Planning a getaway to Chattanooga during the colder months? Chattanooga in winter offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and cozy indoor attractions! With fewer crowds and crisp air, winter is an ideal time to explore the area and enjoy everything it has to offer. Here are some of the top things to do near Chattanooga in winter:
1. Go Ice Skating
One of the best things to do in Chattanooga in winter is ice skating. Ice on the Landing is the city’s seasonal outdoor ice skating rink, located near the Tennessee River. This activity brings classic winter fun to Chattanooga! You can glide across the ice on the open-air rink under the protective cover of the pavilion. With twinkling lights, scenic views, and a lively atmosphere, this is the perfect winter activity for all ages!
2. Enjoy Scenic Winter Views at Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain is breathtaking all year round, but winter offers a quieter, more peaceful experience. Clear skies provide incredible panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley, and popular attractions like Rock City and the Incline Railway feel more intimate during the off-season. Whether you’re capturing photos or simply soaking in the scenery, Lookout Mountain is a must-see when visiting Chattanooga in winter!
3. Take a Winter Hike
A can’t-miss activity near Chattanooga in winter is hiking. The cooler temperatures make it easier to tackle scenic trails without the summer heat, and bare trees reveal stunning views that would otherwise be hidden. Some of the popular winter hiking spots include Signal Point, Stingers Ridge, and Sunset Rock. Just make sure you dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and check trail conditions before you head out!
4. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium
When the temperatures drop, you can head indoors to explore one of Chattanooga’s top attractions! The Tennessee Aquarium is perfect for a cold winter day, offering fascinating exhibits that showcase freshwater and saltwater life from around the world. From playful river otters to majestic butterflies, there’s something for everyone during your visit! This is one of the best attractions that you won’t want to miss when you visit Chattanooga in winter!
5. Explore Ruby Falls
Winter is a fantastic time to visit Ruby Falls! Located deep inside Lookout Mountain, this underground waterfall and caverns stay at a comfortable temperature year-round, making this a great escape from the cold! Guided cave tours provide interesting information about the stunning rock formations and waterfall. During the winter, this iconic attraction often sees fewer crowds, making your visit more peaceful and enjoyable.
6. Warm Up with a Hot Meal at Buddy’s bar-b-q
After a day of adventures near Chattanooga this winter, there’s nothing better than warming up with a hearty meal! Stop by Buddy’s bar-b-q in Hixson for comforting Southern barbecue favorites. From juicy pulled pork and ribs to savory sides and homemade desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Our Hixson restaurant is the perfect place to relax and refuel, nestled away from the crowds just outside of Chattanooga.
Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a meal to go, Buddy’s bar-b-q is a must-visit stop during your Chattanooga winter trip! Stop by our Hixson barbecue restaurant and see for yourself why you’ll love warming up with a hearty barbecue meal this winter!
