Chattanooga is the seat of Hamilton County and the fourth-largest city in Tennessee. Lying along the beautiful Tennessee River and nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains to the southeast of the state, the city has earned its nickname “Scenic City” from the dramatic views surrounding it. Forget about its more famous siblings, Nashville and Memphis. Chattanooga is a city on the rise, thanks to its gorgeous scenery and bustling tech landscape, which attracts all generations.

Considered among the top places to visit in America, Chattanooga is the ultimate getaway for tourists, offering plenty of free activities to vacationing families, romantic travelers, and solo adventurers. The city boasts a revitalized riverfront scattered with attractions where guests can chill and enjoy the breathtaking views, a rich history highlighted by Civil War monuments, and thrilling adventures that make up some of the best things to do in Tennessee.

UPDATE: 2023/05/09 17:14 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Do In Chattanooga!

This article has been updated with five new locations to visit while in Chattanooga, fresh photos, and plenty of tips for a great Tennessee vacation. Whether someone wants to explore an underground cave, go camping, or even buy fresh food at the market, Chattanooga is the place to be!

Things To Do

There are endless things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Before booking the next flight to this magical destination, get acquainted with this ultimate guide for first-timers in Scenic City.

1 Look In Awe At Ruby Falls

One of the more unique things to see while in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is Ruby Falls. Here, tourists can explore what was accidentally discovered by Leo Lambert in 1928 deep within Lookout Mountain. This waterfall is breathtaking, providing a secret ecosystem within the mountain range.

The 145-foot waterfall is accompanied by guided tours and a gift shop, both of which visitors recommend experiencing. This attraction, although a learning opportunity, is a fun idea for families and anyone who loves rock formations and underground experiences.

• The hours for Ruby Falls, near Lookout Mountain, are expansive, as it's open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.

2 Explore Rock City Gardens

Another way to spend the day in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is to head over to Rock City Gardens. Here, visitors can enjoy the enchanted, 4,100-foot walking trail showcasing soaring rock formations, caves, and lush woodland vegetation. There are also 60 to 90-minute self-guided walking tours people can take through the 14-acre gardens.

• This may be the perfect way to spend 2–3 hours in the morning or early afternoon.

3 Raccoon Mountain Caverns And Campground

The next stop in Chattanooga is the Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground. This dreamy site features Tennessee's #1 'Thing To Do' according to TripAdvisor and is something for the entire group. On the premises, guests can expect to witness a cave as well as guided tours and camping opportunities inside the park.

Many past visitors have rated this attraction highly for its value and overall pricing, so if people want to camp and explore a cave: Raccoon Mountain is the place to be.

4 Head To The Chattanooga Market

For people who love to experience life in Chattanooga like a local, the Chattanooga Market is a great idea. Notably, the Chattanooga Market is the region's largest producer-only arts and crafts and farmers' market.

There are vendors from in-state and far beyond, all selling beautiful pieces of artwork, as well as freshly grown food.

The Chattanooga Market is open every Sunday from April to December.

5 See The Famed Chattanooga Choo Choo

Another quirky location in Chattanooga is the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Built-in 1908, this historic downtown inn was once the terminal station for the Southern Railway line, becoming a favorite among visitors and locals to the area.

The Chattanooga Choo Choo is still in operation, but as a hotel, offering nightly rates of $150-ish throughout the year.

6 Visit The Tennessee Aquarium

Marine life enthusiast or not, the Tennessee Aquarium is definitely worth a visit by all tourists in Chattanooga. The underwater haven harbors one of the richest collections of freshwater fauna in the region, with over 320 fish species calling it home.

The facility is divided into two buildings and features exhibits of amazing marine life, including larger-than-life and strange-looking Wallago Catfish, playful otters, and immaculate jellyfish.

The exhibits are realistic, displaying some of the rarest and most endangered species in their element.

Kids will have a fun time marveling at the rich underwater beings as adults learn a thing or two about marine life preservation.

• Admission: Adults $34.95, Kids (3 – 12) $21.95, kids (2 or under) free
• Hours: Monday (9 am – 5 pm), Tuesday – Friday (10 am – 5 pm), Saturday (9 am – 6 pm) Sunday (10 am -5 pm)

Related: 10 Free Activities To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennessee

7 Stroll In Tennessee Riverpark

Guests and locals converge at the Tennessee Riverpark during hot summers to cool off and enjoy the cool breeze from the mighty Tennessee River. This popular riverfront trail stretches 13 miles from Downtown to the Chickamauga Dam.

Surrounded by 150 acres of landscaped grounds, Riverpark offers dramatic river views and unique photo opportunities. Tourists can also indulge in various fun water activities in the area, including canoeing, angling, and boating. The trail is also lined with intimate art pieces with a chance to glimpse various water birds local to Chattanooga.

8 Explore Coolidge Park

This popular waterfront park is the perfect setting to simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Within it is another famous attraction, the Walnut Street Bridge, with spectacular views of the Tennessee River below.

The park forms a section of the Tennessee Riverwalk and features a century-old carousel that was restored to let kids enjoy riding on animals like tigers and horses. A rock climbing area and fountain in the park also help keep them busy with fun.

• Carouse hours: Monday to Thursday (11 am - 7 pm), Friday (11 am - 8 pm), Saturday (10 am - 8 pm, (Sunday 12 pm - 7 pm)

9 Lookout Mountain

This iconic mountain ridge in south Tennessee is an interesting getaway with plenty of attractions. The area provides dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, which embodies the aura of a “Scenic City.”

One of the go-to areas is Ruby Falls, a natural wonder with awesome cave waterfalls.

The magnificent site holds titles like the largest and deepest underground waterfall in the country. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes at Lookout Mountain Tower and snap Instagram-worthy pics.

• Admission: Free
• Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm daily

Visit early in the morning when the site has just opened to avoid the crowds and have a more comfortable experience.

10 Head To The Chattanooga Zoo

This is the perfect tour for visitors with kids or animal lovers. Also known as the “Best Little Zoo,” the Chattanooga Zoo allows guests to connect with animals up close, unlike the traditional peering-behind-the-glass found in an average zoo.

The 13-acre facility houses more than 200 species, with a good share of endangered animals. Most tourists are drawn to the Himalayan Passage, a popular section boasting the largest red panda exhibit in the world. They also get to marvel at chimpanzees at the Game Forest and snow leopards at the Hanuman Langurs display.

• Admission: Adults $10, Kids $7
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily

Related: Nashville, Tennessee: Your Essential Weekend Itinerary

11 Best Time To Visit Chattanooga

Chattanooga has four seasons, each bringing a distinct charm and making it a suitable destination year-round. Nevertheless, the best time to visit Nooga is from September to November. This marks the end of summer and ushers in cooler cozy temperatures suitable for exploring the stunning natural backdrop and enjoying the colorful fall foliage.

The crowds are also thinner after the summer peak, so tourists can dwell on lodging discounts. Also, popular events like the RiverRocks adventure festival in October bring a unique vibe to the city.

The busiest tourist season is summer (June to August), and warm-weather travelers descend on the city to take advantage of the 90-degree Fahrenheit temperatures. These conditions are perfect for indulging in water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on the Tennessee River.

Tourists should book flights and hotels months before the visit to avoid the hike in prices.

The worst season for most first-timers in Chattanooga is winter, when the weather is characterized by chilly temperatures falling below freezing, rain, and snow. On the bright side, annual events like the Holiday Trail Of Lights and Tennessee Valley Railroad's North Pole Limited help the city save face. Guests can stop by the Chattanooga Whiskey Co. for some locally-distilled whiskey to stave off the cold.

Related: Visit These 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Tennessee

Spring is also a nice time to tour Scenic City as the wildflowers bloom and the weather starts to warm up. This is a great opportunity to step out for a hike in the charming Audubon Acres Nature Sanctuary or the South Chickamauga Creek. Several parks around the city provide the perfect setting to enjoy the beautiful open spaces.

12 Best Ways To Get Around Chattanooga

Tourists have several means of exploring this awesome city.

Shuttle

In keeping up with River City’s environmental pedigree, the free electric shuttle service is the best way to move around the city. This conveniently passes through major attractions and points of interest in the city, including the Tennessee Aquarium and the Chattanooga Choo Choo.

The shuttle service comprises two routes: Northshore and Downtown, that take residents to various destinations.

• Northshore schedule: Monday to Friday (7 am – 7 pm), Saturday (10 am – 6 pm) every 15 minutes
• Downtown schedule: Monday to Friday (6:30 am – 11 pm, Saturday & Sunday (abbreviated hours) every 5 minutes

Public transportation

Alternatively, the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) offers an expanding bus network plying 19 routes from the north of the city to the Tennessee-Georgia border.

• Tickets: Adults $1.50, children (5 and under) free, 24-hour pass $6
• Schedule: Monday to Saturday (6 am – 8 pm)

Car

While Chattanooga is one of those cities where cars aren’t necessary for tourists, it never hurts to have a set of wheels to move around, especially when planning to visit the more distant attractions.

Numerous rental agencies at the Chattanooga airport and downtown, like National and Enterprise, allow travelers to hire a car upon arrival.

Guests will also find multiple parking lots spread across the city and more parking garages in the downtown district.

• Rental rates: Start from $45 per day

City street parking is generally charged by a meter, and the fees tend to add up quickly, so rent a car only when necessary.

Bike

Travelers who’d want to explore the city on two wheels can take advantage of Chattanooga’s bike-share program, which comprises 41 stations serving locals and tourists throughout the urban core.

Depending on the need, bikes are available for hire for different durations, and passes can be purchased with a credit card.

• Rental rates: 24-hour pass $8, 3-day pass $15, free rides under an hour

Taxi and rideshare

Scenic City also has different taxi companies, like Millennium Taxi, Mercury Cab, and Nooga Taxi, that will come in handy for visitors who aren’t sure of the popular sites in the city.

However, these must first be contacted via phone, which can be cumbersome for some.

Meanwhile, rideshare services like Lyft and Uber are accessible on phone apps as a cheaper alternative for getting around.

13 Where To Eat In Chattanooga

Nooga has a lively dining scene full of comfort dishes and diverse flavors. Many restaurants source their produce and ingredients locally from nearby farms, ensuring tourists enjoy fresh and healthy meals.

For breakfast:

Milk & Honey

Those with a sweet tooth can stop by this quaint coffee shop, famous for its sensational breakfast offerings like burritos and biscuits. Sourcing its ingredients straight from local farms, Milk & Honey has sweet flavors that will give guests the perfect start to the day’s schedule.

Customers choose from a selection of teas and juices to pair with savory snacks like their beloved buttermilk biscuits or sumptuous croissants prepared freshly at the in-house bakery. Don't forget the handmade pop tarts, gelato, and salted caramels.

• Address: 135 N Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37405-3904
• Hours: Monday to Sunday (7 am – 4 pm)

For lunch and dinner:

Food Works

This trendy restaurant in Signal Mill is one of the go-to places for brunch in the city. Nestled inside the old mill, the eatery features high ceilings and exposed walls, creating a welcoming and upbeat atmosphere.

The food doesn’t disappoint and includes sumptuous servings of breakfast classics like Southern-style biscuits. For lunch, guests can revel in the tantalizing tastes of smoked brisket hash, Southern chicken and waffles, and ricotta pancakes.

• Address: 205C Manufacturers Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37405-3253
• Hours: Monday to Saturday (11 am – 9 pm), Sunday 10 am – 5 pm)

Scottie’s On The River

When searching for a cozy romantic joint for a date night, look no further than Scottie’s On The River. The restaurant has a unique menu filled with delectable dishes like seafood gumbo, stuffed mushrooms, and pan-seared sea scallops.

As tourists wait for their orders to be ready, they can enjoy the amazing sunset views or get acquainted with the friendly restaurant staff.

• Address: 491 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402-1607
• Hours: Monday to Sunday (11 am – 11 pm)

For drinks:

Easy Bistro & Bar

This laid-back joint offers the best of both worlds, with sumptuous seafood selections and more than 300 whiskeys to choose from. With its lively vibe and welcoming staff, Easy Bistro & Bar is the right place to close out a tedious day marked with unending adventures.

They also serve refreshing craft cocktails and different wine varieties to cater to all drinking preferences.

• Address: 203 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402-1010
• Hours: Sunday to Thursday (4 pm – 9 pm), Friday & Saturday (4 pm – 10 pm)

14 Where To Stay In Chattanooga

River City abounds with superb accommodation options for all types of travelers. Whether searching for an affordable B&B in the city’s outskirts or a luxurious resort by the river, there are several neighborhoods to choose from.

Downtown

Downtown is one of the best places a tourist can stay, especially for first-timers not yet acclimated to the city. It is rife with luxury hotels, dotted with top dining options, and within striking distance of attractions like Miller Park, Tennessee Aquarium, and Tivoli Theater.

Don’t forget to check out the neighboring West Village and explore its unique stores, quaint restaurants, and cute coffee shops.

Since it’s the heart of the city, downtown hotel rates are slightly higher. Here are the best choices in the area:

The Westin Chattanooga

• Address: 801 Pine Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
• Cost per night: Starts from $321 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, daily housekeeping, ATM on-site, business center, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi, valet parking, massage spa, coffee shop, laundry service, fitness center

Hotel Indigo Chattanooga - Downtown

• Address: 300 West 6th Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
• Cost per night: Starts from $177 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Indoor/outdoor event spaces, 24-hour fitness center, on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, coffee shop, business center, valet parking, room service, coffee maker

Related: Wee Nook: You Can Rent This Hobbit Hole In The Woods Of Tennessee

Riverfront

This scenic neighborhood, sandwiched between the Tennessee River and West 4th Street, is the ideal place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning backdrop of the shiny waters of the Tennessee River. The area has charming restaurants, parks, and multiple other attractions.

Riverfront is also excellent for vacationing families because of its numerous kid-friendly activities and sites like the Tennessee Aquarium and Creative Discovery Museum.

AT&T Field is also great for watching an exciting minor-league baseball game. Other attractions include Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park by the river, River Gallery, and the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Major hotel options here include:

Courtyard by Marriott Chattanooga Downtown

• Address: 200 Chestnut Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
• Cost per night: Starts from $164 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi, bar/lounge, 24-hour business center, coffee shop, large in-room workstations, restaurant, meeting space, 24-hour fitness center, coffee/tea maker, and indoor pool.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chattanooga Downtown

• Address: 440 West Martin Luther King Boulevard, Chattanooga, TN 37402
• Cost per night: Starts from $151 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Complimentary buffet breakfast, cable/satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, free parking, coffee machine, business center, meeting room, 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, a flat-screen TV

East Ridge

This charming suburb offers tourists a nice escape from the hullabaloo in the city and rewards them with a calm vibe surrounded by lush nature. It is also a welcome option for budget travelers saving up for the various city attractions.

Located around 15 minutes from downtown, East Ridge has a unique charm, and tourists can wander in its wooded paths or take to the water in a canoe on its central creek.

Hampton Inn Chattanooga East Ridge

• Address: 623 Camp Jordan Parkway, Chattanooga, TN 37412
• Cost per night: Starts from $137 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, free WiFi, flat-screen TV, free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, free parking, fitness center, banquet facilities, free toiletries, business center

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chattanooga - East Ridge

• Address: 6650 Ringgold Road, East Ridge, TN 37412
• Cost per night: Starts from $103 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Free breakfast, free parking, 24-hour business center, fitness facility, outdoor saltwater pool, free toiletries, laundry services, meeting facilities, HD/LED flat-screen TVs, Wireless high-speed internet

15 Tips For Visiting Chattanooga

With a population of just under 200,000, Chattanooga is on pace to sideline Knoxville as the third-most-populous city in the state. To locals, the city holds a fair share of nicknames. Besides Scenic City, it’s also referred to as “River City” from the Tennessee River passing through it, “Gig City” because of the fastest internet speed in the country and the most obvious, Nooga.

Once considered the dirtiest city in America, Scenic City has come a long way from its air pollution days thanks to ambitious urban revitalization efforts in the past few decades. Today, it is a sustainable city with people-centered priorities, attracting from around the country with its small-town charm. Chattanooga is a historical hub renowned for its critical role in the American Civil War. It acted as a major railway focal point; this part of its history can be seen in the Civil War monuments and battlefield parks spread around the city.

It is also a city of firsts and lays claim to the invention of the first tow trucks in the 1910s. The world-famous MoonPie traces its origin to the Chattanooga Bakery in 1917, whereas the first Coca-Cola bottling company was opened here in the late 1800s. Chattanooga was also the first American city to offer gig internet speeds to its residents, giving Silicon Valley a run for its money.

The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with four seasons, defined by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Overall, it is a city bustling with diverse attractions ranging from scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, exciting outdoor adventures, top culinary experiences, and a rejuvenated Riverwalk serving as the ultimate chill spot by the water.

Visitors can stop by the visitor center before going into the city to get pointers on perfecting their holiday itinerary.

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Chattanooga

Start the day with a sensational meal at Milk & Honey before heading to Rock City and Lookout Mountain to explore the rock formations and enjoy the dramatic views of the surroundings.

While there, be sure to visit the iconic Ruby Falls and marvel at the deepest underground waterfall in America.

Get the day going with a spooky Chattanooga Ghost Tour and learn about the mysterious and haunted past of the downtown area. This will feature stops at the Tivoli Theater and Hunter Museum of American Art. After lunch, head to the Tennessee Riverwalk to escape the midday sun and cool off in the river breeze. Be sure to explore the 13-mile stretch of attractions and visit Coolidge Park, where the historic Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge sits.

Later in the afternoon, pass by the Tennessee Aquarium to interact with amazing marine life before making animal acquaintances at the Chattanooga Zoo. For the day's final activity, pop into Easy Bistro & Bar for a sumptuous dinner and drinks while reconnecting with friends and fellow visitors to River City.

FAQ

Q: What are the best outdoor activities in Chattanooga?

Scenic City offers plenty of fun outdoor activities, including spending time at Tennessee Riverpark, which host attractions like Coolidge Park and the Walnut Street Bridge. Another beautiful Tennessee spot worth visiting, Lookout Mountain, has the spectacular Ruby Falls, one of the best landmarks to see in the state.

Q: Which is better to visit, Chattanooga or Knoxville?

While both cities are almost similar as far as population density, Chattanooga offers greater diversity. As such, many people prefer Chattanooga to Knoxville for that reason. Knoxville does have much to offer, including an iconic landmark: the Sunsphere.

Q: Is Chattanooga a walkable city?

Chattanooga is navigable on foot, especially in the downtown region, where guests can stroll at the Tennessee Riverpark. However, other neighborhoods like the Bluff View Art District welcome wandering tourists with romantic restaurants and a chance to experience trademark Southern Tennessee charm.