Breathtaking
Views from
Ruby Falls
Experience stunning natural beauty and historic sights at Ruby Falls on Lookout Mountain
Panoramic
Lookout Mountain Tower
Sweeping, panoramic views of the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River are worth the climb to the top of the tower! Built in 1929 with limestone excavated from the Ruby Falls elevator shaft, historic Lookout Mountain Tower offers unmatched views from its lower and upper decks.
Historic
Ruby Falls Castle
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ruby Falls Castle has welcomed generations of guests since 1929. Designed by master Chattanooga architect R.H. Hunt to resemble a 15th-century castle, it is a beloved landmark built from limestone excavated during the construction of the elevator shaft giving access to the caverns. In addition to welcoming cave explorers during the park’s earliest decades, the castle was the community’s social gathering hub with a fashionable tearoom for luncheons during the day and an upscale restaurant at night providing orchestra accompanied dinner dances, private dining and memorable evenings by the castle’s stately fireplace or on the rooftop garden terrace!
The restored first floor of the castle celebrates its vintage roots as a social gathering place, bringing back the tradition of reconnecting with friends and family over an enjoyable meal at the castle. Castle Cafe offers a casual seasonal menu and local craft beer on tap. Ruby Falls admission is not necessary to enjoy a meal in this historic spot!
Captivating
Blue Heron Overlook
This quiet overlook offers lovely views of the Tennessee Valley and is accessible by elevator or stairs. The delightful vantage point connects to the base of historic Lookout Mountain Tower by elevated walkway.
Blue Heron Overlook features a red-green true-color colorblind viewfinder, one of only 13 in Tennessee! Lookout Mountain and Chattanooga are well-known for scenic views, yet for millions of visitors impacted by colorblindness, seeing nature’s true colors has been out of reach. Until now! Ruby Falls, selected as one of the 13 most scenic overlooks in Tennessee, received a special viewfinder outfitted with an innovative lens designed to enable people with colorblindness to see a wider range of vibrant, true colors. The uniquely equipped viewfinder, installed on Blue Heron Overlook at Ruby Falls, is the only one in the Chattanooga area. This location offers deep, four-season views of vivid greens, fiery reds, warming oranges, and bright yellows across the Tennessee Valley and rolling distant mountain ranges. With the viewer, created by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, now even more folks can fully experience the colorful beauty of the Scenic City!
Must Do Photo Moment
My Trip Thru Ruby Falls Arch
This timeless landmark, located right next to the castle, has been the backdrop for millions of unforgettable guest memories captured in a photo. Take a selfie or a group shot at the “My Trip Thru Ruby Falls” and mark your adventure with a photo you’ll treasure.