The Scenic City is home to many attractions and events that draw locals and tourists alike. For those looking for group activities in Chattanooga, there are plenty of options to choose from for groups big and small. Below are several options to plan with your group!
Enjoy Nature in the Scenic City
The Chattanooga area has stunning mountain views, lakes and rivers, and outdoor attractions that are perfect for groups.
A hike is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery with others. Local hikes have varying levels of difficulty, so be sure to research the route first to accommodate everyone’s level of ability. Popular area hikes include Snooper’s Rock, Sunset Rock, and Edward’s Point. There are also several hikes to local waterfalls, which are a great option in the summer.
In the warmer months, groups can enjoy the local waterways. There are many different ways to enjoy a fun-filled day on the water. Several boat rental options are available, from a relaxing kayak or canoe trip down the Tennessee River to a large boat such as a pontoon for a longer adventure. If your group enjoys a dip in the water, consider venturing to one of Chattanooga’s many naturally occurring swimming holes. Note that there’s not a lifeguard on duty at these locations. If your group is up for a short day trip, some of the country’s best whitewater rafting is located about an hour outside of Chattanooga in the beautiful Ocoee region.
See the Sights
Chattanooga has a large variety of attractions for all types of groups and interests. Two of the most popular and award-winning attractions in the Chattanooga area are Ruby Falls and Rock City. Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall, offers an exciting cave experience with fascinating history. Rock City provides panoramic views, beautiful gardens, and unique rock formations. Both attractions recommend reserving tickets in advance.
The Tennessee Aquarium, located along the Riverfront, offers a river journey and an ocean journey to explore both habitats and see their native wildlife. They also offer Deeper Dives guided tours, which take you behind the scenes to see animal care and further interact with the animals. For a continued animal adventure, the Chattanooga Zoo has an impressive variety of animals such as giraffes, snakes, and red pandas, and has group ticket offerings.
Chattanooga’s vibrant Northshore neighborhood, just minutes from downtown, offers many local retail and dining spots, along with the popular Coolidge Park. Grab a bite to eat before you walk down Frazier Avenue, where you’ll find local shops and art galleries. Be sure to get a scoop of ice cream from Clumpies Ice Cream Co., then make your way to Coolidge Park to enjoy a stroll, or walk the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges that connects Northshore to the Bluff View Art District. (Note: The Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge is currently closed for construction and expected to reopen in Fall 2026).
For those who enjoy art, a visit to the Bluff View Art District is a must. The Hunter Museum of American Art contains the most complete collection of American art in the Southeast, with both permanent and rotating exhibitions. Also a staple in the art district, The Rivery Gallery’s collection has paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and more from local and national artists, and just outside, the River Gallery Sculpture Garden contains two acres of stunning sculptures and beautiful riverfront views. In addition to visual art, many Chattanooga venues host performance art throughout the year. Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium hosts concerts, stand-up comedy, touring Broadway shows, ballet performances, and more. Other area venues include The Signal, Barrelhouse Ballroom, Songbirds, and the UTC Fine Arts Center.
Get Competitive
Many area attractions can easily accommodate groups, such as Topgolf and Ruby Falls High Point Zip Adventure.Topgolf’s all-weather golf bays can fit up to six players per bay, and for larger groups you can reserve multiple bays or book their semi-private event spaces. The Chattanooga location also has an 18-hole mini golf course. Another popular attraction in the area, Ruby Falls High Point Zip Adventure has a thrilling zipline course and a 40-foot climbing tower. Be sure to check the age and weight requirements if there are small children in your group.
For those who enjoy watching sports, Chattanooga is home to four professional sports teams: The Chattanooga Lookouts baseball team, The Red Wolves soccer team, The Chattanooga Football Club soccer team, and the Chattanooga Football Club Women. Each team offers group ticket options, which often include special perks such as player autograph opportunities and on-field experiences before or after the game. In addition to the teams who call Chattanooga home, there are many sports events that happen throughout the year such as Ironman, Red Bull Climbing events, and rowing regattas, so be sure to check a local event calendar for what’s happening during your stay.
Work Outings
For those traveling for work or looking to connect with coworkers, there are several team building opportunities around the city. For an adventurous team building activity sure to require working together, Escape Experience offers fun-filled, themed escape rooms that will challenge your teamwork skills. It’s conveniently located in downtown Chattanooga, allowing for your group to grab a meal before or after your game.
The Chattery, a woman-owned, nonprofit learning collective, offers a variety of different classes with guest lecturers and networking events. Fun and engaging classes such as Candle Making 101 or a Sip and Celebrate Mixer allow you to learn a new skill while getting to know your coworkers.
For groups big and small, there are always fun-filled activities and events to find in Chattanooga and the surrounding area.
Kristen Dee, BS, MA, Summa Cum Laude
Kristen Dee is a graduate of Winthrop University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in integrated marketing communications, with the distinction of Magna Cum Laude and IMC Student of the Year. Following Winthrop, Kristen earned a Master of Arts in Communication from Wake Forest University. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor, Kristen successfully fulfilled roles involving internal corporate communications. Today, Kristen leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.