One of the best ways to experience Chattanooga is to get out of the car and explore the city at your own pace. With walkable neighborhoods, electric bikes, free shuttles, unique tour vehicles, and plenty of ways to enjoy the Tennessee River, there’s no shortage of creative ways to see the Scenic City.
Start with a Walk Downtown
Chattanooga is remarkably easy to explore on foot. Wander from the Tennessee Aquarium along the riverfront, cross the Walnut Street Bridge into Northshore, or explore the Bluff View Art District’s galleries, restaurants, gardens, and public art. Southside is another favorite for strolling, with local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and the Chattanooga Choo Choo all within a relatively compact area.
Bike, E-Bike, or Scoot
Want to cover more ground? Bike Chattanooga makes it easy to grab a traditional bike, e-bike, or scooter and explore without worrying about parking. There are stations throughout the city, including convenient locations along the Tennessee Riverwalk. For a more leisurely ride, local shops such as Pedego Electric Bikes Chattanooga and Chattanooga Electric Bike Co. offer electric-bike rentals. The pedal assist is especially handy when you're covering longer distances or tackling Chattanooga’s hills.
Try a Tour with a Twist
Chattanooga has some seriously fun ways to sightsee. Chattanooga Ducks combines a narrated city tour with a splash into the Tennessee River, while Chattanooga Rydables Tours lets visitors cruise downtown on whimsical animal-themed electric scooters. Prefer something more traditional? Chattanooga Trolley Tour offers narrated sightseeing tours through downtown and along the riverfront. For a slower, more romantic experience, Chattanooga Carriage Company offers horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown.
Ride the Free Shuttle
Don't want to walk—or deal with downtown parking? The CARTA Downtown Shuttle is free and connects many of downtown’s major attractions. It’s an easy way to hop between the Chattanooga Choo Choo, Southside, the riverfront, and the Tennessee Aquarium.
Get Out on the Tennessee River
Of course, Chattanooga is best appreciated from the water, too. Take a sightseeing or dinner cruise aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or explore the river in a pontoon boat. For an unforgettable change of perspective, head toward the Tennessee River Gorge with a guided excursion.
And don't forget the Tennessee Riverwalk! The paved trail stretches for miles along the river, connecting downtown, parks, neighborhoods, and scenic overlooks. Walk it, bike it, or make an afternoon of exploring its many access points.
Whether you're walking across a historic bridge, cruising down the river, or zipping around on an e-bike, Chattanooga makes exploring the city part of the adventure.
Posted by Lauren Johnson onEnjoy this blog post? Click here to subscribe for updates
Leave A Comment