Chattanooga is a city that offers more than just scenic views of the Tennessee River and Lookout Mountain. Its streets echo stories of daring deeds, ghostly encounters, and culinary traditions rooted in history. For those interested in digging deeper into the city’s past, Chattanooga provides some compelling options. We especially enjoy tours that blend storytelling with authentic local experiences — like the Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour, which brings to life the spooky side of the city, or the National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum, which honors military heroes in a very personal way. Whether you’re a fan of ghost stories or want to understand the valor of Medal of Honor recipients, Chattanooga’s tours have something for all.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three top-rated tours that showcase Chattanooga’s history from different angles:
– A haunted ghost tour that uncovers the city’s dark past with spine-tingling stories and ghost-hunting opportunities.
– An immersive museum visit that highlights the heroism of Medal of Honor recipients, perfect for history and military enthusiasts.
– A food-focused tour that offers a taste of Chattanooga’s past through its local eateries and their stories.
Read on for detailed insights into each experience and find the one that fits your interests and schedule.
1. Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour
At number 1, the Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour stands out for its engaging mix of history and spine-tingling storytelling. For just $24.89 per person, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 35 minutes exploring downtown Chattanooga’s most haunted sites with a knowledgeable local guide. This tour doesn’t go inside buildings; instead, it focuses on the outside architecture, with intriguing stories of ghostly apparitions and dark deeds that have left their mark on the city. It’s a great choice if you’re interested in Chattanooga’s spooky legends and want to capture eerie photos of haunted locations.
What makes this tour special is its reputation as one of the scariest haunted history tours in town, according to reviews. Participants have praised guides like Jess and Jason for their storytelling skills and their ability to make spirits and history come alive. The tour also offers the possibility to snap photos of potential supernatural beings, adding a fun, interactive element. While it’s not a long tour, its high-energy stories and atmospheric stops make it a memorable experience. Perfect for those who enjoy a thrill with a side of history.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a fun, spooky walk that combines local lore with some chilling tales, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
2. National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga
Next on our list is the National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum, which costs $13.95 per person. This immersive museum experience is ideal for visitors interested in military history and stories of incredible bravery. Located in downtown Chattanooga, the museum offers a short introductory film followed by self-guided exploration of exhibits dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients. The museum is designed to connect visitors with the meaning of heroism through powerful stories and artifacts, giving a personal look at individual acts of courage.
What sets this attraction apart is its focus on real-life heroism and the stories behind the medals. Visitors consistently praise the engaging narration and the opportunity to learn about famous recipients and their heroic deeds. It’s a flexible option, allowing you to spend anywhere from one to three hours exploring at your own pace, making it suitable for both quick visits and more in-depth learning. The museum’s central location also makes it easy to combine with other downtown activities.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in the history of heroism and want a meaningful, educational experience, this museum offers a well-curated look at America’s bravest.
3. Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga
Finally, for a taste of Chattanooga’s culinary history, the Historic Southside Food Tour is a fantastic choice. For $129 per person, you spend about three hours sampling local foods and learning about their history from talented guides. This tour takes you beyond just eating; it dives into the stories behind the buildings, owners, and dishes from some of the city’s most iconic spots.
Highlights include visits to Taqueria Jalisco, where you learn about the family-owned restaurant’s journey from food truck to Mexican restaurant legend, and Slick’s Burgers, housed in a converted airstream. You’ll also experience Chattanooga’s micro distillery and a butcher shop with over 350 bourbon options. The tour’s strength lies in its combination of food, history, and local culture — making it perfect for curious travelers who love tasting history along the way.
Guests frequently comment on the authenticity and quality of the food, as well as the engaging stories from guides like Renauld and Briana. It’s a more indulgent, relaxed experience, suited for those who enjoy gastronomic history and a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: If you’re a food lover eager to connect local flavors with Chattanooga’s history, this tour offers a deliciously different perspective.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If you love ghost stories and a thrill, the haunted night walk provides spine-tingling fun. For those interested in military heroism and meaningful stories, the Medal of Honor museum offers an educational, reflective experience. Foodies or casual explorers may prefer the Southside Food Tour, which combines history with tasty bites.
Consider your budget: the haunted tour and museum are quite affordable, while the food tour is more of an investment in a longer, more immersive experience. Check the weather and season, as outdoor ghost walks are best in mild weather, and advance booking is recommended especially for popular tours.
Chattanooga’s diverse range of historical tours means there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing spirits, honoring heroes, or tasting history through local dishes, these experiences will deepen your appreciation of the city’s past. For best results, book early — especially for popular tours — and enjoy discovering Chattanooga’s stories, one step or story at a time.