15 Of The Best Tours & Things To Do In Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a city that packs a punch when it comes to things to do. Its natural scenery, from the rushing rivers to the towering mountains, makes it an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures, while its lively downtown offers a rich culinary scene and intriguing history.

Among the many options, the Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting trips stand out for their adrenaline rush and scenic views; we especially love the Most Popular Tour that combines safety, fun, and stunning Cherokee National Forest vistas.

Whether you’re new to rafting or a seasoned paddler, Chattanooga’s rivers deliver unforgettable experiences without requiring prior expertise.

Beyond outdoor thrills, Chattanooga offers unique guided tours that explore its stories—like the Haunted History Walking Tour or the Murder & Mayhem Tour—which reveal the city’s darker, spookier side.

And for food lovers, the Downtown Food Tour introduces you to local flavors while keeping the group small and intimate. This list will guide you through the best options, whether you’re after adventure, culture, or just a good meal.

1. Ocoee River Middle Whitewater Rafting Trip

Go whitewater rafting in Tennessee with this half-day adventure down the Ocoee River. It’s suitable for beginners, since no prior rafting experience is necessary. You’ll start with a safety briefing before heading into the Cherokee National Forest for a scenic drive. Once on the river, you’ll navigate over 20 class III and IV rapids, which test your nerves and paddling skills.

The guides are experienced, and the scenery of the gorge makes it all worth it. If you’re feeling brave, there’s an opportunity to take a swim in the river.

The trip lasts about three hours and costs $48 per person, making it a great value for such an adrenaline-filled experience.

Many reviewers highlight their guides’ skill and friendly attitude, like Hunter, who “accommodated my needs as a partially handicapped guest.” It’s perfect for anyone craving an accessible, fun-filled adventure. Bottom line: a fantastic mix of scenery, thrill, and safety that appeals to families and thrill-seekers alike.

2. Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour

For food lovers, the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour offers a tasty way to explore the city’s culinary scene. This guided, small-group crawl visits up to four carefully selected eateries, with optional wine pairings included.

You’ll sample dishes at places like Hotel Indigo’s Wanderer restaurant, which features American gastropub cuisine with a creative twist, and the Old Gilman Grill with its modern American and French-inspired dishes.

The tour lasts roughly three hours and costs $139 per person, making it a reasonable option for a full culinary experience in the heart of downtown.

Guests consistently praise the personable guides and the variety of flavors. One reviewer notes, “Alex was amazing! The food was delicious, and the walk was just the right length.” The tour’s limited group size—only eight participants—ensures an intimate, engaging experience. It’s ideal for foodies eager to taste local favorites while learning about Chattanooga’s evolving food scene.

3. Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures

Kayaking alongside up to 100,000 endangered grey bats makes this tour a unique wildlife encounter. The Nickajack Bat Cave is part of the Tennessee River Wildlife Refuge, and at sunset, the bats fly out for their nightly hunt—an awe-inspiring sight.

For about two hours, you’ll paddle a full use kayak, learn about the bats’ importance, and enjoy the peaceful river setting. The guide will share insights into the local ecology, making this trip both fun and educational.

Rated a perfect 5/5, guests mention how relaxing and fascinating it was to see the bats take flight. One reviewer called it “spectacular,” highlighting guides Anna and Luke for their entertainment and knowledge. If you love wildlife and tranquil water, this trip offers a memorable chance to connect with nature without the exertion of a strenuous hike.

4. Middle Ocoee River Rafting Adventure Tour

Another popular option is the Middle Ocoee River Rafting Adventure, which offers a full three-hour trip through scenic Cherokee National Forest. Expect to paddle through class III and IV rapids, with plenty of opportunities for splashing and fun.

The guides are experienced, and the scenery along the gorge is stunning. It’s perfect for families or groups seeking a classic rafting experience at a competitive price of $45.

Guests rave about their guides’ skill, with one saying, “Riding the Hiwassee River was such a blast.” The trip strikes a good balance between thrill and scenery, making it a solid choice for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike. The natural setting and exhilarating rapids make this an adventure you’ll remember.

5. Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure

For those who want a slightly longer, more comprehensive rafting experience, the Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure offers about 3.5 hours of paddling through more than five miles of river. You’ll encounter 270-foot drops and Class III/IV rapids, with all gear provided, including kayaks, helmets, and PFDs. This tour emphasizes safety and instruction, ideal for beginners who want to learn and have fun.

Reviewers love guides like Josh Lemon, who “steered us to a great trip,” and describe the experience as “all about having fun and getting soaked.” The trip is best suited for active travelers comfortable with getting wet. For a full immersion in the river’s power and beauty, this tour hits the mark.

6. Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure With Catered Shore Lunch

Spending a full six hours on the Ocoee River, this raft trip includes 10 miles of rapids, including class III and IV waves, plus a scenic riverside lunch. For $110, you get an all-inclusive experience with full safety instruction and the chance to tackle some of the river’s most exciting rapids.

The shore lunch features a catered meal, making this a satisfying day for active travelers seeking both thrill and relaxation.

Guests rave about the guides’ energy and professionalism, with many calling Ryan their favorite guide. The trip is perfect for families with older children or groups wanting an all-day adventure. Keep in mind that it’s a physically active outing, so a good level of fitness helps.

7. Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure with a Riverside Lunch

If you’re after a longer, more leisurely experience, this 6-hour tour takes you through the Olympic section of the Ocoee, tackling multiple rapids like Mikey’s, Blue Hole, and Bush Gardens. It includes full instruction, safety gear, and a riverside picnic lunch, making it ideal for those wanting a complete rafting day.

The guides, such as Chase and Big John, are praised for their expertise, with one guide having 16 years of river guiding.

Reviews mention the friendly staff and the importance of following guide instructions. The trip suits active travelers comfortable with getting wet and paddling for hours. This tour offers great value for a full day on the water.

8. Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour

Discover Chattanooga’s darker past with this spirited walking tour of haunted sites. The Murder & Mayhem Tour blends history with ghost stories, taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes. It’s perfect for those intrigued by the supernatural or the city’s shadowy stories. The tour stays outside, focusing on storytelling and photo opportunities, and is priced at just under $25.

Guests describe it as “scary but fascinating,” and many appreciate the engaging storytelling. It’s a hit with history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike, making it a fun way to explore downtown after dark.

9. Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting

This river adventure emphasizes safety and experience, with guides trained in EMR certification and Swiftwater Rescue. The focus is on pushing boundaries for non-professional rafters, making it suitable for those seeking a bit more thrill. It’s a three-hour trip through the scenic Cherokee National Forest, with a reputation for professional guides and safe conditions.

Reviewers note the excitement, with comments like “Very fun and safe for beginners,” and the emphasis on safety makes it appealing for cautious thrill-seekers. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who want to try whitewater rafting with confidence.

10. Saving Christmas Escape Room in Chattanooga

For a holiday-themed indoor activity, the Saving Christmas Escape Room offers a fun, interactive experience. It lasts about an hour and costs $31.99 per person. You and your group will work together to recover Santa’s sack and save Christmas, solving puzzles and decoding clues along the way. It’s perfect for families or groups looking for a quick, fun break from outdoor activities.

Guests praise the entertaining theme and the staff’s friendly service. One said, “We had a blast and enjoyed the theme—great for families during the busy season.” It’s a great indoor option when weather isn’t cooperating or if you want something light-hearted.

11. Sabotage: 1944

Step back into 1944 Chattanooga with this escape room adventure. The game centers on thwarting a sabotage plot involving trains during WWII, making it both fun and educational. It lasts about an hour, with a limit of 10 players, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving. The detailed storyline immerses you in local history while challenging your wits.

Rated 5/5, players appreciate the interactive storytelling and the challenge of decoding clues quickly. It’s well-suited for history buffs and puzzle enthusiasts alike, providing a memorable way to learn about the city’s wartime role.

12. Chattanooga “Secret Agent” Escape Room Admission Ticket

Take on the role of a MI6 secret agent in this London-themed escape room. The 1-hour game involves solving puzzles to track down a villain, with a focus on problem-solving and teamwork. The game is designed to be accessible, with multiple groups able to participate simultaneously.

Rated 5/5, players enjoy the immersive experience and the challenge of solving mysteries. It’s ideal for groups of friends or families looking for a fun, quick indoor activity that combines history and puzzle-solving.

13. National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga

Prebook your visit to the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center to explore the stories of valor and heroism. Your ticket grants access to exhibits, videos, and immersive displays that highlight Medal of Honor recipients. It’s a meaningful stop for history buffs and those interested in military service.

Rated 5/5, visitors commend the museum’s storytelling and well-curated exhibits. It’s a great educational activity and easy to visit at your own pace, especially since it’s close to public transport and downtown.

14. Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures

Experience the engineering marvel of Chickamauga Dam on this guided kayak tour. You’ll paddle into the dam’s lock, watch the gates close, then sink about 50 feet as you observe the lock’s operation. It’s a rare behind-the-scenes look at how flood control and hydroelectric power are managed on the Tennessee River.

Rated 5/5, the guides like Zach are praised for their knowledge and patience. This tour is ideal for those interested in industrial history and engineering, offering a calm but awe-inspiring kayaking experience. It’s a fun way to combine outdoor activity with learning about local infrastructure.

15. Chattanooga “C-Block Prison Break” Escape Room Admission Ticket

Finish with a prison-themed escape room that challenges you to break out of jail. It’s a fast-paced, 1-hour game where teamwork is key. The detailed setting immerses you in a prison break scenario, perfect for families and groups seeking a fun, interactive challenge.

Rated 5/5, players enjoy the realistic details and the sense of urgency. It’s a perfect quick activity to unwind or to add some problem-solving fun to your day.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Chattanooga

When selecting your activities, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re craving adventure and outdoor thrills, the whitewater rafting trips—like the Most Popular Ocoee River Tour or the Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure—offer exciting, adrenaline-pumping fun.

For a more relaxed, culture-rich experience, the Downtown Food Tour provides a delicious insider’s look at local cuisine.

Indoor activities like the Haunted History Tour or escape rooms—Sabotage: 1944 and Secret Agent—are great for cooler days or family fun. If wildlife or engineering intrigue you, the Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak and Chickamauga Dam Lock tours offer unique, memorable experiences.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular outdoor trips or the full-day rafting tours, to secure your preferred date.

Chattanooga’s diverse options—from thrilling outdoor adventures to engaging indoor activities—ensure there’s something for every traveler. Whether you want to paddle the rapids, sample local foods, or explore its haunted past, this list gives you a practical starting point to plan your visit.

For adrenaline junkies, the Ocoee River rafting trips are hard to beat, while families and history buffs might prefer the heritage museum or the haunted walking tour. Whatever your style, booking early will help you make the most of your trip. Happy exploring!