Chattanooga is more than a city with parks – it’s North America’s first National Park City, where nature is part of everyday life. In a National Park, you’re told to leave no trace; in a National Park City, you’re invited to take part. Chattanooga earned this distinction by weaving green space, rivers, and trails through its downtown and neighborhoods, proving that growth and conservation can thrive together. Once an industrial town, the Scenic City now stands as a model for sustainable adventure and creative energy – inviting visitors to explore a destination cared for, connected and inspired by the landscape itself.
Adventure Awaits
A River Runs Through It
Located on the banks of the Tennessee River, Chattanooga makes the most of its waterfront views. Encompassing more than 16 miles, the Riverwalk stretches from the Chestnut Street Trailhead to the Chickamauga Dam and features a paved pathway to cultural attractions, restaurants, events and natural areas. With dozens of access points and convenient Bike Chattanooga stations, it’s easy to navigate bustling sections of the Riverwalk or step off the beaten path to enjoy lush green spaces. This local treasure captures what the National Park City movement is about – easy, everyday access to nature.
The Riverwalk also includes launch points for water recreation. Outfitters rent paddleboards, canoes and kayaks. Paddle around downtown, take a break on the beach of Maclellan Island or dock and dine at one of several waterfront restaurants. Enjoy a day of guided fishing on the river or Chickamauga Lake. And for white-knuckled adventure, make the short drive to shoot the rapids on the Ocoee River.
Mountaintop Vista
Twice named one of America’s best outdoor cities, Chattanooga gives adventure seekers instant access to mountain views and wide-open skies. Lookout Mountain makes a great jumping off point – both literally and figuratively – for scenic hikes, biking trails and hang gliding off the side of the mountain. It’s also home to several of the city’s most iconic attractions.
- Ruby Falls: Here, visitors can journey down 1,120 feet to view the world’s deepest underground waterfall or take to the skies at High Point Zip Adventure for breathtaking mountain views.
- Rock City: Easy for all ages, these enchanting trails feature panoramic views, botanical gardens and the magical world of gnomes and fairies.
- Incline Railway: For transportation up the mountain, head to the St. Elmo station at the base to experience “America’s Most Amazing Mile.”
More Family Fun
From multiple attractions in close proximity to downtown options suitable for different ages, Chattanooga makes family fun easy. In the Scenic City, nature and the great outdoors take center stage – even when you’re inside.
- Tennessee Aquarium allows visitors to trace the path from the mountains to the sea across two buildings. Look for audacious otters, playful penguins and the snapper, sharks and stingrays of the Secret Reef.
- IMAX 3D Theater, located inside the Tennessee Aquarium, takes adventure to new heights.
- Creative Discovery Museum encourages children to explore their surroundings through hands-on exhibits and spaces connecting indoors with the outside.
- Walnut Street Bridge is a historic gateway to Coolidge Park on the city’s North Shore. Ride the restored antique carousel, splash in an interactive water fountain, picnic on delicious bites from nearby restaurants and enjoy special events happening throughout the year.
- Chattanooga Zoo is only 10 minutes from downtown. Learn about conservation measures, see animals in natural habitats and visit the zoo’s newest section – the recently opened Cape of Africa. Every experience here – indoors or out – reflects the city’s belief that nature belongs to everyone.
For more great memories, book a cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat, cheer on the Chattanooga Lookouts from their riverfront baseball stadium or team up to solve one of the city’s challenging escape games like Escape Experience Chattanooga.
A Softer Side of Adventure
You don’t have to be an outdoor enthusiast to enjoy your surroundings. In Chattanooga, the natural environment sets the stage for the arts, history, music and more.
- Bluff View Art District and Hunter Museum of American Art are accessible from the Riverwalk downtown.
- Sculpture Fields at Montague Park is not to be missed, with dozens of modern monuments dotting the landscape.
- Chattanooga Market hosts local producers and makers in an open-air setting.
- Bessie Smith Cultural Center dives deep into the city’s rich tradition of African American visual and performing.
- Ross’s Landing and The Passage mark the beginning of the Trail of Tears.
- National Medal of Honor Heritage Center honors distinguished service members who have earned this highest military award.
From art districts to historic landmarks, Chattanooga’s creative energy is rooted in the same care and stewardship that define a National Park City.
Out for the Evening
Chattanooga’s vibrant food scene has garnered national attention. With rave reviews for its Middle Eastern menu, the “New York Times” recently named Calliope one of the “50 best places to eat in the U.S.” And the renowned James Beard Awards have taken notice of St. John’s Restaurant and Alleia.
With a mild climate and beautiful views, many popular restaurants in the City Center, North Shore and Southside culinary districts feature outdoor dining options. The city is also home to local breweries and distilleries.
- Gate 11 Distillery in the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo distills whiskey in a train car. Plus, MICHELIN stay key holder The Hotel Chalet, is located right behind it, providing easy access to two historic havens.
- Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery offers handcrafted bourbon in the heart of downtown. Evenings here flow easily between city life and nature, with mountain views never far away.
Much More to Explore
Plan your trip at visitchattanooga.com and experience the spirit of a National Park City.
