Ultimate 3-Day Art Lover's Itinerary in Chattanooga: Discover the Scenic City's Creative Treasures
Voted #2 Top Arts Destination for Mid-Sized Cities by American Style magazine, Chattanooga is redefining its nickname as the Scenic City with a thriving arts scene. We've curated a perfect three-day itinerary packed with must-see attractions to ignite your creativity. Stay longer if you can—grab your sketchbook and let's paint the town!
Day 1
Morning: Begin at Chattanooga's oldest and most revered art museum, lovingly called the Hunter. Founded in the 1950s, the Hunter Museum of American Art showcases masterpieces by icons like Mary Cassatt, Winslow Homer, and Fitzhugh Lane. Its architecture is equally captivating: an antebellum mansion on one side meets a modern steel structure on the other, both overlooking the Tennessee River with stunning views from expansive decks.
Afternoon: Wander the River Gallery Sculpture Garden, Chattanooga's pioneering outdoor art museum. This Smithsonian-recognized gem winds through manicured grounds with panoramic river views and is one of just 195 worldwide sculpture gardens. Inspired? Step into the adjacent River Gallery, brimming with glass, pottery, oils, photography, and sculptures by acclaimed regional and national artists. Lunch is steps away at family-owned spots like Tony's Pasta Shop & Trattoria, Rembrandt's Coffee House, or Back Inn Café, all offering al fresco dining amid sculptures and scenery.
Evening:
Catch the sunset on a self-guided public art tour downtown. Cross the iconic blue frosted-glass bridge from the Hunter, head down 1st Street past sculpture gardens, and follow the map to discover outdoor masterpieces—or visit Ignis Glass Studio to craft your own glass ornament with renowned artist Christopher Mosey. End with dinner from culinary masters like Erik Niel at Easy Bistro or Nathan Lindley at IL PRIMO.
Day 2
Morning: Dive into the Southside, a vibrant hub of creativity. Kick off at the unique Main Terrain Art Park, the world's only urban art fitness park. Its track features workout stations alongside art like seasonal haiku poems and industrial sculptures. Refuel across the street at Broad Street Grille in the Chattanoogan Hotel with an artistically plated breakfast buffet.
Afternoon: Explore Southside's galleries: Area 61 for melted-record busts and bronze sculptures; HART Gallery for works by homeless and non-traditional artists; and Planet Altered for fair-trade goods, art, and $2 weekly crafts. Join the Southside Stroll on the last Friday monthly (check Facebook for details) to uncover hidden gems.
Evening: Stroll Main Street's sidewalk sculptures from Main Terrain to Niedlov's. Dine adventurously at Flying Squirrel with duck confit tacos, buffalo balls, and cocktails like the watermelon old fashioned with Chattanooga Whiskey.
Day 3+
Morning: Cross the iconic Walnut Street Walking Bridge to the Northshore, a haven for local talent. In spring, spot artist Hollie Berry's massive "dew"dles in Coolidge Park using foot-painted grass graffiti. Breakfast at Julie Darling Donuts with inventive flavors like pancakes & bacon or key lime. Stroll Frazier Avenue's public art, embedded even in sidewalks.
Afternoon: Browse Frazier's galleries: Plum Nelly, Winder Binder, Blue Skies, and In Town Gallery (a top cooperative). AVA showcases local talent. Venture to Knitting Mill Antiques for vintage finds and Mole Hill Pottery; lunch at Food Works, Good Dog, or River Street Deli. Check 2 North Shore boutiques.
Evening: Savor global olive oils and balsamics at Olive Chattanooga, then Cuban fare at Embargo '62.
Special Events: Chattanooga buzzes with art happenings—check Arts Build for the full calendar.
The Chattanooga Market, Sundays 11am-4pm, April-December: Artisan foods, photography, jewelry, and more with live music.
Chattanooga Symphony & Opera, various dates: Concerts at Tivoli Theatre and community events.
4 Bridges Arts Festival, annually first weekend in April: Features 150+ artists, drawing 12,000+ as noted by The New York Times.
Chattanooga Theatre Centre, various dates: 90+ years of top local theatre.
Scenic City Roots, monthly at Track 29: Live musical radio variety show.
Riverfront Nights, August-September: Free concerts at Ross's Landing.
Wine Over Water, fall: Premier tasting on Walnut Street Bridge.
MAINX24, December: 24-hour Southside celebration.
