30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Chattanooga | Apr 2025

Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour Image
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Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour

Chattanooga's original, local and only award-winning ghost tour company has made the best even better! The Murder and Mayhem route has less walking, more ghosts, and has won numerous national awards- come see why! See and hear about some of Chattanooga's most haunted and historical locations on this walking ghost tour.

4.63 (347 reviews)

Ocoee River Middle Whitewater Rafting Trip (Most Popular Tour) Image
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Ocoee River Middle Whitewater Rafting Trip (Most Popular Tour)

This section is great for beginners or the experienced rafter with over 20 continuous class III & IV rapids. With plenty of places to surf and play, you’ll see why thousands of folks return year after year to raft this classic 5-mile run.

4.96 (383 reviews)

Derailed: Trolley Tour and Train Ride in Chattanooga Image
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Derailed: Trolley Tour and Train Ride in Chattanooga

This is a tour focused on Chattnooga's rich transportation heritage. It includes a ride on a classic train on an historic railroad.

4.59 (91 reviews)

Kigali City Tour with a Local Guide and Driver Image
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Kigali City Tour with a Local Guide and Driver

Explore the heart of Kigali with our custom city tour, offering three unique options: morning, afternoon, or night. • Personalized Exploration: Tailored to you, dive into Kigali’s essence, whether it’s history, culture, or fun.

4.88 (43 reviews)

Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures Image
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Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures

This trip runs on Eastern Time. You will get an amazing 3 mile tour just outside Chattanooga, Tennessee at Nickajack Lake and will learn about gray bats, osprey, cliff swallows, blue heron, and other wildlife.

4.89 (243 reviews)

ChattaBrunch Food Tour Image
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ChattaBrunch Food Tour

Enjoy Chattanooga's only Brunch Food Tour. All tour guides are passionate about Chattanooga. See the city through the eye of a local as you sample tapa-sized dishes at each of the restaurants while meeting the Proprietors that brought their vision to life.

4.74 (66 reviews)

Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure With Catered Shore Lunch Image
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Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure With Catered Shore Lunch

Ready for a full day of adventure on the Ocoee River? This is classic Tennessee white water rafting at it’s finest, including 10 miles of raging rapids to wet your appetite.

4.99 (143 reviews)

Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure with a Riverside Lunch Image
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Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure with a Riverside Lunch

This whitewater rafting adventure is a fun filled way to spend time with family and friends immersed in the outdoors.

4.97 (94 reviews)

Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures Image
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Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures

Locking through the dam is a great break from the ordinary. You wait as the massive gates to the lock open, and the boats heading upstream slowly motor out of the lock.

5.00 (57 reviews)

Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga Image
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Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga

This tour is unique because it takes guests beyond the menu. Learn historical information about the building, owner, food, and history of Southside Chattanooga.

4.83 (23 reviews)

Middle Ocoee River Rafting Adventure Tour Image
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Middle Ocoee River Rafting Adventure Tour

Ocoee River rafting is the perfect activity to share with family and friends, creating a life time of exhilarating memories.

4.95 (211 reviews)

Private Helicopter Tour over South Chattanooga TN  Image
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Private Helicopter Tour over South Chattanooga TN

You will first speak to your pilot before you fly to get all the questions out of the way. Your Flight will start out of the Helipad .

3.67 (12 reviews)

Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour Image
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Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour

Chatt Taste Food Tours, LLC showcases the transformation of dining and local businesses in Downtown Chattanooga through guided food tours.

4.89 (265 reviews)

The Flash: 1 Hour City Tour  Image
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The Flash: 1 Hour City Tour

Come take a ride on Chattanooga's most comprehensive tour. Our goal is to be your first stop in Chattanooga. Learn about all the great attractions that our city has to offer.

4.35 (17 reviews)

Cocktails and Conversations: Group Cocktail Making Class Image
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Cocktails and Conversations: Group Cocktail Making Class

Chatt Taste Food Tours, LLC showcases the transformation of dining and local businesses in Downtown Chattanooga through guided food tours.

5.00 (6 reviews)

ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga Image
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ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga

Discover the Ghosts and History of Chattanooga. Chattanooga has seen, fires, floods, disease and war in our bloody past and left a city full of ghosts.

4.68 (126 reviews)

Chattanooga: City Trolley Tour with Coker Automotive Museum visit Image
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Chattanooga: City Trolley Tour with Coker Automotive Museum visit

Chattanooga history, cars and art, and much more. You will board at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga's Last standing historic train terminal.

4.63 (54 reviews)

Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over Image
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Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over

For a boozy twist on the ghost tour, don't miss this ghastly pub hopping adventure to some of Chattanooga's famously haunted pubs and back alley.

4.67 (46 reviews)

Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket Image
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Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket

The year is 1963 and the city of London has been swept up in the age of love, flower power and Beatlemania. The dance floors are full of twist and shout and groovy people.

4.87 (63 reviews)

1.5-Hour Cemetery Ghost Hunt in Chattanooga Image
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1.5-Hour Cemetery Ghost Hunt in Chattanooga

A cemetery hunt is for the more adventurous adult who wants an experience rather than stories. This tour will take you on a ghost investigation through UTC's campus and Citizens Cemetery, utilizing equipment you've seen on television, such as ghost meters, temperature guns, Mel meters, laser grid lights, a parascope, and more, including the talking Ovilus X, which allows communication in real time.

4.65 (95 reviews)

Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga Image
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Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga

Discover thrilling ghost stories of Chattanooga on a walking tour for the whole family. Visit historic locations tied to the Civil War, murders, and other sources of strange hauntings.

4.73 (55 reviews)

King Tut's Tomb Escape Room Experience in Chattanooga Image
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King Tut's Tomb Escape Room Experience in Chattanooga

It’s 1922, and you are members of Howard Carter’s archaeology team. Mr. Carter has discovered what he believes is the Egyptian Pharaoh King Tutankhamen’s (King Tut) tomb.

4.70 (40 reviews)

Cursed in Chattanooga Haunted Walking Tour Image
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Cursed in Chattanooga Haunted Walking Tour

Indulge in the macabre on this adult's only guided walking tour in Chattanooga. Immerse yourself in tales of dark spirits and tragedies from Chattanooga's history.

4.28 (82 reviews)

Saving Christmas Escape Room in Chattanooga Image
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Saving Christmas Escape Room in Chattanooga

Completely immerse yourself in a wholesome experience as you find yourself as Santa's last hope at bringing Christmas cheer this year.

4.85 (75 reviews)

Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure Image
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Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure

The Adventures Unlimited staff goes above and beyond to share their love of the outdoors with others. The office crew exemplifies exceptional customer service in a pleasant and helpful manner.

4.93 (172 reviews)

National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga Image
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National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga

Experience Chattanooga’s newest attraction, The National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. Our permanent exhibits take our visitors from the actions that prompted the First Medals during the Civil War to the War on Terror conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

4.80 (59 reviews)

Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket Image
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Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket

Locked in a room you have only 60-Minutes to escape by working together, finding clues and keys, decoding messages, and solving puzzles and problems.

4.81 (43 reviews)

Chattanooga Ghosts of the Misty Mountains Walking Tour Image
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Chattanooga Ghosts of the Misty Mountains Walking Tour

Join us on an unforgettable walking ghost tour in Chattanooga! On this tour, you will explore the eerie and haunted locations that have captivated locals and visitors alike.

3.00 (4 reviews)

Private Helicopter Tour of Downtown Chattanooga Image
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Private Helicopter Tour of Downtown Chattanooga

This Tour takes you through the heart of downtown Chattanooga. You will experience Chattanooga at its finest. You will see the downtown area, Tennessee aquarium and AT&T field.

4.72 (46 reviews)

Private Helicopter Lookout Mountain Tour from Chattanooga Image
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Private Helicopter Lookout Mountain Tour from Chattanooga

This tour takes you over some of the most visited places in Chattanooga. Once you leave the airport the first thing you will see is the Tennessee aquarium, next will be the moccasin bend golf club that's nestled in the Tennessee River.

4.89 (35 reviews)

What activities can I do in Chattanooga?

1. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium: Explore the world of marine life at one of the top-rated aquariums in the country. The Tennessee Aquarium offers a variety of exhibits, including a River Journey and an Ocean Journey, where you can see a wide range of aquatic species. 2. Take a stroll along the Walnut Street Bridge: Walk across the historic Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Enjoy beautiful views of the Tennessee River and the city skyline as you take a leisurely walk or bike ride. 3. Explore Lookout Mountain: Visit Lookout Mountain, which offers various attractions such as Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway. Take a guided tour through Rock City's enchanting gardens, hike to see the breathtaking Ruby Falls, or ride the Incline Railway for panoramic views of the surrounding area. 4. Tour the Chattanooga Choo Choo: Experience the nostalgia of the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a former train station turned hotel and entertainment complex. Explore the beautifully restored terminal, dine in one of the restaurants, or take a ride on the vintage electric trolley. 5. Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art: Immerse yourself in American art at the Hunter Museum, located on a bluff overlooking the Tennessee River. The museum showcases a diverse collection of art, including works from the Colonial period to contemporary pieces. 6. Go hiking or biking in the nearby trails: Chattanooga is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with several hiking and biking trails to explore. Head to the nearby Prentice Cooper State Forest, Raccoon Mountain, or Signal Mountain for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. 7. Enjoy outdoor activities at Coolidge Park: Spend a day at Coolidge Park, a riverside park that offers a range of activities for all ages. Take a ride on the antique carousel, have a picnic by the river, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the water. 8. Discover the history of the Civil War: Chattanooga played a significant role in the Civil War, and you can learn about its history at various sites. Visit the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, the Battles for Chattanooga Electric Map and Museum, or the National Medal of Honor Museum to delve into this important chapter of American history. 9. Sample local cuisine and craft beer: Chattanooga has a vibrant food and drink scene. Explore the city's diverse culinary offerings, from Southern comfort food to international cuisines. Don't forget to try some of the local craft beers at one of the many breweries in the area. 10. Attend a live performance: Chattanooga has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several theaters and performance venues. Catch a show at the Tivoli Theatre, the Chattanooga Theatre Centre, or the Songbirds Guitar Museum, which also hosts live music performances. These are just a few of the many things to do in Chattanooga. The city offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and cultural attractions that are sure to make your visit memorable.

When is the best time to travel to Chattanooga?

The best time to travel to Chattanooga, USA is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-27 degrees Celsius). The city is also less crowded compared to the summer months, making it easier to explore attractions and enjoy outdoor activities. In the spring, you can witness the blooming of beautiful flowers and trees in the city's parks and gardens. The fall season offers stunning foliage colors as the leaves change, creating a picturesque setting. Both spring and fall provide a comfortable climate for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby Lookout Mountain. If you prefer warmer weather and don't mind larger crowds, summer (June to August) can also be a good time to visit Chattanooga. During this time, temperatures can reach the 90s Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), making it ideal for water activities on the Tennessee River or visiting the nearby lakes. However, it's worth noting that Chattanooga can experience occasional thunderstorms and rainfall throughout the year. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning your trip and pack accordingly.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Chattanooga

Chattanooga, located in southeastern Tennessee, is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. Here are some aspects of Chattanooga's travel culture: 1. Outdoor Recreation: Chattanooga is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its proximity to the Tennessee River and surrounding mountains, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and kayaking. The city is also home to the famous Lookout Mountain, which offers stunning views and attractions like Rock City and Ruby Falls. 2. Music Scene: Chattanooga has a thriving music scene, with a variety of venues that showcase local talent. Visitors can enjoy live music performances ranging from bluegrass and country to rock and jazz. The city also hosts several music festivals throughout the year, such as the Riverbend Festival and the Nightfall Concert Series. 3. Arts and Culture: Chattanooga has a strong arts and cultural scene. The city is home to numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters. The Hunter Museum of American Art, the Creative Discovery Museum, and the Chattanooga Theatre Centre are popular attractions for art and culture enthusiasts. 4. Food and Drink: Chattanooga offers a diverse culinary scene with a range of dining options. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, visitors can indulge in a variety of flavors. The city also has a growing craft beer and distillery scene, with several local breweries and distilleries offering tours and tastings. 5. History and Heritage: Chattanooga played a significant role in the Civil War, and visitors can explore its historical sites and landmarks. The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a must-visit, offering insights into the battles fought in the area. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges, are also popular historical attractions. 6. Festivals and Events: Chattanooga hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year. The Riverbend Festival, the Chattanooga Film Festival, the 4 Bridges Arts Festival, and the Chattanooga Market are just a few examples. These events showcase the city's vibrant culture and provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the local community. Overall, Chattanooga's travel culture is characterized by its outdoor adventures, live music, arts and cultural offerings, diverse culinary scene, historical significance, and vibrant festivals and events. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, art lover, history buff, or foodie, Chattanooga has something to offer for every traveler.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Chattanooga

When visiting Chattanooga, USA, there are several shopping lists or souvenirs you can consider: 1. MoonPie: Chattanooga is the birthplace of MoonPie, a popular marshmallow-filled snack. You can find various flavors and sizes of MoonPies in local stores, making it a great souvenir or snack to take back home. 2. Local Artwork: Chattanooga is known for its vibrant arts scene, so consider purchasing local artwork as a unique souvenir. You can find paintings, sculptures, pottery, and other forms of art in galleries and boutiques throughout the city. 3. Chattanooga Whiskey: If you're a whiskey enthusiast, Chattanooga Whiskey is a must-buy. This local distillery produces handcrafted bourbon and rye whiskey, offering a taste of the city's whiskey-making heritage. 4. Rock City Birdhouse: Rock City Gardens is a popular attraction in Chattanooga, known for its stunning views and unique birdhouses. These birdhouses, featuring the iconic ""See Rock City"" slogan, make for a charming souvenir that represents the city's natural beauty. 5. Lookout Mountain Souvenirs: Lookout Mountain, located just outside Chattanooga, offers breathtaking views and numerous attractions. Look for souvenirs related to Lookout Mountain, such as t-shirts, magnets, or keychains, to commemorate your visit. 6. Chattanooga Choo Choo Memorabilia: Chattanooga was immortalized in the famous song ""Chattanooga Choo Choo."" Visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel, which was once a historic train station, and browse through their gift shop for train-themed souvenirs, including miniature trains, books, and apparel. 7. Outdoor Gear: Chattanooga is surrounded by natural beauty, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking. Consider purchasing outdoor gear, such as hiking boots, water bottles, or camping equipment, from local outdoor stores to enhance your outdoor adventures. 8. Handcrafted Jewelry: Chattanooga is home to many talented artisans who create unique jewelry pieces. Look for locally made earrings, necklaces, or bracelets that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the city. Remember to explore local boutiques, specialty stores, and the Chattanooga Market, a weekly open-air market, for a wider selection of souvenirs and shopping options.

Chattanooga travel review

Chattanooga, USA: A Gem of the South Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Chattanooga is a city that captivates visitors with its scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known as the ""Scenic City,"" Chattanooga offers a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to every traveler's interests. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, Chattanooga has something for everyone. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is Lookout Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely drive up the mountain or choose to hike one of the many trails that wind through its lush forests. At the top, they will be rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Lookout Mountain is also home to several attractions, including Rock City, a stunning garden with unique rock formations and a famous waterfall. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, a visit to Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall located inside the mountain, is a must. Chattanooga is also steeped in history, with numerous sites that showcase its role in the Civil War. The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a significant historical landmark, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the battlefields and learn about the events that shaped the nation's history. The nearby Chattanooga National Cemetery is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and is a place of reflection and remembrance. For a taste of Chattanooga's vibrant culture, a visit to the Bluff View Art District is a must. This charming neighborhood is filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops, all housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. Visitors can stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk, a scenic pathway that runs alongside the river, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks that dot the area. The district is also home to the Hunter Museum of American Art, which showcases a diverse collection of American art from the colonial period to the present. Food lovers will find themselves in culinary heaven in Chattanooga, with its thriving food scene that offers a mix of Southern comfort food and international flavors. The city is known for its barbecue, and no visit would be complete without indulging in some mouthwatering ribs or pulled pork. Chattanooga also boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, with several breweries offering tours and tastings. For those looking for a unique dining experience, the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a historic train station turned hotel and entertainment complex, is a must-visit. Here, visitors can dine in a restored train car or enjoy live music in one of the many venues on-site. Chattanooga truly has it all – natural beauty, rich history, and a thriving cultural scene. Whether you are seeking adventure in the great outdoors, immersing yourself in history, or simply indulging in delicious food, this charming city in the heart of Tennessee will leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to explore Chattanooga, the gem of the South.