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Post Summary- The best things to do in Chattanooga

This blog post is sponsored by Visit Chattanooga Tourism but all opinions are my own.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we truly love and use!

As an Atlanta local, Chattanooga is one of my favorite places to escape to for a weekend trip. It’s only a 2 hour drive away and there is much to do to keep you entertained, especially for those that lead adventurous lifestyles like we do!

From chasing waterfalls, to picnicking at the park, to going inside an underground cave, Chattanooga offers plenty of exciting activities for couples, families, and solo travelers. Each time we visit we find more to add to our bucket list!

Whether you live in the city and you’re looking for weekend things to do or you’re a tourist, this blog post breaks down the top bucket list adventures. For a weekend itinerary be sure to check out my Instagram highlight on Chattanooga. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Essential Things to Know Before You Go

Best Time To Visit: Chattanooga is beautiful year round and offers things to do in every season, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, Spring and Fall are the best times to go. My favorite times of the year to visit are summer (to go swimming in their swimming holes) and fall (to see the beautiful foliage on the trails).

Getting around: You can get around by car or bike. Chattanooga has a great biking system that makes it easy to rent by the day or weekend. If you are staying in a central area, most things will only be a 10 minute drive or 20 minute bike ride away.

The Best Things to Do in Chattanooga for Adventure Lovers

1) Bike the Tennessee Riverwalk

The Tennessee Riverwalk is over 25 miles long and is an active way to see the city. You can rent through Bike Chattanooga at one of their 40+ locations and they cost $8 for the entire day or $15 for the 3 day pass.

A great place to park your car is at Blue Goose Hollow Trailhead (935 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402). From here you can ride to hit popular spots like the Tennessee aquarium, Bluff View Art District, and the Tennessee Riverpark.

2) Cliff jumping at North Chick Blue Hole

Looking for a thrilling adventure? North Chick is full of swimming holes but the real heart pumping adventure is jumping off the edge of the boulder that sticks out of the Blue Hole. The water looks so inviting on a hot day because it’s crystal clear and is a pretty teal color.

This epic outdoor experience is one of the best things to do in Chattanooga for those seeking adventure. You’ll start off on the white marked Cumberland Trail until you’ll reach a sign that says “Blue Hole.” This is where you will have to cross the creek to the left of the sign.

After crossing the creek the trail continues on to the right for about a quarter of mile and the path opens up once you reach the clearing of the Blue Hole. This spot can be crowded during the weekends so be sure to arrive early if you want some solitude!

Pro Tip: Be sure to bring your water shoes! It makes navigating the trail and water much more comfortable. Check out my favorite pair here.

3) Hike the Beautiful Trails

Chattanooga is a hikers dream location because it is full of unique trails and it’s one of the best activities to do in Chattanooga! Fun fact, the city was actually named America’s best outdoorsy city twice by the Outside magazine!

Here are a few of the most popular hikes in the area:

South Cumberland State Park: There are multiple trails to do here, but I highly recommend the Grundy Day and Fiery Gizzard Loop. This one is leads to Sycamore Falls and you’ll pass at least 5 other waterfalls along the trail. 3 miles, 308 feet elevation gain
Snooper’s Rock: You can choose do the 6 mile hike or you can park and walk right up to the view point. 6 miles, 1167 feet elevation gain
Glen Falls: Easy and family-friendly path that leads to a waterfall coming out of cliff. 2.3 miles roundtrip; 554 feet elevation gain

When visiting these places, please remember to Leave No Trace and pack out what you pack in so we can keep the outdoors beautiful.

4) Ride to the top of the Incline Railway

Did you really go to Chattanooga if you didn’t ride the Incline Railway!? It’s known as the world’s steepest passenger railway and one of the most unique things to do in Chattanooga.

It’s been open for over 125 years and is a great way to see the city. From the top you’ll be able to see panoramic views of the valley below and you’re able to ride the railway roundtrip (up and back down). At the top you’ll find their gift shop and a well stocked candy bar and food station.

The railway is open every day with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The tickets are $15 per adult and $7 for children aged between 3-12.

5) See the views at Point Park

Point Point is a 10 acre memorial park that offers views of Chattanooga and the Lookout Mountain Battlefield. As you walk the paved path in the park you’ll pass multiple historic monuments. It costs $10 per adult aged 16 and over to enter.

After or before your visit be sure to check out the visitor center located right outside the entrance. It has exhibits on display from the Civil War and tons of souvenirs you can get to remember your visit.

Pro Tip: Once you reach the top of the Incline Railway, Point Park is a 5 minute walk down the street. You can visit and walk around before you catch your ride back down on the Incline Railway.

6) Go underground to see Ruby Falls

I’m not saying I’m claustrophobic….but going underground didn’t particularly excite me. However, seeing this waterfall over 200 feet underground that’s dropping 145 feet in front of you is incredible to witness!

Ruby Falls is one of America’s tallest underground waterfalls and is easily one of the coolest things to do in Chattanooga.

Scientists still don’t know exactly where the water is coming from on lookout mountain or where it exits the mountain. You can’t miss this mysterious waterfall on your Chattanooga visit.

Pro Tip: If you can, try to visit just after it rained to catch the waterfall flowing at its fullest.

7) Kayaking at Greenway Farms

Greenway Farms has two sections where you’re able to get your kayaks into the water. There is plenty of parking here but the park does close at sunset so be sure to give yourself enough time to enjoy your time on the water.

8) Zoom through the mountains on a Swincar

Riding a Swincar is one of the most exhilarating things to in Chattanooga and it was the highlight of our most recent trip! A Swincar is a four legged electric vehicle that can tackle different types of terrain and make for an exciting ride.

You’ll ride the cars at the Reflection Riding Center and they have over 300 acres of land for you to explore in the vehicle. You can do a 60 minute tour for $130 per person or 90 minutes for $170 per person.

9) Ride a Duck Boat Tour

See Chattanooga along the water on a Duck Boat Tour. The tour starts off driving around the city, then you’ll enter the river for the remainder of the tour.

You’ll learn about some of the history of the city and you’re able to see Chattanooga on both land and water. The tour lasts 1 hour long and costs $35 for adults, $25 for children, and $6 for infants under 2 years old.

10) Watch the sunset at Sunset Rock

Sunset Rock is an outcropping that overlooks the river gorge and is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Be aware though, it is extremely popular and gets crowded easily!

On a clear day, you’ll get to watch the sun setting into cotton candy colored skies as it drops below the mountain. There’s a reason its so popular- it’s simply breath taking.

Pro Tip: The parking lot can only fit about 6 cars, but there is parking along the streets within the neighborhood

Planning a roadtrip? Check out: 15 Can’t Miss Mountain Hikes in Georgia

11) Visit the animals at the Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is split up into two buildings to highlight the different marine animals within the ocean and river. We started with the ocean building first and got to see penguins, touchable stingrays, butterflies, big sharks, and so much more. Afterwards, walk over to the River building to check out those animals.

Once you enter the River building you will immediately go up to the fourth floor (be sure to take in the views and take a picture) and work your way back down to the first floor. Along the way you’ll see river otters, trout, alligators, giant catfish, turtles, and more.

12) Picnic at Coolidge Park

Coolidge Park is a big open area in the heart of North Shore Chattanooga. The park features an indoor carousel, pavilion, fountain, and the Outdoor Chattanooga Center. Many concerts, festivals, and special events are held here throughout the year and it’s a great place to bring a lunch and blanket to people watch on the weekends.

Good to know: No pets are allowed within the park.

13) Climb at High Point Gym

If you love rock climbing or a beginner to the sport, High Point Climbing Gym is great place to go. It’s both a work out and fun activity to do in Chattanooga.

They have 2 locations in the city and offer classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced climbers. The day passes cost $22 for adults and $20 for children under 10.

14) Hike at Lula Lake Land Trust

If you’re looking to visit a jaw-dropping waterfall, then you don’t want to miss this insanely beautiful spot. Lula Lake Land Trust is located in North Georgia and only a 20 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga.

The trail is 4.5 miles round trip and leads to two waterfalls and a mountain overlook. Since the waterfall is on private land, you have to make reservations to hike here and the tickets cost $15 per person. Since it is a popular spot, and they only allow a certain amount of people to visit per month, the tickets sell out fast! So be sure to plan and book in advance. We got our tickets 1.5 months in advance prior to going.

15) Drink & Eat at ODDStory Brewing

ODDStory Brewing offers ample seating, great drinks, and delicious food for the whole family to enjoy. Their beer is tasty and wonderfully brewed and they keep about 16 taps available. I highly recommend their chicken sandwich and tater tots off of their food menu!

16) White Water Rafting on the Ocoee River

If you haven’t tried white water rafting yet, I can’t recommend it enough (and this is coming from someone who can’t swim very well)! The Ocoee River is dam controlled and has class III rapids and is only an 1 hour drive outside of Chattanooga. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned rafter, it’s a heart pumping experience that keeps you entertained through out the ride.

There are multiple outfitters to choose from, but one of them most popular is Outdoor Adventure Rafting. You can do a tour from $45 to $90 per person depending on if you’d prefer the middle river rafting or the full river rafting.

17) Explore Cloudland Canyon

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, then Cloudland Canyon should definitely be on your radar. With two stunning waterfalls and a massive canyon gorge it’s worth the hype. The Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in North Georgia, just 30 minutes from Downtown Chattanooga and is stunning in the Fall.

I highly recommend the waterfall trail which is 2 miles round trip and leads to Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls. Be warned, this trail has a lot of stairs (600 to be exact!) so it will be a work out.

If you’re looking to do something a bit longer, the park also has the West Rim Loop trial that’s 4.5 miles round trip and you can walk along the top of the canyon to see breathtaking views and steep overlooks.

18) Go Flying at Lookout Mountain Flight Park

Picture this: You’re 1,500 feet above the ground and souring through the air as the cold wind rushes through your hair. The world below you looks massive yet everything on the ground seems so small. You feel like a kid again and feel completely free.

I don’t know about you, but flying sounds pretty incredible, right!?

At the Lookout Mountain Flight Park you’ll have the chance to experience this for yourself. They’re a certified flight school and offer multiple ways to touch the sky, including paragliding, hang gliding, ridge soaring, and more.

They also offer introductory classes if this is something you’re trying to gain more knowledge and experience on. Prices for this experience can range from $150 to $325 depending on which activity you choose.

Good to know: Safety is their main priority so if the weather conditions change, your activity may be delayed or potentially cancelled. Be mindful of this when booking and be sure to check the weather beforehand.

19) Walk across the Walnut Street Bridge

The Walnut Street Bridge is one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges and located right in the heart of Chattanooga. You can see far in the distance because it’s hard to miss it’s bright blue color as it sits over the Tennessee river.

The bridge is a half mile long and takes about 10 minutes to walk across. From there you’re able to see views of Coolidge Park, the aquarium and Riverfront.

20) Rock City Gardens

Rock City Garden is just over the Tennessee border located only 6 miles from the city and is a must do activity on your Chattanooga visit. It features a swinging bridge that offers incredible views, a waterfall, rock formations, caves, and a viewpoint where you can see 7 states in the distance.

The tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children aged between 3 to 12.

21) Cruise on the Southern Belle

With the Southern Belle you have two options to cruise the river, by a sightseeing cruise or sunset cruise. Each ticket costs $30 per person and the tour lasts for 1.5 hours.

On the sunset cruise you will be greeted with live music, can grab a glass of wine and bathe in the serenity as you watch the day come to an end with a beautiful sunset.

On the sightseeing cruise you’ll have live narration as the host talks about the history of the city and points out popular landmarks.

Where to Eat in Chattanooga

I am not much of a foodie, but Chattanooga definitely turned me into one! There’s no shortage of delicious food in Chatt and we always try new spots each time we go. Here are a few of our favorites below.

State of Confusion (American, $$)
Flying Squirrel (Southern, $)
Easy Bistro & Bar (Seafood & French, $$)
Tony’s Pasta Shop (Italian, $)
Pizza Bros (Pizza, $)
1885 Grill (Southern, $)
Mean Mug Coffeehouse (coffee and breakfast, $)
Sleepyhead Coffee (coffee and pastries, $)
Clumpies Ice Cream Co. (ice cream, $)

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