Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Chattanooga, Tennessee. #Top Attractions

Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Chattanooga, Tennessee. #Top Attractions

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Chattanooga is an amazing travel destination in Tennessee. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Chattanooga, Tennessee, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the best places to visit in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Chattanooga Market

Chattanooga Market, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga Market / Michael Miller / Flickr

Chattanooga, the fourth-largest city in Tennessee, is a fun weekend getaway.

Chattanooga Market is a perfect destination if you want any products or souvenirs to take home.

To your knowledge, it is named one of the “Top 10 Public Markets in America.”!

You will find over 50 farms that bring a variety of produce, meats, and cheeses to the market each week.

Over 130 artisans sell their distinctive crafts, artwork, farm-fresh products, and a wide range of locally made specialties. All of these can be found in the impressive market!

While dining or simply picking products to buy, you will also appreciate the local group that plays local music for you.

Other than that, there are a ton of fresh local vegetables, homemade goods, and plenty of food, and the merchants are so welcoming. 

It’s a great experience if you don’t mind the crowds, especially if you want to buy local goods!

Wondering what specific products or goods to find here? Chattanooga Market has everything for you!

A wide variety of fruits, vegetables, freshly cut flowers, and even dog collars and leashes can be found here.

You can also buy baked goods, jewelry, clothing for children, and more are available.

There is no admittance fee, and everyone simply relaxes and has fun.

Address: 1801 Reggie White Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park / Gary Todd / Flickr

Stopping by the unique Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park is a must.

The National Military Park is a most known Lookout Mountain attraction for tourists and locals. It will give you some of the region’s most breathtaking views.

Additionally, it is a well-liked place for Civil War and American culture enthusiasts. It will provide you with days of fascinating historical insight and family entertainment.

Depending on your preference, you can tour the park on your own or with a tour guide.

You may hike or participate in several outdoor activities in the park. Additionally, there are two park visitor centers where you can view inside exhibits that tell the park’s history.

Along the seven-mile vehicle tour, explore the Chickamauga Battlefield. Additionally, there are hiking and walking trails. 

If you prefer to explore on horseback, Chickamauga has a ton of horse riding trails.

Meanwhile, you can also go hiking along one of the fantastic paths if you want to explore at your leisure.

This state’s top historical site is located in the southeast region, close to Chattanooga’s central business district.

Join the fun at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park today!

Address: 110 Point Park Rd, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350, United States

Coolidge Park

Coolidge Park, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Coolidge Park / zackzen / Flickr

The charming Coolidge Park, located on Chattanooga’s North Shore shoreline, has a 100-year-old carousel that has been beautifully restored.

It is a perfect spot to enjoy the stunning Tennessee River view and have fun in an interactive water feature!

You can also cross the most well-known Walnut Street Bridge if you are already there. It is truly known as one of the largest pedestrian bridges in the world. Fascinating!

Meanwhile, if you are into outdoor adventures, some fun awaits you. You can test your rock climbing prowess in this place!

If you are with your loved ones, you can enjoy a picnic in one of the many open green spaces.

For extra fun, go and see the unique military memorial. As mentioned above, you can ride a tiger on the 100-year-old restored antique carousel!

In addition, this wonderful place has a lot to offer. It hosts several concerts, festivals, and special events you can enjoy!

Coolidge Park is also close to local entertainment, art galleries, retail establishments, and dining options. Whether with families, friends, or special someone, there’s something for you here.

In the summer, there is a splash fountain for children. So don’t miss out!

Address: 150 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405, United States

Creative Discovery Museum

The Creative Discovery Museum is full of “Wow” experiences for adults and children.

The impressive museum encourages a love of learning through play with a wide array of entertaining, hands-on displays.

The Creative Discovery Museum has it all, whether you want to make a clay sculpture in the Visual Arts Gallery or start a family band in the recording studio!

You can also learn how to sew and make furniture in the recently expanded Make It area.

For kids who love dinosaurs, go and look for dinosaur bones in Excavation Station, or act out a play in the Back Alley Theatre.

If you love exhibits, this is the perfect destination for you. You may test your knowledge and learn new abilities in the STEM Zone. It has galleries for Make It, Build and Test, Robotics, and Energy.

Meanwhile, ArtSpace invites you to express your inner artist in the newest exhibition venue!

In RiverPlay, vacationers can navigate boats through locks and dams.

Tourists can also go outside to the Museum’s Rooftop Fun Factory, where they can use pulleys to raise themselves off the roof and launch balls into the air.

The Creative Discovery Museum has immersive experiences for you to enjoy. Have fun!

Address: 321 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Harrison Bay State Park

Visit Harrison Bay State Park if you’re seeking a lovely getaway location with lots of family-friendly activities.

Within the 1,200 acres of stunning parkland, you may enjoy various outdoor adventures!

While the winters give a sense of peaceful peace and calm that you occasionally need, the summers present a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that will make you smile.

In addition, you can also experience boating, swimming, hiking, and bicycling.

The park is also home to the renowned Bear Trace Golf Course. You will definitely have fun here!

Meanwhile, the park is a popular spot if you enjoy being on the water, and all kinds of boats and watercraft are welcome there.

Seasonally, hourly rentals of canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available.

If you love fishing activities, this place is for you. Whether fishing from a boat, from a bank, or from the park’s accessible pier, the park offers practically any form of fishing desired.

Would you like to spend the night? With 127 available sites, the Harrison Bay State Park Campground is ideal for small and big vehicles. 

You can camp in a tent or stay at the group site; each area has power and water hookups.

Enjoy your day in Harrison Bay State Park!

Address: 7855 Bay Marina Circle, Harrison, TN 37341, United States

Hunter Museum of American Arts

Hunter Museum of American Arts is one of the top attractions in Chattanooga.

The permanent collection and special exhibits at the Hunter Museum highlight the variety of the American experience and the inventiveness of the American spirit.

Explore the Hunter collection to learn more about the various narratives of American art from the 1700s to the present.

By digging deeper, you can also learn more about the highlighted artists and pieces from the permanent collection.

You can expect a lot of fun at the Hunter Museum of American Arts. It hosts a variety of engaging exhibitions and talks which you can attend with your loved ones!

The fantastic place will also offer different family-friendly activities, social gatherings, and other events all year round.

Your kids can learn there that the magnificent art world encompasses much more than just painting, which is another great benefit.

Every visit is a chance to investigate, learn, create, and have an experience. You won’t be disappointed.

You’ll want to visit the Hunter frequently because there is so much to see and do there. Visit right away to hear the voices and visions of American art!

Address: 10 Bluff View Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park / Jeff Gunn / Flickr

The South’s favorite family amusement park, Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park, will delight you!

If you are with your families, you may have a fantastic day of fun and excitement at Lake Winnepesaukah.

This fascinating park offers more than 40 rides, attractions, and the thrilling SoakYa Water Park.

SoakYa Water Park, a five-acre water park with rides and games, is located on Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park.

SoakYa has interactive kids and a Crazy River if you are with your children. It also has a beach lagoon, flume body slides, tube slides, and an 800-foot mat racer. 

To escape the summer heat, there is covered seating and cabana rental available, as well as retail stores, food stands, and a changing area with lockers.

The Cannon Ball Roller Coaster, one of the most thrilling rides in the world, is located at Lake Winnepesaukah. You will definitely have a good time here!

Meanwhile, you can also choose from a range of rides and attractions. These include the 14-story free fall, kids coasters like The Whale, and the most famous, The Bumble Bees.

You can also try The Frog Hopper and family favorites like the huge Wave Swinger and the vintage Carousel.

There are group discounts and unlimited rides available. Have fun!

Address: 1730 Lakeview Dr, Rossville, GA 30741, United States

Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Lookout Mountain / Gloria Bell / Flickr

Lookout Mountain is an excellent destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Whether traveling to Tennessee for a day trip or staying for a longer holiday, visiting this fascinating spot is a must-try.

Overlooking Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain is 2,000 feet above sea level. Fascinating!

One of the most well-known locations in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Rock City Gardens, which is located atop Lookout Mountain. You should check out this area!

However, Lookout Mountain has more fun to offer than just that. The region’s activities and sights are sufficient to cover a week’s worth of travel plans.

You will find breathtaking vistas of the seven states around it, Civil War battlefields, and underground waterfalls.

Aside from that, you can also discover and explore the shops and museums in the downtown area.

Beyond the border, you can also tour the smaller villages and cities and learn about their histories. 

Visit a county fair, and as the cotton candy melts in your mouth, let the memories of your childhood wash over you.

The pace and bustle of modern life might sweep you away as you immerse yourself in the ordered chaos of a modern metropolis. You can also sample homemade jam at a rest stop along a highway. 

Your options are limitless, just like the adventures that lie ahead. Have fun!

Address: Chattanooga, United States

Lula Lake Land Trust

Imagine going on a hike through beautiful nature to a lake with two waterfalls. On Lookout Mountain, near Chattanooga, are the Lula Lake trails.

You will find an incredible huge waterfall surrounded by vibrant fall foliage.

There are spectacular views around every bend and more than six miles of trails at the Lula Lake Land Trust.

It is also a prime destination for a great trail run, hike, or bike. Sounds fun!

Additionally, this wonderful location lets you take leisurely hikes or picnics with family or friends.

For other adventures, the expansive view from the grassy, sheltered east brow of the mountain is a must-see destination.

If you can complete a brief hike, you will enjoy something about Lula Lake. You might fall in love if you can handle one or two difficult climbs.

It is possible to visit the Lula Lake Land Trust, although it requires some preparation. However, attending without purchasing a ticket for a certain timed entry window is impossible.

Just across the Georgia State Line from Lookout Mountain is where you’ll find Lula Lakes. 

You will need at least 10 minutes past Rock City on Lula Lakes Rd. and 15 minutes up the mountain from the Incline Railroad Station at the base.

Address: 5000 Lula Lake Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750, United States

Rock City Gardens

Rock City Gardens, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Rock City Gardens / rmkoske / Flickr

You won’t want to skip Rock City Gardens on your trip to Chattanooga because it is a truly unique destination!

The Needle’s Eye is one of the first attractions you should check out in the area.

You must squeeze through their enclosed space to get through the massive twin boulders in your way. Sounds challenging!

If you are a fan of beautiful waterfalls, there’s something for you. You must cross the Swing-a-Long Bridge to get to the unique waterfall in the Rock City Gardens.

Spend some time on the long bridge taking in the breathtaking views of Chattanooga Valley below. You won’t be disappointed.

Whether you choose a summer hike, a winter journey, or whatever in between, the picture-perfect High Falls waterfall is 90 feet tall and offers stunning vistas.

Another spot you must visit is the Rock City Gardens’ most well-known landmark, the Lover’s Leap.

It is where the mid-level viewing platform for the waterfall climbs to a larger viewing platform on the outcrop of rock just above the rushing waters.

There are also some special events in the Rock City Gardens that you and your family may enjoy. This includes Shamrock City, Fairy Tale Nights, Rocktoberfest, and many more!

Address: 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750, United States

Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls, Chattanooga. Tennessee
Ruby Falls / Valerie Everett / Flickr

Open to the public, Ruby Falls near Chattanooga is an excellent place to start exploring underground caves.

Ruby Falls should not be missed because it offers wonderful falls to explore, a zip line, and breathtaking vistas of the Cumberland Plateau.

A fun time is assured if you come here! The highlight is visiting the tallest and deepest public underground waterfall in the United States while traveling deep inside historic Lookout Mountain.

The most well-liked tour at Ruby Falls is the Cave Walk tour. Try out this enjoyable activity as soon as possible!

A trip down 260 feet under the ground in a glass elevator will begin the guided group tour. As the elevator descends, you will see the solid rock wall disappear.

During the Cave Walk tour, you will gain a basic understanding of caves and learn the tale of the cavern’s unintentional discovery. 

You will also see amazing rock formations, and, of course, the roaring waterfall will also be visible.

Small children can be carried by their parents, but watch out if they sit on your shoulders because the cave has some low ceilings.

Ruby Falls will also provide you with Specialty Tours and a Gentle Walking Tour if you’re seeking a more leisurely or in-depth exploration of the caves. Have fun!

Address: 1720 South Scenic Hwy Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States

Tennessee Aquarium

Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Tennessee Aquarium / Ken Kennedy / Flickr

A visit to the Tennessee Aquarium is necessary if you like marine life and learn about the assortment of organisms in the country’s waterways.

In this majestic place, nearly 800 species of creatures totaling more than 12,000 inhabitants live in the Tennessee Aquarium.

To your knowledge, one of the country’s most varied collections of freshwater wildlife can be found there.

The layout, which consists of two main buildings, directs vacationers along the River Journey and the Ocean Journey, two major display lines.

In addition, Stingray Bay at the Tennessee Aquarium offers a hands-on experience.

The staff will teach interesting facts about the creatures while you get up and personal with various shark and stingray types. 

Vacationers of all ages can feel these aquatic creatures moving through the water, thanks to the tank’s smooth, slender walls.

The Tennessee Aquarium offers Sleep in the Deep, an adventure tour that will take you through river and ocean journeys.

Here, you can experience what it’s like to work on the aquarium staff for the ultimate underwater journey. Fantastic!

You can also see six enigmatic and unusual jellyfish species along with glass sculptures.

If you are looking for more fun adventures, visit Tennessee Aquarium today!

Address: 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum / David Brossard / Flickr

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is one of the fascinating attractions you should visit in Chattanooga.

Travel back in time to a more leisurely time when taking the train was normal. But here, you will definitely have a good experience!

At Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, you can relive the era when riding on historic trains offered a getaway from the daily grind. 

Your visit to Chattanooga’s well-known sites will be enhanced by the interactive historical experience offered by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. 

The only regularly scheduled, full-sized train ride in Tennessee can be found here. 

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is much more than just a place to pass the time; it gives you a chance to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the past.

Additionally, you can take a quick Missionary Ridge ride that is ideal for little kids.

You can also try to get a tasty local ice cream at the halfway mark. You won’t be disappointed!

The conductor is a talented storyteller who can entertain you while playing banjo.

Enjoy having a short trip to Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today!

Address: 4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, United States

The Chattanooga Zoo

Imagine visiting a zoo where you could interact with the animals up close.

You will have the chance to experience that if you visit The Chattanooga Zoo.

It is one of the greatest attractions for children in Scenic City. Even though it’s not too big, the diversity of animals makes a trip there enjoyable.

The Chattanooga Zoo is a fantastic choice for an enjoyable family day out. 

There are a variety of animals from different parts of the world that you can see, and there are also many activities to keep kids occupied.

Additionally, the zoo provides educational activities so that you may discover more about the creatures on show. 

It is simple to spend the entire day at the zoo because admission is reasonably priced and there is free parking.

Follow the signage along the walkways that will direct you toward the various animal exhibits as soon as you enter the zoo’s gates.

The giraffe and camel exhibitions next to the enormous tortoises will be the first things you see.

Enjoy your chance to see numerous species of animals, such as a sloth, meerkat, and Komodo dragon.

As a bonus, a modest climbing area for kids to play is located close to the petting zoo inside the zoo.

Relax and have fun!

Address: 301 N Holtzclaw Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, United States

Walnut Street Bridge

Walnut Street Bridge, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Walnut Street Bridge / The_Gut / Flickr

Cross the Walnut Street Bridge for a stroll and take the breathtaking scenery.

This is the perfect destination to unwind after your long tiring day in Chattanooga. It will offer you a lot of spectacular things!

To add to your knowledge, this 1891-built vehicle bridge has been converted into the world’s longest pedestrian bridge.

Today, it is a city park open from dawn to midnight. It is possible here if you want to go on a road trip.

Whether with friends, you can enjoy every moment on the Walnut Street Bridge. This is also a great spot to have a romantic stroll with your special someone!

Locals and vacationers to Chattanooga adore going here towards the end of the week.

This lovely pedestrian bridge is close to Hunter Museum and completely safe for pedestrians and bicyclists. 

You may take beautiful pictures from the Tennessee River Bridge, the Southern Belle steamboat, and other locations.

You can also find and explore some shops or ice cream stores around the area. Fascinating!

Trying other fun things aside from strolling and having a road trip is a must. 

The Walnut Street Bridge is a fantastic location for a jog or walk. Enjoy!

Address: 1 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

Volunteer At Animal Shelters

Animal Shelters in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Animal Shelters in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Most animals only require a warm, secure, and protected area to live in besides food, drink, and exercise. They will give you their undying love, fidelity, and company.

Participating in volunteer work is an excellent way to draw attention to the problem of pet overpopulation, neglect, and abuse and to work toward finding a solution to these issues.

If you don’t have much time to help but still want to, you could give your old towels and bedding to rescue groups or the humane society. The animals at the shelter always need soft things to sleep on. If your kids don’t use their old baby blankets anymore, a puppy or kitten might feel safe and secure in them. Rescue groups and humane societies are always in need of dog and cat food, kitty litter, leashes, collars, and toys.

Look into the various animal shelters in Chattanooga, Tennessee, that you may help out at. Please help abandoned animals!

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