Why Chattanooga is the Perfect Fall Destination: Festivals, Foliage, and Outdoor Adventures
Fall transforms Chattanooga into a breathtaking destination. Vibrant reds and yellows paint the mountains and valleys, while crisp air replaces summer's heat. Autumn festivals and events abound, offering something for everyone—from stunning foliage viewing and adrenaline-pumping hikes to family-friendly outings. Here's why Chattanooga should top your fall travel list.
Music Festivals, Wine Tastings, and World-Class Regattas
Moon River Music Festival (Sept. 7-8): Experience Americana and indie pop at Coolidge Park in Northshore. Founded in 2014 by Tennessee native Drew Holcomb, this event features artists like Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, and Moon Taxi.
Three Sisters Bluegrass Festival (Oct. 4-5): This free downtown music festival at Ross’s Landing on the Tennessee River showcases local and national bluegrass acts. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for a relaxing day of tunes.
Wine Over Water (Oct. 5): Stroll the iconic Walnut Street Bridge while sampling global wines, paired with local restaurant bites and charcuterie. A premier wine-tasting event on the Tennessee River.
Fall Plant Sales: In September, nonprofits Crabtree Farms and Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center host sales of organic veggies and over 300 native plant varieties—perfect for fall gardening.
Hound Ears Bouldering Competition (Oct. 5): Kick off the Triple Crown Bouldering Series at Stone Fort on Mowbray Mountain. Celebrating 25 years in 2019, it's a highlight for Southeastern climbers.
Chattanooga Oktoberfest (Oct. 13-14): At First Horizon Pavilion on the Southside, enjoy Bavarian food, music, and beer in true German tradition. Lederhosen encouraged!
Water Lantern Festival (Oct. 19): A first-time event at Chester Frost Park in Hixson. Launch eco-friendly paper lanterns on the lake for a magical evening with loved ones.
Head of the Hooch (Nov. 2-3): Witness over 2,000 boat races on the Tennessee River—one of the world's largest rowing regattas, right in downtown Chattanooga.
View Fall Foliage by Train, Boat, or Hang Glider
Tennessee Valley Railroad Autumn Leaf Special: Skip the drive and board a vintage train from Grand Junction Station to Summerville, Georgia. Explore the town upon arrival amid peak colors.
Southern Belle Fall Color Cruise: Sail the Tennessee River Gorge on this historic riverboat. Enjoy live music, narration, games, lunch, and unparalleled woodland views.
Lookout Mountain Hang Gliding: At Lookout Mountain Flight Park, tandem with an instructor for thrilling glider flights over the colorful valley.
Blowing Springs Farm (Closed for 2020 season): Note: Previously offered October weekends with corn mazes, petting zoos, fair food, and family fall fun.
Prime Hiking, Biking, and Bouldering Spots
Cloudland Canyon State Park: The Main Overlook Trail offers panoramic valley views. Extend your hike on the West Rim Loop or to Cherokee and Hemlock Falls.
Mullens Cove Overlook: A 3-mile round-trip in Prentice Cooper State Forest reveals untouched Cumberland Mountain ridges in full fall splendor.
Stone Fort Bouldering: Just 30 minutes from downtown, this premier Southeast bouldering site (aka Little Rock City) shines in cooler weather. Grab a guide at Rock/Creek Outfitters.
Signal Point: On Signal Mountain, a short Civil War-era hike leads to river gorge overlooks via stairs and ramps—stunning in autumn.
Tennessee Riverwalk Biking: Pedal this 13-mile path from the Tennessee Aquarium, enjoying riverside foliage and downtown vibes.
