Things to do in Chattanooga for every type of traveler

Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a blend of mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, historic sites and vibrant riverfront attractions. Whether you’re there for a week or a weekend, you’ll find a mix of outdoor fun, quirky attractions and laid-back charm. 

What you’ll learn:

• Chattanooga has something for almost everybody: outdoorsy types, families, foodies and festivalgoers.

• Chattanooga also has unique attractions, like an entire museum dedicated to tow trucks.

• With the right rewards credit card, like a Capital One Savor, Venture X or Venture card, you’ll earn rewards for your purchases and make every moment go a little further.

Chattanooga offers outdoor adventures that range from scenic mountain hikes to water sports on the Tennessee River. Whether you’re into light strolls, big views or riverside lounging, there’s a spot with your name on it.

The city’s natural beauty is easy to reach and easy to love. Places for soaking up the fresh air include:

• Lookout Mountain: Hike, drive or ride up for unforgettable panoramic views.

• Ruby Falls: Go underground to see a waterfall inside a cave (yes, really).

• Chattanooga Riverwalk: Bike or walk this scenic path along the water.

• Walnut Street Bridge: Snap sunset photos from one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world.

• Chickamauga Lake: Go fishing, camping, biking and birding at this expansive 36,240-acre reservoir.

Chattanooga’s full of surprises you won’t find on every travel list. Some of the city’s unique attractions are:

• Hunter Museum of American Art: See works of art that bring the diversity of America’s story to life.

• Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum: Ride vintage trains and explore how railroads shaped the region.

• International Towing Museum: Visit an entire museum dedicated to tow trucks.

• Southside Arts District: Spot bold, colorful street murals tucked between breweries and shops throughout the district.

• The Passage: Visit a public art installation honoring Cherokee history with flowing water, storytelling walls and powerful symbolism.

Little legs, big imaginations—Chattanooga has a great mix of play, learning and space to run wild. These kid-friendly spots are fun, affordable and full of energy-burning potential:

• Coolidge Park: Join the kids in lounging in the grass, playing in the fountains or riding the antique carousel.

• Chattanooga Zoo: Meet red pandas, jaguars and more in a compact, walkable setting perfect for little ones.

• Clarence T. Jones Observatory: Take in the stars during one of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s many free public sky observation events.

• Chattanooga Public Library: Explore the downtown branch, which features a hands-on makerspace and plenty of programming for kids.

• Renaissance Park: Run free through this 23-acre wetlands park, where restored native plants and wildlife meet thoughtful nods to Chattanooga’s history.

Chattanooga’s food scene is full of tasty surprises. From hearty Southern classics to fresh local flavors, there’s something delicious around every corner.

Local flavors to try include:

• Classic Southern BBQ at roadside joints and traditional smoke shacks
• Seasonal veggies and farm-to-table restaurants
• House-made baked goods perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat
• Locally roasted coffee

Whether you’re dining out or grabbing snacks to go, you’ll earn unlimited 3% cash back with the Savor card while exploring Chattanooga’s food scene.

Chattanooga knows how to throw a party, with festivals and shows that bring the city’s vibrant culture to life year-round. From music and food to arts and outdoor fun, there’s always something happening, including:

• Live music festivals that showcase local and national acts

• Food and drink celebrations featuring Southern flavors and craft beverages

• Arts and cultural fairs with performances and handmade crafts 

• Outdoor events that take advantage of Chattanooga’s stunning natural backdrops

Planning to catch a show or grab tickets to an event? Capital One Entertainment gives cardholders early access and exclusive deals on concerts and events. Plus, with the Savor, Venture X and Venture cards, you can earn cash back or miles. Then you can put those rewards to work to make the most of your festival weekends.

Whether you’re traveling with your family, exploring with a hiking partner or going solo, check out the answers to questions often asked about Chattanooga:

Chattanooga has a little of everything, from outdoor adventures and kid-friendly fun to great eats and a calendar full of festivals.

If you’re planning a trip to Chattanooga and don’t have a Capital One rewards credit card yet, you can see if you’ll be approved with 100% certainty for a card before accepting. It’s quick and it won’t hurt your credit scores.

• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights, vacation rentals and activities booked through Capital One Travel with the Venture X card.

• Earn unlimited 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars and activities booked through Capital One Travel with the Venture card. 

• Earn 2X miles on all other purchases, at home or away, with the Venture X and Venture cards.

• Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores, on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% cash back on all other purchases with the Savor card.