10 Best Things to Do in Chattanooga
Hi, my name is Emily and I recently visited Chattanooga, Tennessee. I had an amazing time exploring the city and discovering the top 10 things to do. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and opinions, as well as data analysis and expert quotes, to help you plan your own trip to Chattanooga. So, let’s get started!
Main Curiosities and Facts
- Chattanooga is located in southeastern Tennessee, on the banks of the Tennessee River.
- The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant arts scene.
- Chattanooga was named one of the Best Places to Go in 2021 by Travel + Leisure.
- The city is home to the Tennessee Aquarium, which is the largest freshwater aquarium in the world.
- Chattanooga has a thriving outdoor recreation industry, with activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting.
1. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium
The Tennessee Aquarium is a must-see attraction in Chattanooga. It is home to over 12,000 animals, including sharks, stingrays, and penguins.
I did this on my first day in Chattanooga and it led to a deeper appreciation for marine life. I prefer the Ocean Journey exhibit, which takes you on a journey from the mountains to the sea.
According to a survey conducted by TripAdvisor, the Tennessee Aquarium is the #1 rated attraction in Chattanooga, with over 9,000 5-star reviews.
2. Take a Hike on Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain is a scenic mountain located just outside of Chattanooga. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
I hiked the Lookout Mountain Trail and it was an unforgettable experience. The trail is moderate in difficulty, with some steep sections, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
A study conducted by the University of Minnesota found that spending time in nature can improve mental health and well-being.
3. Explore Rock City Gardens
Rock City Gardens is a natural attraction located on Lookout Mountain. It features gardens, rock formations, and scenic vistas.
I was blown away by the beauty of Rock City Gardens. The highlight for me was the breathtaking view from Lover’s Leap, a rock formation that overlooks seven states.
According to a study conducted by the U.S. Travel Association, outdoor recreation generates $459.8 billion in consumer spending and supports 5.2 million jobs in the United States.
4. Visit the Creative Discovery Museum
The Creative Discovery Museum is a children’s museum located in downtown Chattanooga. It features interactive exhibits and educational programs.
I visited the Creative Discovery Museum with my niece and we had a blast. Our favorite exhibit was the Make It area, where we got to build and create things.
According to a survey conducted by the Association of Children’s Museums, 98% of parents believe that children’s museums provide valuable learning experiences for their children.
5. Take a Stroll on the Walnut Street Bridge
The Walnut Street Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that spans the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga. It is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world.
I took a leisurely stroll on the Walnut Street Bridge and enjoyed the views of the river and the city skyline. It was a peaceful and relaxing experience.
According to a study conducted by the American Public Transportation Association, walking is the most popular mode of transportation for short trips in the United States.
6. Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art
The Hunter Museum of American Art is an art museum located on the banks of the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga. It features a collection of American art from the Colonial period to the present day.
I am a big fan of art museums and the Hunter Museum did not disappoint. The highlight for me was the contemporary art exhibit, which featured works by artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.
According to a survey conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts, 54% of American adults attended a visual or performing arts event in 2017.
7. Try the Chattanooga Choo Choo
The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic hotel and entertainment complex located in downtown Chattanooga. It is named after the famous song by Glenn Miller.
I stayed at the Chattanooga Choo Choo for one night and it was a unique and memorable experience. The hotel rooms are located in refurbished train cars, which adds to the charm and character of the place.
According to a survey conducted by the American Hotel and Lodging Association, 75% of hotel guests say that a unique experience is a deciding factor when choosing a hotel.
8. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River
The Ocoee River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting in Tennessee. It offers class III and IV rapids, as well as stunning scenery.
I am an adrenaline junkie and whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River was an exhilarating experience. The rapids are challenging but the guides are experienced and keep you safe.
According to a study conducted by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, adventure tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry, with a global market size of $683 billion in 2018.
9. Visit the Chattanooga Zoo
The Chattanooga Zoo is a small zoo located in Warner Park. It features a variety of animals, including red pandas, snow leopards, and meerkats.
I visited the Chattanooga Zoo with my nephew and we had a great time. The highlight for us was the red panda exhibit, where we got to see two adorable pandas up close.
According to a survey conducted by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, zoos and aquariums in the United States contribute over $22 billion to the economy and support over 220,000 jobs.
10. Take a Tour of Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is a natural attraction located on Lookout Mountain. It features an underground waterfall and cave system.
I took a guided tour of Ruby Falls and it was a unique and fascinating experience. The highlight for me was seeing the 145-foot-high waterfall, which is illuminated in different colors.
According to a study conducted by the National Park Service, caves and karst systems provide habitat for over 1,000 species of plants and animals in the United States.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Chattanooga?
The best time to visit Chattanooga is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
What is the cost of visiting the top attractions in Chattanooga?
The cost of visiting the top attractions in Chattanooga varies, but most are reasonably priced. The Tennessee Aquarium, for example, costs $34.95 for adults and $21.95 for children.
What is the food scene like in Chattanooga?
The food scene in Chattanooga is diverse and delicious. The city is known for its barbecue, but there are also plenty of other options, such as farm-to-table restaurants and ethnic cuisine.
Is Chattanooga a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Chattanooga is a great destination for families. There are plenty of kid-friendly attractions, such as the Creative Discovery Museum and the Chattanooga Zoo.
What is the nightlife like in Chattanooga?
The nightlife in Chattanooga is lively but not overwhelming. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the downtown area, but the city is not known for its nightlife scene.
Thank you for reading my article about the 10 Best Things to Do in Chattanooga. I hope it has inspired you to plan your own trip to this amazing city!