunday, Nov. 3 | Times vary | Old Hickory Social & Marketplace, Old Hickory | Cost of purchase | Over 70 merchants will be selling home decor, Nashville items, homemade candles, baked goods, ornaments, and more.
Saturday, Nov. 2
Celebrate Reading Days | Saturday, Nov. 2-Sunday, Nov. 3 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Nashville Zoo | Cost of admission | Follow the “Celebrate Reading” passport through the zoo for storytimes + donate new or “like new” children’s books through Friday, Nov. 8 in exchange for complimentary attraction tickets (up to four).
MANIA: The ABBA Tribute | 7:30 p.m. | The Fisher Center at Belmont University | $21+ | Bring your dancing shoes and Take A Chance on the world’s No. 1 touring ABBA tribute.*
Sunday, Nov. 3
Tennessee Bridal and Wedding Expo | The Fairgrounds Nashville | $10 | Find the perfect gown, photographer, band, reception venue, and honeymoon destination at this one-stop-shop expo.
Monday, Nov. 4
Author event with Ann Patchett | 6:30 p.m. | Harpeth Hall’s Frances Bond Davis Theatre | $5+ | Join Patchett to celebrate the annotated edition of “Bel Canto” — signed books will be available for purchase.
If you guessed the golden boot was an edible dessert, you guessed right — the Boot Scootin’ Ruby is made of caramel mousse and other decadent flavors. | Photos provided by Nashville Guru. Gif created by NASHtoday.
Get ready to feast your eyes and stomach, Music City.
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is already known for its iconic atmosphere and award-winning steaks, but now they’re taking elevated to the next level with a renovation that includes:
A striking “staple” wall at the stylishly refreshed sushi + raw bar
24K-gold-flaked wall coverings that make the dining room literally sparkle
A captivating crescent bronze ceiling, new chandeliers + chic finishes throughout
The last day for early voting. If you plan to hit the polls ahead of Election Day, you can find times and locations in our guide, as well as go over what will be on the ballot.
Real Estate
No. 5. That’s where Nashville fell on the 2025 Emerging Trends in Real Estate markets to watch list by PwC and the Urban Land Institute. This is down for the first time in three years, with factors like a high cost of living and slowed net migration playing a role in the city’s placement.
Sports
We like it, we love it. For the first time, sports business website Sportico listed the Nashville Predators as a billion-dollar franchise on its NHL Franchise Valuations Ranking. The team took home the No. 23 spot at $1.32 billion, up 33% from last year. See how other teams did + review the methodology.
Arts
Heads up, the last Frist Fridays of 2024 is coming up next week on Nov. 8. The celebration highlights three museum exhibitions with a DJ set, gallery talks, and after-hours art making. General admission for the 21+ event is $30 — reserve your spot.
We’re looking for a rising star media seller to be our Sales Executive in charge of National Brand Partnerships with a primary focus on sports newsletters. Apply to join the 6AM City team.
Tech
Don’t let password vulnerabilities put your personal data at risk. Protect your online accounts with Keeper Security. New customers can sign up starting at $1.50 per month.*
Category
Real Estate
Shelby House rolls out the welcome mat
Shelby House apartments are available to lease now. | Photo via Holladay Ventures and Evergreen Real Estate
East Nashville is home to 195 new affordable housing units after Shelby House’s opening this week.
The apartment complex by Holladay Ventures and Evergreen Real Estate rents to individuals making 30%-80% of Nashville’s Area Median Income ($21,000-$55,900 single person).
This marked the initial stage of a multi-phase project, which includes another mixed-use development adjacent to the apartment called 4th & Shelby. Upon its completion in 2026, the two communities will total just under 500 affordable units.
Of note, Shelby House offers studio, one, and two-bedroom floor plans with granite countertops and in-unit laundry + access to a fitness center, resident lounge, and covered parking.
The Buy
The Buy
A three-pack of NIVEA’s cocoa butter in-shower body lotion — apply, rinse, and go to moisturize dry skin without adding another step to your routine.
It might be breakfast now, but if you’re anything like me, you’re always looking forward to what’s on the plate next. Might I suggest a stop at Audrey? The restaurant by chef Sean Brock launched lunch service (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) this week, and there’s meat-and-three-style dishes + an award-winning burger on the menu. Pssst: It’s walk-in only.
