13 Fun Things to Do in Chattanooga, Tennessee (+ Tips)
Chattanooga packs a lot of fun into one Scenic City. In a single weekend, you can watch sharks glide by at the Tennessee Aquarium, ride one of the steepest passenger railways in the world up Lookout Mountain, and stand beside an underground waterfall, with time left over for a MoonPie or two.
We’ve visited Chattanooga several times, and it’s one of our favorite Southern getaways. Many of the top attractions sit along the Tennessee River downtown or on Lookout Mountain, just a short drive away, so it’s easy to see a lot without spending all day in the car.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a girls’ getaway, or a Christmas visit, here are our favorite things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee, plus tips to help you plan.
1. See Sharks
One of the best things to do in Chattanooga is to explore the Tennessee Aquarium. This world-renowned facility is home to over 10,000 animals, making it one of the largest aquariums in the United States. Visitors can see everything from river otters to sharks during their visit.
The aquarium comprises two separate buildings located in Chattanooga’s Riverfront District. The River Journey building focuses on freshwater habitats, while the Ocean Journey features saltwater creatures like sharks. In addition, the Tennessee Aquarium also offers an IMAX theater, which regularly shows films about the natural world.
In addition, the Tennessee Aquarium also offers an IMAX theater, which regularly shows films about the natural world.
The aquarium is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. (Chattanooga is in the Eastern Time zone.) The Tennessee Aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
2. Ride a Funicular
Chattanooga’s Incline Railway is the incline of dreams! A beautiful, historic railway that has been providing locals and tourists alike with a truly unique way to experience Chattanooga since 1895.
It offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and the surrounding area, not to mention the tracks from St. Elmo to Lookout Mountain rank among one of the steepest passenger railways in the world! The Chattanooga Incline Railway is sure to take your breath away.
The ride lasts approximately 10 minutes in each direction.
The Incline is operated by CARTA, Chattanooga’s transit authority. Rides use timed tickets, so book ahead, especially on weekends. Hours run between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., so check current times and prices before you go. (Make sure you are there in time to ride it so that you don’t get stuck at the top – or bottom – of the hill.)
3. Play Games
The Pinball Museum is another Chattanooga attraction that is perfect for those who love classic games. This museum is home to over 50 pinball machines, making it the largest collection in the state of Tennessee.
Not only can you see classic pinball machines, but you can also play them! Admission includes unlimited FREE play on all of the operating games and machines.
Admission costs $20 for adults and $16 for children. Guests receive a wrist band which allows all day play for one price. Bonus – you can come and go throughout the day.
The museum is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday – Thursday from 1:00 pm until 9:00 pm, Fridays from 1:00 pm until 10:00 pm, Saturdays from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm, and on Sundays from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm.
4. See Rock City
Visitors to Rock City can explore ancient rock formations, admire the native plants and wildlife, and take in sweeping vistas of the seven states. Along the way, you’ll enjoy seeing Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village.
You’ll find a variety of trails designed to guide you around Rock City’s famous rock formations and gaze at some of its most beautiful overlooks.
Throughout the year, Rock City hosts a variety of special events, from a magical Enchanted Garden of Lights during the holidays to live music and fireworks on summer nights. With its natural beauty and many attractions, Rock City is a must-see on any Chattanooga trip.
Rock City is located at 400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750. Check current hours and prices before you go, especially during the Enchanted Garden of Lights.
5. Get Amazed Underground
Ruby Falls is another Chattanooga must-see. This waterfall is located inside of Lookout Mountain, and it’s one of the tallest underground waterfalls in the United States. Ruby Falls is illuminated, making it a truly magical experience.
Ruby Falls is located at 1720 South Scenic Hwy Chattanooga, TN 37409, and is open from 8 AM until 8 PM Eastern time every day except Christmas. Buying tickets online in advance is recommended.
6. Visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo
No trip to Chattanooga would be complete without a visit to the Chattanooga Choo Choo. This iconic train station has been transformed into a hotel and entertainment complex, and it’s the perfect place to stay during your Chattanooga vacation.
Unwind and soak in the beauty of nature while surrounded by the vibrant city. Take a stroll through the Glenn Miller Gardens at the Chattanooga Choo Choo to marvel at roses among an array of colorful blooms, or sit back and relax on rocking chairs. Plus, dive into some friendly competition with games like Jenga, life-sized checkers, corn hole, and bocce ball.
The Chattanooga Choo Choo is located at 92 Choo Choo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37408.
7. Sip Some Tennessee Whiskey
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a good glass of whiskey. This distillery offers tours and tastings, and it’s the perfect place to learn about the Chattanooga whiskey-making process.
Tours are $18 per person and at the end of the tour, guests get to sample their award-winning products. Tours last approximately 1 hour and participants must be at least 21 years of age.
The distillery is located at 1439 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, and opens at 11:00 am daily. We recommend that you book your tour online as they tend to fill up.
8. Enjoy a Scoop of Ice Cream
Clumpies Ice Cream Co. is the perfect place to go for a sweet treat. This Chattanooga ice cream shop has been serving up delicious scoops since 1999, and it’s the perfect place to cool down on a hot day.
Clumpies serves ice cream year-round at their two locations (Northshore and Southside) as well as online. (Yes, you can have their delicious ice cream shipped to your house!)
In addition to classic flavors like butter pecan, chocolate, coffee, and cookie dough, they serve seasonal and specialty flavors like Chocolate Orange, Dasher’s Delight, Mayan Hot Chocolate, Spiked Eggnog, White Chocolate Peppermint Bark, and Turtle Cheesecake.
The Northshore shop opens at noon daily. The Southside shop opens at noon Friday through Sunday and at 2:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday
9. Drink Hot Chocolate
Nothing helps take off a chill more than a cup of hot chocolate and the best place to get a cup is at The Hot Chocolatier.
The Hot Chocolatier is a local specialty shop that makes artisan chocolates, pastries, and drinks. The hot chocolate drink menu has 22 different offerings including Coconut Caramel Almond, Salted Butterscotch, White Peppermint, and Vegan Hot Chocolate. In addition to hot chocolate, they serve other tasty hot beverages (think Chai Latte and Spiced Apple Cider) and have a cold menu (frozen hot chocolate, iced coffee, etc.), too.
The Hot Chocolatier is located at 1437 Market Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402. It opens at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Mondays.
10. Eat Like a Local
Chattanooga has a vibrant dining scene, with a variety of local restaurants to choose from. From traditional southern cuisine like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and slow-cooked barbeque, to modern international dishes, you’ll find something delicious to eat in Chattanooga.
Our personal recommendations are Thai Smile for Thai food, FEED Co. for their wagyu beef sandwich, and STIR for cocktails. (You can read more about our recommendations at Where To Eat In Chattanooga.)
11. Take a Food Tour
One of the best ways to learn more about the local dining scene is to take a food tour. The 2.5-Hour Food Tour in Downtown Chattanooga is a great way to discover a few places in the city that you might not otherwise try.
We booked our tour through Viator and met the tour guide, Briana, inside the restaurant at Hotel Indigo. She goes over the dishes that guests will eat and information about the restaurants and chefs all while sharing tidbits about Chattanooga’s history.
Briana did a great job curating, organizing, and making the tour fun.
In addition to trying new dishes and discovering new places, you never know who you will meet. (If the people at Shaw Carpet read this – You rock! We had the best time on the food tour with you.)
12. Shop For a MoonPie
MoonPies were first created in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1917 by the Chattanooga Bakery. The original recipe was simple – two round graham cracker cookies with a marshmallow filling sandwiched between them and then covered in chocolate.
Whether you are a Chattanooga native or just visiting for the first time, make sure to get your hands on some of Chattanooga’s iconic treat – the MoonPie! Enjoy the classic combination of two cookies with marshmallow filling and chocolatey coating that has been Chattanooga’s favorite treat for over 100 years.
Visitors can buy MoonPies, t-shirts, hats, and other MoonPie merchandise at the MoonPie General Store located at 429 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402.
The General Store is open daily from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.
13. Remember Our Heroes
The Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee is a must-see for history buffs and military supporters alike. This museum honors those who have served their country with courage and valor.
The center features interactive exhibits that provide an immersive experience into the history of the Medal of Honor and the stories of its recipients.
The museum is located by the Tennessee Aquarium at 2 W. Aquarium Way, Suite 104, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402.
It’s open Monday – Saturday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm.
Chattanooga at Christmas
Chattanooga goes all out for the holidays, and several of its top attractions get a festive makeover. If you’re visiting between mid-November and New Year’s, add a few of these to your list.
Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights
Rock City’s trails glow with millions of lights during its Enchanted Garden of Lights, which runs November 13 through December 31, 2026. You can visit Santa through December 23. Tickets are timed and sold online only, and popular nights sell out, so book early.
North Pole Limited Christmas Train
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s North Pole Limited is a family favorite. The train ride includes hot chocolate, cookies, holiday lights along the tracks, and a visit with Santa at the North Pole. It runs November 13 through December 23, 2026, and weekend dates sell out fast. Grown-ups can book the 21-and-up Nightcap with St. Nick instead.
Chattanooga Zoo Asian Lantern Festival
The zoo lights up with nearly 50 moving, color-changing lantern displays. It’s a fun evening outing for families.
Christkindlmarkt and Reindeer on the Riverfront
Coolidge Park hosts a German-style Christkindlmarkt on November 21, 22, 28, and 29, 2026. On November 27, Reindeer on the Riverfront and a lighted boat parade kick off the season on the Tennessee River.
Christmas at the Choo Choo
The historic Chattanooga Choo Choo celebrates the season with Christmas at the Choo Choo, starting December 5, 2026.
Event dates can change, so check each website before you go.
More Fun Things To Check Out in Chattanooga
- Walnut Street Bridge – Built in 1891, this blue truss bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Stroll across the Tennessee River from downtown to the North Shore for some of the best views of the city, especially at sunset.
- Tennessee Riverwalk – This paved path follows the Tennessee River for miles, past downtown, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Bluff View Art District. It’s a great way to walk, jog, or bike between attractions.
- Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum – Take a ride on an old-fashioned locomotive at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. The museum offers the only regularly scheduled, full-sized train ride in Tennessee. You can also explore the museum’s collection of vintage trains and learn about their history.
- Chattanooga Market – The Chattanooga Market is a weekly event that is held on the weekends. Here, you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts from local vendors. It’s also a great place to grab some food from the many food trucks that are usually onsite.
- Hunter Museum of American Art – The museum features an impressive collection of American art from the colonial period to the present. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the artists and their works.
- Bluff View Art District – Just steps from the Hunter Museum of American Art, this charming neighborhood sits on a bluff above the river, with galleries, a sculpture garden, cafes, and a bakery.
- Chattanooga Zoo – Explore and learn about animals from around the world. From African elephants to jaguars and Komodo dragons, the zoo offers a great opportunity to observe and appreciate our planet’s diverse wildlife. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and opportunities to feed the animals.
- Creative Discovery Museum – The Creative Discovery Museum is a great place for families to explore and learn about science. Featuring interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs, the museum offers something for everyone.
- Songbirds Guitar Museum – Guitars and music lovers alike can explore this museum devoted to all things guitars. The collection is valued at over $200 million and includes hundreds of unique Fender guitars plus original 5-string banjos and mandolins from Martin, Gibson, and other companies.
- International Towing Museum – Learn about the fascinating history of towing and recovery at this unique museum. See a variety of vintage tow trucks, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the challenging conditions tow truck drivers operate in.
- Audubon Acres – Located on the banks of the South Chickamauga Creek, this scenic nature preserve is a great spot for bird-watching. Take an audio tour of the wetlands and observe different species of birds in their natural habitats. You can also learn more about the area’s unique ecology and the conservation efforts in place to protect the environment.
- Coolidge Park – At the North Shore end of the Walnut Street Bridge, this riverside park has a vintage carousel, splash fountains, and a playground. Pack a picnic, watch the boats go by, or catch one of the festivals held here throughout the year. Afterward, explore the shops and cafes of the North Shore.
- Southern Belle Riverboat – Take a step back in time and experience the culture of the South aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. Cruise along the Tennessee River while enjoying breathtaking views of the city of Chattanooga. Book a sunset cruise and enjoy live music and a hometown favorite – a Moon Pie.
- Point Park – Perched on top of Lookout Mountain, Point Park is part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. It marks the Civil War’s “Battle Above the Clouds” and offers sweeping views of the city and the river below. It’s a short walk from the Incline Railway’s upper station.
Getting Around
Chattanooga is easy to explore without a car. CARTA, the city’s transit authority, runs a free, all-electric downtown shuttle that connects the Chattanooga Choo Choo, downtown, and the Tennessee Aquarium area. Free electric shuttles also serve the Northshore.
CARTA also operates the Incline Railway. To reach its lower station in St. Elmo, take CARTA’s Route 15 or drive and park nearby. Local tip: Chattanooga Public Library cardholders can check out free family passes for the Incline (limited, first-come, first-served at the Downtown Library).
Rock City, Ruby Falls, and Point Park are all on Lookout Mountain, so plan a full day there and drive between them.
FAQs About Visiting Chattanooga
What are the top five things to do in Chattanooga?
If you only have time for five, see the Tennessee Aquarium, ride the Incline Railway, explore Rock City, visit Ruby Falls, and walk across the Walnut Street Bridge. Add a MoonPie from the MoonPie General Store for good measure.
What can I do in Chattanooga in one day?
Spend the morning at the Tennessee Aquarium, then grab lunch downtown. In the afternoon, head up Lookout Mountain to Rock City or Ruby Falls, and finish with dinner and a stroll at the Chattanooga Choo Choo.
How many days do you need in Chattanooga?
Two to three days is ideal. Plan one day downtown for the aquarium, museums, and riverfront, and one day on Lookout Mountain for Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway.
Can you get around Chattanooga without a car?
Downtown, yes. CARTA’s free electric shuttle connects the Choo Choo, downtown, and the aquarium area. You’ll want a car for Rock City, Ruby Falls, and Point Park on Lookout Mountain.
What is there to do in Chattanooga at Christmas?
Don’t miss Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights, the North Pole Limited train ride at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the Chattanooga Zoo’s Asian Lantern Festival. See our Chattanooga at Christmas section above for 2026 dates.
Final Call
From sharks and underground waterfalls to pinball, whiskey, and MoonPies, Chattanooga packs a lot of fun into one Scenic City. And when all that exploring works up an appetite, check out our favorite places to eat in Chattanooga, from crispy fried catfish to Thai curry and handcrafted ice cream. For a stylish place to rest your feet, Hotel Clemons is one of our favorite stays in town.
Have you been to Chattanooga? Tell me your favorite thing to do in the comments. I’m always adding to my list for the next trip! And if this post has you dreaming of a Tennessee getaway, share it with the friend you’d bring along.
