Ultimate Memorial Day Weekend Guide: Top Events and Adventures in Chattanooga
As summer draws near, there's no better way to celebrate than with thrilling Memorial Day weekend activities in Chattanooga. Cruise the Tennessee River on a historic steamboat or zip-line through the treetops. Dive into our comprehensive event list by clicking here.
Catch a Movie
On May 29, join Sunset Cinema in Miller Park for a free outdoor screening of Guardians of the Galaxy. Spread out on the lawn—arrive early to claim your spot, as it's open to the public.
High Point ZIP Adventure at Ruby Falls
Fuel your adventure spirit with the High Point ZIP Adventure at Ruby Falls. Tackle over 700 feet of high-ropes courses featuring ladders, nets, walkways, bridges, tunnels, and ziplines across three challenging levels. Prefer a quicker thrill? Try the soaring Tower Zipline.
Live Music Performances
Memorial Day weekend bursts with live music from top local talents. Catch Amber Fults and Jason Lyles at FEED Co. Table & Tavern, or Toby Hewitt and Jessie James Jungkurth at the Backporch on Station Street.
Chattanooga Market
Ranked among the nation's best—including a top 10 spot by Frommer’s—this producer-only farmers market showcases fresh, local goods from artisans and growers within a 100-mile radius. This weekend, savor the Street Food Festival with over two dozen food trucks. Open Sundays 11 a.m.–4 p.m. at the First Tennessee Pavilion, with live music throughout.
Riverboat Tours
Launch summer on the water with a Tennessee River cruise through the city's 'Grand Canyon.' Depart from downtown docks with operators like the luxurious 1800s-style Southern Belle or the historic WWII Chattanooga Ducks landing craft from D-Day.
Civil War & Chattanooga History
Explore pivotal battles at sites like Point Park's artillery demonstrations or Chickamauga Battlefield's pyramids. Visit the Charles H. Coolidge Medal of Honor Heritage Center for Memorial Day highlights: Civil War drills, Bricks of Valor ceremony, Air National Guard Band performance, and meet a Medal of Honor recipient. Full schedule here.
The Riverfront
Perfect your weekend with a picnic or casual games at Coolidge Park, a local favorite for frisbee and people-watching. Cool off in the interactive fountains, or cross to The Passage waterfalls near the Tennessee Aquarium.
Whitewater Adventure
Just an hour away, conquer Class III and IV rapids on the Olympic-famous Ocoee River. Outfitters provide cabins, fly fishing, rock climbing, caving, and kayaking packages for full-weekend escapes.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Paddle the river at your pace with rentals from River Canyon Kayak—choose solo, guided, or group tours. For stand-up paddleboarding, visit L2 Outside for lessons and sunset SUP sessions on the Tennessee River.
