Step into America’s atomic history with a guided bus tour at the American Museum of Science and Energy. Discover key Cold War sites and see the world’s fastest supercomputer—an adventure rich in science and stories. Ready to walk through the corridors of history and innovation? Keep reading to learn more about this compelling experience in Oak Ridge.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most guests, no special fitness required
Wildlife
History
Oak Ridge was established in the 1940s as a secret city during the Manhattan Project, and remains a center of nuclear science and research.
Conservation
The area balances research with sustainability efforts, including environmental safeguards at key sites.
American Museum of Science and Energy
Step into America’s atomic history with a guided bus tour at the American Museum of Science and Energy. Discover key Cold War sites and see the world’s fastest supercomputer—an adventure rich in science and stories. Ready to walk through the corridors of history and innovation? Keep reading to learn more about this compelling experience in Oak Ridge.
American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge, Tennessee preserves and interprets the scientific and historical legacy of the Manhattan Project and the Atomic Age. The museum offers educational experiences and guided trips that connect visitors with key sites in Oak Ridge, including the Department of Energy (DOE) Public Bus Tour.
The DOE Public Bus Tour is a 3.5-hour guided route that visits the Y-12 New Hope Center, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the K-25 History Center. On the tour, passengers explore Manhattan Project sites and view the world’s fastest supercomputer located in Oak Ridge, gaining context about scientific achievements and wartime history.
Programming at the museum emphasizes factual interpretation and site-based learning. Staff and partners provide historical context for the Atomic Age through site visits and narrated stops on the public bus tour. Educational materials and on-site signage support visitor understanding of complex scientific and historical topics.
The American Museum of Science and Energy serves a broad audience, including history enthusiasts, students, and science-minded travelers seeking a deeper look at Oak Ridge’s role in national history. Ticketed tours, including the DOE Public Bus Tour, offer structured access to facilities and landmarks that are not always open to casual visitors.
As a destination in Oak Ridge, the museum connects modern science and energy themes with preserved historical sites, helping visitors interpret how laboratory research, wartime production, and technological innovation shaped the region. Public programming supports learning about energy science, technology, and the region's wartime industrial heritage for all visitors.
Location
Oak Ridge, TN
Easy access to Manhattan Project sites
Tour Length
3.5 hours
Detailed DOE Public Bus Tour
Featured Sites
Y-12 • ORNL • K-25
Historic Manhattan Project landmarks
Highlights
Supercomputer viewing
See the world’s fastest supercomputer
Reserve the 3.5-hour DOE Public Bus Tour to visit Y-12, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the K-25 History Center
Dress comfortably and be prepared for indoor visits
The tour includes museum visits and walking at some sites, so wear comfortable shoes and bring layers in case of temperature changes.
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons
Spaces are limited, so scheduling ahead ensures availability for this popular tour.
Bring a camera or smartphone for photos
Capture the historic sites and modern science displays—photography is encouraged at designated areas.
Bring a water bottle and snacks for comfort
While the tour itself is planned, staying hydrated and energized is recommended for a comfortable experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking at various sites and standing during museum visits.
Layered clothing
Indoor and outdoor areas may vary in temperature, so dressing in layers is advisable.
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable moments at historic and modern science displays.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour to keep energy levels high.