30 Things to do in Chattanooga
Chattanooga, Tennessee, nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by mountains, offers visitors a delightful mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, and vibrant city life. While attractions like Ruby Falls and the Tennessee Aquarium draw crowds, exploring the Scenic City doesn’t require spending heavily; there are plenty of fantastic free things to do in Chattanooga that showcase its charm and beauty without costing you anything. From picturesque bridges to stunning viewpoints, budget-friendly discoveries await.
This guide presents 30 specific activities and attractions you can enjoy in Chattanooga completely free of charge. Whether you love hiking scenic trails, soaking up art and culture, or simply enjoying the riverfront atmosphere, you can create a full and rewarding itinerary. Let’s explore the free fun Chattanooga has to offer.
Bridges and Riverfront Views
Walk the Walnut Street Bridge: Stroll across one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, connecting downtown Chattanooga to the NorthShore district. Enjoy excellent views of the Tennessee River, cityscape, and Lookout Mountain.
Explore Coolidge Park: Relax in this popular NorthShore park located at the foot of the Walnut Street Bridge. Watch kids play in the interactive fountain (seasonal) and admire the antique carousel from the outside.
Discover Renaissance Park: Explore this nearby NorthShore park featuring sculpted mounds resembling historic Native American earthworks. Climb “Cardboard Hill” for fun or enjoy the natural wetlands area.
Chattanooga Riverwalk: Walk, run, or bike sections of this scenic paved path stretching for miles along the Tennessee River. Access points throughout the city connect parks, attractions, and downtown areas.
Market Street Bridge Stroll: Walk across the historic Chief John Ross Bridge, another way to cross the river with great views. Admire its distinctive retractable lift span architecture.
Veterans Bridge Walk: Use the pedestrian walkway on this bridge for different perspectives of the river, downtown skyline, and surrounding bridges. It offers a good vantage point for photos.
Explore Ross’s Landing Park & Plaza: Visit the site considered the starting point of the Trail of Tears in Chattanooga, located along the riverfront near the Tennessee Aquarium. Walk the plaza and learn about the area’s history.
Tennessee Riverpark Exploration: Discover different sections of this linear park system stretching beyond the main downtown Riverwalk. Enjoy varied landscapes, picnic spots, and fishing piers along the river.
Parks and Outdoor Exploration
Hike Stringer’s Ridge Park: Explore trails just minutes from the NorthShore, offering excellent wooded hikes and rewarding overlooks of the Chattanooga skyline. It’s a great spot for a quick nature escape.
Lookout Mountain Views: Drive up Lookout Mountain and find free overlooks along the road or near Point Park (park entry fee required for main area). Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Chattanooga and the surrounding valley.
Hike Sunset Rock: Take a short, rewarding hike to Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain (part of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park). Experience stunning sunset views, but arrive early as parking is very limited.
Guild-Hardy Trail Hike: Explore this trail on Lookout Mountain, part of the National Military Park system. Enjoy a shaded walk through history, connecting various points of interest.
Observe Rock Climbers: From trails near Sunset Rock or other designated areas on Lookout Mountain, watch skilled rock climbers navigate the cliffs. It’s fascinating to observe their technique from a safe distance.
Explore Greenway Farms Park: Discover walking trails, canoe access points, and open fields at this park in Hixson along North Chickamauga Creek. It offers a peaceful natural setting away from downtown.
North Chickamauga Creek Gorge Trails: Hike trails within this State Natural Area north of the city. Explore the scenic gorge, following the creek through beautiful forest landscapes.
Booker T. Washington State Park Trails: Enjoy hiking trails offering views of Chickamauga Lake in this park east of downtown. It provides a free opportunity for lakeside nature walks.
Historic Sites and Neighborhoods
Bluff View Art District Stroll: Wander the charming streets of this cliffside district overlooking the Tennessee River. Admire the sculpture garden, architecture, and views, even without entering paid galleries or restaurants.
Chattanooga National Cemetery Visit: Pay respects at this historic national cemetery. Walk the grounds respectfully, observing the rows of headstones and learning about local military history.
Chickamauga Battlefield Driving Tour/Trails: Explore parts of the vast Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. Drive the auto tour route or walk trails through the historic battlefield where major Civil War battles occurred; park entrance is free.
Explore the NorthShore District: Walk along Frazier Avenue and the surrounding streets. Browse the windows of unique boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries, enjoying the trendy neighborhood vibe.
Discover the Southside Historic District: Explore the revitalized area around Main Street and the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Admire the mix of historic architecture, new developments, public art, and unique shops.
Walk Through St. Elmo Historic District: Stroll the charming streets at the base of Lookout Mountain. Admire the well-preserved Victorian architecture in this quaint historic neighborhood.
Chattanooga Choo Choo Grounds: Wander the grounds of the historic Terminal Station, now the Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel complex. Explore the Glenn Miller Gardens and admire the historic train cars from the outside.
Arts Culture and Unique Finds
Sculpture Fields at Montague Park: Explore this expansive outdoor park dedicated to large-scale contemporary sculptures. Walk the grounds freely and admire the impressive collection of monumental artwork.
Public Art Hunt: Discover murals, sculptures, and art installations scattered throughout downtown Chattanooga and surrounding neighborhoods. Exploring areas like the Southside or near MLK Boulevard often reveals creative works.
First Friday Art Walk: On the first Friday evening of most months, explore galleries and studios primarily in the NorthShore and downtown areas. Enjoy open venues, meet artists, and experience the local art scene.
Hunter Museum of American Art (Exterior/Grounds): Admire the stunning architecture of the museum, perched on the bluff overlooking the river. Enjoy the outdoor sculptures and views from the grounds without paying admission.
Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul: Step inside (respectfully, outside service times) this beautiful historic Catholic church downtown. Admire the Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and ornate interior.
Chattanooga Market (Browsing – Seasonal): Visit the large market held Sundays (April-November) at the First Horizon Pavilion. Browse local produce, crafts, food vendors, and enjoy the lively atmosphere and music.
Visit Chattanooga Public Library: Explore the downtown library building, check out their free events calendar, or use their public computers and resources. Admire the architecture and community spaces.
