Chattanooga, Tennessee, is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway, especially for families of young children. My family has visited Chattanooga several times. The city is home to many family-friendly attractions and a riverfront downtown that is easy to navigate with little ones, so every vacation has been different. If you want a short trip that is low-stress, yet fun and full of new experiences, Chattanooga is the place for you!
Where is Chattanooga, Tennessee?
Chattanooga is a 2.5 hour drive northeast of Birmingham, just over the Tennessee state line.
What Activities are in Chattanooga?
Chattanooga Ducks
Chattanooga Duck Boat Tours are a unique and fun way to explore Chattanooga and learn more about the city’s history. Authentic World War II Duck Boats take your family down the Tennessee River in their boat form and then transition to wheels for a city tour. Visit their website for hours and to make reservations.
Chattanooga Zoo
The Chattanooga Zoo is home to more than 500 animals that represent over 150 species. The zoo offers special animal encounters and zoo keeper chats throughout the day, as well as a train and carousel rides. The zoo is open daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Coolidge Park
Coolidge Park is a gorgeous green space with lots of room to play, relax, or have a picnic lunch. Bring a swim suit or change of clothes for the splash pad fountain that is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Don’t leave before riding the antique carousel, which is open daily, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, and costs $1.00 for adults. Riders under 2 years old are free with a paid adult.
To explore downtown Chattanooga, your family can take the short walk from Coolidge Park to downtown restaurants and shops. Then stroll across Walnut Street Bridge, a historic pedestrian bridge that spans the Tennessee River. The bridge offers gorgeous city and water views and connects downtown Chattanooga with its northern shore. *Walnut Street bridge is currently undergoing renovations but is expected to reopen around September 2026.
Creative Discovery Museum
Creative Discovery Museum is Chattanooga’s version of Birmingham’s McWane Center. Kids of all ages will have a blast playing and learning as they program a robot, launch a rocket, explore the weather pod, and tinker with tools in the Make It gallery. The museum is open Sunday- Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Incline Railway
The Incline Railway is over 130 years old and gives you a chance to rest. Your family can take in a beautiful view of the city as you travel “America’s Most Amazing Mile.” Hop on at the top of the incline at Lookout Mountain and ride to the bottom station at St. Elmo. There you will find restaurants, ice cream and coffee, an indoor climbing wall, and microbrewery tours. The railway is open Monday- Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 AM, and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Lookout Mountain
Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Incline Railway are all part of Lookout Mountain. There are also several scenic overlooks and hiking trails to explore.
Rock City
On the way to Chattanooga, you will see many red barns telling you to “See Rock City.” Take their advice! The trails at Rock City are perfect for kids of all ages to explore. There are many whimsical statues and gnomes, beautiful overlooks, and even a glow in the dark Magical Fairyland Caverns to entertain the family. Check their website for hours, as they vary throughout the year.
Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is a one-of-a-kind place to visit. Choose one of their tours to journey underground to see the breathtaking falls. For adventure seekers, there are zip line and climbing wall opportunities above ground. Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during the busy summer season. Ruby Falls is a great attraction to visit on rainy or super hot days since the underground falls maintain a steady temperature around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Ruby Falls is open daily, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Tennessee Aquarium
Do not leave Chattanooga without visiting the Tennessee Aquarium! Your family will be enthralled by the freshwater animals in the River Journey and the salt water sea life in the Ocean Journey. I would recommend completing one Journey, breaking for lunch and outside playtime nearby, and then conquering the second Journey. The aquarium is open Sunday- Friday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Where Should We Eat?
There are many great restaurants in Chattanooga. Here are a few family-friendly options that are not too far from the Tennessee Aquarium, Creative Discovery Museum, Coolidge Park, and Chattanooga Zoo.
Lunch and Dinner
Burger Republic
203 West Aquarium Way
Lupi’s Pizza
406A Broad Street
Mellow Mushroom
205 Broad Street
Puckett’s Restaurant
2 West Aquarium Way
White Duck Taco Shop
1519 McCallie Avenue
Dessert
Clumpies Ice Cream Co.
1401 Market Street and
26 Frazier Avenue
The Ice Cream Show
105 Walnut Street
For more fun in the Southeast, check out all there is to do in Atlanta!
Experience Atlanta, Georgia :: Quick Getaways from Birmingham
