9 Occasional Things To Do In Chattanooga

Updated On October 8, 2023
Coin operated binocular

Would you agree that the best things happen by accident?

If you are out of ideas for the day or evening in Chattanooga, here is out hint for you.

We have selected 9 occasional things to do in this city in southeastern Tennessee.

Scenic views, mighty trees, dense forests, and loud waterfalls are on the list.

What will you choose?

1. Creative Discovery Museum

The mission of the museum is to inspire all the kids to create, discover and explore.

This is an extremely interesting and popular place for families with babies as young as 4 months.

Your kids start developing their cognitive and motor skills in the PlayGym if they are under 4 years old. 

The rest attend numerous workshops, discovery camps, school tours and family nights.

Light bulb
Light bulb

2. Bluff View Art District

Come here to see the most stunning views of the Chattanooga district, looking at the Tennessee River and the Walnut Street Bridge.

This is quite a historic place with plenty of gardens, restaurants and coffee houses.

Among the peculiarities of the Bluff View Art District are Rembrandt’s Roasting House, River Gallery, and Bakery.

The historic site is perfect for wedding ceremonies and other special events.

Coffee cup
Coffee cup

3. High Point Climbing and Fitness

Find the High Point Climbing and Fitness at 219 Broad St., Chattanooga to experience premier indoor and outdoor rock climbing.

No matter whether you are a beginner or an advanced climber, they have got a room for everyone. 

The climbing walls are up to 18 meters tall!

Besides, you do not have to worry about food.

They have it for purchase or you can take something to a picnic area available on site.

Climbers on the rock
Climbers on the rock

4. Chattanooga National Cemetery

The Chattanooga National Cemetery is a national burial location in commemoration of the Battles of Chattanooga, Nov. 23-27, 1863, founded by Gen. George H. Thomas.

Apart from the Civil War veterans, 78 German prisoners of war are buried here.

The cemetery places some of the unique memorials like huge granite obelisks, Roman-inspired columned structures, gates, and inscriptions.

Open daily from dawn to dusk.

Worth visiting.

Flowers at the cemetery
Flowers at the cemetery

5. Raccoon Mountains Caverns & Campground

Tennessee’s number one cave to visit.

It was first open to the public in 1931.

The most popular place in the cave is called Crystal Palace Room. 

All in all, more than 5 miles of underground passages were discovered and new discoveries still being made.

You can choose between primitive tent sites, cabins, water, and electric sites, or full-service RV sites and explore this cool place.

Hiking trail in the forest
Hiking trail in the forest

6. Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge

The bridge was erected in 1891.

Quite old, isn’t it?

Yet this is the most popular and the longest pedestrian bridge in Chattanooga.

The bridge leads you to the north shore from the city center.

And do you know what?

Your pets are welcome too!

Take your dog with you for the longest walk over the river.

Dog on the bridge
Dog on the bridge

7. Audubon Acres

Take a trip to Chattanooga’s oldest wildlife sanctuary to get incredible emotions and feelings.

The most stunning views in the morning and in the evening are waiting for you.

Adrenaline seekers can go swimming, kayaking, tubing, and canoeing in the summer.

If you are more into hiking, there are more than 8 kilometers of trails where you can take unforgettable photos or stay for a picnic.

Picnic kebab
Picnic kebab

8. Ruby Falls

… is the deepest and tallest waterfall underground which is almost 90 years old.

The on-site administration offers guided tours to the waterfall in the caves.

What is more, you can take panoramic views of the Tennessee River and Tennessee Valley from the Lookout Mountain Tower and the Village Plaza.

If you always want more, go for zipline adventures and 12-meter climbing tower. 

Ruby Falls is waiting for you all the year-round from 8 am to 8 pm, except for Christmas Day.

Girl with backpack sees cave waterfall
Girl with backpack sees cave waterfall

9. Tennessee River Gorge

The place is a real treasure for naturalists and archaeologists.

In the summer and in winter, you can take lots of beautiful photos to share with your family and friends.

The Tennessee River Gorge is a carving of the river through the Cumberland Plateau.

Camping, hiking, rock climbing, paddling and boating, and wildlife viewing are available here.

Get an outdoor recreation map and start your journey of a lifetime.

A tent
A tent

 

Chattanooga Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Chattanooga Safety Review

Safety Index:
69
  • OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
  • TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
  • PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
  • NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
  • MUGGING RISK: HIGH
  • TERRORISM RISK: LOW
  • SCAMS RISK: LOW
  • WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

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