26 Free Things To Do in Chattanooga, TN
Looking for free things to do in Chattanooga? Then look no further! Chattanooga has fun things to do for people of all ages.
I visited Chattanooga in Tennessee when I was travelling from the south to the north of the US, over three months. It was a random stop for me, but also one I’m glad I made after I went to the fat camp. I hadn’t heard of Chattanooga before I visited, but I actually happened to go at the anniversary of the Chattanooga Choo Choo – which is the song the city is most well known for. Big celebrations all round!
I’m revisiting my trip across the US, and so I thought I’d sift through my pics, and let you know all the great things to do in Chattanooga to get you inspired to visit. It’s a great spot to visit after or before you’ve been to Memphis for the weekend.
This list contains all you need to know about things to do for free in Chattanooga, budget or cheap things to do in Chattanooga, and things to do in Chattanooga with kids.
Free Things To Do in Chattanooga
1. Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain does have some paid attractions like Ruby Falls and Rock City, but you can also find free hiking trails here. Check out Sunset Rock at Lookout Mountain for an amazing view of the city skyline and the Tennessee River. I recommend checking this out at sunset!
2. Coolidge Park & Walnut Street Bridge
This park is a local favourite. The park is next to the Tennessee River along Chattanooga’s North Shore.
The park is famous for having one of the longest pedestrian Bridges-Walnut Street Bridge-which stretches over 2,000 feet long. The area is historic and the bridge dates back to 1891.
It also has a water fountain, rock climbing, picnic areas, and a historic carousel. And, there are plenty of great food options on both sides of the bridge.
It’s not free, but this North Shore & Coolidge Park 90-min Segway Tour would be great fun to be able to see more of the park in a short amount of time.
3. Chattanooga Market
The Chattanooga Market is open every Sunday from 11am to 4pm from April to December. And while the market is technically free, if you do want to buy any local gifts or snacks, you’ll want some cash on hand. The market features live music, local goods, crafts and artwork. It is located at the First Tennessee Pavilion and is free to peruse.
4. Brainerd Mission Cemetery
If you like Native American history, you don’t want to miss the Brainerd Mission Cemetery. It’s home to only 60 graves but is also the site of a Cherokee Indians mission. The Cherokee once lived in Chattanooga.
If you’re into the supernatural and the after life, there are quite a few ghost tours to try in Chattanooga to learn more. You’ll traverse haunted sites, get the inside scoop on where and when the ghosts hang out, and get to learn more about the ghostly goings on of the area.
5. Tennessee Riverpark
This Riverpark has a great trail for walking or biking along the Tennessee River. The trail runs for 16 miles so you could easily spend hours here. There’s also a playground, places to fish, and bike sharing available.
6. The Passage
For more Cherokee and Native American history, check out the passage