Chattanooga, Tennessee is a beautiful city with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Trust us, there’s a reason we go by “The Scenic City!”
Whether you’re here for the day, the weekend, or a week-long vacation, you’ll never run out of fun things to do!
As local Chattanooga residents, we found our dream home here in this wonderful mountain city, and we want to share as much of it with you as possible!
Some of these activities have an admission fee if you choose to go in or don’t catch it on the right day of the month, but they are worth the admission!
So without further ado…
Here are 8 of our favorite free things you can do in the city:
1. Walk or bike the Tennessee Riverwalk.
This 13-mile trail runs along the Tennessee River and offers stunning views of the city and the mountains.
You can walk any section of the trail at many different parking lots and entrances, from downtown Chattanooga to the Chickamauga Dam!
There are also many different playgrounds along the way for the kiddos, restrooms, and picnic areas!
This walk is always in season, and you can also bike it too!
2. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium
While there is an admission fee for the aquarium, the outdoor riverfront plaza is free to the public and offers stunning views of the river and the nearby pedestrian bridge.
During the warmer months, you’ll see families playing in the water features surrounding the outside of the aquarium, and many weekends there is a local market you can peruse!
The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world, featuring whole sections dedicated to the wildlife you’d encounter in the Tennessee River, which the aquarium overlooks!
Take a gander with butterflies, pet stingrays, and watch the otters play in one of the best spots in Chattanooga.
3. Explore the Chattanooga Market
This indoor/outdoor market is open on Sundays from 11 AM – 4PM, but they are also open on some Wednesdays and Saturdays during the season!
The market offers a variety of food, art, and crafts, jewelry, flowers…and FOOD TRUCKS!
You can check out the latest updates to their calendar to plan your visit!
4. Take a stroll through the Bluff View Art District
This historic neighborhood is home to several art galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants with outdoor seating and stunning views of the Tennessee River.
You’ll feel like you’ve walked into another world viewing the Tudor homes, outdoor art, and don’t forget to stop by Rembrandt’s for a fantastic cup of coffee!
5. Hike the trails at Lookout Mountain
The mountain is home to several hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Some of our favorite trails include Signal Point to Rainbow Lake to Edward’s Point, Big Daddy Loop, and Lula Lake Trails!
6. Visit the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum
This museum is dedicated to the history of tow trucks and the people who use them.
You won’t regret stopping by this unique piece of Chattanooga history!
Admission is free.
7. Enjoy the free live music at the Nightfall Concert Series
This weekly concert series takes place in Miller Park on Friday nights and features local and regional musicians.
There are always vendors, food, drinks, and a good time to be had at Nightfall! It’s the place to be in Chattanooga during the warmer months.
8. Visit the Creative Discovery Museum
This museum is designed for children and offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
While there is a fee for admission, the museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month!
There are sections dedicated to music, arts, sciences…anything and everything!
And it’s not just for kids, we adults have a great time too!
Now Go Enjoy Free Things To Do in Chattanooga!
Whether you are interested in outdoor activities, history, music, or art, Chattanooga has something for everyone.
So, come and explore this beautiful city and all it has to offer.
Check out some of our unique, local, one-of-a-kind rental homes for your next Chattanooga stay!
