All Chattanooga Tours & Excursions in 2026

Introducing Chattanooga

Outdoor action is easy to come by in Chattanooga. Tucked into a loop of the mighty Tennessee River with the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains just nearby, it’s no surprise that Chattanooga is nicknamed ‘The Scenic City.’ Even if adventures in the great outdoors aren’t your favourite, there’s still plenty of great things to do in Chattanooga.

There’s a clutch of attractions to tempt visitors, not least one of the USA’s largest aquariums with both saltwater and freshwater tanks. Train fans will love staying in the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo complex, and visiting the Tennessee Railroad Museum. Make sure you bring your appetite – there’s plenty of must-try southern barbecue dishes available, along with famous local ice cream and whiskey to sample.

Top three things to do in Chattanooga

1. Capture some Culture

Located on a hilltop right alongside the river, Bluff View Art District is a hub for stylish dining, shopping and cultural pursuits. As well as the Hunter Museum of American Art and the Houston Museum of Decorative Art, there are galleries and a sculpture garden to explore.

2. Get to know the Tennessee River

Chattanooga is embraced by the curving Tennessee River, a defining feature of the city. Make the most of being waterside by strolling along the 13-mile-long Tennessee Riverwalk, or taking a boat trip on the Southern Belle or Duck Boat. If that’s not adventurous enough, why not try out SUP or kayaking, too?

3. Explore Chattanooga’s natural wonders

Lookout mountain sits to the south of town, topped by Rock City Gardens Park with its trails, waterfalls and rock formations. Ruby Falls is a short distance away – one of the tallest underground waterfalls in the US. To reach Lookout Mountain, you could take the Incline Railway for a thrilling start to your visit.