Creative Discovery Museum — Attraction in Chattanooga

Had a blast with my Son. A few FYI'S IF YOU ARE VISITING IN SPRING/SUMMER 2022. They are currently renovating the upper level and the tower part of the museum. With only the 1st floor available to us, it didn't take long to get through the attraction. They just finished renovating the 1st floor water works area and it was really cool. They did a good job and my son loved it. After we finished the tour (self-guided), we went back to the beginning and he played there for another 30-40 mins.The tickets were reduced by a couple dollars for both adult and kids to reflect the attraction only being half open. The 2nd floor should be done in June or July; so the entire attraction should be open late summer. Make sure to visit their website or call them to check for the grand re-opening date.

PARKING - OMG. I came in from Riverfront Pkwy and turned onto Chestnut St. and didn't see any signs of where to park. Google maps was no help, it just told me (as I was right next to the C.D.M. building that I had arrived at my destination. I remember reading on the website that parking was a available behind the building. I took the next turn onto 4th street and missed the small side street entrance to the parking lot behind the building. The side street located BEFORE you get the the C.D.M. building. (I didn't take the interstate all the way there, I came in from Riverfront parkway.) As I turned onto forth street, I saw the parking lot that I missed and was now headed up the hill and towards the I interstate going away from the downtown area. Thank goodness there was a stop light at the top of the hill before you turn back onto the interstate. I had to bust a u-y and back down 4th Street and I took the a right at the next light back onto Chestnut Street. I was then able to locate the side street and the parking lot entrance. FYI - you have to pay to park. I spent maybe 4 or 5 bucks for 2.5 or 3 hour parking. It's a freestanding kiosk a at the lot entrance. I'm not 100 % sure if it took cash, but it does take all major cards and pre-paid cards as long as it has a Visa, American Express, or MC logo. The entrance into the C.D.M. is at the front of the building. We had to ask someone where the door into the building was located. It was kind of a mess and confusing with all the construction workers and their vehicles next to the back of the building. A nice man who was waiting to go to lunch with his wife (who worked there), told us there was a small alley way (which was blocked from our view) around the construction trucks and beside the dumpster. It was easy to miss and kind of like a maze but we found it!

Hopefully that cleared up any questions or will help someone else with the same issues I came across on our adventure...

This place is absolutely amazing. I remember going to this place when I was a 10yr old kid and it was amazing then and honestly, as an adult with kids aged 1-9yrs old.....🤯 mind blown. Honestly, this place is so cool that I probably would have had a blast even if I had gone alone as an adult😂. I love that you can climb through everything with your kids and that absolutely everything is hands on. My one and only complaint (if you can call it that) about this place is that the tickets are timed so they were only from 10-1pm... that's not nearly enough time to see & do everything you can or want to. My oldest was never bored for a minute and they have an area just for 4yr and under (with a special area for 18mo and under). I appreciate that they have "family rooms" with doors, chairs, and books set up throughout the museum for anyone who needs a private quiet area to settle their child (or nurse in private). This is also one of the children's museums that offers discounted tickets for families on food stamps(with snap/ebt card...from any state) which is awesome. 10/10 HIGHLY recommend. We will be returning soon! ☆fyi DONT MISS THE PARKING KIOSK...you have to get out and pay for a ticket to park from an unmanned kiosk that is somehow both easy to miss and hard to miss once you get a $31 ticket and do see it. ☆Bring snacks,drinks, etc...snack bar/cafe was closed (assuming due to covid), h2o fountains are all shut off (obviously) and the vending machine only...

The Creative Discovery Museum is a phenomenal destination that perfectly blends learning and fun for kids. Our recent visit was an unforgettable experience, with a plethora of engaging activities tailored to diverse interests. The museum seamlessly integrates art, music, science and interactive exhibits, allowing children to explore and discover. From hands-on art studios where kids can paint and express their creativity to interactive musical instruments and theatre performances, every moment was filled with excitement. Science experiments illustrating Newton's laws and various energy forms further sparked curiosity. We particularly enjoyed the baking class where we made an Orange Pelanto cake, following a recipe and having a blast together.

The staff were exceptionally polite, helpful and enthusiastic, ensuring a warm welcome. Clean amenities, including toilets and water fountains, added to our comfort. Convenient facilities like stroller parking and pay-and-park parking right outside made our visit hassle-free.

What impressed me the most was the museum's ability to engage children in learning through play, encouraging curiosity, creativity and imagination. With its engaging exhibits, friendly staff, clean facilities and diverse activities, the Creative Discovery Museum is a must-visit for families seeking education, entertainment and inspiration. I highly recommend it and look forward to returning to explore...