How to Spend a Weekend in Chattanooga

Looking for the perfect weekend getaway? Chattanooga might just be your next favorite spot! Tucked between the gorgeous Appalachian Mountains and the Tennessee River, this city is packed with stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and a lively culture. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, amazing food, or arts and entertainment, Chattanooga has a little something for everyone.

In this guide, I’ve put together a fun two-day itinerary to help you squeeze the most out of your weekend. From iconic spots like Lookout Mountain to a relaxing stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge, you’re in for a weekend full of adventure, charm, and plenty of southern hospitality. Let’s dive in!

Where to Stay in Chattanooga

The Read House Hotel is a historic and luxurious option for accommodations in Chattanooga. This gorgeous hotel is conveniently located downtown, within walking distance to many attractions and restaurants. It’s also just a short drive away from Lookout Mountain and other popular spots in the city.

If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, check out The Crash Pad. This eco-friendly hostel offers private rooms, as well as shared dorms for a more affordable stay. Plus, it has a great location near the Southside district with plenty of local breweries and eateries nearby.

How to Get Around Chattanooga

One thing that makes Chattanooga unique is that parts of downtown are very walkable. If you stay at one of hotels near Chestnut Street, you will have access to dozens of restaurants and attractions within a 30 minute walk.

For those who prefer public transportation, Chattanooga offers a free electric shuttle that runs along the riverfront area and provides easy access to popular attractions such as the Tennessee Aquarium and Coolidge Park.

You can also get to most places in the city by car within 30 minutes, so Lyft rides aren’t nearly as expensive as other cities.

Day 1: Urban Adventures and Local Flavors

Pancakes and Coffee at Aretha Frankensteins

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Aretha Frankensteins where you can enjoy their famous pancakes and killer omelets. This local favorite has been serving up delicious breakfast dishes since 2002, and is known for its funky decor and laid-back atmosphere.

I recommend that you get there early when the restaurant opens at 8am, because this is a small hole-in-the-wall that fills up quickly! But trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Visit the Tennessee Aquarium

Begin your weekend with an immersive experience at the Tennessee Aquarium, one of Chattanooga’s top attractions. Consistently ranked as one of the best aquariums in the country, it houses thousands of aquatic animals across two main buildings – the Ocean Journey and the River Journey.

You’ll weave through exhibits that include playful otters, mesmerizing jellyfish, colorful tropical fish, and even sharks! Don’t miss the butterfly garden in the Ocean Journey building. Plan to spend about 2–3 hours here for the full experience.

Pro tip: Buy your tickets online ahead of time to save time at the entrance. Arrive when the aquarium opens at 10am because the weekend crowds will make the place packed after lunchtime!

Cross the Walnut Street Bridge and Explore North Shore

Once you’ve wrapped up your aquarium visit, head to the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Spanning the Tennessee River, this iconic bridge offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, photo ops, or simply enjoying the view.

On the other end of the bridge lies North Shore, a charming neighborhood full of quirky shops, art galleries, and laid-back cafés. Need a snack? Stop by Clumpies Ice Cream Co., a local favorite known for its unique and delicious flavors like Sweet Lavender and Espresso Chocolate Chunk.

If you’re up for it, drop into Coolidge Park, a lively riverside area featuring a historic carousel and plenty of green space to relax.

Stone Cup Cafe

After exploring North Shore, head back across the bridge to downtown and grab a bite at Stone Cup Cafe. This cozy coffee shop serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and pastries alongside their locally-roasted coffee.

Not only is their food top-notch, but the atmosphere is warm and welcoming with plenty of seating both indoors and out on their lovely patio. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch some live music while enjoying your meal.

Dinner in the Southside District

For dinner, make your way to Chattanooga’s Southside district. This trendy neighborhood is packed with some of the city’s best restaurants offering everything from upscale cuisine to classic Southern comfort food.

Your options include:

• STIR for craft cocktails and fresh oysters.
• State of Confusion for Latin-American fusion and wood-fired dishes.
• Bluegrass Grill if you’re craving a homey, laid-back vibe.

One of my personal favorites is State of Confusion! This Latin American restaurant is known for making authentic ceviche, however, the standout items on the menu are the classic New Orleans dishes. If you want something warm, cozy, and flavorful, you can’t go wrong with the jambalaya.

Then you can wrap up your evening wandering through the Southside’s murals and enjoying some of its cozy nightlife spots.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Memorable Sights

Breakfast at Honey Seed

Start your morning off right with a hearty breakfast at Honey Seed, located on Market Street. This charming farm-to-table restaurant serves up delicious dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Shop at the Chattanooga Market

After exploring the natural wonders of Lookout Mountain, head to the Chattanooga Market for a unique shopping experience. This open-air market features over 200 vendors offering everything from locally-grown produce to handmade crafts and artisanal goods.

But it’s not just about shopping at the Chattanooga Market – there are also food trucks serving up delicious dishes, live music performances, and even cooking demonstrations. It’s a great way to support local businesses and get a taste of the city’s vibrant culture.

Visit Rock City Gardens

Famous for its “See Seven States” panoramic view, Rock City is a must-visit. Its 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail winds through massive rock formations, caves, and gardens featuring over 400 native plant species, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and ferns.

Some of the key attractions include Lover’s Leap, offering views of seven states, a 100-foot waterfall, the 180-foot Swing-A-Long Bridge, and Fairyland Caverns with glowing fairy-tale dioramas. The site is dog-friendly (keep your pets on a leash!), partially ADA-accessible, plus gift shops with unique items like gnomes.

Rock City hosts distinct events and themes each season, enhancing its appeal year-round:

• Spring (March–May, Spring Blooms): Gardens burst with forsythia, daffodils, and later azaleas and rhododendrons. Features pop-up music by local artists like Matt Downer, performances by Mossbeard (a walking tree mime), caricature artists, and yard games at Hearth Pavilion. Twilight lighting and the new Tom Thumb Timber Roll, a gravity-powered ball course, add interactivity. Guided tours share historical insights.
• Summer (May–September, Mountaintop Summers): Offers cool stone corridors, live concerts (folk, country, blues) from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and Birds of Prey shows. Visitors can “Roam with the Gnomes” and enjoy refreshing drinks with seven-state views.
• Fall (September–November, Fall Colors): Showcases vibrant foliage, Old Time Music, and autumn splendor. Peak fall colors typically occur mid-October to mid-November, ideal for scenic hikes.
• Winter (November–January, HoliDAYS & Enchanted Garden of Lights): Daytime HoliDAYS (Nov 15–Jan 4) features festive décor and photo ops. The nighttime Enchanted Garden of Lights, a 30-year tradition, transforms the trail with over a million lights, holiday displays, and activities like gingerbread decorating with Mrs. Claus. Closed Christmas Eve and Day.

Special events include Fairytale Nights (March–April) with storybook characters, Shamrock City for St. Patrick’s Day (green waterfall, Irish music), and group discounts for scouts or birthdays

Discover Ruby Falls

Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Ruby Falls, a stunning underground waterfall located deep within Lookout Mountain. The guided tour takes you through fascinating cave formations before unveiling the 145-foot cascading waterfall illuminated in colorful lights.

Ruby Falls is an adventure like no other and a must-see for travelers of all ages. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through cave pathways.

Fun fact: Ruby Falls is the tallest underground waterfall that’s open to the public in the United States!

Should You Visit Chattanooga?

If you’re looking for a charming and lively city to visit, then the answer is yes – you should definitely visit Chattanooga! With its scenic landscapes, rich history, and diverse range of activities, there’s something for everyone in this Tennessee gem.

Whether you’re a nature lover wanting to explore the Lookout Mountain or a history buff interested in learning about the Civil War at Point Park, Chattanooga has it all. And let’s not forget about the delicious Southern cuisine that will have your taste buds singing!