.png)
In 2025, the Museum welcomed nearly 287,000 children and families, including 32,000+ guests through free and subsidized admission, and connected with more than 49,000 students through Museum visits and outreach programs.
The year’s celebrations included Day of Play and an Open House, two events that reflected how far we have come and the momentum we are building for the future.
See how the Museum’s programs and events are shaping a community where every child can learn, grow, and thrive—read the full 2025 Impact Report.
Creative Discovery Museum extends learning far beyond its walls, partnering with schools and educators to bring hands-on discovery to students across the region!
During the 2024–2025 school year, the Museum reached 49,165 students, including 16,815 students who visited the Museum for interactive school tours and 32,350 students who experienced hands-on outreach lessons in their classrooms and communities.
More than half of the schools served were Title I, ensuring access to meaningful learning opportunities for students who might otherwise miss them.
From kindergarten readiness programs and arts-focused field trips to teacher professional development and classroom STEAM support, these partnerships help spark curiosity for children across our region.
.png)
Did you know Creative Discovery Museum has an entire team of certified teachers who take the joy of hands-on, interactive learning out of the Museum and into classrooms around the region? Through our Outreach department, schools in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina (and beyond through our distance learning lessons) experience STEAM-based lessons in their classrooms that align to their curriculum. Schools also come to CDM for exciting field trips that ignite a spark for learning. By collaborating with educators and school districts, CDM helps bridge the gap between formal and informal education, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to explore, innovate, create, and play.
STUDENTS
Did you know Creative Discovery Museum has a teen volunteer program with over 60 participants? Volunteers are at the heart of Creative Discovery Museum, enriching experiences for visitors while gaining valuable skills and connections. Our Museum Apprentice Program (MAP) empowers teenagers to be leaders through hands-on learning and mentorship, while adult volunteers—both individuals and groups—support exhibits, events, and educational programs that inspire curiosity and creativity. Together, these dedicated volunteers make a lasting impact by fostering a welcoming, engaging environment for all children and families.
VOLUNTEERS-65.jpg)
Did you know Creative Discovery Museum participates in the Museums for All program, offering discounted admission and membership to ensure all children and families can experience the power of play? Through access programs like Free Family Night, subsidized admission and membership, and community partnerships, CDM breaks down financial barriers so every family can make memories at the Museum. By making hands-on learning accessible to all, CDM fosters a more inclusive, engaged, and curious community.
ACCESS
Did you know Creative Discovery Museum offers specialized programs to ensure all children can learn and play in a way that meets their unique needs? From our after-hours drop-off playtime Club Discovery to Friends' Discovery summer camp that brings Big Buddies from UTC to support campers, CDM creates welcoming experiences for children of all abilities to enjoy the Museum. In addition, we provide sensory bags to any guest for any visit to the Museum, empowering every guest to explore, connect, and discover in a supportive and accessible environment.
