Discover Chattanooga: 4 Self-Guided Scavenger Hunts Across Downtown Districts
With warmer weather and social distancing guidelines in place, safe, engaging outdoor activities near home are more popular than ever. Chattanooga offers four self-guided scavenger hunts throughout downtown, allowing you to explore the city's landmarks while adhering to health and safety recommendations.
These hunts spotlight four distinct districts: the Innovation District, Northshore District, Riverfront District, and Southside District. Each features seven rhyming clues to spark curiosity and movement as you uncover Chattanooga's hidden gems. Download or print the clues before heading out.
Prioritize safety by participating solo or with immediate family members. The kid-friendly clues make them ideal for children. Tackle one hunt or all four to gain fresh insights into the Scenic City.
Here's what awaits in each district:
1. Innovation District
Located at the bustling intersection of Market Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, this area boasts Miller Plaza—a vibrant green space for live music and events—plus acclaimed restaurants and breweries.
The Innovation District scavenger hunt guides you to highlights like a towering mural, chic shopping, three captivating sculptures, a lush green field, a stunning stained-glass window, and the namesake building.
2. Northshore District
Overlooking the Tennessee River, this lively neighborhood features unique shops, eateries, parks, art installations, and river views. Connected by the iconic pedestrian Walnut Street Bridge, it offers prime panoramas even when businesses are closed.
The Northshore hunt leads to musical sculptures, a rooftop creature, an quirky bench, and dance-inspired spots. Bring sidewalk chalk and cardboard for interactive fun like snow-free sledding.
3. Riverfront District
Centered around the Tennessee Aquarium, Ross's Landing, and Visitor Center, this hub draws crowds for Native American history, aquatic exhibits, interactive water features, and river vistas.
Follow clues to the Trail of Tears starting point, a free local ride, a waterfront oddity, a purple family sculpture, the river-crossing bridge, and play areas with swings and slides.
4. Southside District
Revolving around Main Street, this hotspot pulses with music, events, nightlife, bars, restaurants, the legendary Chattanooga Choo Choo, street art, and festivals like MainX24 and the Chattanooga Market.
The Southside scavenger hunt reveals three outdoor sculptures (including a whimsical gate redesign), a historic train car puller, an Instagram-worthy polka-dot wall, and a vibrant street for music, comedy, and food enthusiasts.
These hunts showcase Chattanooga's most distinctive neighborhood treasures. Locals and newcomers alike will spot fresh details. For a creative, safe adventure, download the maps and dive in.
