40+ Things to Do in Downtown Chattanooga (2024)

Are you looking for some fun and exciting activities right outside your front door? Downtown Chattanooga is a hive of culture and activity, so it makes for the perfect place to explore. Whether you’re having a staycation or just want something new to do, your needs will be met downtown.

Events

TheMoon River Festivalhas quickly become a staple in Chattanooga. Offering music and entertainment from multiple artists, this event held in Coolidge Park almost always sells out. With areas and activities designated for children, this is a fun event for everyone.

Nightfallis a free concert series hosted in Miller Park every Friday night through the summer. The streets are shut down making it kid friendly, and there’s vendors of all kinds set up for the whole family.

The Chattanooga Market has tons of annual festivals each year. Checkout what they have to offer each season!

Riverbend is on of Chattanooga’s biggest events each year! Kick off your summer with great music and entertainment!

The 4 Bridges Art Festival is a great way to celebrate art and culture every spring.

JFest is another annual music festival that takes place in the Scenic City.

Wine Over Water is a popular event every fall.

Sports and Recreation

TheChattanooga Lookoutsare a staple in the Scenic City. The field sits right along the Tennessee River, so you can hit up any of the wonderful restaurants or ice cream shops before the first pitch is thrown.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanoogais in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, and they have a wide variety of sporting events you can watch year-round. Go Mocs!

AChattanooga Red Wolvesgame makes for a fun evening for the whole family. With the stadium located right byChampy’s, you can make a night of it.

The Chattanooga Football Club is another great soccer team in Chattanooga. They play their home games at Finley Stadium.

If your crew loves climbing,High Point Climbing and Fitnessis the perfect spot! Located right by theTennessee Aquarium, this prime location is within walking distance to many fun downtownactivitiesand hot spots.

TheChattanooga Downtown YMCAis another great place to get moving. There are classes and activities for the whole family.

If you love the water,paddling boardingis a popular option among Chattanoogans.L2 Outsideis a great place to rent a board if you need one.

TheChattanooga Riverwalk is another popular place to get outside and exercise. This 16 mile stretch of pavement runs right along the Tennessee River. You can find runners, walkers, bikers, and more along this hot spot.

If you want to explore theScenicCity on a bike,Bike Chattanoogamakes it easy.

Miracle League of Chattanoogais another great, inclusive option for everyone to get out and be active.

Arts

The Hunter Art Museumis a great spot to explore art and culture. It’s located right above the Tennessee River, and the location is just as beautiful as the art inside.

The Bluff View Art District is an art lover’s paradise. You can enjoy food, bakeries, coffee, galleries, and sculptures in this quaint area of town.

The Chattanooga Theatre Centre is Chattanooga’s hub for all things theater.

The Tivoli, Memorial Auditorium, and the Walker Theatreare great venues to watch live music and shows.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanoogaoffers many performances on campus.

Sights

The Walnut Street Bridgeis one of Chattanooga’s most visited spots. The view is spectacular.

Old Stone Church Toweris one of the oldest and prettiest sights in Chattanooga.

Second Presbyterian Churchis a beautiful sight to behold downtown.

Coolidge Parkis a stunning park that everyone will love.

Ross’s Landing is a breathtaking park right on the Tennessee River.

The West Villageis a cool area for the whole family with some stunning scenery.

The North Shoreis a beautiful area with tons of restaurants and shops.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanoogahas a spectacular campus that is worth exploring.

Tourist Attractions

Even if you’re a local, these downtown tourist hot spots are great for a day of entertainment!

The Tennessee AquariumandChattanooga Zooare perfect for animal lovers!

The Creative Discovery Museumis a child’s paradise.

The Chattanooga Choo Choowill make your train lovers happy!

The Incline Railwayis a great way to see Lookout Mountain.

Land and Boat Tours

Chattanooga Ducksis a great combination of land and river exploration.

The Southern Belleis one of the most historical ways to explore the Tennessee River.

Blue Heaven River Toursmakes your boat ride loads of fun.

Pints and Pedalsmakes for a fun adult tour night.

Chatt Taste Tour: Taste all that the Chattanooga restaurant scene has to offer.

If you’re up for a spooky night on the town,Chattanooga Ghost Tours andChattaBOOga Ghost Walkare the way to go.

For theadventuroustype,Chattanooga Segway Toursmake for a fun outing.

Missionary Ridge Train Rides: Take a train ride to learn about Chattanooga’s history.

Tennessee River Sunset Tours: Paddle board or kayak down the Tennessee River.

Chattanooga Carriage Company: See the beauty of the city on a horse drawn carriage.

Whatever you and your family may be craving, downtown Chattanooga can definitely serve it up!

Don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Guide to Chattanooga Fun