10 Things You Must Do in Chattanooga, TN
From outdoor adventures to sampling the local fare, Chattanooga is more than meets the eye and is chock full of fun things to do.
Known as one of the most scenic cities in the Southeast, it’s no wonder Chattanooga has earned accolades such as “Best in the U.S.” and has appeared on rankings of the “Top 45 Places to Go in the World.” This charming Southern city is nestled between the mountains and the Tennessee River, which affords opportunities for innumerable outdoor activities, and its burgeoning local food and brewery scene is not something you want to miss. Coupled with the host of fun-filled family activities in the heart of downtown and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, it’s easy to see why the Gig City is garnering national attention.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to start a business in a supportive community, someone looking for a great place to live or just in town for the weekend, Chattanooga is truly a destination that deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list.
In This Article
1. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium.
The Tennessee Aquarium perpetually tops the list of things to do in Chattanooga, and who are we to say otherwise? This world-class aquarium is two in one, with freshwater exhibits in the River Journey building and saltwater exhibits in the Ocean Journey building. Otters, giant catfish and turtles await on one side, while sharks, penguins and lemurs (yes, you read that right) are eager for your attention on the other. Plan to spend at least three hours exploring this diverse and expansive collection of animals to make the most of your trip.
2. Go white water rafting on the Ocoee.
If you’re seeking something a little more adventurous, look no further than white water rafting along the Ocoee. Known for its iconic rapids and recreational prospects, the Ocoee is well-suited for paddlers of all ages and skill levels. There are three distinct sections of this dam-controlled river, which means experienced rafters can sign up for a day of heart-racing adrenaline — and beginners can enjoy a leisurely paddle or tube float along the more peaceful levels. With more than 20 outfitters to choose from, you and the other 250,000 visitors that grace the Ocoee each year are bound to make memories you’ll never forget.
3. Hit the hiking trails.
Did you know there are more than 50 trailheads within 30 miles of downtown Chattanooga? Residents argue the region’s opportunities to hit the trails are among the best in the entire Southeast, and it’s hard to disagree when you start looking at your choices.
To get started, we’d pick the Big Daddy Loop. This 10-mile loop features seven trails that carry you along the western side of Lookout Mountain. Be aware this is not necessarily for the faint of heart. With uphill stretches and a few patches that require technical know-how, this is more of an intermediate trek that will provide you with a hearty workout and beautiful vistas along the way. Rock City offers lighter strolls but still boasts amazing views. If you’re looking to soar to new heights, Chattanooga is also known for its unparalleled rock-climbing scene. Weather not cooperating? It’s always 60 degrees at Ruby Falls, one of the tallest and deepest underground waterfalls in the country.
4. Spend an afternoon exploring the Creative Discovery Museum.
Traveling with the family? Strap on your shoes and hit up the Creative Discovery Museum, where art, science and music experiments await. Roof gardens, excavation stations and an observation deck provide a sweeping view of the Chattanooga skyline. Check out their events calendar for the specific dates of your visit to see if there are any special happenings that strike your fancy.
5. Eat your way through downtown.
From high-stack sandwiches and eccentric cocktails to fried chicken and beloved barbecue, Chattanooga offers foodies everything they could hope and dream to find in this charming riverside town. There are so many delicious dining options that you will be hard-pressed to narrow down your list of places to indulge in. Still, we’ll give you a few recommendations to help you navigate your journey through the countless decadent choices available. The Rosecomb is popular for cocktails and modernized Southern classics; Whitebird is full of elevated Appalachian cuisine; and Pickle Barrel is the town’s most iconic pub in the heart of the City Center neighborhood. Clumpies, The Hot Chocolatier and The Ice Cream Show are top-notch dessert choices if you save room for sweets. Or, kick your feet up and enjoy coffee, pastries and books at Rembrandt’s Coffee House, a Chattanooga mainstay, or Ruddle’s Bread & Book, which just opened in nearby Cleveland. To sample multiple local faves, Chatt Taste Food Tours offer a little of everything.
6. Kayak the Tennessee River.
What’s the fun in visiting a riverside city if you aren’t going to actually get out on the water? From kayaking and canoeing to stand-up paddleboarding, Chattanooga is home to plenty of outfitters who are more than happy to lend you the equipment you need to get outside and soak up the sun. You can get a paddleboard or kayak from L2 Outside and take off right under the Market Street Bridge, or head upriver to Rock/Creek Rentals to launch from a more quiet and less crowded spot. You could book with Chattanooga Paddleboards and get your SUPs delivered to a location of your choosing.
7. Hitch a ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.
The Incline Railway at Lookout Mountain is nothing new. In fact, it’s impressively historic. This funicular railway system (operated by cables) has been ferrying people up and down the mountain for more than 125 years. St. Elmo is at the bottom of the incline and is home to a fun-filled assortment of shops and restaurants. We’re not talking about your average fast food, either. Microbreweries, coffee roasteries and hand-dipped ice cream are just a few of the many delights that await railway passengers at the bottom incline station. Millions of visitors from around the world have enjoyed the ride — will you be one of them?
8. Reach new heights by testing your skills at High Point Climbing Gym.
Need a reprieve from the heat? Test your skills at High Point Climbing Gym. Better known as the region’s premier source for world-class rock climbing, this popular destination offers two locations in the Downtown and Riverside neighborhoods. Locals often sign up for memberships, but guests can purchase day passes or sign up for classes like top rope belaying and intro to bouldering. These guys even host clinics and have an extensive event calendar to peruse. If you’d rather just spend the afternoon climbing, you’ll love their 45-foot rope walls and more than 100 boulder problems to traverse. They even have an outdoor wall that sends you climbing over Broad Street.
9. Ride the duck boats along the Tennessee River.
City tours are worth their weight in gold anytime you visit a new place. But how often do you get to take the tour by boat? Chattanooga is nestled along the Tennessee River, which means you can enjoy a narrated tour while riding an authentic World War II duck boat. These wild contraptions are playfully described as amphibious since they can carry passengers on land and through the water. You’ll learn about the region’s history and a few little-known facts while enjoying sweeping views of downtown and the Maclellan Island wildlife sanctuary, home to a Great Blue Heron rookery and a smattering of Osprey nesting platforms.
10. Get up close and personal with animals at the Chattanooga Zoo.
Ever wanted to feed a giraffe? Get up close and personal with a red panda? Book a meet-and-greet with a cotton top tamarin? Do all of it and more at the small but mighty Chattanooga Zoo. Located on 13 acres, this zoological park is home to a myriad of wild animals and will easily surprise and delight children and adults alike. Between the wild exotic creature encounters and camel rides, visiting the city zoo definitely deserves a spot on your Chattanooga bucket list. Pro Tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance to save a few bucks on entry fees!
