Summer Fun
Summer is about more than just extra sunscreen and extra-high electricity bills, hot days and even hotter pavement. It’s also about sunset walks, ice cream cones, and frozen drinks. And in Chattanooga, summer means rock formations, breweries, and waterfalls. It’s paragliding, disc golfing, mountainous hiking, and wine-sipping. Here is a list of dozens of activities to do around town and beyond.
Top Photo Courtesy of Chattanooga Lookouts
Photos Courtesy of the Tennessee Aquarium
Feisty otters, playful penguins, a giant octopus, and toothy alligators are just a few of the 12,000 amazing animals at the Tennessee Aquarium. Guests encounter species from every continent while exploring two buildings of carefully curated habitats, including the 618,000-gallon Secret Reef exhibit and a trio of “living forest” galleries that recreate lush Appalachian woodlands, a sunny tropical cove, and a teeming swamp at the mouth of the mighty Mississippi River. Visitors of all ages will gain new understanding of the natural world. Purchase timed-entry tickets in advance online. tnaqua.org
Photos Courtesy of the Tennessee Aquarium
While exploring the Aquarium, guests will see enormous portraits of more than two dozen species taken by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore for his Photo Ark project. This effort to photograph all 25,000 species of animals in human care around the world has produced stunningly beautiful images on black and white backgrounds that make a tiny Midland Mud Salamander look just as important and eye-catching as an African Elephant. This exhibit is free to enjoy during your visit and will remain on display through the end of 2024.
Photos Courtesy of the Tennessee Aquarium
Dive deep into the world of the magnificent blue whale at the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater. Following the story of two scientific expeditions, “Blue Whales 3D” gives audiences an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of these fantastic animals and the risks scientists must take to study them. This film is entertaining for viewers of all ages and includes an incredible cast of supporting characters, including dolphins, sperm whales, sea lions, and orcas!
Verreries Schneider (French, founded 1913-closed 1981) and Charles Schneider (French, 1881-1953), Vase Nénuphar (Water Lily Vase) from Le Verre Français line, circa 1926-1929. Mold-blown glass with interior and exterior crushed and powdered glass frits and single surface acid cutting, 19 x 7 in. (48.3 x 17.8 cm). Collection of David Huchthausen. Photo by Lloyd Shugart.
Photos Courtesy of Hunter Museum of American Art
From May 24 through September 2, the Hunter Museum of American Art will be featuring special exhibit Art Deco Glass from the David Huchthausen Collection. This collection includes early 20th-century glass by iconic European and American Art Deco studios such as René Lalique, Daum Frères, Charles Schneider, Muller Frères, Steuben Glass Works, and more. With smooth lines and geometric shapes, this exhibit showcases the Art Deco movement and its economically austere origins during World War I. huntermuseum.org
Local artist Rondell Crier painting his mural Flights of Hope and Healing at the Hunter.
Photos Courtesy of Hunter Museum of American Art
At the exterior of the museum’s east wing, visitors can find the powerful and symbolic 37-foot mural Flights of Hope and Healing by artist Rondell Crier. This mural combines bright colors with bold shapes and invites viewers to reflect on their shared humanity and celebrate the progress of societal growth through time. Ultimately meant to inspire a shared responsibility to care for one another and the world, this work helps hope take flight.
Kehinde Wiley (b.1977), Ferdinand-Philippe-Louis-Charles-Henri, Duc d’Orleans, 2014, oil on canvas, Museum purchase with additional funds contributed by Kitty and Hacker Caldwell, Sally and Gary Chazen, Andrea Crouch, Katherine and Sam Currin, Ashley and Ward Davenport, Susan and Joe Davenport, Terri and R. Craig Holley, Candy Kruesi, Kathy and John Marek, Pam and Rick McKenney, James H. McKissic, Butch and Olan Mills, Paul Neely and Susan Street, Virginia Anne and Hugh Sharber, and Anonymous. © Kehinde Wiley.
Photos Courtesy of Hunter Museum of American Art
Take a closer look at overlooked histories and stories at the museum’s exhibit VIVID: A Fresh Take. Including bold colors and a larger-than-life scale, each work featured in the gallery brings attention to the interweaving of personal and global happenings throughout history. Each piece demands attention and provokes reflection, allowing viewers to consider the intersection of American and worldwide happenings.
Photos Courtesy of High Point Climbing & Fitness
Young climbers can reach new heights at High Point Climbing & Fitness summer camps. Beginner climbers and young athletes alike will enjoy instruction from enthusiastic coaches. Campers will learn more about climbing techniques, equipment usage, and gym etiquette while building self-confidence and communication skills. With half-day camp options for kids ages 5+ and full-day camp options for kids ages 8+, all young climbers are welcome to learn the ropes, play games, and enjoy team building under expert guidance. highpointclimbing.com
Photos Courtesy of High Point Climbing & Fitness
Kids looking for more climbing fun? Recreational Clubs offer mini-lessons, games, and extra climbing time perfect for kids who are excited to get active and be more comfortable in the gym environment. Club 1 is designed for kids ages 4-8, while Club 2 is designed for kids ages 9-13. These seasonal programs, each consisting of eight coached sessions, are a great option for new climbers and young climbers interested in climbing for sport.
Photos Courtesy of High Point Climbing & Fitness
Step up your climbing game with competitive climbing teams! Development Team is for ages 10-18 and provides opportunities for more skill development and expert coaching. Those ready to compete may join the Competition Team for ages 8-19 or the Elite Team for youth climbers hoping to be part of the national team and participate in open events, the national cup, the National Championship,
or international competitions.
Top Photo by Sarah Unger
This year-round destination is especially sweet come summertime when a frozen treat just can’t be beat. At The Ice Cream Show, over 40 fresh ingredients – including berries, chocolates, nuts, gummies, marshmallows, and more – can blend with either ice cream or frozen yogurt to create more than 17,000 flavor combinations. In addition to delicious creations like the Barrel Racer espresso shake, the shop also offers dairy-free, sugar-free, and smoothie options. This May, The Ice Cream Show is celebrating 15 years of business! Check Facebook for daily info. facebook.com/theicecreamshow
In addition to providing the freshest ingredients for your custom ice cream flavors, The Ice Cream Show makes fresh, homemade waffle cones in-house daily. The cones are tasty enough to enjoy plain, but if you have the option to add more flavor and pizazz to your edible ice cream holder, why wouldn’t you? Personalize your cone with a chocolate dip, and add a rim of sprinkles, crushed nuts, or candies.
Humans aren’t the only ice cream lovers around here. After taking Fido on a long walk up and down the Walnut Street Bridge, reward your furry friend with a refreshing animal-safe confection at The Ice Cream Show. The shop offers “Frosty Paws” ice cream for dogs and outdoor seating where you and your pup can cool down with some frozen treats.
Stroll along the Walnut Street Bridge for classic Chattanooga views overlooking the Tennessee River. The historic bridge, originally built in 1890, is now the oldest remaining truss bridge in the South. This resident and visitor favorite is also one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world! The bridge spans nearly half a mile between Northshore and downtown Chattanooga, providing the perfect path for a bike ride, jog, or afternoon stroll. chattanooga.gov/parks/our-parks-and-trails | chattanooga.gov/parks
Pack a picnic.
Located in Northshore along the Tennessee River, Coolidge Park offers beautiful waterfront views, expansive green space, and nearby amenities that make it the perfect spot for a delightful lunchtime picnic. Not only is the park conveniently located along the Chattanooga Riverwalk, but it is also a popular venue for festivals, concerts, and special events. Other unique offerings at the park include the restored 100-year-old carousel, rock climbing, and an interactive water fountain and a connection to Renaissance Park, featuring restored wetland, and forested paths with public art. chattanooga.gov/parks/our-signature-parks
Escape Chattanooga’s summer heat with indoor escape games at Escape Mission Chattanooga, Time to Escape, Escape Experience, and Breakout Games. Immersive and full of exciting puzzles, each escape experience includes a unique storyline full of problem-solving fun. A variety of difficulty levels are also available to increase the challenge. Bring the whole family or a group of your best friends, and work together to beat the clock and escape! escapemissionchattanooga.com|itstimetoescape.com|escapeexperience.com| breakoutgames.com
Photo Courtesy of Bluff View Art District
As Chattanooga’s first art district, Bluff View Art District is dedicated to the visual, horticultural, and culinary arts. This family-owned and operated historic neighborhood offers restaurants, a coffee house, art gallery, historic bed and breakfast, and an abundance of garden and courtyard spaces. With over 1.5 city blocks to explore, the Bluff View Art District also includes stunning views of the Tennessee River, downtown Chattanooga, and the Walnut Street Bridge perfect for enjoying on a relaxing summer afternoon.
bluffviewartdistrictchattanooga.com
Photo Courtesy of Songbirds
Dive into guitar and pop culture history at Songbirds. With interactive exhibits, live performances on select evenings, and an extensive collection of vintage and rare guitars, visitors can expect to be moved by the rich legacy of Southern music. Guitar lessons and music therapy offerings are also available for those looking to start strumming! Your support helps provide music education programming, events, and resources to kids across the South. songbirdsfoundation.org
Scenic views and mountain waterfalls wait for visitors to Glen Falls Trail on Lookout Mountain. This beginner-friendly trail is a hidden gem at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, offering a 2-mile roundtrip hike full of wildflower meadows, unique rock formations, and beautiful streams. Hikers can find the Glen Falls trailhead on the left of Ochs Highway while heading up Lookout Mountain from St. Elmo Avenue. nps.gov/chch/index.htm
Bibliophiles and curious readers alike will be glad to know Chattanooga has plenty of great options when it comes to books. McKay’s is a treasure trove of used books, movies, music, and more. If you’re looking to sell or trade in a used book, McKay’s has you covered. The Book & Cover offers cozy reading nooks and an abundance of titles to browse. For new and used books, Winder Binder – Books Art and Music is another wonderful shop to explore. Rounding out the book crawl for eager readers is A Little Bookish, offering adults’ and kids’ books, puzzles, and toys.
mckaybooks.com | thebookandcover.com | shopwinderbinder.com | alittlebookish.com
Photo by Hacker Medias
The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center commemorates the rich legacy of the Medal of Honor and its origins in 1862-1863, making Chattanooga the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor. Through engaging exhibits honoring heroes from various eras, the museum aims to both educate and inspire visitors about the courageous acts and character values of those bestowed with our nation’s highest military honor. Offering ample opportunities for exploration and reflection, guests can walk through immersive exhibits that bring these heroic stories to life. mohhc.org
For fresh air and family fun, the Chattanooga Riverpark is the place to be. The paved path spans over 16.1 miles along the southern banks of the Tennessee River, including additional legs that stretch into Chattanooga along the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway and beyond. Plenty of gorgeous views, shaded spots, and amenities along the way make this path ideal for exploring the city. In addition to Bike Chattanooga stations, visitors to the Riverwalk can enjoy picnic tables, playgrounds, unique sculptures, and more. chattanooga.gov/parks/our-parks-and-trails
A hauntingly fun G.N.O. awaits with Chattanooga Ghost Tours, Inc. As Chatta-nooga’s premier ghost tour experience since 2007, tour-goers can choose between a host of popular tour options with award-winning guides. Each tour includes ghost stories, a taste of Chattanooga history, and stops at actively haunted locations! Tour options are available for all ages, including classic walking tours and deluxe ghost-hunting experiences complete with advanced ghost-hunting equipment. chattanoogaghosttours.com
Photo Courtesy of the Chattanooga Market
Local produce, live music, and artisan goods abound at a number of popular farmers markets in the greater Chattanooga area. During select summer weekends, the Chattanooga River Market takes place at the Tennessee Aquarium Plaza, and the Chattanooga Market is held at the First Horizon Pavilion. For food-focused finds, the Main Street Farmers Market is the place to be on Wednesdays year-round. More local produce and products are available at the Bradley County Farmers Market in Cleveland. chattanoogamarket.com|mainstfarmersmarket.com| bradley.tennessee.edu
Photo Courtesy of Rock City
Looking for a photo-worthy summer adventure? Mountaintop Summers at Rock City includes picturesque views and more! Wander the 4,100-foot walking trail past streams, wonders, and stunning rock formations. Pets are welcome at Rock City, so bring along your furry friend to enjoy the panoramic summertime views. Cool stone corridors make for the perfect escape from the heat, while a variety of animal encounters, including Rock City Raptors birds of prey shows, add an immersive educational experience. seerockcity.com
Photo Courtesy of Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Climb aboard for an unforgettable excursion and dinner service with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Dinner trains depart from Chattanooga’s Grand Junction depot at 6:30 p.m. on select Fridays and Saturdays, traveling at a leisurely pace through portions of urban East Chattanooga before reversing direction and returning to Grand Junction. During the excursion, the dining car superintendent and his team of dining car stewards and chefs serve delicious food and ensure the evening is a treasured experience to remember. tvrail.com
Photo Courtesy of the Chattanooga Lookouts
Head out to AT&T Field to cheer on the Chattanooga Lookouts! The Lookouts are home to Chatta-nooga’s most affordable family fun and are the Double-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. Every night at the ballpark fans can look forward to great action on the field plus fireworks every Friday home game, Thirsty Thursday™ Drink Specials, special promotional events like Star Wars Night, their Independence Day Celebration featuring fireworks, plenty of fun with their mascot the World Famous Looie the Lookout, and so much more. See their full promotional schedule and get tickets online. lookouts.com
Photos Courtesy of Ruby Falls
Explore a mountain cavern by lantern light during an after-hours Lantern Tour at Ruby Falls. During the tour, an expert guide will lead the way as you explore the dark twists and turns of the cavern trail with hand-held lanterns. This specialty tour features a laid-back pace, extra time at the waterfall, and a limited-sized group. For more adventure at Ruby Falls, visitors can enjoy Lookout Mountain Tower, High Point Zip Adventure, and unforgettable lodging at Treetop Hideaways. rubyfalls.com
Photo Courtesy of Creative Discovery Museum
Savor the AC while you explore, innovate, create, and play at Creative Discovery Museum. CDM is an award-winning museum for kids and families, offering permanent exhibits like TreeHouse Adventure, STEM Zone, ArtSpace, and Tennessee RiverPlay that provide hands-on experiences for kids of all ages to learn about history, science, art, and more. Family membership benefits include unlimited free museum admission, local business discounts, members-only events, and more memory-making fun for the whole summer. cdmfun.org
Photo Courtesy of The Coker Museum at Honest Charley
Ready to discover the innovation and artistry that has shaped the automotive world? In the heart of Chattanooga’s historic Southside, over 130 vintage cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and even three airplanes await visitors at The Coker Museum at Honest Charley. This vintage automobile and motorcycle museum houses Corky Coker’s personal collection with over 13,000 square feet of space to explore! With rich history, interactive videos, and iconic memorabilia, a tour through the museum is sure to spark curiosity for visitors of all kinds. cokermuseum.com
Photo Courtesy of Little Debbie Park
The City of Collegedale opened
Little Debbie Park in 2023. This park features something for every age: wide walking paths, bench swings, picnic tables, children’s zipline, climbing pieces, a music area, and lots of open greenspace to put down a blanket and soak in the outdoors. There are giant fiberglass sculptures of the sweet snacks we all know and love, perfect for taking group photos. For an afternoon of fun, bring along a box of Little Debbie snacks, and don’t forget to take pictures along the way! More information is available online. collegedaleparksandrec.com/parks
Eager to find a new hobby this summer? Sign up for a class with The Chattery and fall in love with learning again! Now celebrating 10 years of women-founded, Black-led education, The Chattery offers fun, affordable classes and events for adults who love to learn. Class categories include Arts & Crafts, Professional Development, Home & Garden, Food & Beverage, Health & Wellness, and more! For added accessibility, in-person, outdoor, and online class options are available.
thechattery.org
Photo Courtesy of Lake Winnepesaukah
Looking for fun for the entire family? Lake Winnepesaukah is one of America’s top 10 family amusement parks for all ages. With a variety of thrill, family, and kiddie rides, guests can go from wild to mild on over 40 rides and attractions! Included in your visit is the splashtacular five-acre SOAKya Water Park, with tube slides, body slides, matt racer, crazy river, and much more! It’s an oasis of summer fun! Special discounts almost every day. lakewinnie.com
Go green with your sightseeing adventures this summer! Over 43 stations and 465 rideables make Bike Chattanooga a fun, convenient, and Earth-friendly way to explore Chattanooga. Once you’ve secured your daily, 3-day, or annual pass, simply unlock, ride, and return! While each pass allows riders unlimited 60-minute bike trips for the duration of pass access, the System Map and mobile app allow for extra ease when it comes to checking bike and scooter availability. bikechattanooga.com
Chester Frost Park is located on the shores of Chickamauga Lake and offers a variety of year-round camping styles including RV, tent, primitive, and soon, yurt sites; three playgrounds; and a large sand beach perfect for soaking up the sun. Free wifi, laundry facilities, and dump stations add extra convenience for campers, while those looking to get out on the water will enjoy 12 fishing piers, two boat ramps, and six boat docks. Family-friendly events are also hosted throughout the summer, including movie nights, arts and crafts activities, and more! parks.hamiltontn.gov/166/chester-frost-park
There’s nothing like a little fresh air! Since 1994, Lula Lake Land Trust has been dedicated to conservation efforts for over 12,000 acres across Lookout Mountain in Georgia. With recreational trails for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, this nonprofit organization offers low-impact recreation opportunities for those looking to enjoy and protect the great outdoors. Private and group guided hikes are now available, and more information about Open Gate Days and ticketed special events can be found online. lulalake.org
Photo Courtesy of L2 Outside
Cool off and explore the Tennessee River with L2 Outside. With a variety of rental options, including paddleboards, single kayaks, or tandem kayaks, there’s no better way to experience water-sports in the Scenic City. Stunning views of the Hunter Museum bluffs and the famous four bridges make for an unforgettable adventure on the water, complete with opportunities to take photos, climb the bluffs, and explore the beaches of Maclellan Island. l2outside.com
From downtown Chattanooga favorites to delicious hidden gems, Chatt Taste Food Tour and Eat Sip Walk Food & Drink Tasting Tour transform Chattanooga’s lively food scene into a culinary experience. Fun for locals and visitors alike, a variety of guided tours are available for every taste! Bring a group or join in solo for great food, conversation, and even a little local history along the way. chatttaste.com|eatsipwalk.com
Photo Courtesy of Scenic City Clay Arts
Try your hand at pottery making at Scenic City Clay Arts. With class options for adults, youth, and families, artists of all ages can enjoy art-making at this local Chattanooga studio space. Whether you’ve never touched clay before or you’re an experienced potter, Scenic City Clay Arts offers classes for all skill levels and has a mission to make art education and self-expression accessible for all. sceniccityclayarts.org
Take a step into the past and play classic arcade games and pinball at the Classic Arcade Pinball Museum. Conveniently located downtown, visitors can enjoy unlimited free play on all operating games with admission. In addition to a plethora of iconic retro games, drinks and snacks are available for purchase, and regular tournaments are hosted on select days for all ages and skill levels! A full list of pinball and arcade games is available online. chattanoogapinballmuseum.com
Founded in 1983, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center has a mission to preserve and celebrate African American history and culture in Chatta-nooga through art, education, research, and entertainment. Current exhibitions include “Walk Through Time: The Chattanooga African American Experience,” “Chattanooga’s Black Soundtrack,” and more. With additional rotating exhibits and guided tours available, the museum is sure to inform and inspire. bessiesmithcc.org
Photo Courtesy of Lookout Mountain Flight Park
Catch stunning views of Lookout Valley while hang gliding or paragliding at Lookout Mountain Flight Park. Spectators and first-time gliders are welcome – no experience necessary! Tandem flights with certified instructors are available, and for those looking to fly solo, the flight park offers a variety of training programs. Teaching people to fly since 1978, anyone eager to catch the clouds can practice alongside experts at the flight park’s bunny hills before braving heights of around 1,400 feet. flylookout.com
