10 SENSATIONAL Things to Do in Chattanooga

Chattanooga makes for a fun staycation or local getaway if you're in the area. After all, there are a number of incredibly fun things to do in Chattanooga!

Nestled along the scenic Tennessee River and with world-class attractions like Lookout Mountain and the Hunter Museum of American Art, plenty of great Civil War era history to explore, and great breweries, distilleries, and restaurants for the inner foodie in you, you'll never run out of incredible things to do in Chattanooga TN. 

If you're ready to experience a relaxing getaway to the "Scenic City", follow along with us below as we highlight some of our favorite things to do in Chattanooga TN.

The Best Things to Do in Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga has been nicknamed the "Scenic City."  One look around this stunning part of the world, and you'll see why. Much of it, of course, has to do with its location along the banks of the Tennessee River, nestled between the Cumberland Plateau and the Appalachian Mountains. The accompanying terrain is certainly unique for this part of the world and is undeniably beautiful. 

While its natural beauty is breathtaking, there is so much more to Chattanooga. After all, there's a reason the Lonely Planet named Chattanooga as the "Best in the U.S." and one of "10 U.S. destinations you need[ed] to see in 2018," and why the New York Times called Chattanooga one of the "Top 45 Places to go" in the World!  There is a myriad of exciting things to do in Chattanooga, and natural beauty is just the beginning.

The variety of things to do in Chattanooga TN starts with the great outdoors and expands from there.  There are miles upon miles of hiking and biking trails, plenty of river to explore, world-class attractions like those on Lookout Mountain, exceptional dining and shopping in Chattanooga's various neighborhoods, and so much more. 

To give you an idea of what's waiting for you in the Scenic City, here are 10 of our favorite things to do in Chattanooga TN this spring: 

1. #1 on any list of things to do in Chattanooga TN should be to spend a day at the incredible Lookout Mountain. Here, you'll find one of the world’s steepest passenger trains, the nation’s largest and deepest waterfall open to the public, and a chance to see seven states from one spot (on a clear and sunny day).
2. Take a cruise on the Southern Belle, which boasts stunning panoramic views of the Tennessee River and surrounding valley, including Lookout Mountain, all from a beautifully vintage steamboat.  Along the way, you'll learn about the Tennessee River's history.
3. Getting outside for some rejuvenating time in nature is definitely one of the best things to do in Chattanooga! There are so many incredible options. Here's a great hiking guide to get you started.
4. Head to the Tennessee Aquarium,  one of the top attractions in Chattanooga. It's one of the top-rated aquariums in the country!
5. One of our favorite things to do in Chattanooga is to explore the different neighborhoods.  For example, take a walk across Chattanooga's iconic Walnut Street Walking Bridge as you head into the popular and historic Northshore district, where you'll find some of the best restaurants and shopping. Don't miss your chance to treat yourself to a handcrafted scoop of ice cream from Clumpies Ice Cream Co. while you're there.
6. Speaking of Chattanooga neighborhoods, don't miss the Bluff View Arts District, home to the famed Hunter Museum of American Art and the River Gallery Sculpture Garden. It's a truly beautiful part of Chattanooga.
7. Foodies will love taking a self-guided food tour of downtown Chattanooga. Some destinations to consider include Big River Grille, Hennen’s, Public House, Tupelo Honey Cafe, Alleia, the Back Inn Café, and Rembrandt’s Coffee House. You could also choose to take a food tour with Chatt Taste if you're comfortable.
8. Spring is a great time to chase waterfalls in Chattanooga, many of which can be easily combined into a longer hike or day trip. Great choices include Falling Water Falls in the Falling Water Falls State Natural Area, Greeter Falls in South Cumberland State Park, Laurel Falls in Laurel Snow State Natural Area, and Foster Falls, also in South Cumberland State Park. 
9.  Take a brewery tour with ChattaBrew Tour, or do some self-guided exploration of some of the best Chattanooga breweries.  Great choices include Chattanooga Brewing Company, Naked River Brewery, Oddstory, Hutton & Smith, Wanderlinger, and Heaven & Ale Brewery.
10. History lovers won't want to miss their chance to explore some Civil War Era history at the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fun things to do in Chattanooga TN! Embrace the possibilities for fun a little closer to home and enjoy a relaxing getaway to the breathtakingly beautiful city of Chattanooga. 

#1 Rated Chattanooga Bed and Breakfast

While it's wonderful there are so many great things to do in Chattanooga, TN, your getaway would be nothing without great accommodations. If you're looking for an exceptional lodging experience this spring, whether you're a local planning a staycation or are coming in from a nearby area, you won't find anything quite like Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast near Chattanooga.  

Chanticleer Inn, though technically located in Georgia, is the only Select Registry property in the Chattanooga area. Like all Select Registry-branded properties, the experience you'll have at this boutique Chattanooga Bed and Breakfast is truly second to none. 

Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast

Chanticleer Inn, a boutique Bed and Breakfast on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga TN, is an exceptional spring retreat. It's located just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, and across the street from Lookout Mountain's top attractions. There are 20 guest rooms at the Chanticleer Inn, spread throughout 2 acres of beautiful, lush gardens. 

Here, you'll enjoy a distinctly European feel to your accommodations with an array of modern amenities, including private patios, fireplaces, and/or whirlpool tubs or steam showers. Add in a scrumptious breakfast each morning of your stay, and you have a stunning home away from home to enjoy while in Chattanooga.

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