fun things to do in chattanooga

Chattanooga is a scenic city surrounded by mountains and the Tennessee River, offering a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and family-friendly fun. Here are some fun things to do in Chattanooga:

Outdoor Activities:

1. Rock City: Explore massive rock formations, gardens, and a "See 7 States" view from the top of Lookout Mountain.
2. Lookout Mountain Incline Railway: Ride a historic funicular up the side of Lookout Mountain for panoramic views.
3. Chattanooga Riverwalk: Stroll or bike along the 13-mile path that runs along the Tennessee River.
4. Coolidge Park: Enjoy a carousel, picnic areas, and a wading fountain in this downtown park.
5. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore the Tennessee River or nearby lakes.

Attractions:

1. Tennessee Aquarium: Get up close with fish, turtles, and other aquatic animals in two buildings: River Journey and Ocean Journey.
2. Creative Discovery Museum: Engage in interactive exhibits and play areas for kids of all ages.
3. Chattanooga Choo Choo: Visit the historic train station turned attraction, featuring a hotel, restaurants, and a model train display.
4. Ruby Falls: Marvel at the 145-foot underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain.
5. IMAX 3D Theater: Catch a movie on the giant screen at the Tennessee Aquarium.

Food and Drink:

1. The Edwin Hotel’s Whitebird: Savor Southern cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
2. The Terminal Brewhouse: Enjoy craft beer and elevated pub fare in a historic building.
3. Blue Plate: Try classic comfort food at this Chattanooga institution.
4. The Chattanoogan Hotel’s Broad Street Grille: Dine on contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
5. Nightfall Concert Series: Attend a free concert every Friday night during the summer.

Arts and Culture:

1. Hunter Museum of American Art: Discover a diverse collection of American art from the colonial period to the present.
2. Chattanooga Symphony and Opera: Attend a performance by this renowned orchestra.
3. Ballet Tennessee: Watch a production by this professional ballet company.
4. Chattanooga Theatre Centre: Catch a play or musical at this community theater.
5. River City Company: Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene through this organization’s exhibitions and events.

Sports:

1. Chattanooga Lookouts: Catch a minor league baseball game at AT&T Field.
2. Chattanooga FC: Watch a professional soccer match at Finley Stadium.
3. UTC Mocs: Attend a University of Tennessee at Chattanooga athletic event.

These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Chattanooga. The city offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities that make it a great destination for visitors of all ages.