Thanks to the city’s wide range of transportation options, getting around Chattanooga has never been easier! Whether you prefer hopping on a free shuttle, biking around downtown, or trying out an electric scooter, the Scenic City offers many affordable ways to navigate the area.
In this guide, we’ll discuss different transportation methods, from bike and scooter rentals to the city’s public transit options. No matter your travel style—eco-friendly, budget-conscious, or just looking for a fun way to explore—this ultimate guide has you covered. Let’s get rolling!
Bike Chattanooga
With 450 bikes and 42 stations across the Chattanooga area, Bike Chattanooga offers an easy and fun way to traverse the city. Whether you’re a tourist in town for the weekend or a resident searching for a more consistent mode of transportation, Bike Chattanooga offers different pricing options with a one-day pass for $10, a three-day pass for $20, and an annual pass for $50.
How does it work? Simply check out a bike at one of the stations across the city. (Pro tip: Consult the map on Bike Chattanooga’s website or use their mobile app to find available stations.) Then, use the bike to explore the Scenic City for up to 60 minutes, after which overage fees apply. Once you’re done, return your bike to any station in the city, and repeat!
Scooter Around Chattanooga
If scooters are more your speed, try out Bike Chattanooga’s new electric scooter program. Each scooter features top-of-the-line safety features, such as a built-in phone holder and charging station, rear brake lights, dual hand brakes, turning signals, and much more. With a pay-as-you-go rate, these electric scooters cost $1 to unlock plus $0.35 per minute used.
How does it work? Similarly to the bikes, these electric scooters can be checked out at any of Bike Chattanooga’s docking stations using the company’s website, app, or the station’s kiosk. Once you’re done, locate an available station and dock the scooter to return it.
CARTA Bus in Chattanooga
The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (or CARTA, for short) is in charge of the city’s electric shuttles and bus routes (as well as the Incline Railway). Here, we’ll discuss the differences between the bus system and the shuttles.
Bus System
This is Chattanooga’s public transit network, offering 12 fixed bus routes serving different parts of the city. These routes include Alton Park, Enterprise South, Eastgate/Hamilton Place, and so much more. The full list of routes and schedules can be found on CARTA’s website, as well as a bus tracker. As for fare, a one-way trip costs $1.50 per adult, with discounted options available for students, senior citizens, and more. For frequent riders, unlimited ride passes can be purchased.
How does it work? Using CARTA’s website or the Transit app, find your preferred bus route and schedule. Then, look for your nearest bus stop (these will be marked with CARTA signs). Arrive at your stop a few minutes early and wait for the bus. When you board, pay your fare. (Exact change is required!) As you approach your destination, pull the yellow cord above your head to let the driver know someone needs to stop. Repeat for the trip home.
Electric Shuttles
In 1990, CARTA began using electric buses for Chattanooga’s downtown shuttle. Now, tourists and locals alike can enjoy a free ride on the shuttle to traverse downtown Chattanooga. These electric shuttles run daily, starting at the Chattanooga Choo Choo and ending at the Tennessee Aquarium with a stop at every block in between.
With the recent closing of the Walnut Street Bridge, CARTA now offers a free Northshore Express Shuttle to transport riders to and from Northshore and the downtown area. This shuttle is available Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
How does it work? Consult the downtown shuttle map or the Northshore shuttle map to find the nearest shuttle stop. Arrive at your stop a few minutes early and wait for the shuttle. When you board, no ticket or fare is required. Repeat for the trip home.
Walking-Friendly Areas
For those who prefer exploring on foot, Chattanooga offers scenic paths and pedestrian-friendly routes perfect for any adventurer. Here’s just a few of the walking-friendly areas in the Scenic City:
- Tennessee Riverwalk: This 16.1-mile paved path winds along the Tennessee River, connecting downtown Chattanooga to the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway. Along the way, walkers can enjoy seeing local parks, restaurants, and breathtaking views.
- Walnut Street Bridge: One of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, the Walnut Street Bridge offers an easy and fun way to navigate from downtown to the Northshore area. While the bridge is currently closed for renovations, the city plans for it to reopen in September of 2026.
- Market Street Bridge: While the Walnut Street Bridge is closed, pedestrians can use the Market Street Bridge to cross the river while enjoying stunning views of the Tennessee River and the downtown skyline.
Chattanooga Transportation Made Easy
No matter how you prefer to travel, the city offers a wide variety of convenient and accessible transportation options. From biking downtown or hopping on a free electric shuttle to simply exploring the city on foot, traversing Chattanooga has never been easier. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, take advantage of these many different transportation options, and explore Chattanooga in a way that suits your style!
