Creative Discovery Museum is a pioneering leader, igniting children's passion for learning through play. From Chattanooga to nationwide outreach, we engage the senses and inspire exploration.
To inspire all children to explore, innovate, create, and play.
To make our community the best place for every child to grow up.
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CDM is a place where all are accepted and belong. We are here for everybody. And we mean everybody.
We go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for children and families through service that exceeds expectations. Exceptional service begins with staff and volunteers serving each other.
Learning and growth take place when a person's potential is realized, celebrated, and nurtured. We provide the sparks that help people discover their potential.
Our work is done through interacting with children and families, collaborating and partnering with the community, and developing camaraderie with staff. Meaningful moments lead to meaningful relationships.
We expect staff, guests, and volunteers to respect our values, our environment, our exhibits, and more importantly, to treat each other with kindness. Through respect, we create a safe space for all.
Research has long proven that play is the work of childhood. Through play, children gain mental, physical, and social skills necessary to succeed in their adult lives. CDM is a nonprofit organization, prime tourist attraction, the region’s expert in experiential learning and a vital educational resource collaborating with community partners across our region.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR IMPACTIn 2025, we celebrated our 30th birthday with a block party bash that brought the Museum out onto the street for everyone to enjoy!
Thank you to our presenting sponsor, PlayCore, and additional sponsors Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union and Vision Hospitality!
For 30 years, Creative Discovery Museum has been a place where exploration ignites wonder and learning. Our exhibits and programs have inspired generations to investigate the world around them, fostering curiosity and a lifelong love of discovery.
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At Creative Discovery Museum, play is the gateway to discovery, sparking curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning through hands-on, interactive experiences for all ages.
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Innovation drives our mission to inspire curiosity and creativity. Through forward-thinking exhibits, programs, and partnerships, we reimagine how children and families engage with the world, fostering new ways to learn, play, and grow together.
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Creativity empowers children and families to dream, design, and build a better world. By nurturing imagination and inspiring innovation, we are creating a lasting legacy of exploration, play, and discovery that will spark curiosity and joy for generations to come.
Creating a legacy