Must Do Activities on a Family Trip to Chattanooga Tennessee

View of the Aquarium and bridges from the pier

Must Do Activities on a Family Trip to Chattanooga Tennessee

Chattanooga is one of the best destinations for families in the United States. The “Scenic City” which sits in the valley with the most prominent peak being Lookout Mountain, has something for everyone. Once a historically significant Civil War battleground, it has reinvented itself into an outdoor haven recognized by sources like the New York Times. It is home to the world famous Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the country. (Note that the bridge has been down for renovations and will be reopening fall of 2026.)

When I travel, I always start with a city tour to familiarize myself with the city. This gives me direct access to a local expert. While on the tour you will be able to experience places that you will want to return to after the tour. Here is my must do list when visiting Chattanooga and much of it is free.

First join Chattanooga Rydables on a fun and accessible tour of Chattanooga.  Anyone can enjoy a Rydable… that is everyone from toddler to retiree. Rydables are 4-wheeled animal scooters that guests drive around the city on a guided tour. The smiles and laughter from riding is contagious and you will be a star if only for a moment. This tour shows off the best of Chattanooga. The cheapest way to book is to call us at 866-752-7130. (Whenever you book online there is a fee charged that we do not receive or have any control over so call to book.)

Anyway, the Rydables tour passes by the Aquarium which everyone should visit. Purchase tickets online and prior to your trip as they assign an entry time. The Aquarium has a freshwater and saltwater tank as well as a butterfly garden. During the summer Chattanooga is hopping so do not wait to make your plans. Hidden next to the Aquarium is a memorial to the Native Americans pushed off their land as part of the Trail of Tears. Do not miss this. It is a stunning and moving memorial with water flowing down the stairs towards the Chief John Ross’ Landing and the Tennessee river. The water pools into a wading pool that children love to splash in during the sweltering summer months. Don’t forget to read the plaques on the ground and take in the emblems on the wall.

View of the Aquarium from Hunter Museum

Chattanooga, a Native American reference to the shape of Lookout Mountain, was named a National Park City in 2025, the first in North America. Chattanooga is not just a city with parks; it is a park. There are miles of bike lanes, trails, and 3 bridges with pedestrian infrastructure, bringing the north and south shores of the Tennessee River together. On Saturday nights the riverfront serves as an outdoor theatre for a summer music series. On the north shore of the city you can walk around and shop at locally owned restaurants, eat at locally owned restaurants, and enjoy Coolidge Park. Save money and pack a picnic as there are places throughout the city to sit and enjoy a meal.  We love the Bluff View Arts District, and you will be able to experience it on our tour. Enjoy the statue park with artwork from world famous artists like Arnaldo Pomodoro.

View of Chattanooga from Lookout Mountain

After experiencing the city checkout, the mountains. Lookout Mountain is a wonderful place to hike. You can park at Ruby Falls (another great destination) and walk on the Guild Trail up to the historic battleground monument area and historic Craven House. This is approximately 2.5 mile hike from the Ruby Falls parking lot. The hike is not hard for anyone who is reasonably fit. The grade of the trail is less than 10% in most places. From Craven House you will be able to look out on downtown Chattanooga and have a magnificent view of Missionary Ridge. If you want an even better view you can continue to hike all the way to Lookout Mountain National Battlefield, a National Park. If you do not want to hike you can of course drive all the way to the top of Lookout Mountain. There is a fee to get in but the history and the views are worth it. If you have a National Park annual pass you can get in for free. I am a trail runner and often spend time running up to the park and sometimes I do not want to run back down. That is where the incline railroad comes in handy. I use my Incline Railroad annual pass to take the Incline Railroad back down into the valley. Riding the Incline Railroad is the perfect way to experience another section of Chattanooga, St Elmo and the Lookout Mountain neighborhood. The Incline Railroad is one of the steepest in the world and offers spectacular views of the city.

Walking through Rock City

While you are up on Lookout Mountain take the opportunity to visit Rock City, a natural wonder accentuated with artwork and lights. This is best visited at nighttime where you can get the full experience of the light show.

Chattanooga is a short drive from North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and other cities in Tennessee. For more ideas feel free to email us at  [email protected].

Dianna Ward

Owner Chattanooga Rydables Tour