4-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary for Chattanooga

Day 1: Chattanooga Adventure

Chattanooga, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Plate Cafe

Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast at the family-friendly Blue Plate Cafe, where kids will love the pancakes and parents can indulge in the famous biscuits and gravy.
Located near downtown, a short drive from most hotels.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tennessee Aquarium Visit

Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Tennessee Aquarium, where your family can enjoy engaging marine life displays and even some interactive experiences for the kids.
Just a 5-minute drive from the cafe.
USD120, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Savor delicious burgers and handmade beers at Big River Grille, a casual dining spot situated along the riverfront.
Walkable distance from the aquarium.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Creative Discovery Museum

Next, take the kids to the Creative Discovery Museum, where they can engage in hands-on learning and play activities that are sure to inspire creativity.
A short 5-minute drive from the lunch venue.
USD60, 2 hours

4:30PM

Ride the Chattanooga Fun Train

Hop on the Chattanooga Fun Train for a unique and entertaining ride around downtown, perfect for winding down and taking in the sights.
A quick block away from the museum.
USD50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Public House

Cap off the day with a cozy family dinner at The Public House, known for its warm atmosphere and a menu featuring local ingredients.
A 5-minute drive from the Fun Train station.
USD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Exploring Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Granny's Kitchen

Fuel up your family with a classic breakfast at Granny's Kitchen, where the homemade dishes will give you a taste of Southern hospitality.
10-minute drive from downtown Chattanooga to the mountain.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rock City

Explore the stunning views and unique rock formations at Rock City, a magical experience that allows for family bonding while hiking along the paths.
Just a 15-minute drive from Granny's Kitchen.
USD90, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe 7

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Cafe 7, situated within Rock City, offering sandwiches and fresh salads with breathtaking views.
Located within Rock City, no need to drive.
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Ruby Falls

After lunch, head over to Ruby Falls to enjoy an underground waterfall tour; the excitement will leave a lasting impression on your children.
A 10-minute drive from Rock City.
USD80, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Lookout Mountain via Incline Railway

Experience the breathtaking views while riding the Incline Railway, one of the world's steepest railways, adding thrilling fun to your day.
A 15-minute drive from Ruby Falls.
USD75, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Historic St. Elmo Restaurant

Wrap up the day with dinner at The Historic St. Elmo, where your family will enjoy classic Southern dishes with a modern twist.
A 10-minute drive from the Incline Railway.
USD100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Outdoor Fun

Chattanooga, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake House

Start your day with fluffy pancakes and a variety of toppings at The Pancake House, a hit with families for its vibrant atmosphere.
Short drive downtown.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Picnic at Coolidge Park

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy some family time at Coolidge Park, complete with a carousel and beautiful riverside views.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD30, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch from Local Food Truck

Grab some local flavors from one of Chattanooga's many food trucks around the park, offering an array of choices the whole family can enjoy.
Available at Coolidge Park.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Chattanooga Riverwalk

Take a leisurely stroll or rent bikes along the picturesque Chattanooga Riverwalk, where the stunning views make for a lovely afternoon.
Follow the path from Coolidge Park.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Walnut Street Bridge

Cross the iconic Walnut Street Bridge on foot, an enjoyable way to connect with the local community and soak in the views.
Just a quick walk from the riverwalk.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Tony's Pasta Shop

Enjoy homemade pasta dishes at Tony's, a wonderful and family-friendly restaurant located just a few blocks from the river.
A short drive or walk back to the restaurant.
USD60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Final Explorations

Chattanooga, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chattanooga Coffee Company

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with locally roasted coffee and pastries at Chattanooga Coffee Company, perfect for families looking to unwind.
Located downtown, accessible by car or walk.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art

Explore American art through the ages at the Hunter Museum, offering kid-friendly tours to engage your family's creativity.
A 5-minute drive from coffee shop.
USD40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Chattanooga Zoo

Spend your last day appreciating wildlife at the Chattanooga Zoo, where children will love encountering animals up close.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD60, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Zaza Cafe

Delight in fresh, locally-sourced sandwiches at Zaza Cafe, known for its casual charm and family-friendly dining environment.
A short 15-minute drive from the zoo.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Southern Belle Riverboat

Experience a scenic cruise aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat, providing a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the views of the Tennessee River.
Return to downtown for the riverboat location.
USD120, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Moon Pie General Store

Finish your Chattanooga adventure with a visit to the Moon Pie General Store, where you can grab some iconic treats and enjoy a light dinner.
A 5-minute drive from the riverboat dock.
USD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability