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Drink and Discover at the Creative Discovery Museum: Chattanooga's Best Adults-Only Night Out

If you’ve ever wandered through the Creative Discovery Museum with your kids and secretly thought, “This place would be even more fun with a cocktail in hand,” you’re not alone — and that’s exactly what “Drink and Discover” is all about. A few times a year, the museum transforms into a 21+ evening event, where grown-ups get the rare chance to explore, experiment, and relive the magic of childhood, with the bonus of drinks, music, and food. Whether you’re heading there with your partner, your coworkers, or just a friend who’s down for a fun night, this is one of Chattanooga’s best under-the-radar experiences for adults.

The Experience

“Drink and Discover” is exactly what it sounds like: you drink, and you discover. All the core exhibits at the Creative Discovery Museum stay open for the night, giving you access to science experiments, art stations, giant musical instruments, and the famous rooftop play area—all without the kids. There’s usually a loose seasonal theme, photo ops, and activities tailored for adults, like beer tastings, food vendors, trivia games, or themed crafts.

The vibe is playful and laid-back. Think less "nightclub" and more "field trip for adults." People come in groups or on casual dates, meandering from floor to floor, chatting over beers while shooting air cannons or building marble runs. It’s a social, low-pressure event where you can actually talk, laugh, and let your inner kid roam free.

What to Know Before You Go

Next Event: The next “Drink and Discover” is scheduled for Thursday, October 24.

Time: Most events run from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Occasionally, they may have extended hours for seasonal themes—check the museum’s website for confirmed details.

Location: Creative Discovery Museum, 321 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Tickets: Admission usually costs around $20-$25 per person, and includes access to all exhibits and activities. Drink tickets and food are typically available for purchase on-site.

Age Requirement: This is a 21+ event. IDs checked at the door.

Parking: There’s a paid lot directly across from the museum, and additional parking garages along Broad Street and near the Tennessee Aquarium. Plan a few extra minutes to park, especially for evening events downtown.

Tickets and more details: Visit cdmfun.org or check their Events tab for up-to-date ticket sales and info.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Come hungry: There is usually a rotating lineup of local food trucks or small bites for sale.

- Dress comfortably: You’ll be moving around, climbing stairs, and possibly crawling through tunnels (yes, really). Sneakers and casual wear are totally welcome.

- Make a night of it: The museum is just steps from downtown bars like Unknown Caller or Matilda Midnight if you want to keep the evening going. Or walk over to Easy Bistro or Old Gilman Grill for a late bite post-event.

- Photo-ready fun: Don’t miss the rooftop garden for golden hour views of downtown. It’s one of the most fun spots for quirky group shots.

- Holiday highlights: Special themed versions of Drink and Discover, like the Halloween or Valentine’s edition, tend to sell out faster. Check their instagram page to see if there is a theme!

Final Thoughts

Drink and Discover is a refreshing twist on a night out in Chattanooga. It’s lighthearted, a bit nostalgic, and offers something totally different from the usual bar or concert scene. Perfect for couples, friend groups, or anyone curious about the Creative Discovery Museum without the usual kid-centric chaos. You’ll leave with a few laughs, maybe a fun craft or souvenir, and hopefully a new appreciation for just how fun playing can be—no matter your age.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Where to Find Some of the Best Birria in Tennessee: Hernandez Mexican Food in Pikeville

If you're up for a bit of a drive and a whole lot of flavor, Hernandez Mexican Food is a must-visit stop tucked away in Pikeville, TN—about 45 minutes from Chattanooga. This family-owned gem has developed a loyal following thanks to its bold, authentic flavors, generous portions, and an unexpectedly charming setting in a small mountain town. Whether you're searching for true birria tacos, flavorful al pastor, or some of the best fruit juices around, this spot is worth putting on your food radar.

The Experience

From the moment you walk up to Hernandez Mexican Food, the vibes are casual and welcoming. The stand-alone building is simple and unassuming, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, the kitchen is turning out some seriously flavorful dishes rooted in Mexican tradition, with a personal twist that comes from real attention to ingredients.

Birria tacos are the star of the show—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and served with a rich, savory consommé for dipping. Say yes to the combo plate or taco trio if you’re hungry—you’ll want more than just one. If you're not into birria (though you might become a convert), the al pastor tacos are a zesty, well-balanced alternative. For something comfort-food level indulgent, go for the BBQ carnitas fries—think loaded fries but with a smoky, tangy twist, piled high with melted cheese and seasoned pork.

What makes Hernandez really special is the use of local ingredients. It’s not just comforting food—it’s fresh and thoughtfully prepared. There's also a solid breakfast menu, with options like chilaquiles and breakfast burritos served from 8 a.m., perfect if you’re heading out for an early hike at nearby Fall Creek Falls and want to fuel up.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
Hernandez Mexican Food is located at 48288 TN-30, Pikeville, TN 37367. It’s an easy drive from Chattanooga with scenic views along the way.

Hours:
They’re open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.
Note: They’re right on the edge of the time zone line but operate on Eastern Time—something to keep in mind if you’re cutting it close on arrival.

Seating:
There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, and while it’s casual, there’s usually a steady stream of locals and out-of-towners stopping in for a meal.

Parking:
There’s a small parking lot in front, and street-side shoulder parking nearby if it’s full.


Pricing:
Very reasonable for the quality and quantity you're getting. Most tacos range around $3–4 each, with combo plates and bigger items priced accordingly.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

Right behind the restaurant is Ciscos Fruteria, a fruit-focused dessert stand that’s perfect for rounding out your visit. They serve real fruit smoothies and colorful “antojitos” like fresas con crema (Mexican strawberries and cream) and mangonadas. It’s an easy one-two punch for a summery food crawl, and especially good on a warm day.

If you’re already making the trip out, consider pairing your meal with a visit to Fall Creek Falls State Park—it’s only about 30 minutes away and makes for a great full-day outing. Combine waterfall hikes, swimming spots, and lunch or dinner at Hernandez for the ultimate Chattanooga-area adventure.

Final Thoughts

Hernandez Mexican Food is one of those rare finds that feels like a local secret but delivers destination-worthy flavor. Whether you're hunting down the best birria in Tennessee or just want a new spot to shake up your weekend food plans, this place is a solid bet. Friendly, fast service, bold flavors, and a tinge of small-town charm make it a spot that hits all the right notes.

Families, couples, food lovers, and Fall Creek Falls visitors—this one's a great fit for all of you.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Chattanooga Family Villa: A Spacious, Secluded Stay for Groups Near the City and the Mountains

If you're planning a group getaway to the Chattanooga area and need a space that comfortably fits everyone — without compromising on style or location — the Chattanooga Family Villa deserves a top spot on your list. Tucked in North Georgia, just 15 miles from downtown Chattanooga and Cloudland Canyon State Park, this newly built vacation rental is designed with large groups in mind.

Whether it's a bachelorette/bachelor weekend, family reunion, friends’ trip, or even a corporate retreat, this private lodge-style home blends convenience with the peacefulness of the mountains. And thanks to thoughtful amenities like a hot tub, game room, and oversized gathering areas, it's more than just a place to sleep — it's a place to stay in and truly enjoy.

The Experience

Driving up to the Chattanooga Family Villa feels like arriving at a private mountainside lodge. The home sits on a secluded wooded lot, creating an instant sense of calm. Inside, the villa is spacious, modern, and filled with natural light. With room for up to 23 guests, the house has seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, offering a mix of king suites, queen setups, and bunk bed nooks that are great for kids or group sharing.

The main floor features a gourmet-style kitchen stocked for cooking meals at home — a big plus for longer group stays. A large dining space and cozy living room give everyone room to eat and hang out together. From the back porch, you'll find a private hot tub under the stars and nature views in every direction.

Upstairs and downstairs are bonus hangout spots, including a separate den and a game area — perfect if you’ve got a wide age range or just want to spread out. The master bedroom on the main floor has its own shower and in-room Jacuzzi tub, which feels like a mini spa moment built right in.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: The Chattanooga Family Villa is located in Rising Fawn, Georgia — about 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, 20 minutes from Cloudland Canyon State Park, and an easy drive to Lookout Mountain attractions. It's secluded, but not isolated.

Booking: You can reserve directly via the iTrip Vacations Chattanooga site or through Airbnb and VRBO listings curated by @chattfamilyvilla. Book early for peak seasons like fall and summer.

Parking: Plenty of on-site parking is available, which is especially helpful for big groups arriving in multiple cars.

Pricing: Rates vary by season and group size.

Check-in/out: Check-in is typically mid-afternoon, with check-out in the morning. Exact times are shared upon booking confirmation.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Cloudland Canyon State Park is only 15 miles away — if you’ve never been, it’s one of North Georgia’s most stunning parks with waterfall hikes, overlooks, and even cave tours. Plan a half day to explore, especially in fall.
- For meals out, check out Lookout Mountain Pizza Company or drive into Chattanooga for casual group-friendly spots like Community Pie or Basecamp Bar & Restaurant.
- Celebrating something? The villa allows decorations and pre-approved small events with notice. Contact @chattfamilyvilla for more info
- Plan ahead with groceries — while the villa is fully equipped for cooking, the closest large grocery stores are in Trenton, GA or Chattanooga proper.

Final Thoughts

The Chattanooga Family Villa hits a sweet spot: far enough from the city to feel like a retreat, but close enough to make day trips easy and accessible. With its space, comfort, and thoughtful layout, it’s ideal for big families, friend groups, or even couples' getaways that need lots of room and privacy. Plus, the surrounding nature puts you right between two of the region’s best highlights — Chattanooga’s unbeatable charm and the outdoorsy magic of Cloudland Canyon.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!