5-Day Family Adventure in Chattanooga, TN: Outdoor Fun, History & Great Food

Day 1: Downtown Exploration

Chattanooga, TN on June 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bluegrass Grill

Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast featuring farm-fresh ingredients and homemade biscuits, located conveniently near downtown. The restaurant opens at 7:00AM, perfect for an early start.
USD20 per person, 1h

9:30AM

Tennessee Aquarium

Explore both the river and ocean journeys at this world-class aquarium, home to diverse aquatic species and interactive exhibits. Open daily 9:00AM-7:00PM.
USD35 per adult, USD22 per child, 2h30m

12:30PM

Lunch at Mellow Mushroom

Enjoy creative stone-baked pizzas and a variety of refreshing salads at this vibrant downtown eatery known for its quirky decor and friendly vibe.
USD15-20 per person, 1h

2:00PM

Walnut Street Bridge Walk

Stroll the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges, offering stunning views of the Tennessee River and city skyline.
Free, 1h

3:30PM

Coolidge Park Relaxation

Enjoy relaxing at this scenic riverside park featuring a vintage carousel and picnic areas, ideal for family downtime.
Free, 1h

6:00PM

Dinner at St. John's Restaurant

Dine at this upscale restaurant offering refined Southern cuisine and an extensive wine list, perfect to taste local flavors in a charming setting.
USD40-60 per person, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lookout Mountain Adventure

Chattanooga, TN on June 22, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Mean Mug Coffeehouse & Eatery

Enjoy delicious locally roasted coffee and a variety of breakfast classics to fuel your day at Lookout Mountain. Opens at 7:00AM.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:00AM

Rock City Gardens

Visit Rock City’s unique rock formations and panoramic Lookout Mountain views, including the famous Lover’s Leap. Open 9:00AM-5:00PM.
USD29.95 per adult, USD29.95 per child, 2h

11:30AM

Ruby Falls

Explore the underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain on a guided tour showcasing stunning natural beauty. Open 9:00AM-6:00PM.
USD27.95 per adult, USD17.95 per child, 1h30m

1:30PM

Lunch at Café on the Corner

Relax at this cozy spot serving Southern comfort dishes such as fried chicken and homemade sides, located nearby Lookout Mountain.
USD15-20 per person, 1h

3:00PM

Incline Railway Ride

Ride the world’s steepest passenger railway up and down Lookout Mountain, enjoying spectacular scenic views. Runs 10:00AM-7:00PM.
USD15 per person round trip, 1h

6:00PM

Dinner at Sugar’s Ribs

End the day with rustic barbecue and southern flavors at this highly recommended local spot known for tender ribs and friendly atmosphere.
USD20-25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Nature & Art District

Chattanooga, TN on June 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Milk & Honey

Start with artisan coffee and fresh pastries in this cozy, chic cafe near downtown. Opens at 7:30AM.
USD12-18 per person, 1h

9:30AM

Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park

Tour one of the oldest and largest national military parks, exploring historical battlefields and scenic trails. Visitors center open 9:00AM-5:00PM.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at The Farmer & The Larder

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients, in a relaxed setting near the art district.
USD20-30 per person, 1h

1:30PM

Bluff View Art District

Stroll this charming neighborhood filled with galleries, sculpture gardens, and cafes like Rembrandt’s coffee shop. Great for art lovers and casual walkers.
Free, 2h

4:00PM

Cool down at Ross's Landing

Relax by the riverfront park with fountains, walking paths, and beautiful sunset views.
Free, 1h

6:30PM

Dinner at Public House Chattanooga

Savor refined Southern fare emphasizing local seasonal ingredients in a stylish downtown setting.
USD30-45 per person, 1h30m
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Day 4: Family Fun & Science

Chattanooga, TN on June 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aretha Frankensteins

Enjoy creative and hearty breakfast options like waffle stacks and egg dishes in an eclectic, welcoming atmosphere. Opens at 7:00AM.
USD15-20 per person, 1h

9:30AM

Creative Discovery Museum

Interactive and hands-on exhibits designed for children and families to explore science, art, and music. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD14.95 per person, 2h30m

12:00PM

Lunch at Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Enjoy pub-style meals with a focus on fresh ingredients near the riverfront, perfect for families.
USD15-25 per person, 1h

1:30PM

Riverwalk & Greenway Trails

Explore miles of paved trails along the Tennessee River ideal for walking, biking, and scenic views.
Free, 2h

4:00PM

Hunter Museum of American Art

Visit this museum perched above the river showcasing American art across centuries with beautiful outdoor sculpture gardens. Open 10:00AM-5:00PM.
USD15 per adult, USD7 per child, 1h30m

6:30PM

Dinner at Tupelo Honey

Southern comfort food with modern twists featuring locally sourced ingredients in a lively setting.
USD25-35 per person, 1h30m
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Day 5: Leisure & Departure

Chattanooga, TN on June 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Daily Ration

Grab fantastic coffee and chef-driven breakfast dishes to start your final day. Opens 7:30AM.
USD12-18 per person, 1h

9:30AM

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Take a historic train ride or explore the exhibits showcasing the rich railroad heritage of the area. Check schedule for train rides; museum open 9:00AM-5:00PM.
USD15 per adult, USD10 per child, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Community Pie

Enjoy casual dining focused on creative wood-fired pizzas made from scratch, perfect for fueling before departure.
USD15-20 per person, 1h

1:30PM

Shopping in Walnut Street Downtown

Browse unique local boutiques and souvenir shops along Walnut Street perfect for last-minute gifts and mementos.
Varies, 1h30m
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