Chattanooga is a city full of surprises, offering an exciting mix of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and unique attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this Tennessee gem has something for everyone. Let’s explore the 15 must-visit spots in Chattanooga that should be on your travel list!
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
Address: 3370 Lafayette Road
| Type | Museums, Recreation, Tours, Monuments and Memorials, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1890, it commemorates key Civil War battles that took place in the area, marking a turning point in the Union’s victory.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore historical monuments, battlefields, and the Lookout Mountain with expansive views and educational insights into Civil War history.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, with a visitor center offering maps and educational displays. Guided tours and events are available. Admission to the park is free.
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park is the largest and oldest national military park in the United States, preserving the sites of key Civil War battles. Visitors can walk through historic battlefields, see monuments, and explore the visitor center for an educational experience. The park’s Lookout Mountain provides stunning panoramic views of the area, and it’s a great place to reflect on the significance of these pivotal events in American history.
Tennessee Aquarium
Address: 1 Broad St.
| Type | Museums, Zoos and Aquariums, Natural Wonders, Tours |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Opened in 1992, this aquarium helped revitalize Chattanooga’s riverfront, becoming a top destination for marine and freshwater life exploration.
What to Expect: It features two main sections, River Journey and Ocean Journey, with interactive exhibits housing otters, penguins, and sharks.
Visitor Information: Located downtown; hours vary seasonally. Ticket purchase grants access to both buildings, with discounted rates for children and seniors.
The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the premier aquariums in the United States, offering a vast collection of both freshwater and marine life. It’s divided into two main sections: the River Journey and Ocean Journey. The River Journey features animals native to Tennessee, such as otters, alligators, and turtles, while the Ocean Journey is home to penguins, sharks, and exotic sea creatures. The exhibits are designed to be educational and fun, making it an ideal visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bluff View Art District
Address: E. 2nd St.
| Type | Free, Cafes, Parks and Gardens, Neighborhood/Area, Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Created in the 1990s, this art-focused neighborhood offers a unique combination of history, art, and scenic beauty on the banks of the Tennessee River.
What to Expect: Art galleries, cafes, museums, and gardens provide a peaceful atmosphere perfect for strolling and art appreciation.
Visitor Information: Located near downtown, open to the public year-round. Most galleries and cafes operate standard business hours, and street parking is available.
The Bluff View Art District in downtown Chattanooga is a charming cultural neighborhood perched on a scenic bluff overlooking the Tennessee River. The district features a unique combination of art galleries, museums, cafes, and gardens. Visitors can enjoy stunning outdoor sculptures, visit the Hunter Museum of American Art, or relax at Rembrandt’s Coffee House. The area offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, perfect for strolling, appreciating art, and soaking in the beauty of Chattanooga’s landscapes.
Chattanooga Choo Choo
Address: 1400 Market St.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: A historic railroad station dating back to 1909, now transformed into a hotel and entertainment center celebrating Chattanooga’s railway heritage.
What to Expect: Walk through vintage train cars, dine at unique restaurants, and enjoy live entertainment and gardens.
Visitor Information: Located in downtown Chattanooga; open daily. Hotel and dining reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic landmark that was once a bustling railroad station in the early 20th century. Now, it’s a hotel and entertainment venue, offering a glimpse into the city’s railroad past. Visitors can explore the vintage train cars, dine in the restaurants, or take a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens. It’s a unique destination combining history, culture, and Southern hospitality, perfect for tourists looking to experience a piece of Chattanooga’s heritage.
Rock City Gardens
Address: 1400 Patten Road
| Type | Natural Wonders, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Opened in 1932, Rock City Gardens is famous for its “See Seven States” lookout, symbolizing the natural beauty and appeal of Lookout Mountain.
What to Expect: A scenic walking trail, unique rock formations, and gardens; seasonal events like the Enchanted Garden of Lights are popular attractions.
Visitor Information: Open daily; tickets are required. Best visited during mild weather to enjoy outdoor trails and views fully.
Rock City Gardens is a natural wonderland perched atop Lookout Mountain. The gardens offer visitors a scenic walk through a labyrinth of unique rock formations, hidden pathways, and beautiful plant life. One of the main attractions is the famous “See Seven States” viewpoint, where you can see vistas stretching into Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and beyond. Whether you’re hiking or enjoying the seasonal events like the Enchanted Garden of Lights, Rock City offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure for nature lovers.
Ruby Falls
Address: 1720 Scenic Hwy
| Type | Natural Wonders, Tours |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Discovered in 1928, Ruby Falls is the deepest commercial waterfall in the United States, showcasing incredible underground rock formations.
What to Expect: A guided tour through limestone caves leading to the illuminated 145-foot underground waterfall.
Visitor Information: Tours operate daily, though advanced booking is recommended. The caves maintain a cool temperature year-round, so dress accordingly.
Ruby Falls is a breathtaking underground waterfall located deep within Lookout Mountain. Discovered in 1928, it’s the largest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. Visitors can take an elevator down into the cave and walk along guided paths to see the stunning waterfall, illuminated with colorful lights. The cave formations are equally impressive, with stalactites and stalagmites throughout the space. It’s an awe-inspiring experience for anyone interested in geology or natural wonders.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Address: 4119 Cromwell Road
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1961, the museum preserves and operates historic trains, offering a glimpse into the region’s rail history.
What to Expect: Enjoy train rides on vintage locomotives, with narrated tours detailing the history of railroads in Tennessee.
Visitor Information: Open daily with scheduled train excursions. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum; check schedules for special seasonal rides.
For train enthusiasts and history buffs, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-visit attraction. Located just outside downtown Chattanooga, this museum offers visitors the chance to experience historic train rides on restored locomotives from the early 1900s. The museum offers several excursions, including the Chickamauga Turn, which takes guests through scenic landscapes and past Civil War sites. It’s a fascinating look at the history of railroads and an enjoyable experience for people of all ages.
Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
Address: 3917 St. Elmo Avenue
| Type | Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: Operating since 1895, this railway is one of the steepest in the world, making it a unique transportation and scenic attraction.
What to Expect: A thrilling ascent up Lookout Mountain with stunning views; the top offers access to Civil War sites and walking trails.
Visitor Information: Open daily with regular departures. Tickets can be bought at the station, and free parking is available nearby.
The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is one of the most famous ways to ascend Lookout Mountain, providing a thrilling and scenic journey. Known as “America’s Most Amazing Mile,” this funicular railway takes visitors up a 72.7% grade, offering panoramic views of Chattanooga and the surrounding valley. The ride is a unique and exciting way to reach the top of the mountain, where visitors can explore additional attractions, including Rock City and the Lookout Mountain Battlefield.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns
Address: 319 West Hills Dr.
| Type | Natural Wonders, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Discovered in 1929, these limestone caverns have become a natural attraction famous for their impressive stalactites and underground beauty.
What to Expect: Guided tours through expansive cave passages; adventure tours are available for thrill-seekers interested in wild caving.
Visitor Information: Open daily; reservations are recommended, especially for adventure tours. Dress warmly, as the caverns remain cool year-round.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns offers an adventurous exploration of a natural limestone cave system located just outside Chattanooga. The cavern features impressive formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone, created over millions of years. Visitors can choose from guided tours of varying lengths and difficulty levels, or opt for a more hands-on experience with wild caving tours. It’s a thrilling adventure for those who enjoy spelunking or simply want to learn more about the unique geology of the area.
Cumberland Trail
Address: Chattanooga
| Type | Forests, ridges, and waterfalls. |
| Time to Spend | Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in the 1990s, the Cumberland Trail is a protected hiking route showcasing Tennessee’s natural landscape.
What to Expect: Scenic hiking trails through forests, ridges, and waterfalls, offering both beginner-friendly paths and challenging routes.
Visitor Information: Accessible year-round with free entry; trailhead parking is available. Bring water and hiking supplies for extended hikes.
The Cumberland Trail is a 200-mile long hiking trail that winds through the beautiful landscapes of southeastern Tennessee. With various access points around Chattanooga, it offers outdoor enthusiasts the chance to explore the region’s stunning forests, ridges, and waterfalls. The trail is perfect for hiking, nature walks, and wildlife viewing, with many sections offering breathtaking scenic views. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a more challenging backcountry adventure, the Cumberland Trail has something for everyone.
Hunter Museum of American Art
Address: 10 Bluff View Ave,
| Type | Museum |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1952, this museum houses an impressive collection of American art spanning the 18th century to contemporary works.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, and photography within a historic mansion and modern addition overlooking the Tennessee River.
Visitor Information: Open daily; admission fees vary, with discounts for children, students, and seniors. Free days and special exhibits are held periodically.
The Hunter Museum of American Art is a cultural treasure in Chattanooga, featuring a collection of more than 3,000 works of art, spanning from the Colonial era to contemporary pieces. The museum is housed in a stunning building on the bluff overlooking the Tennessee River. Exhibits feature diverse American artists, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. The Hunter Museum offers educational programs and is an essential stop for anyone interested in art and culture in Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Zoo
Address: 301 N. Holtzclaw Ave.
| Type | Zoos and Aquariums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1937, this zoo focuses on conservation and education, housing over 200 animal species from around the world.
What to Expect: Interactive exhibits with red pandas, tigers, and meerkats, alongside educational programs and kid-friendly activities.
Visitor Information: Open daily; admission fees are family-friendly, with free parking on-site. Check the schedule for seasonal events and animal encounters.
The Chattanooga Zoo is a fun and educational destination located just minutes from downtown. With over 200 species of animals from around the world, including exotic creatures like red pandas, tigers, and meerkats, the zoo offers a family-friendly experience. The zoo’s exhibits focus on conservation efforts and include interactive activities for children. It’s a great place for a relaxing day with the family, with a wide variety of animals and engaging educational displays.
Walnut Street Bridge
Address: 1 Walnut St,
| Type | Walking, jogging, and biking |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Built in 1890, this pedestrian bridge once connected downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore, now serving as a historic landmark and public walkway.
What to Expect: A scenic bridge perfect for walking, jogging, and taking in views of the city and the Tennessee River.
Visitor Information: Open to pedestrians year-round, free of charge. Parking is available on both sides, with nearby access to parks and restaurants.
The Walnut Street Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world and a beautiful spot to enjoy stunning views of Chattanooga’s downtown area and the Tennessee River. It connects downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore, making it a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking. The bridge is a historic landmark that offers a relaxing and scenic route for travelers and locals alike, perfect for an afternoon stroll or a picturesque photo op.
International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame Museum
Address: 3315 Broad St, Chattanooga,
| Type | Museum |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: This museum honors the history and evolution of towing, with exhibits on vintage tow trucks and the industry’s role in emergencies.
What to Expect: See vintage trucks, memorabilia, and interactive displays that celebrate this unique profession and its impact on road safety.
Visitor Information: Open daily; modest admission fee. Located close to other downtown attractions, with free on-site parking for visitors.
For a quirky and unique experience, visit the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame Museum, which celebrates the history of towing and recovery vehicles. Located in Chattanooga, the museum houses exhibits detailing the development of tow trucks, their uses, and the role they’ve played in emergencies and rescue missions. It’s an interesting stop for those curious about the mechanics of towing, with vintage trucks and memorabilia displayed throughout the museum.
Chattanooga Market
Address: 1801 Reggie White Blvd,
| Type | Chattanooga Market |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 2001, the market has grown to become Tennessee’s largest producer-only market, supporting local farmers and artisans.
What to Expect: A bustling marketplace filled with fresh produce, crafts, handmade goods, and delicious local food offerings, ideal for exploring Chattanooga’s culture.
Visitor Information: Open Sundays from April to December. Admission is free, though it’s recommended to arrive early for the best selection of goods.
Chattanooga Market is the largest producer-only market in Tennessee, where local farmers, artisans, and vendors gather to sell fresh produce, crafts, and handmade goods. Open on weekends, the market is a vibrant and lively spot to experience Chattanooga’s local culture. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruits, unique handmade items, or delicious food from local vendors, the Chattanooga Market is the perfect place to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere and support local businesses.
