Think winter means hiding indoors? Well, think again. Chattanooga, Tennessee, flips the script on the cold-weather blues, trading them for misty mountain mornings, cozy riverfront evenings, and a festive energy that warms you right up.
This city has a knack for blending outdoor thrill with downtown chill, making it the perfect escape when the temperature drops.
Ready for an unforgettable season? We’re about to dive into the 14 best places to visit in Chattanooga this winter.
From dazzling light displays that belong in a storybook to breathtaking hikes with crowd-free views, this list has your perfect winter itinerary covered. Forget hibernation—your adventure in the Scenic City is just getting started.
1. Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights
Perched high on Lookout Mountain, Rock City transforms into a true winter spectacle. Its Enchanted Garden of Lights is far more than just a simple decoration display; it’s an immersive journey through a glowing, magical forest.
Imagine strolling along winding paths where over a million LED lights create the illusion of the shimmering aurora borealis right above you.
The experience runs nightly from mid-November through early January, giving you plenty of chances to catch the magic. You can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, and warm up with a delicious cup of hot cocoa.
It’s a quintessential Chattanooga winter experience that blends natural beauty with festive artistry, making for an evening you simply won’t forget.
2. Tennessee Aquarium’s Holidays Under the Peaks
Where else can you see an electric eel named Miguel light up a Christmas tree with his own jolts of electricity? At the Tennessee Aquarium’s Holidays Under the Peaks, the wonders of the underwater world meet the joy of the season.
This isn’t your typical holiday event. As you explore the freshwater and ocean journeys, you’ll discover festive decorations around every corner and might even spot Scuba Santa making a special appearance among the fish.
The aquarium becomes a warm, glowing escape from the winter chill, offering a perfect blend of education and celebration. It’s a fantastic, family-friendly way to spend a winter day in Chattanooga, creating memories that are both fun and fascinating.
3. Ice on the Landing
There’s something irresistibly festive about lacing up a pair of skates, and Ice on the Landing brings that classic winter joy right to the heart of downtown Chattanooga.
This open-air skating rink at the First Horizon Pavilion operates from late November through February, offering twinkling lights and a lively atmosphere.
Whether you’re a graceful glider or a total beginner clinging to the rail, it’s all about the fun. They even host themed skate nights for a little extra flair.
After working up an appetite, you can grab concessions from weekend food trucks or head to a nearby restaurant. For a picture-perfect winter night in Chattanooga, skating under the stars is an absolute must-do.
4. A Winter Hike on the Stringer’s Ridge Loop
Who says hiking season has to end? Winter is secretly one of the best times to hit the trails around Chattanooga. For an adventure incredibly close to downtown, the Stringer’s Ridge Loop is your go-to.
This 3.5-mile moderate trail is a 92-acre urban wilderness park, offering serene winter woods and one of the best payoffs in the city: a stunning deck overlooking the Chattanooga skyline.
With fewer bugs, less humidity, and clearer views from the lookouts, you’ll get a fresh perspective on the Scenic City. It’s a brilliant way to embrace the crisp air and see why Chattanooga in winter is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
5. The Chattanooga Holiday Market
Forget crowded malls and generic gifts. To find something truly special, you need to visit the Chattanooga Holiday Market. Held over select weekends in December at the Convention Center, this vibrant showcase features over 200 local vendors.
You can browse an incredible array of handmade pottery, original art, artisan jewelry, gourmet foods, and unique apparel—all while supporting the talented people who call this region home.
With live holiday music filling the air and no entry fee, it’s more than just shopping; it’s a joyful community celebration. Finding the perfect gift here feels good, making it a top spot for holiday shopping in Chattanooga.
6. A Scenic Ride on the North Pole Limited
All aboard for pure holiday magic! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum runs the beloved North Pole Limited, a festive train ride that delights kids and kids-at-heart.
As the historic train chugs along on its roundtrip journey, you’ll sip hot chocolate, munch on cookies, and enjoy the wintry scenery.
The big moment comes when Santa himself boards the train to visit every child, spreading cheer and handing out a special keepsake ornament.
Running on select dates from November through December, this is a heartwarming tradition that makes for an unforgettable family activity in Chattanooga during the winter months.
7. The Asian Lantern Festival at the Chattanooga Zoo
The Chattanooga Zoo undergoes a stunning metamorphosis each winter for the Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy. As dusk falls, the zoo comes alive with hundreds of magnificent, handcrafted lanterns depicting dragons, unicorns, woodland creatures, and fantastical scenes.
It’s a dazzling, interactive walk-through experience that feels completely different from a daytime zoo visit. The displays are new each year, so even if you’ve been before, there’s more wonder to discover.
Open from late November through mid-January, this glowing spectacle offers one of the most unique and visually stunning things to do in Chattanooga in winter.
8. Waterfall Hunting at Foster Falls
Winter is the prime season for waterfall chasing in Tennessee, thanks to seasonal rains that make the cascades roar. A premier destination for this is the Fiery Gizzard Trail, which leads to the spectacular Foster Falls.
The 50-foot waterfall plunging into a serene basin is a powerful and beautiful sight in the winter months. The cool, crisp air heightens the experience, and you might even be treated to the rare sight of frozen falls.
With the summer foliage gone, the views of the surrounding gorge are even more dramatic. For a nature-filled day trip, seeking out these winter waterfalls is a top Chattanooga winter activity.
9. Creative Discovery Museum’s Winter Playland
When you need a break from the cold, the Creative Discovery Museum is the perfect warm and engaging haven for families.
During the winter, it hosts its special Winter Playland with seasonal programs, cookie decorating, and festive events like PJs with Santa.
Kids can spend hours exploring the hands-on exhibits focused on science, art, and music, all while staying perfectly cozy indoors.
It’s a fantastic option for a rainy or particularly chilly day, ensuring the fun never stops. Checking their online calendar for special holiday hours and events is a great way to plan your visit.
10. Strolling the EPB Holiday Windows
For a dose of free, old-fashioned charm, take a stroll through downtown to see the EPB Holiday Windows. This beloved local tradition transforms the windows of the EPB headquarters on Market Street into enchanting, animated displays that tell festive stories.
It’s a simple yet utterly delightful activity. You can grab a coffee, wander at your own pace, and admire the scenes that blend timeless traditions with a touch of modern flair.
Running from late November through New Year’s Day, these windows add a layer of magic to any downtown visit and are a lovely, low-key way to soak in the holiday spirit in Chattanooga.
11. Rock Climbing at Tennessee Wall
Here’s a local secret: winter is arguably the best time for rock climbing in Chattanooga. With mild average highs in the mid-50s, the crisp air is ideal for physical activity.
Head about 30 minutes from downtown to the Tennessee Wall (“T-Wall”), a world-class sandstone cliff with over 600 routes facing the southwest sun.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the winter sun provides perfect climbing conditions and incredible, clear views of the Tennessee River Gorge. It’s an epic way to experience the region’s famous natural beauty and get your adrenaline pumping on a cool, sunny day.
12. NoogaLights in Soddy-Daisy
If you’re captivated by holiday lights, make the short trip to NoogaLights in Soddy-Daisy. This drive-thru spectacle offers a brand-new experience for 2025: special Walk-Thru Nights where you can leave the car and stroll through the glowing wonderland.
On other nights, you can cozy up in your vehicle and enjoy the show from the comfort of your seat. With fresh upgrades and dazzling displays, it’s a fantastic and flexible option for families, especially with little ones.
Open from late November through December, it’s a surefire way to light up your eyes and fill your evening with cheer.
13. The Lula Lake Land Trust
For a winter hike that feels exclusive and incredibly serene, the Lula Lake Land Trust on Lookout Mountain is a treasure.
This privately preserved area opens to the public on select weekends (typically the first and last of the month) through a reservation system, which keeps the crowds away.
For a small conservation fee, you gain access to over eight miles of trails leading to two beautiful waterfalls, a pristine lake, and stunning overlooks.
The winter landscape here is quiet and majestic, offering a peaceful escape into nature that feels a world away from everything.
14. New Year’s Eve on the Riverfront
Ring in the new year with a bang in Chattanooga! The city hosts a fantastic, free, family-friendly celebration at Coolidge Park on the riverfront.
The party starts in the afternoon with a family fun zone, followed by live music from local bands playing everything from rock to country. There are food trucks, festive drinks, and even a special early countdown for kids.
As midnight approaches, the whole community comes together for the main event: a dazzling fireworks display launched over the Tennessee River. It’s a vibrant, joyful, and unforgettable way to welcome the new year surrounded by the scenic beauty of Chattanooga.
Conclusion
Chattanooga in winter isn’t just a destination; it’s a mood. It’s the feeling of gliding on an ice rink downtown, the awe of standing before a roaring waterfall, and the warmth of a community celebrating the season.
This list proves that the Scenic City shines brightest when the days grow short.
Your winter adventure is calling. Pick your favorite spots from this guide, bundle up, and head to Chattanooga to create your own sparkling seasonal memories. Don’t just dream about a perfect winter getaway—experience it.