To experience one of Chattanoogas most scenic destinations, plan ahead. The Lula Lake Land Trust offers breathtaking views around every corner and over six miles of trails—ideal for hiking, trail running, or biking. Reservations are required and can be made here. The property is open to the public on the first and last Saturday of each month from December through April, and the first and last weekends from May to November (holidays excluded). Plan your visit—you wont regret it. Waterfalls and B

When people hear “Chattanooga,” many immediately think of railroads, thanks to the iconic song Chattanooga Choo Choo. Glenn Miller’s Orchestra popularized this spirited, gold-record hit 75 years ago. Just 20 years later, a dedicated group of Chattanoogans formed the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) in 1961 to preserve the region’s fading rail heritage. As passenger services declined and steam locomotives vanished, TVRM committed to restoring and operating historic equipment. Today, “the

Traveling with pets often means facing restrictions at hotels and attractions, but Chattanooga welcomes four-legged family members with open arms. Numerous hotels, attractions, and restaurants now offer pet-friendly policies. Most hotels charge a one-time cleaning fee—a small cost for vacationing together. Discover comprehensive dog-friendly recommendations via The Howl, covering restaurants, bars, parks, and emergency services for your furry companions. Pet-Friendly Attractions Downtown offers

Chattanooga, one of the Souths top travel destinations, offers bustling in-town neighborhoods packed with eclectic shops, dining, and unique experiences. Venture beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the citys authentic charm. During your visit, explore these standout neighborhoods for an unforgettable adventure. NORTH SHORE Just north of the Tennessee River, accessible via the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, North Shore is a hotspot for locals and visitors. Stroll Frazier Avenues boutiques and

Iconic, scenic, and reliably rewarding, the hike from Lookout Mountains historic Cravens House to Sunset Rock stands out as a top Chattanooga trail. This route delivers consistent satisfaction with its proximity to downtown, ample parking, well-maintained path of mild-to-moderate difficulty, and breathtaking panoramic views. Cravens House serves as an ideal starting point for Lookout Mountains premier trails. Hikers and trail runners can customize routes based on their energy: a challenging 4-m

Chattanoogas vibrant downtown offers endless attractions, but its central location opens up a treasure trove of regional adventures. Just an hour away, uncover thrilling half-day escapes perfect for hikers, families, and nature lovers. Weve curated our top off-the-beaten-path destinations—explore them and return in time for dinner. 1. Prentice Cooper State Forest A hikers paradise, Prentice Cooper State Forest boasts 22 miles of ridgetop singletrack trails in two loops: the 10-mile Mullens Cov

Chattanooga celebrates its iconic Tennessee River, just minutes from downtown. The Tennessee River Gorge stands as one of Americas most biologically diverse regions, home to over 200 bird species amid 27,000 acres of pristine forest. Experience this natural marvel via scenic riverboat cruises, with diverse options available right from the city center. Step aboard the Southern Belle, a replica of 19th-century luxury riverboats. This three-deck vessel accommodates up to 500 passengers and offers

Chattanooga offers a diverse array of entertainment venues and restaurants year-round, complemented by a dynamic calendar of music festivals appealing to every genre enthusiast. Explore this comprehensive guide to the citys thriving music scene. Discover Chattanooga Music on Spotify. Lonely Planet named Chattanooga one of the Top 10 U.S. travel destinations for 2018 and curated a Spotify playlist spotlighting iconic artists from the Scenic City, including Bessie Smith, Clyde Stubblefield, Ang

For over 36 years, Chattanooga’s vibrant downtown and scenic riverfront have hosted one of the Southeast’s premier music festivals, Riverbend. Each summer, music enthusiasts gather for exceptional live performances, mouthwatering food, and breathtaking views of the Tennessee River. The 2019 edition spans four thrilling days of world-class entertainment, capped by one of the region’s most spectacular fireworks shows. Headliners include Keith Urban, Macklemore, Lionel Richie, Weezer, and more! Buy

Sunset Rock captivates with its panoramic vistas, rich history, and accessible trails, drawing hikers, runners, and climbers to Chattanooga year-round. Yet, its parking lots often overflow on sunny days. The good news? The Chattanooga area offers many equally stunning overlooks with far fewer crowds. Experienced locals recommend these top trails for breathtaking views and serenity. 1. West Rim Loop in Cloudland Canyon State Park Just southwest of Chattanooga, Cloudland Canyon ranks among Georg

Chattanoogas rivers, lakes, and swimming holes make water adventures central to the citys appeal. Whether paddling, boating, or diving in, discover tailored spots to enjoy the water. Heres your guide to summer fun on Chattanoogas waterways. PADDLING Experience the Scenic City by paddling the Tennessee River through downtown. L2 Outside offers SUPs and kayaks from $20/hour. For calmer waters, try River Canyon Adventures, just 10 minutes from downtown. Explore the Tennessee River Gorge with stu

Warmer weather and longer nights signal the arrival of spring and summer in Chattanooga, the Scenic City. Experience an incredible array of live music festivals from the riverfront to the Southside and beyond. Premier Festivals & Music Series Riverbend Festival Chattanooga Riverfront, Late May to Early June (Annually) For over 35 years, Chattanoogas stunning downtown riverfront has hosted Riverbend, one of the Southeasts premier music festivals. Thousands flock to enjoy top-tier performances,

Chattanooga stands out as one of Americas top outdoor hubs, offering rock climbing, mountain biking, trail running, whitewater rafting, and exceptional hiking—all easily accessible from the city. Hikers enjoy diverse scenic trails with breathtaking views of the city skyline and Cumberland Plateau. But the sweetest vistas are those hard-earned through grueling terrain. For seasoned adventurers, the Chattanooga area delivers demanding hikes that build endurance while unveiling stunning landscapes.

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park is celebrating its 94th season, a milestone for this beloved family-owned and operated destination since 1925. Generations have created cherished memories here with over 40 thrilling rides, delectable food concessions, arcade games, paddleboats, miniature golf, and a serene shady picnic grove."We receive letters and Facebook comments daily from visitors who came as children, brought their own kids, and now share the joy with grandchildren," shares Tall

Chattanooga thrives year-round with its vibrant festivals, diverse restaurants, and mix of indoor and outdoor pursuits. Yet, the Scenic City shines brightest in spring and summer, buzzing with endless opportunities for fun. Locals and visitors head outdoors to play, dine al fresco, and bask in Southeast sunshine. Here are nine expert-recommended ways to blend fresh air with urban exploration in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. 1. Catch a Game The Lookouts, Chattanoogas beloved minor league b

Perched on the western edge of Lookout Mountain along the Cumberland Plateau, Cloudland Canyon State Park ranks among Georgias top state parks. Just a 45-minute drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee, this gem delivers premier camping, panoramic vistas, and unparalleled hiking in a dramatic Appalachian river gorge—ideal for every outdoor enthusiast.Discover the Cloudland Canyon Connector Trail, your gateway to the breathtaking Hemlock and Cherokee Falls. This immersive path promises an authentic wild

In Chattanooga, the Tennessee River is the heartbeat of the city. This expansive waterway cuts through downtown, with locals crossing its four bridges daily. Riverside parks, waterfront dining, and endless recreation make it the lifeblood of the Scenic City. Discover it up close by paddling—heres your expert guide to rentals, launch points, routes, and post-paddle spots in Downtown Chattanooga. Getting Your Gear L2 Outside offers stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and kayak rentals with a prime launch

The 1996 Olympics in Atlanta chose the Ocoee River for whitewater events, requiring athletes to travel into Tennessee—a nod to its elite status. You dont need Olympic skills to thrill on its rapids. Nestled an hour from Chattanooga in the Cherokee National Forest, the Ocoee hosts world-class paddlers year-round. Nearly a dozen outfitters cater to beginners, offering guided rafting on this dam-controlled river with reliable spring-to-fall releases. Expect 10 miles of premier Class III and IV ra

Dog lovers have countless reasons to adore Chattanooga. Leashed dogs are welcome in most parks and many top attractions. Surrounded by scenic trails perfect for pets, the Scenic City is ideal for a fun weekend getaway with your four-legged companion. Dog Parks Chattanooga boasts several off-leash dog parks. Chattanooga Chew Chew Canine Park features fenced areas for small and large dogs, ample green space, benches, fire hydrants, water fountains, waste stations, and agility equipment. Located o

Summers hottest days are here, and for avid campers who prefer tents over RVs with air conditioning, choosing the right spot is essential for comfort. Ive toughed out 100°F heat with a makeshift fan array before, but thats no way to enjoy the outdoors. To stay cool while camping in summer, prioritize elevation for natural temperature drops—roughly 5°F per 1,000 feet gained. Seek sites with ample water access for swimming, like lakes or creeks with pools. Nearby adventures such as hiking, mountai