Fort Smith Riverfront Park | Fort Smith

Information

Landmark: Fort Smith Riverfront Park
City: Fort Smith
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Fort Smith Riverfront Park, Fort Smith, USA Arkansas, North America

The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is a children's museum located in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Visual Characteristics

The center is housed in a renovated 1917 train depot constructed of brick. The building features a red tile roof and large arched windows. The interior is designed with interactive exhibits and open spaces.

Location & Access Logistics

The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is situated at 711 Beach Drive, Gulfport, MS 39507. It is approximately 1 mile south of U.S. Highway 90 and 0.5 miles from the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport. Ample free parking is available on-site. Public transportation options are limited; the closest bus stop is approximately 1.5 miles away on U.S. Highway 90.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building was originally constructed in 1917 as a train depot for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. It served as a transportation hub for the region until the mid-20th century. After falling into disuse, it was acquired and renovated by the Lynn Meadows Foundation, opening as a children's museum in 1994.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include exploring the "Art Attic" for creative projects, engaging with the "Kid's Kitchen" exhibit, and learning about local history in the "Train Town" area. The center offers hands-on science experiments and a dedicated infant and toddler play zone.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Shaded areas are provided in outdoor exhibit spaces. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the museum. Food vendors are not present within the museum, but several restaurants are located within a 0.5km radius along Beach Drive.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded. The best time of year for comfortable outdoor exploration of the grounds is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are moderate.

Facts & Legends

The original train depot was one of the last remaining structures of its kind on the Mississippi Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina. A local anecdote suggests that during its operational years, the depot was a popular meeting point for travelers and locals, fostering a sense of community that the museum aims to continue.