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Traveling to Chattanooga?
Pack Light. Travel Happy.™ Rent baby gear in Chattanooga.

Half a century after being labeled the “dirtiest city in America” by the EPA, Chattanooga has made a transformation so spectacular that the now “Scenic City” has claimed Outside magazine’s Best Town Ever award, twice! And, according to Livability.com, is among the top 100 best places to live in America. Along with all of these accolades, it also make a great family-friendly vacation destination!

Springtime in Chattanooga is fantastically vibrant with the beautiful blossoms of the red buds, dogwoods, wisteria, and daffodils dotting everything from the Smoky Mountains to the Tennessee Valley. The thermometer climbs quite high during the summer months but cooling off is never a problem whether you prefer shade, water activities, or air conditioning. 

Fall in Chattanooga is fabulous as the city is just far enough north to show nice color-changes and finally get a respite from the southern heat. Winters are typically quite mild. Like most southern states, the threat of snow shuts everything down for a few hours but if snow dares builds up, it is usually gone by the time the kids are worn out and ready for a new activity. There is never a shortage of family activities in Chattanooga, no matter the season.

Check out these family-friendly things to do with kids. Since Chattanooga sits right on the border of Tennessee and Georgia a few of the activities cross over into Georgia—just a short drive.

Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls In Chattanooga

Hike one-mile round-trip through lime caverns to visit America’s largest underground waterfall at 145 feet. Choose from the Classic Waterfall Tour, the Lantern Tour or get an Extended Cavern Experience. This activity is not stroller-friendly, however, it is a fun adventure for children who can trek along. Infant carriers are a great idea if you plan to bring a baby. Rent one here if you don’t want to pack it!

Rock City

Rock City, Lookout Mountain, Ga

Likely the most famous attraction in Chattanooga; this is where you can see a waterfall, walk through a fairy garden and even view seven states from one location. Special events are available seasonally. Parts of Rock City are accessible to small strollers; however, there are some narrow paths and a backpack child carrier or front baby carrier are highly recommended.

  • www.seerockcity.com
  • (706)820-2531 or (800)854-0675
  • 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750

Lake Winnie Amusement Park and Soak Ya Water Park in Chattanooga

Lake Winnie Amusement Park

With its carnival-like atmosphere and friendly southern-hospitality-style staff, Lake Winnie is a favorite among the locals. Thrill rides and water slides will keep the whole family occupied for a fun filled day. Check the website before heading out for the day. They are typically running some kind of special!

Chester Frost Park in Chattanooga

Chester Frost Park

The only beach in Chattanooga is claimed by Chester Frost Park. With its sites for tents and RV’s, this park on the northern edge of Chattanooga is a family-friendly, off-grid retreat which also offers boat docks and fishing. Not to be missed!

  • www.hamiltontn.gov
  • Ranger Station: (423)842-0177
  • 2277 Gold Point Circle North, Hixson, TN 37343

Tennessee Aquarium

Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Tennessee

Perfect for everyone from toddlers to grandparents, this mid-size aquarium will not disappoint. With its two touch tanks, continuous multi-level layout, simulated local waterways, otter exhibit, butterfly observatory, and much more, there is always something fun to discover. Download the app before your visit to maximize your experience!

Tennessee Valley Railroad

Chattanooga, Tennessee: Best Family-Friendly Activities

If your kiddos love trains, the Tennessee Valley Railroad is worth a visit. Seven separate trips are available with special seasonal rides including Day Out with Thomas in August and Autumn Leaf Special Train. Rides range from 55 minutes to 9 hours.

  • www.tvrail.com
  • (423)894-8028
  • 4119 Cromwell Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421

Creative Discovery Museum

Creative Discovery Museum

The Creative Discovery Museum is a children’s museum full of interactive rooms and activities especially designed for children 18 months to 12 years old. The two-story playground, giant water table, and second-floor outdoor space are highlights of every visit. So much fun your kids will never realize they are learning.

  • www.cdmfun.org
  • (423)756-2738
  • 321 Chestnut Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Coolidge Park

Coolidge Park, Chattannoga

Chattanooga’s North Shore boasts a beautiful 13-acre park—perfect for a picnic or a stroll along the Tennessee River. Ride the restored 100-year old carousel for $1, splash in the interactive water fountain (seasonal), and play ball or frisbee in the huge open space. Find this gem under the Walnut Street Walking Bridge. 

  • (423)643-6311
  • 150 River Street, Chattanooga, TN 37405

Chattanooga Ducks

Chattanooga Ducks

Ride an authentic WWII amphibious duck boat to see Chattanooga from a whole new perspective. Once in the water, children are often given the opportunity to drive! Guests can learn some of Chattanooga’s history and enjoy the beautiful Tennessee River in the most fun and unique way possible.

The Passage

The Passage

Open to the public, The Passage is a seasonal waterfall staircase with a large, shallow pool at the bottom that provides a fun wading area for all ages. The space is embellished with Cherokee symbols throughout, marking the beginning of the Trail of Tears. The Passage was created as a connection to Chattanooga’s sobering history and is a great place to spend a hot summer day. 

Incline Railway

Incline Railway

Traveling the distance between Lookout Mountain and St. Elmo is fun and easy on Chattanooga’s historic funicular railway. Originally opened in 1895, you can still travel the mile up and down the 72.7% grade. The vantage point from the top is amazing and kids love the ride!

  • www.ridetheincline.com
  • (423)821-4224
  • (TOP) 827 East Brow Road, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350
  • (BOTTOM) 3917 St. Elmo Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37409

Chattanooga Zoo

Chattanooga, Tennessee: Best Family-Friendly Activities

This zoo is the perfect size for young families. Besides visiting the growing number of animals, your family can enjoy the carousel, ride the train, and get hands-on at the petting zoo. Don’t miss the giraffes—the zoo’s newest residents. Behind the scenes tour reservations are offered for several of the zoo’s animals. 

Point Park and Battles for Chattanooga Museum – Lookout Mountain Military Park

Point Park And Battles For Chattanooga Museum – Lookout Mountain Military Park

Chattanooga is rich in history. Learn about Chattanooga’s past as well as Civil War history while you enjoy a fantastic (stroller-friendly) view of the city and Moccasin Bend. Start in the museum for a thorough explanation and history of the “Battle Above the Clouds” including a weapon and relic collection.

Chickamauga Battlefield

Chickamauga Battlefield

The Chickamauga Battlefield was the first national military park in the United States. The 5,300 acre park is dotted with memorials from all of the states whose soldiers fought during the Battle of Chickamauga. The Battlefield has several easy hiking trails that are suitable for kids. Park rangers offer regularly-scheduled guided hiking and driving tours beginning in the visitors’ center. 

As you can see, Chattanooga and the surrounding areas are full of history and fun for the whole family. Spend a day or a week in the “Scenic City”; you will never run out of things to do and places to go.

About the Author

Katrina Gallagher is an Independent Quality Provider with BabyQuip, helping families travel lighter and happier. She is a wife and a homeschooling mother of four girls. She spends her ‘free’ time creating unique woodburnings and working outside.

Traveling to Chattanooga?
Pack Light. Travel Happy.™ Rent baby gear in Chattanooga.