7 Inexpensive Things to do in Chattanooga This Summer!

Chattanooga is a city flush with abundant natural beauty, amazing inexpensive attractions, and an equally welcoming community. In addition to iconic, must-see destinations, like Ruby Falls, there are plenty of free and inexpensive entertainment options to round out your trip. Whether you’re looking to enjoy free live music and art, or spend as much time outdoors as possible, this list will help you plan a budget-friendly, fun-filled visit to Chattanooga!

Walnut Street Bridge

The Walnut Street Bridge connects Downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore. This pedestrian-only bridge provides a panoramic view of the Tennessee River. The downtown side of the bridge lies next to the Hunter Museum of American Art and the North Shore side is in between a myriad of fantastic local shops and restaurants along a one-of-a-kind sidewalk featuring numbered footprints showing how to do famous dance moves. Consider renting a Bike Chattanooga bicycle for a brisk ride across the bridge!

Sculpture Fields at Montague Park

Montague Park is a sprawling 33-acre outdoor art museum with sculptures from artists all around the world. Admission is free! The public art park includes well-kept walking paths, over 40 sculptures, and great community events such as yoga classes in the park. You can even use the free guided Otocast tour to hear an explanation of the inspiration behind each sculpture from the sculptor themselves. This is a dog-friendly park, so bring your leashed pup for extra fun. 

Coolidge Park

Located under the Walnut Street Bridge, Coolidge Park is a popular destination for sunny days in Chattanooga. Coolidge Park features an interactive play fountain, an antique carousel from 1894 (it’s only $1 to ride), and waterfront access that is perfect for a picnic in the park. Unfortunately, Coolidge is not dog-friendly, but humans of all ages will find fun and relaxation at Coolidge! The park also offers free grilling stations and picnic tables which makes it the perfect place to gather with friends and family, cook some delicious food, and run and play in the wide-open green space. Coolidge Park is also the venue for amazing annual events such as Moon River Festival!

Nightfall

Chattanooga’s free summer concert series runs Friday nights beginning in June downtown at Miller Plaza. Local bands open the show at 7:00 pm followed by nationally touring headliners at 8:00 pm. Spread out on Miller Park’s grass with a quilt or bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a fun evening. Kids will get a kick out of the family-friendly activities and adults can check out the selection of ice-cold local brews available for purchase

Raccoon Mountain

Raccoon Mountain is a popular destination for scenic drives, hiking, camping, mountain biking, and boating. It took eight years for Tennessee Valley Authority to complete the reservoir, which is TVA’s largest hydroelectric facility. The area around the sixty-billion gallon lake is a state-designated wildlife observation area home to a large wintering population of bald eagles.

Chattanooga Market

The Chattanooga Market takes place at the First Tennessee Pavilion every Sunday April-December. From 10 am-2 pm the pavilion fills up with local farmers, vendors, and food trucks. Whether you’re looking to connect with makers of hand-made goods, eat a delicious lunch, or support Chattanooga’s local farmers, the Chattanooga Market is sure to please this summer. 

Tennessee Riverpark

With over 150 acres of beautiful land, playgrounds, and public art, the Riverpark is one of Chattanooga’s most well-loved attractions. The main attraction of the park is the 13-mile greenway that stretches from Chattanooga’s Northside at the TVA dam to Chattanooga’s Southside at St. Elmo. The Riverwalk greenway is perfect for biking, running, jogging, and casual strolling. Along the way, you’ll find park amenities such as restrooms, bike repair stations, fishing piers, kayak and canoe launches, picnic tables, and breathtaking views. 

Blue Hole

Chattanooga has twice been named “Best Town Ever” by ​Outside Magazine​. Just a 20-minute drive from downtown Chattanooga, the North Chickamauga Blue Hole is a local favorite swimming hole! The Blue Hole is a phenomenal way to cool off from a hot summer day in Chattanooga. From the parking lot, it's less than a 1-mile hike to get to the much-loved spot featuring boulders of varying sizes, perfect for jumping into the clear creek-fed water below. Check out Roots Rated’s ​North Chick Blue Hole​ page for directions and additional details!

For more information on Chattanooga’s dining, shopping, and lodging options, and other fun activities check out the Ruby Falls plan your visit​ page!