Best Things to Do in Chattanooga, TN: Waterfalls, Hikes, Cocktails

Looking for the best things to do in Chattanooga on vacation? This unexpectedly amazing Tennessee city is perfect for a weekend trip! It’s nestled between mountains and the river and is full of surprises; from hidden speakeasies and epic waterfall hikes to historic architecture, a quirky cat café and of course, the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo. We are already planning another trip!

downtown chattanooga skyline mountain view best trip guide
Chattanooga is a scenic mountain town with some of the best spots to visit!

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If you’re into nature, hiking, foodie spots, or unique experiences, this Chattanooga travel guide has you covered with the best things to do, eat, and explore, including iconic landmarks and hidden gems. We just returned from an amazing extended 4-day weekend trip to Chattanooga and wanted to share everything we did and loved to help you plan.

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Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Getaway Destination 🧡

lover's leap lookout mountain rock city best chattanooga trip guide
We loved Rock City and Gardens winding paths, Lover’s Leap cliff, and views from the top on our Chattanooga trip!

Chattanooga is a city that offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, hospitality, and quirky charm. Whether you’re road-tripping from nearby cities or flying in for a long weekend, Chattanooga is surprisingly easy to explore. With a walkable downtown, affordable hotels, and fun things to see that range from natural wonders to artsy neighborhoods, it’s a perfect destination for couples, families, friend groups, and even solo trips.

Neighborhoods of Chattanooga to Explore 🏘️

warehouse row chattanooga best places to see on a trip guide
We loved exploring Warehouse Row Southside and all of the neighborhoods in Chattanooga on our trip!

🌄 St. Elmo
Nestled at the base of Lookout Mountain, St. Elmo is one of Chattanooga’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. It’s the gateway to iconic attractions like the Incline Railway and Ruby Falls. We loved the historic homes, cute cafés, breweries, hiking Glen Falls Trail, and a relaxed, artsy vibe.

🌉 North Shore
Located across the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, North Shore is known for its eclectic shops (we found some great vintage shops), parks, and riverfront views. Highlights include Coolidge Park, Renaissance Park, indie boutiques, and some of the best ice cream at Clumpies.

🎨 Southside Historic District
This trendy and revitalized district is filled with art galleries, public murals, local markets, breweries, and some of Chattanooga’s top restaurants. It’s a great place to experience the city’s creative side, and it’s walkable from major downtown hotels. We stayed the first night in this district at The Chattanoogan Hotel and walked everywhere from here!

🏙️ Downtown / City Center
Home to many of Chattanooga’s biggest attractions and fun things to do like the Tennessee Aquarium, Hunter Museum, and umbrella street installations, downtown is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action. We loved walking along the river and had no trouble finding parking close to the aquarium.

🍺 MLK District
A culturally rich area that blends history, music, and food. Home to the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and a growing number of bars and eateries, this area honors Chattanooga’s heritage with style. This area was fun and walkable (all of downtown Chattanooga feels safe and walkable) and we walked to some really great cocktail bars in this neighborhood.

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Best Outdoor & Nature Activities in Chattanooga 🏞️ 

Coolidge Park & Walnut Street Bridge

coolidge park chattanooga best things to do on a trip
Walking across the Walnut Street Bridge to get to the North Side and Coolidge Park was easy from the downtown area of Chattanooga.


Stroll across one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world to reach Coolidge Park on the North Shore. You’ll find splash fountains, riverfront views, and eclectic local shops nearby.

Renaissance Park
A quiet and scenic green space next to Coolidge, great for a relaxing picnic or walking trails with views of the river and downtown skyline.

Glen Falls Trail (Lookout Mountain)

glen falls hiking trail chattanooga lookout mountain trip guide
The Glen Falls trail on Lookout Mountain was nice and easy to navigate!

Glen Falls and the trails around Lookout Mountain offer sweeping views and photo-worthy overlooks. Add this to your early morning itinerary to beat the crowds because parking is tight.

glen falls best trail swim hole chattanooga guide
We cooled off in the swimming hole at Glen Falls on our Chattanooga trip.

Glen Falls Trail is a short and rewarding hike with a hidden waterfall and you can even swim/wade at the base. It’s also close to downtown.

Top Things to do & Cultural Experiences in Chattanooga 🖼️ 

Tennessee Aquarium
📍 1 Broad St.
One of the top-rated aquariums in the country, it’s home to a stunning river journey exhibit, ocean creatures, and interactive touch tanks.

Hunter Museum of American Art

Hunter museum of american art pathway chattanooga
The Hunter Museum is a must-do in Chattanooga and has a unique accessible pathway.

📍 10 Bluff View Ave
This impressive museum features American art in a beautiful location overlooking the Tennessee River. It’s just steps from the pedestrian bridge.

Chattanooga Choo Choo

Chattanooga choo choo best things to do trip guide
Don’t miss seeing the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo on your trip!

📍 92 Choo Choo Ave
This iconic train station turned hotel and entertainment complex has shops, restaurants, and even hotel rooms inside vintage railcars.

Unique & Iconic Chattanooga Activities 🔹

We had fun doing unique things like the Naughty Cat Cafe and more iconic landmarks like, Rock City! We grew up going to iconic places with our family like Ruby Falls, Incline Railway, and Rock City. It’s nice to see they have improved them and we still loved visiting after all of these years.

Rock City Gardens

see rock city and gardens waterfall chattanooga trip guide
Make sure you “See Rock City” when you are in Chattanooga on a trip! We loved the waterfall near Lover’s Leap.

📍 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA
Explore ancient rock formations, lush gardens, and “See Seven States” views from Lookout Mountain. A classic, must-do Chattanooga experience. If you can only do one of these experiences we recommend this one! Read More Reviews of Rock City here!

See Rock City also has a suspended bridge and amazing views!
We also loved the suspended bridge at Rock City and Gardens!

The Incline Railway
📍 3917 St. Elmo Ave.
This historic railway is one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. Ride it up to Lookout Mountain and enjoy incredible views. Read Reviews on Incline Railway here!

Naughty Cat Café

We loved having coffee at the Naughty Cat Cafe in Chattanooga!
We loved having coffee at the Naughty Cat Cafe in Chattanooga!

📍 3742 Tennessee Ave.
Sip coffee while cuddling with adoptable rescue cats. This charming cat café is a peaceful and quirky spot off the typical tourist trail. Read Reviews of Naughty Cat Cafe here!

Raccoon Mountain Hang Gliding
📍 Henson Gap Rd, Dunlap, TN (just outside the city)
Soar above the Scenic City with an unforgettable tandem hang gliding adventure. Highly rated for thrill-seekers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Read Reviews on Raccoon Mountain here!

Ruby Falls
📍 1720 S Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Venture underground into Lookout Mountain and discover the tallest commercial underground waterfall in the U.S., plunging 145 feet below the surface . Read Reviews and Book Ruby Falls here!
Highlights:

  • Guided cave tour via glass-front elevator
  • Dramatic shows of stalactites and cave formations
  • Year-round waterfall flow (pumped to maintain flow in dry seasons)

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Best Places to Eat and Drink in Chattanooga 🍴

We experienced some of the best restaurants and bars in Chattanooga and were impressed with the variety of places and vibes in the downtown area!

High Rail Rooftop Bar at The Chattanoogan Hotel

best chattanooga bars high rail rooftop guide
We had cocktails on the rooftop at the High Rail on our first day!

📍 1201 Broad Street
Sip signature cocktails with sweeping skyline views. A romantic and relaxing spot for sunset drinks or dinner with a view.

Pickle Barrel

pickle barrel chattanooga weekend guide best restaurants and bars
The iconic Pickle Barrel was one of our favorite food and drink spots in Chattanooga!

📍 1012 Market St.
Funky, wedge-shaped bar with a rooftop patio and delicious comfort food. Don’t miss the pickle-brined chicken or fried pickles! We also had the spicy pickle margarita and it was definitely but uniquely good.

Broads at The Dwell Hotel

broads in dwell hotel chattanooga best spots guide weekend trip
Broads was one of our favorites and the “unique” bar taps were a must-experience.

📍 124 E 10th St.
A glam, female-forward cocktail bar located inside one of Chattanooga’s most charming boutique hotels.

Alleia
📍 25 E Main St.
Upscale Italian cuisine with a Southern twist. Perfect for a romantic dinner or foodie date night.

Public House
📍 1110 Market St.
Southern fare done right, with modern style. Great cocktails, beers, and an amazing brunch.

TailGate Brewery
📍 1464 Market St.
It’s located in a historic Southside building and close to the Choo Choo. They feature a 7‑barrel Belgian & farmhouse brew house, a craft pizza kitchen, 30 draft beers, and a double-decker patio that we really enjoyed!

Maple Street Biscuit Company
📍 407 Broad St.
Casual breakfast spot with legendary biscuits and hearty portions. Expect a line—but it’s worth it.

Sugar’s Ribs Chattanooga

sugars ribs porch mountain view best restaurants in chattanooga
The mountain view from the porch at Sugar’s Ribs is a Chattanooga trip must-see!

📍 2450 15th Ave

Sugar’s had really good barbecue (we had brisket and pulled pork), but the view of the mountains from the porch is worth going for!

goats and mountain views sugar's ribs best chattanooga
We loved feeding the goats at Sugar’s Ribs on our Chattanooga trip!

You can also feed the goats at Sugar’s Ribs too (they give you lettuce) after you enjoy your lunch/dinner.

WanderLinger Brewing Company
📍 55 Station St
More than a brewery; there’s a taproom, board games, live music, and rotating art installations


Book a food tour early on your Chattanooga trip to find more amazing restaurants you want to return to!

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Hidden Gems in Chattanooga 💎

We found a couple of unique and off the beaten track Chattanooga places that we loved and made our trip even better!

the unassuming entrance to unknown caller secret bar chattanooga best weekend trip
Don’t let the unassuming entrance fool you, Unknown Caller was the best Chattanooga bar!

Unknown Caller Speakeasy –[715 Cherry St.]

interior of unknown caller secret speakeasy chattanooga best bar
We loved the lush speakeasy vibe of Unknown Caller and the cocktails were the best!

Enter through a retro hallway and put the code (found on the wall) in the phone to enter and find cocktails with flair and amazing light bites! (This was our favorite!)

Umbrella Alley (West Village 816 Chestnut St) –

umbrella alley chattanooga city way best hidden gem
The colorful umbrellas were a nice surprise in Downtown Chattanooga walking around on our trip.

A colorful street filled with suspended umbrellas and perfect photo ops. Find more photo ops spots in Chattanooga here!

The Dwell Hotel – Retro-chic lodging with a mid-century vibe and unique bar. The lounge/lobby area is really a nice place to hang out too! Read Reviews of Dwell here!

The Passage (Water Steps) –

the passage water steps best chattanooga weekend trip guide
We were happy to discover this hidden gem, The Passage, on our Chattanooga weekend trip!

Tucked just behind the Aquarium area this unique public art installation honors the 7 clans of Cherokee’s culture and history. You can also wade and cool off in this amazing fountain. The water steps descend into a shallow pool at the bottom.

Starbucks at the top of Lookout Mountain

starbucks top lookout mountain must see chattanooga trip guide
We loved finding this Starbucks at the top of Lookout Mountain on our Chattanooga trip!

This is one of the most scenic Starbucks that we stumbled upon when we were parking for Rock City and Gardens (it’s just across the street). It’s a regular Starbucks, but the views from outside and the fireplace made it unique! Definitely stop by on your trip if you have time! Read Reviews on this Starbucks and see more pics here!

The Patio Deck at Rock City

patio mountain view from rock city and gardens best things to do chattanooga trip
Having cocktails overlooking the mountains (and seven states) at Rock City and Garden was an unexpected find that made our day!

We didn’t expect to find a cocktail and wine bar at Rock City on the top of Lookout Mountain, but we were glad we found this gem and really enjoyed overlooking the mountains while having wine. See Rock City for this gem!

Best Day Trip From Chattanooga: Cloudland Canyon State Park 🌄 

best day trip cloudland canyon state park waterfalls from chattanooga
We loved our day trip to hike the Cloudland Canyon waterfalls so much that we will be back to rent a cabin!

📍 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA
Just 45 minutes from downtown, Cloudland Canyon State Park is the ultimate day trip. The Waterfalls Trail leads you to Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls via a 600-step staircase deep into the canyon. It’s a moderate hike, but the views and peaceful forest make every step worth it.

The view from Cloudland Canyon state park overlook trail
The views from the overlook trail at Cloudland Canyon State Park were breathtaking!

✔️ Canyon overlooks
✔️ Waterfall photo ops
✔️ Well-maintained trails and picnic areas

the steps down cloudland canyon hemlock falls best day trip from chattanooga
We loved our day trip to see Hemlock and Cherokee Falls at Cloudland Canyon, but the 600+ steps were a challenge!

💡 Pro Tip: Bring lots of water and sturdy and comfy shoes—there are over 600 steps on the waterfall hike. Our shoe pic is •Sketchers go-walk 

Where to Stay in Chattanooga – Best Hotel Options

The Dwell Hotel – Boutique, retro rooms in the heart of the city with an Art Deco vibe. Read Reviews and Check Prices on Dwell Hotel here!

The Chattanoogan Hotel, Curio Collection –

best chattanooga hotel the chattanoogan weekend trip guide
We stayed at The Chattanoogan on our first night and all agreed it is one of the best hotels in Chattanooga!

Rooftop bar, walkable to major attractions and all of the best bars and restaurants in downtown Chattanooga. Read Reviews and Check Prices on The Chattanoogan here!

Hotel Chalet Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel 

choo choo chattanooga hotel best spots guide
This unique Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel is on our bucket list for next trip.

Stay in a vintage Pullman train car. They also have a nice beer garden area and a cute cocktail bar in a pullman car! Read Reviews and Check Prices on the Choo Choo Hotel here!

Moxy Chattanooga – Trendy and modern with a social vibe. They also have a super cut container patio/hang out area that is vibrant and colorful! Read Reviews and Check Prices on Moxy Chattanooga here!

best things to do in chattanooga trip guide hiking trail
There are so many great hiking trails close to Chattanooga!

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Chattanooga, TN

What is the best time of year to visit Chattanooga?

The best times to visit Chattanooga are spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). You’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous seasonal views; especially if you’re planning outdoor activities like hiking at Cloudland Canyon or exploring Rock City Gardens. Summer is also popular but can be hot and humid. We went in May and the weather was perfect!

Can I explore Chattanooga without a car?

Downtown Chattanooga is very walkable, and you can easily explore top attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, Walnut Street Bridge, and local restaurants and breweries on foot. The Downtowner shuttle (free electric shuttle) and bike-share programs make getting around even easier. However, if you plan to visit Lookout Mountain or day trip spots like Cloudland Canyon, you’ll need a car.

How many days do you need in Chattanooga?

Three to four days is perfect for a well-rounded Chattanooga trip. This gives you time to experience downtown attractions, go on a scenic day hike, check out the trendy local food and drink scene, and experience unique gems like the Incline Railway or Rock City and Gardens.

Chattanooga Essential Packing List Items:

Final Thoughts on the Best Chattanooga Trip

Chattanooga truly lives up to its “Scenic City” nickname. With outdoor adventures, historic charm, hidden gems, and standout restaurants and cocktail bars, it has something for everyone. Whether you’re into hiking waterfalls, sipping cocktails in a rooftop bar, or cuddling kitties at a café (one of our favorites), every experience here feels authentic, unique, and worth coming back for again. We were surprised how much we loved it!

If you’re craving a trip that’s adventurous yet easygoing, Chattanooga deserves a top spot on your travel list.

HI, I’m K.J. and one of the founding voices Travelmakesmehappy.com. We just returned from an amazing 4-day trip to Chattanooga and experienced each recommendation listed here. We included our favorites! As passionate travelers with firsthand insight and a deep love for discovering hidden gems, our guides are crafted to provide honest, local-informed travel inspiration you can trust. We love providing our experiences and helping you plan your own amazing adventures!

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