Atlanta, October 4, 2025
News Summary
Fernbank Museum in Atlanta plans its first major renovation in over 30 years, backed by a $27 million campaign. New exhibits, such as ‘Changing Earth,’ and enhanced learning spaces will be developed across the 120-acre campus, set to unfold in phases from late 2025 to 2027. Key features include the ‘Orkin Discovery Zone’ and improved accessibility.
Atlanta – Fernbank Museum in Atlanta is embarking on its first major renovation in over 30 years, supported by a robust $27 million capital campaign aimed at enhancing visitor experience. This ambitious transformation will introduce new exhibits and learning spaces throughout the museum’s 120-acre campus, with renovations slated to take place in phases from late 2025 through 2027.
A signature exhibition titled “Changing Earth” will highlight Earth’s interconnected systems through a combination of real specimens, immersive media, and interactive features. Among the notable attractions of the “Changing Earth” exhibit are:
- The “Tectonic Dashboard”: An interactive feature allowing guests to move Earth’s plates.
- The “Tree of Life”: An engaging experience designed to explore biodiversity.
- The “Rollins Rotunda”: Featuring an immersive media experience that details the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
In addition to the main exhibition, a new temporary gallery is set to open in 2027, enabling rotating exhibits that will focus on various natural history themes. To enhance hands-on science learning, the museum will introduce the “Orkin Discovery Zone” in 2026. This space will provide opportunities for guests of all ages to engage actively as scientists, with activities such as observing live animals in terrariums and engaging with discoveries in WildWoods.
The Star Gallery will undergo a redesign, transforming into “Our Place in the Cosmos”, which will expand on the universe’s content through cinematic storytelling, expected to be unveiled in late 2025. The upgrades will also prioritize accessibility, with the introduction of an elevator and more automatic doors throughout the building and outdoor WildWoods area.
The renovations are centered on improving how visitors interact with science, nature, and human culture. Fernbank Museum, located in Druid Hills, originally opened its doors in 1992 and has remained committed to educating and entertaining visitors since its inception.
Funding for this extensive initiative comes from significant contributions from various organizations, including The Gary W. Rollins Foundation, the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation, and over 80 additional supporters, several of whom have donated $1 million or more.
The transformation of Fernbank Museum marks a significant investment in cultural education and aims to enhance the experience for all who visit, making the museum a more engaging and informative space for the community and beyond.
Key Features of the Renovation
- $27 million capital campaign for renovations
- Signature exhibition: “Changing Earth”
- Interactive exhibits like Tectonic Dashboard and Tree of Life
- New temporary gallery opening in 2027
- Orkin Discovery Zone set to open in 2026
- Redesigned Star Gallery: “Our Place in the Cosmos,” expected late 2025
- Accessibility improvements including elevators and automatic doors
FAQ Section
What is the total investment for the renovation at Fernbank Museum?
The transformation is made possible by a $27 million capital campaign.
When was the last major renovation at the Fernbank Museum?
This is the museum’s first major renovation in over 30 years.
What new exhibits will be introduced during the renovation?
New exhibits and learning spaces will be introduced across the museum’s 120-acre campus, including a signature exhibition titled “Changing Earth.”
What are some highlights of the “Changing Earth” exhibit?
Highlights include the “Tectonic Dashboard,” allowing guests to move Earth’s plates; the “Tree of Life,” an interactive experience to explore biodiversity; and the “Rollins Rotunda,” featuring an immersive media experience detailing the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
What is the Orkin Discovery Zone?
The “Orkin Discovery Zone” is a hands-on science learning space set to open in 2026, featuring opportunities for guests of all ages to engage as scientists.
How will accessibility be improved in the museum?
Accessibility improvements will include the addition of an elevator and more automatic doors throughout the building and the WildWoods outdoor nature area.
When will the renovations be completed?
The renovations will be unveiled in phases from late 2025 through 2027.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description | Expected Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Fernbank Museum Renovation | $27 million capital campaign | Ongoing |
| Changing Earth Exhibit | Real specimens, immersive media, interactive features | 2025 |
| New Temporary Gallery | Rotating exhibits on natural history themes | 2027 |
| Orkin Discovery Zone | Hands-on science learning space | 2026 |
| Star Gallery Redesign | Cinematic storytelling about the universe | Late 2025 |
| Accessibility Improvements | Elevator and automatic doors | Ongoing |
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Additional Resources
- Mommy Poppins: Fernbank Museum Transformation
- Wikipedia: Fernbank Museum of Natural History
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Fernbank Museum Expansion
- Google Search: Fernbank Museum expansion
- Fox 5 Atlanta: $27M Expansion Announcement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fernbank Museum of Natural History
- The Atlanta 100: Fernbank Museum Renovation
- Google News: Fernbank Museum renovation
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
