Things to Do in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with Kids

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Advisor - Leigh Ann Geiger
Curated By

Leigh Ann Geiger

  • Chattanooga

  • Tennessee

  • Family Travel

  • City Travel

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Entertainment

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Curator’s statement

Chattanooga is an amazing city to have some special time with family. Give your kids time to learn new things, explore the outdoors, and have a great time in a beautiful place. There is so much to see and do in this quaint little town.

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Where to stay in Chattanooga, Tennessee

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Things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Silhouette of people looking at an aquarium.
  • Tennessee Aquarium - Take your time going through this aquarium. There is so much to see and do from penguins, to sharks, to butterflies. Every member of the family will have a favorite to spend time learning about!

  • Rock City - Explore the Enchanted Rock City Gardens. Lookout Mountain GA, is a wonderful place to see. Located on top of Lookout Mountain featuring amazing views, incredible rock formations, gardens, and other fascinating sites. Also has dining and gift shops to visit.

  • Ruby Falls - Fascinating Cave tour that ends in a beautiful underground waterfall. If you are claustrophobic, I might skip. The cave trail is mostly pretty open but there are a few short spots and narrow spots. There are other things to do at Ruby Falls too like ziplining and touring around the facility.

  • Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum- Tennessee Valley Railroad | Chattanooga & Delano Train Rides. What kid and adult doesn’t love a train. Take a step back in time to enjoy what life was like when rail travel was more common.

  • Incline Railway - A funicular (pulled by cables) that takes you up Lookout Mountain. Great way to get beautiful views and enjoy the Tennessee Mountains. Fun fact residents that lived on Lookout Mountain used to use these regularly, my great grandmother actually lived in the area and took these to school every day as a little girl. Much more fun than taking a bus!

Places to eat & drink in Chattanooga, Tennessee

A picture of a Mexican Taco served on a plate at a restaurant.
  • Taco Mamacita - Every trip needs a great margarita, and this is the perfect spot.

  • Stir - Fun oyster house with fun craft cocktails.

  • Easy Bistro - Classic Bistro & Seafood Restaurants in Chattanooga.

  • St. Johns restaurant - Beautiful restaurant in a cool historic building.

  • Flying Squirrel - Laid back, friendly atmosphere with an awesome patio.

  • Niedlov’s Bakery and Cafe - Great freshly made daily baked goods, so much fun for breakfast or brunch.

  • Tupelo Honey - Southern Restaurant and bar serving breakfast, brunch and dinner near you- Locally sourced southern made food, with a great atmosphere.

  • Lupi’s Pizza - Perfect spot to grab a yummy dinner with the kids after a long day sightseeing.

Advisor - Leigh Ann Geiger

Travel Advisor

Leigh Ann Geiger

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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Things to Do in Birmingham, Alabama.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Tennessee.