Things to do & places to visit in Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States

The name "Chattanooga" comes from the Creek Indian word for "rock coming to a point." This refers to Lookout Mountain, one of the city's major attractions. Here visitors can explore extraordinary rock formations, see a roaring enclosed waterfall and travel by train to the top of the mountain for truly awesome vistas. Back down on the ground, don't miss the world's largest freshwater aquarium, the Tennessee Aquarium. History enthusiasts will love the city's museums dedicated to Civil War, Native American and 20th-century history. More than anything, Chattanooga is a scenic city, full of natural wonders waiting to be explored by foot, car, bike or train.

Chattanooga city in Tennessee, United States. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Sunday, April 28, 2024, 8:56.

Top things to do (29)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery (1.148 reviews)
- Wonderful and welcoming!
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Distilleries

The first distillery to craft whiskey in Chattanooga in over 100 years. With over 100 different barrels maturing in the aging cellar, every visit to the Experimental Distillery is an exploration of the past, present and future of hand-crafted bourbon. Reserve a tour & tasting to check out our latest releases. (21 with physical, valid, ID) See more..
5.0 Chattanooga National Cemetery (403 reviews)
- Somber walk to honor veterans
Sunday: Cemeteries

The National Cemetery is open dawn to dusk for visitation. The grounds were very well maintained. Every headstone represents a hero; however, I spent a little extra time at the grave of Medal of Honor recipient, Desmond Doss. See more..
5.0 Enterprise South Nature Park (62 reviews)
- Great Place for All Ages & Fitness Levels
Sunday: 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Biking Trails • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks

As a family, we don't come here often enough! The park is huge! And there are pretty decent mountain biking trails for all levels of bikers. There are so many trails that vary in distance and difficulty. There are also picnic spots with tables and shelters. See more..
4.5 Tennessee Aquarium (7.034 reviews)
- Amazing
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Aquariums

This aquarium has two buildings: River Journey, which showcases freshwater habitats from around the globe, and Ocean Journey, where travelers can view magnificent sea creatures. We recommend spending at least three hours at the aquarium as there are over 10,000 animals here. The little ones will especially love the cute macaroni penguins and mesmerizing sea jellies. Weekends are the busiest, so consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter and more intimate experience. There’s timed entry to the aquarium, so plan ahead when booking your tickets. And don’t forget to make use of the city’s free shuttle to get there. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Lookout Mountain (4.329 reviews)
- Breathtaking ride to Rock City
Mountains • Lookouts

This mountain ridge is home to three scenic attractions: Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Incline Railway. Ruby Falls is the country’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall at 260 feet, while Rock City is where you can supposedly see seven states at the iconic Lover’s Leap. Then, brace yourself as you hop on the Incline Railway—the steepest passenger railway in the world. We recommend you spend at least 4 hours at Lookout Mountain to experience the highlights. Each attraction is priced separately and tickets sell out fast, so book early to secure your spot. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Walnut Street Bridge (2.943 reviews)
- Nice Stroll
Bridges

One of the finest examples of the Phoenix wrought-iron truss bridges that were build between 1884 and 1923. See more..
4.5 Raccoon Mountain Caverns (1.906 reviews)
- Great tour for the whole family!
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Caverns & Caves

Raccoon Mountain Caverns is located just 1.3 miles off of I-24 at the Lookout Valley exit (#174), and is less than ten minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Visitors are presented with a cave in its natural state and our 45-minute ( /-) Crystal Palace Walking Tour allows them to view thousands of diverse formations - stalagtites, stalagmites, delicate soda straws, flowstone, rimstone pools, draperies, columns, natural bridges, and a rare shield formation. We also offer a variety of wild cave "spelunking" expeditions for those who want to view beyond the lighted pathways and explore deeper into the mountain. Our Waterfall Dome expedition permits visitors to view the areas tallest underground, natural (unassisted) flowing waterfall. See more..
4.5 Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (1.617 reviews)
- Terrific Halloween Activity
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Children's Museums • History Museums

As you embark on this nostalgic train ride, you'll discover beautifully restored vintage locomotives and passenger cars that showcase the craftsmanship of a bygone era. The journey takes you through the picturesque Tennessee countryside, offering breathtaking views and a chance to reflect on simpler times. Within the museum's exhibit building, you'll find an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that bring the history of railroading to life. The knowledgeable staff, dressed in period attire, are eager to share their passion for railroad history, answering questions and providing fascinating insights into the stories behind the exhibits. They'll help transport you to a time when steam engines ruled the rails and connected people from all walks of life. Whether you're a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable outing with family or friends, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers an unforgettable journey through time. See more..
4.5 Creative Discovery Museum (987 reviews)
- Fun place to spend a couple hours with the family
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Children's Museums

Creative Discovery Museum is a hands-on children's museum in the heart of downtown Chattanooga that inspires all children to explore, innovate, create, and play. Our exhibits are designed to both entertain and educate as children discover the world around them and all it has to offer including art, music, dinosaur digging, water exploration, and science. Rated the #7 children's museum in the U.S. by Trekaroo in 2015. See more..
4.5 Coolidge Park (780 reviews)
- Great views, paths, and a weird rhinoceros sculpture!
Bridges • Parks • Fountains

Named in honor of a World War II Medal of Honor recipient, this seven-acre park features a restored hand-carved carousel, pavilion and interactive play fountain. See more..
4.5 Tennessee Riverpark (457 reviews)
- Beautiful area next to the aquarium
Parks • Hiking Trails

We had a couple of hours to spare before heading into the aquarium so we decided to check this place out. We were there on a Saturday and there were vendors everywhere selling stuff. We bought homemade cookies which were amazing! The walk by the river was absolutely beautiful and the murals down the stairs was a nice surprise. We didn't have time to walk the whole thing but we did love what we saw. There is no free parking here so you'll have to park in paid lots or in a parking garage and walk over. At least it's free to walk around. I would definitely visit again and next time I plan to book a boat tour as well. See more..
4.5 Bluff View Art District (432 reviews)
- Bring your camera!
Sunday: 7:00 AM - 11:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

Perched on the bluffs overlooking the Tennessee River, Bluff View Art District is widely known as Chattanooga's premier spot for quality dining and culinary delights made on site throughout the District's many kitchens, bakery and coffee roaster. Its location provides for a breathtaking destination in the heart of the city where locals and travelers alike may view equally stunning works of art, horticulture and architecture, all of which define the District's unique atmosphere. See more..
4.5 IMAX Theater (389 reviews)
- Awesome movie on sea lions
Theaters

A 3-D movie theater thats always a hit with the kids. See more..
4.5 Chattanooga Riverwalk (343 reviews)
- A Clean and Beautiful Place To Run
Scenic Walking Areas

I was looking for a place to jog this morning and decided to run by the river on this trail. I found it to be extremely clean. I felt safe the whole 5 miles I was on it. Even at 7AM there were people on the trail jogging, biking, and walking. Downtown near the visitor center it goes under a bridge and that appears to be where homeless people sleep, but they were asleep at 7-8 when I passed. The trail has interesting sights and signs along the way. I highly recommend it if your looking for a place to get some steps in. See more..
4.5 Coolidge Park Antique Carousel (341 reviews)
- Lovely carousel
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

The carousel machine is an antique dentzel repopulated with newer carved menagerie animals, some with Tennessee flair. The rides are only $1 and last over 4 minutes. There are rocking chairs around to sit and watch the carousel and riders. It is housed in a lovely building. My complaint is that the information found online for hours is inaccurate and there didnt seem to be a direct phone line to call and check. I called the city, and they directed me to a park link with the incorrect info. This was mostly an issue because I was an out of town visitor who really wanted to ride the carousel. The carousel has three rows of animals. The outside row does not go up and down, the inner two rows do. Really cool animals and lots of variety. Definitely support this carousel. See more..
4.5 AT&T Field (288 reviews)
- It’s worth the time to have family fun and enjoy Americas pastime.
Sunday: Arenas & Stadiums

I will always take the opportunity to visit a ballpark even when I’m out of town. I have been to numerous minor league games but I have to say this one was definitely up there. I mean the game the was good, the staff was great- my kids got stuff from a staff member who spent the time to talk to us and show us photos of his grandchildren, the food lines were short, the beer menu was huge for a minor league game, and above all there was no fights or problems of any kind. I will definitely return if possible. Oh and the tickets are cheap as hell. See more..
4.5 International Towing and Recovery Museum (243 reviews)
- Hidden Gem?
Speciality Museums

A museum commemorating the history of the tow truck. See more..
4.5 Tivoli Theater (210 reviews)
- Wonderful venue and great show
Theaters

We had tickets to Cats and this was our first time at the Tivoli. The venue is absolutely beautiful, lines to get into the theater were reasonable and moved fast; security check was courteous and non invasive. The is no bad seat in the house and the acoustics are great. The musical was amazing and we will come back! See more..
4.5 Coker Museum - Honest Charley (175 reviews)
- a man's candystore
Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

The Coker Museum is open inside of Honest Charley's with cars in every corner. This is a self guided tour with a $12.00 general admission ticket sold online or at your arrival. Seniors, veterans, active duty military and first responders are $10.00, and children 5-12 are $8.00. Children 4 and under are free!! See more..
4.5 Chattanooga Market (170 reviews)
- Halloween at the Market
Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 24, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Flea & Street Markets

It’s always Sunday Funday at Chattanooga Market! Fresh farm produce, art & crafts, live music on the Lodge Cast Iron Sizzle Stage, and the best food trucks in town. It’s the place to be every Sunday! See more..
4.5 Raccoon Mountain Dam (162 reviews)
- views!
Dams

WOW!!! We stopped by chance and it was a great drive. Amazing views. It's free. Bring a camera. We will do again. See more..
4.5 River Gallery (96 reviews)
- Enjoyed the River Gallery Outdoor Sculpture Garden
Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Art Galleries • Gardens • Art Museums

Craft and art collections. See more..
4.5 Ross's Landing Park (93 reviews)
- An historic spot and pleasant riverside park
Parks

Walk over the world's longest pedestrian bridge See more..
4.5 National Medal of Honor Heritage Center (78 reviews) from $13.95
- HISTORY TEACHER MAKES A REAL FIND!!
Sunday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums

Visit the the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and learn about the history of our nation's highest military award for valor, from the First Medals in 1863 to the present. The Heritage Center works to educate Americans about the six character traits associated with the Medal of Honor and inspire visitors to develop the highest qualities of character demonstrated by its recipients: Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice and Commitment. The Heritage Center offers hand-on activities for visitors of all ages and was particularly designed to provide children and student educational opportunities. See more..
4.5 John Ross Bridge - Market Street Bridge (62 reviews)
- Great views
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges

Great walking spot in downtown Chattanooga - really great views of the city. THere is park space on both sides for kids to play or that goes down to the waterfront. Great place to bike, jog, or bring your dog. Its about a quarter mile to walk the bridge one way so it doesnt take too long. See more..
4.5 The Houston Museum of Decorative Arts (33 reviews)
- Enjoyable visit
Sunday: Speciality Museums

Located in a century-old Victorian house, this museum houses one of the world's finest collections of antique glass and ceramics from the collection of local eccentric Anna Safley Houston. See more..
4.0 Ruby Falls (7.160 reviews)
- Great long hike.
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Caverns & Caves • Waterfalls

ADVENTURE AWAITS! Ruby Falls is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. Take a guided Classic Waterfall Tour, Lantern Tour or Extended Cavern Experience Tour along the scenic cavern trail to the breathtaking waterfall. See ancient geological formations, millions of years in the making, and learn about the cave's storied history. Enjoy extensive views of the Tennessee Valley, Cumberland Plateau and the Tennessee River from scenic overlooks and Lookout Mountain Tower. There is always something new to discover at this national treasure! Tours fill quickly, purchase tickets in advance online for best availability. See more..
4.0 Chattanooga Zoo (897 reviews)
- Best part of our entire trip! Very cool! Don't miss this one!
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Zoos

Imagine a zoo that's specially designed to bring the animals up close to you. Imagine a zoo where you have time to notice the subtleties of animal behavior, instead of being pushed along by an impatient crowd. Imagine an exciting and diverse zoo that's still easy to navigate with strollers...or little legs. That's the new Chattanooga Zoo! See more..
4.0 Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center (159 reviews)
- Great Morning with Vlad
Sunday: Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center offers over 300 acres of scenic splendor, outdoor recreation, botanical and wildlife exhibits, and more. Just five miles from downtown Chattanooga, we are family-friendly and dog-friendly. Hike, ride your bicycle, paddle or fish on Lookout Creek, or just chill. See more..
3.5 Chattanooga Choo Choo (880 reviews)
- treat it as an attraction to take a look
Speciality Museums

Large exhibit for train aficionados. See more..