Nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is a city filled with adventure, culture, and history. Whether you’re currently in the market to buy a home in Chattanooga, TN, already have an apartment in the city, or just settled into a rental house in the area, there are plenty of unique things to do in Chattanooga that will make your experience unforgettable.
1. Ride the Incline Railway to Lookout Mountain
Experience one of the steepest passenger railways in the world as you ascend Lookout Mountain on the historic Incline Railway (currently under renovation, expected to reopen June 2025). This thrilling ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and leads to more attractions, including Point Park Battlefield, where you can explore Civil War history and panoramic overlooks.
While on Lookout Mountain, explore unique things to do at Canopy Coffee and Wine Bar, home to handcrafted coffee beverages and unique craft beers and fine wine selections with regularly hosted evening activities such as trivia night, crafting night, and live music.
2. Check out the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo
Once a bustling train station, this historic landmark located in the heart of Downtown is now a vibrant entertainment complex with restaurants, shops, and even a hotel inside old rail cars. “No trip to Chattanooga is complete without a visit to the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or just looking for a unique thing to do, the Choo Choo offers something for everyone,” shares Chattanooga Local, a blog dedicated to showcasing all of the unique things to do in the city.
3. Walk Across the Walnut Street Bridge
One of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, the Walnut Street Bridge (currently under renovation, updates can be found here) connects Downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or just to take in the stunning views of the Tennessee River.
Local photographer Kelley Hoagland Photography, specializing in maternity, newborn, and family portraits, says, “If you’re getting to know Chattanooga, I highly recommend visiting Clumpies Ice Cream, all of them are located in iconic areas such as the Northshore location where you can stroll down the Walnut Street Bridge after grabbing a scoop.”
4. Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center
Living in Chattanooga offers incredible natural beauty that surrounds its residents with accessible ways to get out and enjoy it. Set on 300 breathtaking acres just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature is part public park, part nature center, part wild lands, and all outdoor learning. Reflection Riding offers science programming for school groups, families, and individuals from moonlit paddles on Lookout Creek to guided nature hikes to hands-on volunteer efforts to remove invasive plants.
Christian Michelle Photography, who focuses on making family photos fun and easy, says, “One of my favorite places to photograph families or to take a relaxing walk with my own family is the Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center.”
5. Uncover the city through scenic tours
One of the best ways to discover unique things to do in Chattanooga is through its variety of scenic tours, offering breathtaking views and fascinating insights into the city’s rich history and natural beauty. These tours provide a unique perspective on Chattanooga’s landmarks, architecture, and stunning landscapes. From self-guided to private tours, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the charm and culture of this vibrant city.
Architectural gems
Explore our city’s architecture and history through one of Preserve Chattanooga‘s self-guided walking tours. Preserve Chattanooga has been protecting the city’s architectural heritage through preservation, education, and advocacy since 1975. During the tour, watch out for the gold star properties, Chattanooga’s “must-see” architectural and historic gems.
Mix up your discoveries
For new residents looking to experience Chattanooga in a unique and exciting way, Chattanooga VIP Tours offers an unforgettable mix of adventure, history, and Southern hospitality. Whether it’s their Taste of the South Wine & Whiskey Tour, where guests savor the best of local wineries and distilleries, or their karaoke and sunset cruises, where guests can sing their hearts out or relax while taking in breathtaking river views. No matter the tour, their mission is to give guests a true taste of Chattanooga’s charm and culture.
6. Experience a ghost tour in Downtown Chattanooga
For those who enjoy a bit of mystery, a ghost tour through downtown Chattanooga is an exciting way to explore the city’s eerie past. Guides share spooky stories of hauntings, legends, and paranormal activity while taking you through historic buildings and alleyways.
Some people believe ghost tours are only for those into the paranormal. However, Chattanooga Ghost Tours injects some of the city’s more entertaining history into every one of its Murder & Mayhem tours.
7. Treat yourself
Take a dinner cruise
Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. This classic paddlewheel boat offers a relaxing way to see the city from the water while enjoying live entertainment and delicious Southern cuisine.
This unique thing to do in Chattanooga cruises down the Tennessee River allowing passengers to soak in the sunset on a sightseeing cruise or enjoy live music and cocktails on the open-air deck. The Southern Belle provides the perfect opportunity to take in the city’s breathtaking skyline and surrounding mountains. Locals and visitors alike say there’s no better way to experience the heart of Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Market
Held every Sunday from April through December, this weekly celebration of local creativity, flavors, and community spirit is more than just a farmers market. Spill The Beans, a mobile coffee truck says, “Being a Chattanoogan means embracing our vibrant community where local culture thrives. It’s spending Sundays browsing fresh produce and handmade goods at the Chattanooga Market, savoring delicious bites from diverse food trucks, and soaking in stunning views of the scenic city from the riverfront.”
Scooping around the city
Chattanooga is home to a variety of ice cream shops that offer sweet treats for every palate. Whether you’re craving classic flavors, adventurous combinations, or something extra special, indulging in a cold, delicious dessert is the perfect way to cool off and enjoy the city. Kristal Hacker, owner of Hacker Medias Photography & More explains, “If you’re visiting the Scenic City and have a sweet tooth, you have to stop by Scoop Around Ice Cream Bar in downtown Chattanooga. The environment and owners are super fun all while having unique ice cream flavors and treats. You won’t be disappointed.”
8. Wander through Sculpture Fields at Montague Park
Chattanooga is known for its artistic spirit, and Sculpture Fields at Montague Park is a perfect example. This outdoor museum features large-scale sculptures spread across a 33-acre park, making it a great place for a leisurely walk or a creative photo opportunity.
Natalie Delapaz, owner of Xozio Coffee and Provisions, says, “My perfect Chattanooga day starts with coffee from my roastery while planning my morning ride. The route winds past creeks, prairies, and riverside views before rolling into downtown, ending at the Sculpture Fields. Refueling with a juicy burger and fries at Tremont Tavern—a local favorite—caps off the day just right.”
9. Experience Chattanooga’s creative side
Chattanooga is a city bursting with artistic expression, live music, and unique hands-on experiences that showcase its vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re exploring local art galleries, enjoying an intimate concert, or witnessing the craftsmanship of skilled artisans, there’s no shortage of creative inspiration to be found.
First Friday Art Crawl
Experience Chattanooga’s vibrant arts scene through the First Friday Art Crawl, a monthly celebration where local galleries and artist studios open their doors for an evening of creativity and connection. “Stroll through downtown Chattanooga, Southside, and Northshore to discover thought-provoking exhibitions, meet local artists, and enjoy light refreshments—all while soaking in the city’s dynamic culture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just exploring, it’s the perfect way to see Chattanooga’s creative spirit in action,” shares Association for Visual Arts, whose mission is to strengthen and promote the artistic ecosystem of Chattanooga.
Music enthusiasts
If you’re a music lover, you’ll want to get tickets to a concert at Songbirds. Located in the heart of Southside Chattanooga on West Main St, this non-profit music venue offers an intimate listening room vibe where every seat in the house is a great one. Plus, every dollar you spend there goes towards Songbirds’ music education programs for kids.
Personalized artistry and embroidery
If you’re looking for an above-average monogramming experience or gift, Kait Makes Embroidery Studio inside Clearstory Arts on the Southside of Chattanooga uses vintage hand-cranked embroidery machines. With an appointment you can bring your own garment or even pick something out from Kait’s shop and watch her embroider your name or initials freehand.
10. Get fit while having fun
Chattanooga is a city known for encouraging an active lifestyle, whether you’re hitting the gym, joining a group workout, or taking advantage of the stunning outdoor spaces. From high-intensity CrossFit and boot camp-style training to specialized fitness experiences like aerial yoga and bungee fitness, there’s something for every fitness level and interest. Whether you’re new to town or a longtime resident, Chattanooga’s fitness community offers plenty of ways to stay healthy while connecting with others.
Discover your fitness community
Moving to a new city can be challenging, however this scenic city provides a diverse community in its fitness scene to meet new people. Still Life Fitness located in the Alton Park neighborhood offers group training classes, personal coaching, and meal prep services designed to help residents stay active, healthy, and connected. Whether you’re an athlete or just starting your fitness journey, Chattanooga’s supportive fitness community makes it easy to find your place. Plus, with breathtaking outdoor spaces like the Riverwalk and Lookout Mountain, there’s no better city to combine fitness with adventure.
Jump into cross fit
One of the best ways to dive into the city’s vibrant fitness culture is a visit to the CrossFit Brigade Athletic Club. It’s more than just a gym, it’s a welcoming community where you can challenge yourself with functional small-group fitness training while connecting with like-minded individuals who embrace a healthy and active lifestyle. Whether you’re tackling a high-energy or a community workout, Brigade embodies the spirit of Chattanooga—strong, supportive, and full of adventure.
Try something new with specialty fitness classes
Break away from the traditional gym experience and try something unique. If you’re looking to try something new while being active, Uplift Fitness in Dunlap is a scenic 40-minute drive outside the city offering unique exercise classes you won’t find in a typical gym setting such as bungee fitness, aerial yoga, aerial silks, lyra (aerial hoop), belly dance, WERQ dance fitness, and yoga.
Grind it out boot-camp style
You can find Scenic City Boot Camp, one of the longest running locally owned fitness facilities in Chattanooga, in the Hixson neighborhood. Their results-proven workouts, nutrition plans and experienced trainers are what has allowed them to be an essential unique thing to do for most Chattanooga residents when looking for fitness results. Their group training sessions are scalable for all fitness levels, no matter what shape you’re in.
Unique things to do in Chattanooga, TN: Discover the best of this city
This city offers a diverse mix of attractions, making it easy to find unique things to do in Chattanooga no matter your interests. From scenic mountain views to quirky museums and local treats, this vibrant city is full of surprises. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, you’ll quickly find that Chattanooga is a good place to live.
