Accompanied by the awe-inspiring Tennessee and framed by stunning mountains, the unassuming yet unforgettable town of Chattanooga will soon be your next favorite destination.
Resting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this inviting town bursting with unique attractions and unmissable moments is an instant classic waiting for curious travelers.
But, deciding which unique things to do in Chattanooga, TN, can be difficult.
Luckily, this list wasn’t, and I can’t wait for you to choose your favorite. Let’s go!
P.S. Why not create the perfect Chattanooga itinerary using some (or all) of these must-do things?
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Walk the Tennessee Riverwalk
Although Chattanooga doesn’t hold back when it comes to must-do activities, it does outdo itself with the Tennesee Riverwalk.
Stretching for 11 miles alongside the riverfront, it’s the ideal spot for most outdoor outings.
While a riverfront walkway doesn’t initially scream unique, it is a beyond-unique gateway to dozens of itinerary entries.
Several entrances lead to a collection of hiking trails, each with a distinct scene for that extra special Instagram snap.
Browse The Joli Jardin Farm & Flower Shop
With a set up resembling the cutest European flower market, Joli Jardim Farm & Flower Shop is easily one of Chattanooga’s most unique storefronts.
Behind the magical exterior is a wonderland of locally grown and sourced flowers.
This gem on Market Street welcomes visitors with beyond beautiful flower displays.
In addition to their impressive flower selection, Joli Jardin offers a wide range of cards, vases, perfumes, and exotic plants. Who could ask for a better trip souvenir?
Roam the Chattanooga Market
An entire world of unique scenes, sounds, and smells, the Chattanooga Market is a marketplace like you’ve never seen before.
Any visit quickly turns into a massive celebration where you’ll find quite a variety of local talent and produce.
If you’re looking for local specialty foods, handmade craft items, and eye-catching food trucks, you’re in the right place.
As the largest producer-only arts and crafts farmer’s market, it’s quite the sight.
Located at the First Tennessee Pavilion, booths vary from average to absolutely bonkers in a fantastic way.
P.S. Chattanooga Market is open every Sunday from April to December.
Find More Souvenirs at I Go Tokyo
For all things kawaii, there’s only one place to go, and that’s I Go Tokyo.
Showing off oodles of Japanese culture, this beautiful and incredibly unique store looks like something straight out of Japan itself.
This isn’t just any ordinary old boutique shop — definitely not!
I Go Tokyo stocks everything from textiles to household goodies, baby items, and, of course, some unique items as well.
I’d recommend heading directly for their ceramics, bonsai, and kawaii-themed trinkets.
Check Out The Bitter Alibi
An inconspicuous tiny house from the outside, The Bitter Alibi on the inside is one of Chattanooga’s most-loved eateries, and for good reason.
With dim lighting, this laidback spot makes for the best socializing in town. With its popularity, though, comes a big crowd.
Walking in is almost like stepping into Alice in Wonderland, thanks to its aesthetically eclectic look and feel.
At the center, a spiral staircase leads down to the basement bar with an Asian-inspired menu.
There are plenty of vegan options, too, and a bunch of cute nooks for a few selfies.
Lose Yourself in the Bluff View Art District
Needing no introduction, the Bluff View Art District is a unique and slightly odd (in the best possible way) part of the Chattanooga landscape.
If you’re a lover of Victorian and Italian architecture, it’s an absolute must, with dozens of street art making any walk through the area a feast for the eyes.
Also you’ll find a handful of charming historic bed and breakfasts here, the River Gallery Sculpture Garden (more on that in a bit), and a few tucked-away eye-catching courtyards.
I’d strongly suggest popping into Rembrandt’s for top-notch house-made pastries.
Wander Through the River Gallery Sculpture Garden
Who could say no to an afternoon spent admiring public works of art that spark curiosity and excitement?
The River Gallery Sculpture Garden, created by landscapist Joe Baasch, is a two-acre paradise overlooking the stunning Tennessee River.
One of only 195 sculpture gardens listed as an International Sculpture Center’s Sculpture Park and Garden, the hotspot deserves all its praise.
It features a formal garden, meditation area, and informal garden complete with a recycling mountain stream.
I love the natural surroundings and the photo ops equally, and I bet so will you.
Head to Rosie Mae’s Alpaca Farm
Can we all just agree that alpacas are some of the most adorable animals in the world?
If you head to Rosie Mae’s Alpaca Farm, you’ll have the chance to meet 9, ridiculously cute alpacas.
Rosie Mae opened in 2022 and is a family-owned farm that also features a coffee shop, flower bouquets, and local handmade items.
They are open every day of the week but hours vary, so make sure you check their visitor’s page before you go!
Adventure Sports Innovation
Chattanooga and adventure go hand-in-hand, and nowhere else is this more true than at Adventure Sports Innovation.
They have a selection of motorized scooters, eccentric boards, and an endless supply of bikes from major brands.
And don’t worry, there’s plenty of whacky watersports equipment as well.
Sometimes, though, the weather doesn’t play along, but even on rainy days, I love the virtual reality experiences they offer.
Powered by VR, you can ride a roller coaster, hang glide, or walk a plank suspended 10,000 feet above (virtual) ground.
Sidenote: Adventure Sports Innovation also offers numerous Chattanooga tours as well.
Go Thrifting at Poor Taste
As economical as thrifting is, it’s way more exciting when done at Poor Taste.
With such an ironic name, the selection of pre-loved goods is anything but.
Set along East Main Street, this vibrant store is jam-packed with vintage goodies, some one-of-a-kind.
Now, while shopping during the day is therapeutic, after hours, Poor Taste’s backyard turns into a live music venue.
Local musicians take to the stage setting the scene for a joyful night after thrifting for that next big find.
Shopping on Frazier Avenue on The Northshore
Before you think, “How unique could shopping really be?” Do yourself the favor of strolling down Frazier Avenue.
A beloved part of The Northshore, it has an endless string of local shops.
These must-visit stores stock handmade gifts, books, jewelry, and a bunch of sweet treats.
Each unique storefront creates a visual feast with vibrant colors, lively locals, and inviting atmospheres. Oh.
And don’t forget to look down while you stroll the avenue.
The entire Frazier Avenue sidewalk comes with dance instructions teaching you everything from the hokey pokey to the waltz.
Spend a Night at The Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel
You won’t have to spend much time in Chattanooga before hearing of the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo train.
A no-brainer activity, visiting the train is so much more than a piece of history.
The former tracks have now become a recreation area with dozens of places to eat and drink.
So, what’s left to do after a day of sightseeing? Book a room at the stunning Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel, of course.
Unwind in converted old train cars or head for a drink at the American draft bar, conveniently on the train.
The hotel is also a quick walk away from Station Street, where there’s nightlife like no other.
Marvel at The Ruby Falls
As far as free things to do in Chattanooga go, there aren’t many that come close to the Ruby Falls of Chattanooga.
This underground waterfall is the official deepest one of its kind in the USA, and it is accessible by the public, which makes it even more special.
The mountain that crowns above the falls, Lookout Mountain, adds to its attractiveness.
Descending 260 feet underground in a glass-front elevator, I bet you won’t be able to peel your eyes off of the many cavern formations.
Keep your cameras ready, especially for the views of the Cumberland Plateau.
Sidenote: A visit to Lookout Mountain isn’t the same without paragliding.
Walnut Street Bridge
Chattanooga might appear tame at first, but its bustling streets can get a little bit much at times.
In those times, head for the Walnut Street Bridge, special because of its unbelievable scenery and serenity.
Stretching across the Tennessee River, you have a massive choice of spots to get captivating snapshots of downtown Chattanooga.
This iconic landmark is gorgeous from start to end, and if you want an aesthetic shortcut from the North Shore to Coolidge Park, this is it.
FAQs: Unique Things to Do in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Still, have some questions? Here’s a roundup of some of the most common ones with answers.
Is Chattanooga Famous for Anything?
While the city should be known for much more, especially its scenery, its fame comes from the Chattanooga Choo Choo, an internationally famous song by Glenn Miller.
The song alongside the train by the same name, as well as the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
What 5 States Can You See From Chattanooga?
Another reason people love Chattanooga is its geographical location.
While most think you can only spot five other states from town, the real number is seven.
Visitors to Rock City are treated to views of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama.
Is Chattanooga a Walkable City?
The answer is a resounding yes. Downtown Chattanooga is perfect for leisurely strolls and unbeatable sightseeing.
But you can always rent a car or drive your own to make getting around just a bit easier.
Need travel tips? I’ve got your back with this list of my most valuable tips and tricks.