Are you looking for fun and free things to do in Chattanooga? Look no further! Chattanooga is a city filled with endless opportunities for adventure and entertainment, and best of all, many of them won’t cost you a dime.
From outdoor concerts and festivals to scenic hikes and historic landmarks, Chattanooga offers a diverse range of free activities that are sure to please. Spend a day exploring the city’s rich history at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, or take a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk. Looking for something a little more off the beaten path? Check out the city’s vibrant street art scene, or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Blue Hole swimming hole.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to the best free things to do in Chattanooga, complete with insider tips and recommendations. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, we’ve got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and discover all that Chattanooga has to offer.
History and Origin of Chattanooga
Chattanooga, Tennessee, nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by mountains, has a rich history dating back to Native American settlements. Its name, believed to be derived from a Creek Indian word meaning “rock coming to a point,” reflects its geographical significance. The city played a pivotal role during the Civil War, notably in the famous Battle of Chattanooga in 1863, due to its strategic location and railroads.
Post-Civil War, Chattanooga burgeoned into an industrial hub, particularly in iron and steel production. The city’s historical legacy is also marked by the Trail of Tears and the transformation from the industrial age to the renaissance of its downtown and riverfront, making it a unique blend of history and modern development.
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60 Best Free Things to Do in Chattanooga
Embark on an exciting journey through Chattanooga without spending a dime with our guide, ’60 Best Free Things to Do in Chattanooga.’ From the scenic splendor of the Tennessee River to the historical intrigue of its streets, this vibrant city offers a wealth of activities that cater to all interests, completely free of charge.
1. Visit Walnut Street Bridge
Walnut Street Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Chattanooga. This pedestrian-only bridge offers stunning views of the Tennessee River and the surrounding mountains. Take a stroll across the bridge and enjoy the scenery.
2. Go to Coolidge Park
Coolidge Park is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. This park features a large grassy area, a carousel, a fountain, and a splash pad. Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
3. Explore Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain is a must-visit destination in Chattanooga. This mountain offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area. Take a hike or drive to the top and enjoy the view.
4. Visit Chattanooga Choo Choo
The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic train station that has been converted into a hotel and entertainment complex. Take a walk around the property and admire the architecture.
5. Stroll Bluff View Art District
The Bluff View Art District is a beautiful Chattanooga area with art galleries, restaurants, and shops. Take a stroll through the district and admire the art and architecture.
6. See Hunter Museum Exterior
The Hunter Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. Even if you don’t have time to visit the museum’s interior, you can still admire the beautiful exterior and the stunning views of the Tennessee River.
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7. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium Outdoors
The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Chattanooga, but you don’t have to pay to enjoy it. The aquarium’s outdoor areas are free to visit and offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
8. Explore Renaissance Park
Renaissance Park is a beautiful park with walking trails, a pond, and a grassy area for picnics. Take a walk through the park and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
9. Go to Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a scenic walking trail that follows the Tennessee River. Walk along the trail and enjoy the beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
10. Visit Reflection Riding Arboretum
The Reflection Riding Arboretum is a beautiful nature preserve with walking trails, gardens, and a pond. Take a walk through the preserve and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
11. See Chattanooga Market
The Chattanooga Market is a great place to visit on the weekends. This outdoor market features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
12. Explore Tivoli Theatre’s Exterior
The Tivoli Theatre is a beautiful historic theater in downtown Chattanooga. Even if you don’t have time to catch a show, you can still admire the beautiful exterior and the stunning architecture.
13. Go to Ross’s Landing
Ross’s Landing is a beautiful park with a large grassy area, a fountain, and stunning views of the Tennessee River. Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
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14. Visit Tennessee Riverpark
The Tennessee Riverpark is a beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning river views. Take a walk through the park and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
15. Stroll North Shore
North Shore is a beautiful place in Chattanooga that features shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and admire the surroundings.
16. Explore Ruby Falls Entrance
Ruby Falls is a stunning underground waterfall, a must-visit destination in Chattanooga. Even if you don’t have time to take the tour, you can still admire the beautiful entrance and the stunning surroundings.
17. See Raccoon Mountain
Raccoon Mountain is a beautiful nature preserve with hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a hike and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
18. Visit the Chattanooga Zoo Entrance
The Chattanooga Zoo is a great place to visit with the family. If you don’t have time to explore the zoo, you can still see the entrance area and admire the beautiful animals.
19. Explore Audubon Acres
Audubon Acres is a beautiful nature preserve with walking trails, gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a walk through the preserve and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
20. Go to Sunset Rock
Sunset Rock is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The rock overlooks Lookout Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunset from this scenic spot.
21. Visit Signal Point
Signal Point is another popular hiking destination. The point overlooks the Tennessee River and offers excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Take a hike to Signal Point and enjoy the natural beauty of Chattanooga.
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22. See Southside Historic District
The Southside Historic District has several historic buildings and landmarks. Take a self-guided walking tour of the district and learn about Chattanooga’s rich history.
23. Explore Cravens House
Cravens House is a historic home that played a role in the Civil War. The home is now part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Take a tour of the house and learn about its history.
24. Visit Stringer’s Ridge
Stringer’s Ridge is a 92-acre park with hiking and mountain biking trails. The park is home to several overlooks that provide great views of Chattanooga. Take a hike or bike through the park and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
25. Stroll Main Street
Main Street has several shops, restaurants, and galleries. Take a stroll down Main Street and enjoy the local culture.
26. Go to Miller Plaza
Miller Plaza is a public square that hosts several events throughout the year. Check out the schedule and attend a free concert or festival.
27. See Art District Sculptures
The Art District is home to several sculptures and public art installations. Take a walk through the district and enjoy the art.
28. Visit Chickamauga Dam
Chickamauga Dam is a hydroelectric dam that spans the Tennessee River. The dam offers great views of the river and surrounding area. Take a walk across the dam and enjoy the views.
29. Explore Soddy Daisy
Soddy Daisy is a small town just outside Chattanooga. The city is home to several parks and natural areas. Take a hike or bike through one of the parks and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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30. Go to Point Park Gates
Point Park is a historic park that played a role in the Civil War. The park is home to several historic landmarks and offers excellent views of the surrounding area. Take a walk through the park and enjoy the history and natural beauty.
31. Visit Orchard Knob
Orchard Knob is a historic site that played a role in the Civil War. The site is now part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Take a tour of the site and learn about its history.
32. Explore Moccasin Bend
Moccasin Bend is a 750-acre park that offers hiking and biking trails. The park is home to several historic landmarks and offers excellent views of the Tennessee River. Take a hike or bike through the park and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
33. See Chattanooga Bakery
The Chattanooga Bakery is home to the famous MoonPie. Take a bakery tour and learn about the history of this iconic snack.
34. Visit Glass Street Murals
The Glass Street Murals are a series of murals that celebrate the history and culture of the Glass Street area. Take a walk through the neighborhood and enjoy the art.
35. Go to Brainerd Levee
The Brainerd Levee is a popular spot for walking and jogging. The levee offers great views of the surrounding area and is a great place to exercise.
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36. Explore East Chattanooga
East Chattanooga is a historic place home to several landmarks and attractions. Take a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood and learn about its history.
37. Visit Sculpture Fields
Sculpture Fields is a 33-acre park home to several sculptures and public art installations. Take a walk through the park and enjoy the art.
38. See Missionary Ridge
Missionary Ridge is a historic site that played a role in the Civil War. The site is now part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Take a tour of the site and learn about its history.
39. Go to Blue Hole
Blue Hole is a natural swimming hole that is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day at the Blue Hole.
40. Explore St. Elmo
St. Elmo is a historic area home to several landmarks and attractions. Take a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood and learn about its history.
41. Visit Olgiati Bridge
The Olgiati Bridge is a beautiful suspension bridge that spans the Tennessee River. It offers stunning views of the city and the river, and it’s a great place to take a walk or ride a bike.
42. See Coker Tire Museum
The Coker Tire Museum is a must-see for car enthusiasts. The museum features a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, bicycles, antique gas pumps, and other memorabilia.
43. Explore Enterprise South
Enterprise South is a 2,800-acre park that offers hiking and biking trails, fishing and picnicking areas. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
44. Visit Chester Frost Park
Chester Frost Park is a beautiful park that offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family and enjoy the great outdoors.
45. Go to Prentice Cooper
Prentice Cooper is a 24,000-acre park that offers hiking and biking trails, camping and fishing opportunities. It’s a great place to get away from it all and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
46. See Hamilton Place
Hamilton Place is a large shopping mall that offers a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend a day shopping and browsing, and events and activities are often happening throughout the year.
47. Explore Glen Falls
Glen Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just a short drive from Chattanooga. It’s a great place to take a hike and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
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48. Visit Veterans Bridge
The Veterans Bridge is a beautiful bridge that spans the Tennessee River. It offers stunning views of the city and the river, and it’s a great place to take a walk or ride a bike.
49. Stroll Tyner Ramhurst
Tyner Ramhurst is a beautiful park with hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It’s a fantastic place to spend a day with the family and enjoy the great outdoors.
50. See Eastgate Town Center
Eastgate Town Center is a shopping center that offers a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend a day shopping and browsing, and events and activities are often happening throughout the year.
51. Go to Brown Acres
Brown Acres is a beautiful park with hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It’s a fantastic place to spend a day with the family and enjoy the great outdoors.
52. Visit Bonny Oaks Arboretum
Bonny Oaks Arboretum is a beautiful park with various trees and plants. It’s a great place to take a walk and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
53. Explore Heritage Park
Heritage Park is a beautiful park that features a variety of historical buildings and artifacts. It’s a beautiful place to learn about the area’s history and enjoy the great outdoors.
54. See Northgate Mall
Northgate Mall is a shopping center that offers a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend a day shopping and browsing, and events and activities are often happening throughout the year.
55. Go to Brookfield Zoo Gate
Brookfield Zoo Gate is a beautiful park with hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It’s an excellent place to spend a day with the family and enjoy the great outdoors.
56. Visit Audubon Society
The Audubon Society is a great place to learn about birds and birdwatching. They offer a variety of programs and events throughout the year, and it’s a great place to spend a day learning about the natural world.
57. Explore Lula Lake Entrance
Lula Lake Entrance is a beautiful park with a waterfall and hiking trails. It’s a great place to take a hike and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
58. See Engel Stadium
Engel Stadium is a historic baseball stadium restored to its former glory. It’s a fantastic place to learn about the history of baseball in Chattanooga and enjoy a game.
59. Go to Harrison Bay
Harrison Bay is a beautiful park that offers hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It’s a fantastic place to spend a day with the family and enjoy the great outdoors.
60. Visit Middle Valley
Middle Valley is a beautiful park with hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family and enjoy the great outdoors.
Travel Tips to Visit in Chattanooga
Visiting Chattanooga, Tennessee, can be an enriching experience, offering a blend of natural beauty, history, and urban charm. Here are some travel tips to make the most of your visit:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable weather and vibrant foliage. Summers are warm, and perfect for outdoor activities, while winters are mild.
- Getting Around: Renting a car is convenient for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Chattanooga also has a reliable public transportation system, including a free electric shuttle in the downtown area.
- Outdoor Adventures: Don’t miss the natural wonders like Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, and the Tennessee Riverwalk. Consider a river cruise for a unique perspective of the city.
- Historical Sites: Explore Chattanooga’s rich history by visiting the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, and the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo.
- Cultural Attractions: The Hunter Museum of American Art and the Creative Discovery Museum are must-visits for art and science enthusiasts.
- Dining: Chattanooga has a burgeoning food scene. Enjoy Southern cuisine, explore local breweries, and visit the Public Market for fresh, local produce.
- Accommodation: There’s a range of options, from downtown hotels close to attractions to cozy cabins near the mountains.
- Events and Festivals: Check the local calendar for events like the Riverbend Music Festival or the Chattanooga Film Festival.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring comfortable shoes for walking, and weather-appropriate clothing, and if you plan to explore the outdoors, don’t forget gear like a water bottle and sunscreen.
- Local Etiquette: Chattanoogans are known for their Southern hospitality. A friendly demeanor and polite manners go a long way.
Chattanooga is a city where history meets modernity, and nature meets city life, offering something for every type of traveler.
Is it Safe to do Free Things to Do in Chattanooga?
Engaging in free activities in Chattanooga is generally considered safe, with the city known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Chattanooga offers a variety of outdoor and cultural experiences, from exploring the scenic beauty of the Tennessee Riverwalk to enjoying the vibrant art in the Bluff View Art District.
As with any city, it’s always wise to take standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas. The city’s commitment to public safety and community well-being makes it a great place for visitors and residents alike to enjoy an array of free activities without significant safety concerns.
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Is it Worth to Visit in Chattanooga?
Visiting Chattanooga is undoubtedly worth it for anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant urban life. Nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga offers stunning scenic views, particularly from places like Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Riverwalk. The city is also famous for its historic attractions, including the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Civil War battlefield sites.
With a revitalized downtown area, an array of cultural experiences, and a growing culinary scene, Chattanooga provides a unique mix of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication, making it an appealing destination for a wide range of travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Free Things to Do in Chattanooga
Here you can find a few commonly asked questions about free things to do in Chattanooga.
What are some popular free activities for families with toddlers in Chattanooga?
Chattanooga offers many free activities for families with toddlers. One popular activity is visiting the Chattanooga Zoo, which offers free admission for children under 3. Another option is exploring the Creative Discovery Museum, which has a dedicated area for toddlers and offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month.
Where can I find free entertainment in Chattanooga during the evening?
There are many free entertainment options in Chattanooga during the evening. One popular option is attending the Nightfall Concert Series, which offers free concerts every Friday night during the summer. Another option is visiting the Riverfront Nights concert series, which offers free concerts on Saturday nights during the summer.
Can you explore Lookout Mountain without any cost?
Yes, you can explore Lookout Mountain without spending any money. You can hike the trails at Lookout Mountain Battlefield or take a scenic drive on the Lookout Mountain Parkway. Additionally, Point Park, located at the top of Lookout Mountain, offers free admission for visitors.
What free attractions are available for adults in Chattanooga?
Chattanooga offers many free attractions for adults. One popular option is visiting the Hunter Museum of American Art on the first Thursday of every month, which offers free admission. Another option is exploring the Bluff View Art District, which features outdoor sculptures and stunning views of the Tennessee River.
How can one celebrate a birthday in Chattanooga without spending money?
There are many ways to celebrate a birthday in Chattanooga without spending money. One option is having a picnic at Coolidge Park, which offers scenic river views and free admission. Another option is exploring the Chattanooga Riverwalk, which offers miles of free walking and biking trails.
Conclusion
Chattanooga is a city that offers a range of free activities for all ages. From exploring the city’s history and culture to enjoying the beautiful outdoors, there is something for everyone.
Some top free things to do in Chattanooga include visiting the Tennessee Riverpark, hiking at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, and exploring the Bluff View Art District.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these free activities provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about Chattanooga and create lasting memories. So, get out there and explore all that Chattanooga has to offer!
