Best Times to Visit Chattanooga, TN
Located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, along the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America’s most spectacular cities. The so-called “Scenic City” offers stunning natural landscapes, including Ruby Falls, the largest underground waterfall in the US, and Rock City, a mountaintop vista dotted with massive, ancient rock formations and over 400 native plant species.
With four distinct seasons, each bringing a unique charm, there’s always something going on in Scenic City. From dousing the summer heat with a paddle down the Tennessee River Gorge to celebrating winter holiday events, these are the best times to visit Chattanooga.
High Season: June to August
Best Time for Outdoor Adventures and Baseball
Summer is Chattanooga’s peak tourism season; thus, higher hotel prices and sweltering temperatures are to be expected. With temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C), one of the best ways to enjoy summer in Chattanooga is by paddling the Tennessee River Gorge in a canoe or kayak. At Lula Lake Land Trust, located on Lookout Mountain, you can embark on a hike filled with refreshing and scenic waterfalls. Additionally, summer is a prime time for baseball, as the city’s beloved Chattanooga Lookouts have been playing ball since 1885!
Shoulder Season: September to November
Best Time for Stunning Fall Foliage and Leaf Peeping
The top time to visit Chattanooga is in the fall, from September to November, when summer crowds dissipate, cooler temperatures make outdoor activities enjoyable, and the changing leaves create a stunning backdrop. Autumn is ideal for exploring Chattanooga’s natural wonders. Set off on the 4100ft-long walking trail that leads up Lookout Mountain, providing fantastic views of the city cloaked in its autumnal beauty. Stroll through the Tennessee Riverpark, spanning 150 acres along the river, or cross the longest pedestrian bridge in the world, the Walnut Street Bridge, connecting the southern and northern sides of the city. Moreover, fall is prime time for visiting the Chattanooga Market, where over 300 vendors sell local produce and handcrafted items.
Low Season: December to May
Best for Seasonal Outdoor Events and Museum Visits
Winter in Chattanooga features chilly temperatures and occasional rain, but it rarely dips below freezing. Notable annual holiday events, such as the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s North Pole Limited and the Holiday Trail of Lights, showcase the city adorned in millions of twinkling lights. Warm up with locally distilled whiskey at the Chattanooga Whiskey Co., a micro-distillery and tasting room.
Spring brings moderate temperatures and vibrant wildflowers. Explore five miles of walking and hiking trails along the South Chickamauga Creek at Audubon Acres Nature Sanctuary, renowned for its colorful wildflowers and songbirds, or delve into the Civil War-era history at Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, which encompasses 10,000 acres of preserved land.
Key Monthly Highlights
January
January can be brisk, with lows around 30°F (1°C) and highs barely reaching 55°F (12°C). Key events include Ice on the Landing at the Gardens at the Chattanooga Choo Choo.
February
February showcases winter’s final moments, with average highs around 51°F (11°C) and rainy weather. Key events feature the Romance at Ruby Falls.
March
In March, temperatures range from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C), typically accompanied by cloudy skies. The St. Patrick’s Day celebration at Rock City’s Shamrock City highlights Irish cuisine and entertainment. Key events include Rock City’s Shamrock City.
April
April marks the arrival of spring and the launch of the 4 Bridges Art Festival (4BAF) and the Chattanooga Market, running Sundays from 11am to 4pm through December.
May
May ushers in summer, presenting ideal weather for outdoor sports and water activities.
June
June features a plethora of festivals and free concerts, including the Nightfall Concert Series, which showcases live music every Friday from June through August.
July
As Chattanooga’s hottest month, July has an average high of 89°F (32°C). Key events feature Independence Day celebrations and various summer concerts.
August
August is sunny yet can be sweltering. Key events include the Chattanooga Bluegrass Festival and continuing summer concert series.
September
September marks the beginning of autumn in Chattanooga as crowds diminish and temperatures cool. The Moon River Music Festival highlights local culture and culinary delights.
October
October is peak leaf-peeping season. Oktoberfest festivities, featuring local craft brews, are among the highlight events.
November
With moderate temperatures and lesser crowds, November is an opportune time to enjoy Chattanooga — notable events include the Hike Bike Brew Festival and local marathon.
December
In December, Chattanooga dazzles with holiday lights and seasonal celebrations, including the North Pole Limited Christmas train and various holiday events.
