5 Days of Fun in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Discover the charm and adventure of Chattanooga.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Chattanooga, Tennessee offers a wealth of compelling tourist experiences- from hiking, biking and kayaking in its mountainous terrain, to learning about its famous Civil War history, and exploring its vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, visit world-class museums, and sample Southern cuisine in this charming, picturesque city. With its hospitable locals and excellent amenities, Chattanooga is a must-visit destination for all types of travelers.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Wake up at the chic and stylish Moxy Chattanooga Downtown hotel, where comfort meets contemporary design.
- Embark on a walking tour of downtown Chattanooga, starting with the charming Warehouse Row and its upscale shops and eateries.
- Head over to the Tennessee Aquarium, home to over 12,000 animals, including otters, penguins and sharks.
- Take a stroll along the Riverfront, a scenic promenade with stunning views of the Tennessee River and Lookout Mountain.
- Have dinner at Public House, a farm-to-table restaurant serving delicious Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Aretha Frankenstein's, a local favorite known for its delicious pancakes.
- Drive to Lookout Mountain and hike to the top to experience stunning panoramic views of the Chattanooga Valley and the Appalachian Mountains.
- Stop by Rock City Gardens, a natural wonderland featuring ancient rock formations, gardens, and breathtaking views.
- Head back to downtown Chattanooga and enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the scenic Riverwalk.
- Cap off your day with dinner at Alleia, an Italian restaurant with a romantic ambiance and delicious homemade pasta.
- Take a tour of the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo, a historic train station converted into a unique hotel and entertainment complex.
- Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art, showcasing over 100 years of Southern art and culture.
- Stop by the Bluff View Art District, a picturesque neighborhood filled with galleries, artisan shops, and cafes.
- Take a walking tour of the historic Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world.
- Enjoy dinner at St. John's Restaurant, a fine dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and exquisite French-inspired dishes.
- Start your day with breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company, famous for its fluffy biscuits and homemade jams.
- Visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, where you can ride a vintage train on a scenic journey through the valley.
- Head to the Adventure Park at Ruby Falls for some outdoor fun, including zip lining, rock climbing, and aerial obstacle courses.
- Take a leisurely stroll through Coolidge Park, a charming green space with a vintage carousel and picturesque views of the river.
- Have dinner at Easy Bistro & Bar, a sophisticated restaurant featuring a raw bar, signature cocktails, and fresh seafood.
- Have breakfast at Bluegrass Grill, a quaint eatery serving up Southern comfort food with a bluegrass soundtrack.
- Take a scenic drive up Signal Mountain for more breathtaking views of Chattanooga.
- Visit the Songbirds Guitar Museum, featuring a collection of over 1,700 rare and vintage guitars.
- Wander through the Chattanooga Market, a vibrant farmers' market with local produce, crafts, and live music.
- End your trip with dinner at The Terminal Brewhouse, a lively gastropub with a delicious selection of craft beers and pub fare.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Chattanooga by plane would be to fly into Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport.
Car
The best way to get to Chattanooga by car is to take the I-75 or I-24 depending on your location of origin.
Train
Although there are no direct train routes into Chattanooga, Amtrak does have routes into Atlanta or Nashville where you can then take a bus or car rental to Chattanooga.
Boat
Since Chattanooga is inland, there are no direct boat routes. However, there are various marinas along the Tennessee River where you can dock your boat and travel to Chattanooga by car or bus.
Bus
A popular bus company that travels to Chattanooga is Greyhound. They have a station located in downtown Chattanooga.