Museum staff pose together under the UnEarthed T. rex skeleton.
That has been the mission since 1995. Play is the work of childhood, and this is where Chattanooga does it.
The idea started in 1989 at the Hunter Museum of American Art, grew into an independent children’s museum, and opened downtown in 1995 as part of the city’s riverfront revival. Since then: the Science Theater in 2004, RiverPlay and Buzz Alley with the 21st Century Waterfront in 2005, six national awards from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the first Museums for All partner in Tennessee, and KultureCity sensory-inclusive certification in 2019. In 2025 we threw a block party for our 30th birthday and 2,000 people came.
Our vision: to make our community the best place for every child to grow up.
Belonging
A place where all are accepted. We are here for everybody, and we mean everybody.
Exceptional service
Memorable experiences for children and families through service that exceeds expectations, starting with how staff and volunteers serve each other.
Potential
Learning happens when potential is realized, celebrated and nurtured. We provide the sparks.
Relationships
Our work is interacting with children and families, partnering with the community, and camaraderie among staff.
Respect
Respect for our values, our exhibits and each other makes this a safe space for all.
We value the diversity, inclusivity, well-being and education of our visitors, staff and volunteers, and respect all backgrounds, beliefs and diversity as it relates to age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, socio-economics and family structure.
