Family fun is always just around the corner in the Scenic City! From jaw-dropping mountain views to award-winning museums, unique local attractions, and noteworthy historic sites, Chattanooga is a top destination for entertainment and fun for all ages.

It’s no surprise that Chatta-nooga was named the No. 1 “Best Place to Live in Tennessee” in 2024 by U.S. News & World Report and listed as one of the “50 Best Cities in America” in 2024 by Money magazine for its abundance of outdoor adventures and overall charm. The Scenic City welcomes over 15 million visitors each year, drawing crowds with its broad range of popular attractions and family-friendly fun.

For wildlife lovers, the Tennessee Aquarium is a must-see destination. Ranked No. 3 on USA Today’s 2024 list “Best Aquariums In the United States,” the aquarium is home to over 12,000 animals representing almost 800 species, including penguins, sharks, otters, and the largest collection of freshwater turtles in North America. More exciting animal encounters can be found at Chattanooga Zoo with seasonal events and animals from all over the world, including giraffes, chimpanzees, jaguars, red pandas, and snow leopards. The Zoo’s largest expansion yet – Cape of Africa – officially opened in August of 2024. Also protecting wildlife is the Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center. Providing support for native East Tennessee plants and animals, visitors can enjoy gardens, hiking trails, an animal exhibit, and educational experiences.

Gorgeous views and thrilling outdoor experiences are a specialty at Lookout Mountain. Rock City, winner of the 2023 Attraction of the Year award by the Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association, offers stunning gardens, unique rock formations, art installations, and incredible mountain views. Ruby Falls is another iconic attraction, boasting the country’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public, located 1,120 feet below ground. Thrill seekers at Ruby Falls can also enjoy specialty tours, nostalgic lodging at Treetop Hideaways, and High Point ZIP Adventure’s 40-foot climbing tower and over 700 feet of zip lines.

History buffs and curious learners will all find something to love at historic attractions like the Chattanooga Choo Choo, where visitors can spend the night at The Hotel Chalet in addition to enjoying the train-themed escape room and Glenn Miller Gardens. Train enthusiasts will also enjoy the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and the historic Incline Railway at the base of Lookout Mountain. Other popular history museums in Chattanooga include the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and Bessie Smith Cultural Center.

The Tennessee River offers a plethora of options when it comes to fun on the water. Southern Belle Riverboat offers year-round cruises, including daily sightseeing cruises, lunch cruises, and dinner cruises as well as private charters. The Chattanooga Ducks also provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience on the river, offering narrated tours aboard WWII amphibious landing craft.

For families with children, Creative Discovery Museum is one of Chattanooga’s most popular attractions. Along with hands-on featured exhibits such as Little Farmhouse, Stem Zone, and Artspace, the museum offers a variety of seasonal events and activities perfect for learning, exploring, and having fun.

In addition to incredible museums, rich history, and wildlife attractions, the Scenic City brings outdoor fun to the next level with offerings for athletes, sports fans, and anyone looking to get active. The expansive Tennessee Riverwalk consists of 16 miles of paved greenway, perfect for a scenic stroll, jog, or bike ride. Downtown, experienced and beginner climbers alike will enjoy High Point Climbing and Fitness. The climbing gym features an outdoor climbing wall that overlooks Broad Street as well as plenty of climbing and bouldering space for all ages and skill levels. Recreational facilities in the area include golf and tennis clubs, bowling alleys, and paintball fields. Sports enthusiasts also have a myriad of opportunities to watch sporting events such as roller derby bouts, rugby, professional soccer league matches, and minor league baseball games throughout the year.

Unique Chattanooga attractions are abundant for eager visitors and seasoned locals alike. The city offers guided tours galore, ranging from ghost tours and food tours to Segway adventures and classic horse-drawn carriage rides. More thrills await at several axe throwing facilities, trampoline parks, and niche museums, including the Classic Arcade Pinball Museum and the International Towing Museum.

Boasting a full range of incredible attractions for eager learners, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurous folk of all ages, Chattanooga ensures endless fun and priceless memory-making for the whole family.