Chattanooga really is a special place for the family to run, explore and play. The city is perched along the Tennessee River in a valley flanked by the Appalachian Mountains, and they have definitely perfected the art of a fun outdoor adventure. From active tots to eye-rolling teens, here are the most fun things to do outside with kids in Chattanooga Tennessee for the whole bunch.
We’ve covered all the trails, rails, water ways to bring you the definitive guide to the best things to do in Chattanooga Tennessee with the family outdoors!
We are excited to hit the ground running! You can thank us later after you pack your bags and lace up your tennis shoes to adventure through Chattanooga. Let’s go!
Hit the Trails Family Friendly Hiking Adventures
Chattanooga is for hikers, that’s true, but you shouldn’t be scared of getting lost (or just getting really winded) with the kiddos! Fortunately, many of the amazing trails have a number of easy ones perfect for tiny feet! Hiking is perhaps one of the easiest and most satisfying of Chattanooga Tennessee activities with children, providing cheap fun and amazing photos.
Explore the Waterfalls of Big Soddy Creek Gulf
Short drive to downtown, you’ll find this in Soddy Daisy and there’s a reason locals love it. Follow a flat gravel trail for 1.2 miles and you will find four nice swimming holes. It is a super easy walk for little ones, it’s stroller-friendly. We like to pack a lunch and hang out at the swimming holes for the afternoon.
Conquer the Gentle Slopes of Laurel Falls
Take a waterfall hike that’s a snap Laurel Falls in Dayton will deliver a beautiful waterfall view without you having to hike miles or tackle any tough terrain. The trail winds next to a babbling brook with several tiny cascades sprinkled along the path. We’ve watched tiny tots handle a mile plus, so it’s one of Chattanooga’s most family-friendly waterfall experiences.
Discover History at Cravens House
To mix things up with a bit of history and views, take a short hike up to Cravens House, on Lookout Mountain. The only house left on the mountain that dates back to the Civil War, it gives a glimpse of how things once were. From here you can take a short hop to Point Park, where there’s a memorial park and spectacular views over the battlefield and out over the city below. This a nice little stroll that offers you the world.
Scenic Waterfront Fun The Tennessee Riverwalk
When it comes to casual outdoor activity, the Chattanooga Riverwalk reigns supreme. This 13 mile urban greenway runs along the southern edge of the Tennessee River with amazing water views.
What to Do: Walk, bike, or rent a bike and take a ride. You can access parks, play areas, and eateries from the trail.
Why Kids Love It: The trail is paved, stroller-friendly, and a bit less trafficked than some. There’s more than enough room for the children to run around, and it gives mom and dad an opportunity to catch that skyline at golden hour.
Hot Tip: I have two tips: One, the kids have been dying to visit one of the many playgrounds along the trail, so give them the opportunity to let loose a bit. Two, pack some of the best outdoor activities in Chattanooga TN families has to offer like maybe some of our favorite fruit snacks and trail mix for your river adventure. It’s free!
Rides with a View Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
Perhaps there’s no greater way to enjoy the outdoors than from very high up! The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is a historic funicular that transports riders 72.7% incline upward, making it one of the coolest outdoor activities for kids in Chattanooga Tennessee that combine an amazing ride with an equally spectacular view. The Journey: Enjoy breathtaking views as this slowly-moving vehicle chugs its way up to the mountain.
Once you reach the top, you can wander trails, enjoy stunning vistas, and snap lots of pictures. Family Fun: Everyone, especially the kiddos and grandparents will enjoy the experience, as it gives a ‘rocketship’ like feel when traveling the ultra-steep track and is a far simpler means of enjoying the mountain view!
Explore Underground Wonders
Every trip to Chattanooga ought to include the natural beauty found inside Lookout Mountain. No visit to Chattanooga is a visit to Chattanooga without one of these great outdoor adventures. Outdoor Adventures Chattanooga TN Families | Outdoor Adventure Tennessee
Journey to Ruby Falls
Hidden deep in the mountain is Ruby Falls, America’s deepest and tallest underground waterfall that is accessible to the public. This attraction entails a brief elevator ride down the mountain followed by a short hike through the caves to reach this majestic waterfall. Insider tip: Plan to purchase timed tickets online before your trip and don’t forget comfortable tennis shoes and a light jacket because cave temperatures remain constant all year long (baby stroller friendly only when walking above the falls).
Wander the Enchanted Trail at Rock City
Take a trip down the enchanted, winding trails that make up the amazing landscape of the Rock City Gardens. See massive rock formations, gorgeous flora, and don’t miss the chance to walk across the fun Swing-Along Bridge! There’s a “See Seven States” viewpoint where even your kids will gasp with wonder at the breathtaking vista.
Cool Off at Coolidge Park
On the North Shore, you can’t go wrong with Coolidge Park. It has a wide open space to run around in, a classic carousel to ride and, a splash pad to cool off in the summertime.
- Take the indoor merry go round for a spin or head to the grass and play frisbee or soccer games with your family and finish up your day at Clumpies an ice cream parlor. This attraction is perfect after a full morning of visiting. The Chattanooga Zoo one of the nicest relaxing things to do outdoors in Chattanooga TN.
Hands On Fun The Passage and Creative Discovery Museum
The Creative Discovery Museum is wonderful to visit when it’s raining outside, but since there is a lot of great space nearby it could be a wonderful addition to your day outside as well. At the Creative Discovery Museum, kids can engage in learning through hands on experiences in exhibits including watercourses and a dinosaur dig. Located just outside the museum is The Passage, shallow, water level flowing stairs that kids love. The water is cool, so don’t forget to bring bathing suits.
All Aboard Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Take a peek at some outdoor adventures that are fun for families. 3. Take a Vintage Ride on the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum For something a bit different to do in the outdoors, check out the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
The railroad is rich in Chattanooga’s history dating all the way back to 1850.
Kids will get a kick out of vintage train rides, and the museum even hosts special events throughout the year. Cool Fun Fact: There’s a High-Tea and Train Ride Experience where you get a short High Tea before stepping onto a classic train for a ride. It’s an interesting change to some of the more obvious outdoor activity things to do for families in Chattanooga Tennessee.
Beyond the City Scenic Day Trips
Of course, the city itself is a blast, but because of the region, Chattanooga is the ideal place from which to embark on farther adventures! That’s perhaps the nicest aspect of calling Chattanooga home or visiting: you’re just so close to everything else. Atlanta (under 2.5 hours) Take a big-city excursion to visit the Zoo Atlanta or take the kiddos to the Georgia Aquarium.
Blue Ridge/Ellijay (under 2 hours) Head for picturesque roads to enjoy a beautiful day at apple picking spots such as Mercier Orchards or take in Amicalola Falls.
Nashville (2 hours) Tour Music City, go take in the wonder that is Opryland Hotel, or go gaze up at the Parthenon.
Summary Your Family Adventure Awaits
Chattanooga offers some truly amazing outdoor activities for the whole family. Between waterfall hikes, train rides up the mountain, and river splashin’s, the Scenic City delivers a getaway that is simultaneously adventurous and chill. The natural beauty, mellow vibes, and family fun combine for the ideal trip that’ll produce some lifelong memories.
Ready to plan your getaway?
Which activity on this list are you the most excited to check out? Leave a comment and be sure to send this post on to your adventurous friends!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the absolute best outdoor activity in Chattanooga for families with young children?
Coolidge Park is arguably the best spot for families with young children. It features a large grassy area for running, a historic carousel, and a splash pad that’s perfect for hot days . It also offers stunning views of the river and downtown.
Are there any easy hikes in Chattanooga suitable for strollers?
Yes! The Tennessee Riverwalk is a paved, flat trail that is perfect for strollers . For a nature trail, Big Soddy Creek Gulf offers a flat gravel path that is also stroller-friendly and leads to swimming holes .
How much time should I allocate for a visit to Ruby Falls?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours for the Ruby Falls tour. This includes the elevator ride down, the guided walk through the cave, time at the waterfall, and the walk back up . Book tickets online in advance to save time.
Is the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway scary for kids?
The Incline Railway is slow moving and very safe, making it a fun thrill rather than a scary experience. Kids often love the sensation of climbing the steep hill and seeing the views from the top .
What is the best time of year to visit Chattanooga for outdoor activities?
Spring and Fall are the most pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, but the parks and splash pads offer a chance to cool down .