As a lifelong student of both the Bible and science, I have found that the deeper we explore the natural world, the more clearly we see the fingerprints of our Creator. That conviction is not just something I speak about on television —it is a vision my team and I have worked to make a tangible, immersive, and unforgettable experience for families at the Wonders Center & Science Museum in Dickson, Tenn.
The Wonders Center, located just outside of Nashville, Tenn, was founded with one clear purpose: to present real, cutting-edge science through a biblical, design-based, creation worldview. In a culture where faith and science are often portrayed as adversaries, I sought to create a place where guests could see that the Bible is not contradicted by science but consistently affirmed by it.
When families walk through the doors of the Wonders Center, they immediately step into an environment that inspires curiosity, awe, and worship. The Wonders Center is a dynamic, hands-on science experience designed to engage all ages. From interactive exhibits to immersive presentations, everything points to the truth that God is the ultimate engineer, designer, and Creator.
One of the highlights of the museum is our state-of-the-art planetarium, ranked among the top ten in the world. Sitting beneath that dome, watching the vastness of the universe unfold, I am always reminded of Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God.” Whether we are exploring distant galaxies, the precision of planetary motion, or the fine-tuned laws that govern the cosmos, the message is unmistakable that this universe is not an accident.
Another cornerstone of the Wonders Center is our focus on origins science. Guests can explore compelling evidence related to dinosaurs, fossils, geology, and the age of the Earth. We address fascinating discoveries, such as dinosaur soft tissue, which have reshaped scientific discussions worldwide and raised important questions about long-held assumptions.
My own journey into science began at a young age, first by discovering fossils in my backyard, and later, as a teenager, by photographing the Great Orion Nebula through my telescope. Those early experiences ignited a passion that has guided my life’s work, from astrophysics research to studying the Dead Sea Scrolls. At the Wonders Center, I see that same spark ignited in young visitors every day. Children who once thought science was boring suddenly can’t stop asking questions. Parents leave encouraged, equipped, and often deeply moved.
What makes the Wonders Center especially meaningful to me is that it is designed for families. In today’s world, parents are increasingly concerned about the messages their children receive about truth, identity, and purpose. The Wonders Center provides a safe, intellectually honest place where families can learn together and where faith is strengthened, not undermined.
One of our newest and most exciting additions is The Wonders of Africa exhibit, an immersive experience where guests journey across one of the most diverse and awe-inspiring continents on Earth. This exhibit highlights Africa’s remarkable design and biodiversity and is both educational and deeply inspiring, reminding us that every corner of the world reflects the glory of its Creator.
The museum is also closely connected with our Genesis Science Network, a 24/7 free, international platform dedicated to exploring scientific discovery through the lens of Scripture. Many families who visit the museum later continue their learning at home through our television programs, podcasts, and other resources, including my newest book, 21 Verses Backed by Science, extending the impact far beyond a single visit.
Ultimately, the Wonders Center is about more than science exhibits. The museum is about Changing the Narrative – also the name of my podcast available on YouTube. When rightly understood, science becomes a powerful testimony to God’s truth and the reliability of God’s Word.
If you are looking for an experience that will educate, inspire, and spiritually encourage your family, I invite you to visit the Wonders Center & Science Museum. Come explore the marvels of creation, ask the big questions, and rediscover the wonder that points us back to the Creator Himself. In addition, I love that we have a creative God, who also gave us the gift of creativity. If you have an interest in the creative expression of film, TV, or music, please join me for the Film in Motion Summit 2026 industry event taking place on February 16, 2026, at the Wonders Center & Science Museum. The Summit includes networking opportunities, expert-led workshops, panel discussions, keynote sessions, lunch, and behind-the-scenes tours of TV and audio studios, access to museum exhibits and special experiences, such as a state-of-the-art planetarium show.
You can learn more or plan your visit at WondersCenter.org. It would be an honor to welcome your family. Also, please look for my monthly articles in NCF this year, where I will be sharing cutting-edge scientific discoveries, and how they can help deepen our faith in the Lord.
You can plan your visit and learn more about other upcoming events, such as our Astronomy Day and Star Gazing Party, March 5th at WondersCenter.org. It would be an honor to welcome your family. Also, please look for my monthly articles in NCF this year, where I will be sharing cutting-edge scientific discoveries, and how they can help deepen our faith in the Lord.
—David Rives is one of the world’s leading experts on the relationship between science and the Bible. He serves as the Director and Founder of the Wonders Center & Science Museum. He is also a television host, author, and the founder of the Genesis Science Network.
