Chattanooga
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Chattanooga's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a historic train station turned hotel and entertainment complex. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the on-site restaurant, where you can savor southern-style dishes. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Bluff View Art District, taking in the beautiful views of the Tennessee River.
In the afternoon, head to the Tennessee Aquarium, where you can explore both freshwater and saltwater exhibits. Don't miss the butterfly garden, where you can walk among hundreds of colorful butterflies. After your aquarium visit, enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling some of Chattanooga’s famous barbecue.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Walnut Street Bridge for stunning views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely walk across the bridge, enjoying the ambiance of the riverfront. For dinner, indulge in a meal at one of Chattanooga's top-rated restaurants, featuring local ingredients and craft cocktails.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Lookout Mountain. Once you arrive, take the Incline Railway to the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Spend some time exploring the various trails and lookout points available at the top.
After hiking, visit Rock City Gardens and marvel at the unique rock formations and beautiful gardens. Don't forget to take the famous 'See Seven States' view, a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the lush scenery before heading to your next adventure.
In the evening, return to downtown Chattanooga and dine at a restaurant known for its local craft beers and hearty meals. After dinner, take a ghost tour of the historic district to learn about the city's haunted past. End the night with a cozy dessert at a local ice cream shop.
Start your day with breakfast at a café near the Hunter Museum of American Art, where you can fuel up for a day of culture. Spend the morning exploring the museum's impressive collection of American art, spanning centuries and styles. Be sure to check out the stunning views of the river from the museum's terrace.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant that features dishes inspired by regional flavors. Afterward, take a short walk to the Chattanooga Market, where local artisans and farmers showcase their products. Browse through handmade crafts and sample local foods, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot at a rooftop bar for a drink while enjoying the sunset over the city. For dinner, indulge in fine dining at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. Wrap up your evening with a live music performance at one of Chattanooga’s popular venues.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Tennessee River for a morning of kayaking. Rent equipment and paddle along the serene waters while taking in the natural beauty surrounding you. Look out for local wildlife as you glide through the river’s calm currents.
After your kayaking adventure, enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant, sampling fresh fish and seasonal vegetables. Following lunch, embark on a scenic hike through the nearby Stringer's Ridge Park, which offers stunning views of downtown Chattanooga. Take your time exploring the trails and soaking up the lush greenery.
In the evening, return to the city and treat yourself to a casual dinner at a food truck park, where you can choose from a variety of culinary delights. Afterward, attend a local theater performance or live music show at one of Chattanooga's charming venues. End the night by relaxing at a coffee shop, sipping on a warm beverage.
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a café along the Riverwalk, enjoying views of the Tennessee River. After breakfast, embark on a peaceful walk or bike ride along the Riverwalk, taking in the scenery and fresh air. Stop at various parks along the way to relax and soak in the natural beauty.
For lunch, picnic at one of the parks, enjoying locally sourced sandwiches and snacks. Afterward, take a guided boat tour on the river, where you can learn about the history and ecology of the area. The tour offers a unique perspective of Chattanooga’s landscape and attractions.
As evening approaches, find a riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes. After dinner, take a sunset cruise to experience the breathtaking views of the city as the sun sets over the horizon. Wrap up the day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Explore the park's many trails and historic sites, learning about the significant battles that took place in the area. Visit the visitor center to see exhibits and watch a short film on the history of the Civil War in Chattanooga.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby pub that serves hearty American fare. Afterward, continue your historical exploration by visiting the Battles for Chattanooga Museum, where you can delve deeper into the stories of the Civil War. Take your time to examine the detailed maps and artifacts on display.
In the evening, dine at a historic restaurant that offers traditional Southern cuisine. After dinner, consider joining a Civil War-themed ghost tour to hear stories of the soldiers and civilians who lived during the tumultuous times. End the night with a relaxing drink at a local bar, reflecting on the day’s historical adventures.
Begin your day with breakfast at a charming café, then head to the Chattanooga Botanical Garden and Arboretum. Spend your morning strolling through the beautifully landscaped gardens, taking in the vibrant colors and fragrant flowers. Don’t miss the unique sculptures scattered throughout the property.
For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the garden's serene spots. Afterward, take part in a gardening workshop or a guided tour to learn more about the plants and their ecosystems. Spend some time exploring the various themed gardens, each offering a different experience.
As the sun sets, find a nearby restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. After your meal, attend an outdoor concert or movie in one of Chattanooga's parks, enjoying the fresh evening air. Conclude your day with a stroll through the gardens, which are beautifully illuminated at night.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café known for its artisanal pastries. After breakfast, take a tour of one of Chattanooga's local breweries to learn about the craft brewing process. Enjoy tastings of various styles of beer, and gain insight into the art of brewing from expert staff.
For lunch, visit a food truck park where you can pair local food with your favorite brews. After lunch, continue your brewery tour, visiting more local spots that offer unique flavors and styles. Engage with the brewers and learn about their inspirations and brewing techniques.
In the evening, find a popular brewpub for dinner, where you can savor delicious dishes made with local ingredients. After dinner, join a guided brewery crawl to explore more of Chattanooga’s craft beer scene. End your day with a nightcap at a speakeasy-style bar, enjoying the cozy atmosphere.