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!
Creative Discovery Museum Turns Into the Most Fun 21+ Night Out Every Few Months
Suggested Blogs
Westbound Honky Tonk- Party with Southern Flair
Westbound Honky Tonk: Chattanooga’s High-Energy Event Space with Southern Flair
If you’re looking for a lively, genuinely fun venue for your next celebration, Westbound Honky Tonk on Station Street might just hit the mark. This isn’t your typical country bar — it’s a high-energy blend of Southern charm and nightclub excitement, perfect for private parties like bachelorettes, birthdays, or just a big night out with friends. Whether you're dancing the night away during their regular hours or renting the entire space for a private event, Westbound knows how to throw a party.
The Experience
From the outside, Westbound fits right in with its neighbors on the always-buzzing Station Street in downtown Chattanooga's Southside. Inside, the venue is upbeat, comfortable, and surprisingly versatile. Neon signs, rustic touches, and a large dance floor give it that honky-tonk feel, but don’t let the name fool you — the music leans much broader than just country.
If you come during regular hours (usually Thursday through Saturday), expect a packed schedule of themed nights, DJs playing crowd favorites, and a genuinely fun-loving vibe. Thursdays are all about line dancing — complete with instructors to help you learn the steps — while weekends often feature a DJ spinning everything from throwback hits to pop, country, and hip-hop.
Private event rentals, though, are where Westbound really shines. You get the place entirely to yourself — the dance floor, DJ, bartenders, and more are all yours. Whether it’s a bachelorette party or a company celebration, the ability to customize the music, décor, and vibe gives your event a personalized, memorable twist.
What to Know Before You Go
Address:
24 Station St #106, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Hours:
Typically open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, although exact times vary. Thursdays usually feature line dancing.
Event Rental Details:
- Private rentals start at $500 for a Friday or Saturday night.
- Includes exclusive venue access, your own DJ, and bartending staff.
- Weeknight pricing is often lower — but check with the venue directly for the latest rates.
- Add-ons available include a photo booth with props, table décor, and more.
For the latest event schedules and operating hours, follow @westboundhonkytonk on Instagram.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Westbound is in the heart of the Southside — an easy walk to other fun spots like STIR, Terminal Brewhouse, and American Draft if you're planning a night of bar-hopping.
- There's a popular photo op near the Station Street railroad tracks — great for snapping some fun group photos before or after your event.
- Line dancing nights on Thursdays are a great low-key way to check out the space before booking a private event.
- Parking in the area can be tight on weekends. Look for nearby paid lots or use a rideshare if you're traveling with a group.
Final Thoughts
Westbound Honky Tonk offers something a little different for Chattanooga party-goers — a mix of spirited nightlife with just the right amount of Southern warmth. It’s a great pick for locals planning a celebration, weekend groups visiting town, or anyone who wants to dance without worrying about pretension or overcrowding. If your ideal event involves your favorite songs, festive cocktails, and a private dance floor, Westbound delivers.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Discovering Chattanooga: Sunday Market Adventures and Local Finds at the First Horizon Pavilion
Chattanooga Market: Your Sunday Essential for Local Love
Ah, Sundays in Chattanooga. There's something incredibly satisfying about spending a relaxing day supporting local vendors, soaking up the warm community vibes, and strolling through an eclectic array of booths filled with unique treasures. Enter the Chattanooga Market, an absolute must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the heartbeat of our local culture.
The Experience
Nestled under the roof of the First Horizon Pavilion, the Chattanooga Market burst to life every Sunday starting in April continuing through December, offering a dazzling showcase of local talent and craftsmanship. Picture this: rows of vibrant flowers, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread, and the soft strumming of a local musician filling the air with life. This beloved weekly tradition marries commerce and community, offering an experience that is both sensory and social.
Whether you're a seasoned Sunday shopper or a curious newcomer, the market offers something for everyone. Have a wander through hundreds of vendor stalls, where you'll find everything from homemade jams and sauces to artisanal soaps and handcrafted jewelry. Hungry? The market’s food trucks, as seen in this video, features a smorgasbord of street foods that cater to every palate—don't miss out on trying some local favorites.
Designed to support local businesses and farmers, the Chattanooga Market is more than just a shopping trip; it's an immersion into the authentic spirit of our city. With live music providing a delightful backdrop, grab a bite, discover unique finds, and maybe even pick up a new plant friend or two.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Location: First Horizon Pavilion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37408.
- Schedule: Open every Sunday from April through December. Check out the Market website for themes: https://www.chattanoogamarket.com/
- Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
- Parking: Paid parking is available at just about a dollar an hour right next to the pavilion.
- Admission: Free! Enjoy browsing and soaking up the atmosphere without any entry fee.
Shayna's Favorites:
I (Shayna) have made it a Sunday tradition to stop by the market after church. It's such a great way to support Chattanooga small businesses and grab great products! My favorite booth is the 2 older ladies who set up right in the middle of the market and sell unique earrings on playing cards. I have gotten dozens of unique earrings from their booths over the years (drum earrings, star earrings, coca-cola earrings, candy earrings, boba earrings- you name it!) I also almost always grab a frozen lemonade (there's typically a booth at both the front entrance and back by the stage!)
Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Chattanooga Market is perfect for families looking for a leisurely outing, couples seeking a unique date spot, or tourists wanting to capture the essence of our city, this market welcomes everyone with open arms and endless charm!
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Statemint Chattanooga Returns: Ultimate Local Thrifting
StateMint Sale in Chattanooga: Your Guide to Affordable, Stylish & Sustainable Shopping
If you love thrifting and the thrill of scoring designer deals, you’ll want to make room in your calendar for the StateMint Sale in Chattanooga. Held a few times a year and back this August in an even bigger space, this multi-day shopping event is one of the best spots in town to pick up gently-loved (and sometimes brand-new!) clothing, shoes, and accessories—all at a fraction of retail prices.
Why visit? In short: brands you love, prices you’ll like even more, and a setup that makes secondhand shopping feel easy and even enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to support a more circular (and budget-friendly) fashion cycle in our community.
The Experience
StateMint isn’t your typical consignment store—it’s a pop-up consignment event that turns a large venue into a highly organized shopper’s dream. When you walk into Restoration Southside (a venue often used for weddings and events), you’ll find neatly categorized racks of women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and even athletic wear. Expect styles from modern staples like Lululemon, Madewell, Free People, Nike, Anthropologie, and boutique brands, as well as some well-kept designer finds sprinkled in. Sizes for women typically range from XS up to 4XL, with a solid variety for men as well.
Volunteers and staff keep things running smoothly, with dressing rooms, helpful signage, and plenty of space to browse without that cramped, chaotic feeling. You can easily spend an hour (or three) looking through the organized racks of clothing and accessories. If you're shopping early in the day, the coffee truck parked outside makes it an extra pleasant experience—grab a latte before diving in.
What to Know Before You Go
Dates: August 5–9, 2024
Location: Restoration Southside, 3146 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Hours:
- Monday through Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM (Half-Off Day — many items marked down!)
Admission: FREE
Note: A ticketed charity pre-sale typically happens the evening before the public sale starts. Keep an eye on @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for updates on how to get early access next time.
Parking: Free parking is available at the venue, but it can fill up quickly on busy days. Carpooling or arriving early can help avoid a long walk.
Payments: Most shoppers pay via credit/debit, and while some consignors accept Venmo, not all do—so it’s best to bring a credit card.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Bring a shopping bag or tote to carry your haul—StateMint doesn’t provide bags.
- Half-Off Day (Saturday) is a great chance to scoop up your favorites at an additional discount if they’re still around.
- Follow @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for sneak peeks of standout pieces, seller spotlights, and reminders during sale week.
If you’re coming from out of town or making a day of it, consider grabbing lunch nearby at a Southside favorite like Bluegrass Grill, Taqueria Jalisco, or Heaven & Ale for a post-shopping bite and a local beer.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re updating your wardrobe ahead of the new season, hunting for budget-friendly workout wear, or just love the hunt of a good deal, the StateMint Sale is definitely worth a visit. It’s well-run, community-focused, and way more fun than scrolling sale sections online. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy the curated selection and clean setup—and knowing they’re keeping stylish pieces in use a little longer.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!