Chattanooga is a city that packs a punch when it comes to tours. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting, savoring local food scenes, or exploring hidden caves and historic sites, Chattanooga offers experiences that suit a variety of interests. We’re especially fond of the Ocoee River whitewater rafting trips — like the popular Ocoee River Middle Whitewater Rafting Trip — which combine thrilling rapids with scenic views of the Cherokee National Forest. If you prefer a more relaxed, foodie-focused day, the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour offers a delicious sampling of local and international dishes in small-group settings. For something uniquely memorable, the Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour lets you witness thousands of bats in their natural habitat, making it one of the most distinctive outings in town.
From high-octane adventures to spooky ghost hunts and educational museums, Chattanooga’s tours showcase the city’s natural beauty, thrilling history, and quirky attractions. Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking an adrenaline rush, or craving some history and local flavor, this city won’t disappoint.
1. Ocoee River Middle Whitewater Rafting Trip
This half-day adventure along the Ocoee River is a classic choice for thrill-seekers. No prior experience needed—just a willingness to get wet and hold on tight. The tour begins with a safety briefing before heading into the Cherokee National Forest for a scenic bus ride. Once on the river, you’ll navigate through more than 20 Class III and IV rapids, with some opportunities to swim if you’re feeling brave. The Cherokee National Forest backdrop adds an impressive natural touch, making each rapid feel even more dramatic. Guests consistently praise guides like Hunter, who takes time to accommodate partial disabilities while keeping the fun high.
This tour offers an excellent mix of adrenaline and scenic beauty at a reasonable price ($48). It’s perfect for first-timers or seasoned paddlers looking for a quick but memorable splash of Tennessee’s best whitewater. The bottom line: if you want an authentic, fun-filled rafting experience with top guides, this trip is hard to beat.
2. Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour
For those who prefer to explore a city through its food, the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour is a fantastic way to sample both local flavors and international cuisine. Over approximately three hours, you’ll visit up to four curated dining spots, from Wanderer at Hotel Indigo to Paloma Bar de Tapas, gaining insights into Chattanooga’s culinary scene. The tour includes options for wine pairings, making it a sophisticated yet fun experience. Guides like Sarah and Alex are praised for their personable approach and knowledge about the city’s food history.
The tour is limited to about 8 people, which keeps it intimate. With an admission price of $139, it offers good value, especially for those who want to taste a variety of dishes without the hassle of planning. Expect a mix of American gastropub, French-inspired, and Argentinean flavors—all in a walkable downtown setting. Bottom line: this tour is ideal for food lovers wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Chattanooga’s evolving culinary scene.
3. Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures
This 2-hour kayak tour offers a unique chance to watch endangered grey bats during their nightly hunts. The tour begins at Nickajack Lake, where your guide will provide full kayak equipment, including life jackets and throwbags. As sunset approaches, you’ll paddle to the Nickajack Bat Cave and Wildlife Refuge, learning about conservation efforts along the way. As thousands of bats take to the sky, you’ll witness a stunning natural spectacle that’s both educational and awe-inspiring.
Guests rave about guides like Luke and Anna, who blend humor with knowledge, making the experience both relaxing and informative. The $85.99 price offers excellent value, considering the rarity of the bat-watching opportunity. It’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure travelers eager to see something different in Chattanooga. The bottom line: a memorable, educational outing that combines quiet paddling with a spectacular wildlife display.
4. Middle Ocoee River Rafting Adventure Tour
At number 4, the Middle Ocoee River Rafting Adventure hits the mark for its scenic, yet exhilarating, whitewater experience. This 3-hour trip takes you through the Cherokee National Forest, where your guide will lead you through Class III and IV rapids. With a safety demonstration, you’ll learn to navigate the river while soaking in views of lush forests and rugged gorges. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 214 reviews, the trip’s popularity speaks volumes. Guides like Madison, Niki, and Drew are praised for their professionalism and ability to make everyone feel safe while having fun.
The tour offers excellent value at $45, considering the thrilling rapids and scenic surroundings. It’s suited for beginners with a sense of adventure and makes a great family outing. One guest noted, “We had a great trip with Madison. We are already trying to book our next!” This trip is a solid choice for adrenaline lovers who want to experience Tennessee’s premier whitewater without breaking the bank.
5. Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure
For those who love a full kayak adventure, the Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure offers more than five miles of paddling through the Cherokee National Forest. This 3.5-hour tour begins with a safety briefing and kayaking orientation. It’s designed for those eager to tackle 270-foot drops and Class III/IV waves in a single trip. All gear, including helmets and PFDs, is provided, and guides are CPR and First Aid certified.
Guests comment on guides like Josh Lemon, who make the experience fun and memorable. While some mention the cold weather, the overall consensus is that the adventure offers a genuine thrill in a beautiful setting. The value at $45 is excellent, considering the scenic journey and technical rapids. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with water sports. Bottom line: a comprehensive, exciting kayaking experience in one of Tennessee’s top river locations.
6. Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure With Catered Shore Lunch
This full-day rafting trip offers a more immersive experience of the Ocoee River, with 10 miles of rapids, including Class III and IV drops. It begins with a safety briefing, then takes you through scenic stretches and exciting whitewater. The highlight: a scenic riverside picnic lunch, included in the $110 price. Guides like Ryan and Ethan are praised for their expertise and fun attitude, making it a perfect choice for families or groups seeking a longer adventure.
Guests note the excellent organization and the opportunity to learn new skills while tackling the river’s challenging rapids. The trip lasts about five hours, making it ideal for those wanting a full day’s adventure. The bottom line: a well-rounded, adrenaline-filled rafting experience with a scenic lunch break in the middle.
7. Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure with a Riverside Lunch
For a full 6-hour excursion, the Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure with Riverside Lunch is hard to beat. This tour covers iconic rapids like Mikey’s and Blue Hole, with plenty of time for sightseeing and relaxing downstream. The included picnic lunch adds a nice touch for refueling after an exciting morning. It’s suitable for all levels thanks to detailed instruction and guided support.
Guests praise guides like Tim, who bring decades of experience, and the scenic beauty of the Cherokee National Forest. While the longer duration might be too much for some, it’s perfect for those craving an all-day adventure. The value at $110 compares well with similar trips, especially considering the comprehensive experience. Bottom line: an excellent choice for thrill-seekers looking for a full, scenic rafting day with food included.
8. Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour
If you’re into spooky stories and local legends, the Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour is a fun, slightly chilling way to explore Chattanooga’s darker side. Lasting about 1 hour 35 minutes, your guide will take you to haunted locations and share stories of spirits lurking in the city. This tour doesn’t go inside buildings but offers great photo opportunities and tales that could include supernatural beings.
Rated 4.5 with enthusiastic reviews, guests love the storytelling and atmosphere. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of history and ghost stories, especially on a cool evening. The $24.89 ticket price makes it an affordable and entertaining evening activity. Bottom line: a fun, spooky way to learn about Chattanooga’s ghostly past.
9. Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting
This more intense whitewater trip is suited for adventure lovers who want a longer, more challenging experience. The Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting tour emphasizes training, with guides holding EMR and Swiftwater Rescue certifications, giving extra confidence to participants. This 3-hour adventure delivers Class III and IV rapids with a focus on technical skills and safety.
Guests find the guides knowledgeable and capable, making this trip ideal for those seeking a more professional whitewater experience. The route is designed to push boundaries, with fewer sieves and undercuts typical in other waterways. The bottom line: for experienced thrill-seekers or those eager to learn advanced whitewater skills, this tour offers a memorable challenge.
10. Saving Christmas Escape Room in Chattanooga
During the holiday season, the Saving Christmas Escape Room offers a festive way to enjoy interactive fun without the crowds. In just about an hour, your team will work together to recover Santa’s sack and save Christmas. Themed around holiday cheer, this game is perfect for families or groups looking for a quick, engaging activity.
Rated 5 stars, guests comment on the fun theme and easy scheduling. The $31.99 price makes it an affordable, light-hearted break from sightseeing. It’s especially great if you want a team-building or family activity that’s active but not physically demanding. Bottom line: a cheerful, quick escape room experience ideal for holiday visits or small groups.
11. Sabotage: 1944
Travel back in time with Sabotage: 1944, an escape room that immerses you in wartime Chattanooga. Over 1 hour, your team will solve puzzles related to railroads and WWII espionage to prevent a train sabotage. This game is perfect for history buffs or groups wanting a story-driven challenge.
Rated 5.0 based on 72 reviews, players praise the engaging storyline and the way it incorporates regional history. It’s limited to 10 players, making it a manageable and intimate experience. The $39.99 cost offers good value for a highly interactive, story-rich activity. Bottom line: both history enthusiasts and puzzle lovers will find this escape room a compelling, educational adventure.
12. Chattanooga “Secret Agent” Escape Room Admission Ticket
Step into the shoes of a MI6 secret agent with this Chattanooga “Secret Agent” experience. Set in 1963 London, you’ll race against the clock to track down a villain in this one-hour gaming adventure. The experience is shared, making it suitable for friends or family.
Guests highlight the challenging puzzles and immersive atmosphere. The ticket price of $39.99 is reasonable for a well-designed escape room that combines history with problem-solving. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy a mix of storytelling and interactive gameplay. Bottom line: an engaging, themed activity that’s perfect for a quick, fun escape in Chattanooga.
13. National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga
Prebook your National Medal of Honor Heritage Center to explore the stories of valor behind America’s highest military award. With a flexible 1-3 hour visit, you can learn about Medal of Honor recipients and see engaging exhibits. The short introductory video offers context for the inspiring stories you’ll see.
Rated 5.0, visitors appreciate the well-curated exhibits and the easy access near downtown. The $13.95 ticket price makes it an educational highlight, especially for military history enthusiasts. It’s an ideal stop for a deeper understanding of heroism and sacrifice. Bottom line: a meaningful, family-friendly museum experience that offers insight into the courage of Medal of Honor recipients.
14. Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures
Kayak through the impressive Chickamauga Dam lock with this Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll paddle into the lock, watch the water levels change by about 50 feet, and then cruise back out. It’s a rare chance to experience the engineering marvel up close while enjoying a peaceful kayak trip.
Rated 5.0, guides like Zach and Brandon are praised for their patience and knowledge, making the experience accessible for beginners. The tour’s price of $85.99 offers a memorable, educational outing perfect for families or curious adventurers. The bottom line: a unique, hands-on way to see Chattanooga’s infrastructure and get some exercise at the same time.
15. Chattanooga “C-Block Prison Break” Escape Room Admission Ticket
Test your puzzle-solving skills in this prison-themed escape room. You and your team will work to break out of a Chattanooga jail in just over an hour. The realistic details and immersive environment make it an engaging challenge for families or groups of friends.
Rated 5.0 with comments on the energetic host Beizh, it’s a fun way to spend an hour and bond over clues. The $35.85 price is reasonable given the interactive experience. It’s perfect for small groups looking for a lively, team-oriented activity. Bottom line: a captivating puzzle experience with a regional twist.
16. Chattanooga “Locker Room Lockdown: Mascot Rescue” Escape Room Admission Ticket
Join the “Locker Room Lockdown” and help rescue the mascot in this hour-long escape room adventure. Combining puzzles, teamwork, and a fun theme, it’s engaging for kids and families alike. Multiple groups can participate at once, making it a lively activity after sightseeing.
Rated 5.0, players enjoy the mix of puzzles and the friendly staff like Priscilla and Taylor. At $39.99, it’s a good value for a memorable, fun-filled hour. Bottom line: perfect for those looking for a quick, family-friendly challenge in Chattanooga.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding on which tour to book in Chattanooga, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you’re craving adventure, the Ocoee River whitewater rafting trips and Full Ocoee River rafting are excellent choices, especially if you love thrills and scenic rivers. For food lovers, the Downtown Food Tour provides a relaxed, flavorful experience that showcases the city’s culinary diversity.
History buffs or those interested in the region’s culture will appreciate visits to the Medal of Honor Heritage Museum or the haunted Ghost Tour. Lastly, if you want a mix of outdoor fun and urban exploration, kayak trips such as the Nickajack Bat Cave and the Chickamauga Dam Lock** tours are perfect.
Booking early is advised during peak seasons, especially for popular whitewater trips and the food tour, which are limited in size. Think about your fitness level, interest in history or food, and whether you prefer high-energy activities or more relaxed outings. Chattanooga’s diverse tours make it easy to craft an itinerary tailored to your tastes.
Chattanooga offers a rich variety of tours — from adrenaline-pumping rapids to intriguing museums and spooky ghost walks. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, cultural insights, or fun family activities, you’ll find something memorable. For first-timers, the Ocoee whitewater rafting is a must, but don’t overlook the food tour for a more laid-back day. Planning ahead and booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these fantastic experiences. Happy exploring!