Lookout Mountain TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lookout Mountain, Tennessee.
1. Ruby Falls
SPECTACULAR UNDERGROUND WATERFALL
Ruby Falls features the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States, located 260 feet deep inside Lookout Mountain. Visitors descend by glass-front elevator and follow a guide-led walk through scenic cavern trails to reach the thundering waterfall. The attraction also offers spectacular views of the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River from scenic overlooks accessible with admission tickets.
2. Rock City
ENCHANTED MOUNTAIN GARDENS
Rock City offers an unforgettable journey along the Enchanted Trail where each step reveals natural beauty and wonders along the woodland path. This scenic mountain park features guided pathways, unique rock formations, and panoramic views that change with the seasons. Visitors can experience whimsical fairytale scenes, a swinging bridge, and a tranquil waterfall throughout the gardens.
3. Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
AMERICA'S MOST AMAZING MILE
The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway offers spectacular views as passengers travel up and down Lookout Mountain on one of the world's steepest passenger railways. Known as 'America's Most Amazing Mile,' this historic railway provides pure family fun and a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The railway serves as both a thrilling attraction and a practical transportation method to access Lookout Mountain's summit.
4. Rock City Gardens
NATURAL WONDER SHOWCASE
Rock City Gardens is an enchanting park featuring seasonal light displays, storybook trails, and natural wonders throughout the property. Highlights of this beloved attraction include a fairy tale cave, scenic waterfall, and an impressive suspension bridge. The gardens offer different experiences throughout the year, making each visit unique regardless of the season.
5. Lula Lake & Land Trust
PRISTINE NATURAL PRESERVE
Lula Lake & Land Trust preserves one of Lookout Mountain's most beautiful natural areas with hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. Visitors can explore trails leading to the base of impressive waterfalls or choose more challenging paths for greater adventure. The trust maintains this pristine nature and wildlife area for public enjoyment while focusing on environmental conservation.
6. Point Park
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
Point Park preserves the site of a significant Civil War battle on Lookout Mountain with spectacular views of Chattanooga valley. The park features historical markers, monuments, and educational displays explaining the 1863 Battle Above the Clouds. Visitors can walk through the stone entrance gate to explore the grounds where Union and Confederate forces once clashed.
7. Battles for Chattanooga Electric Map
INTERACTIVE CIVIL WAR HISTORY
The Battles for Chattanooga Electric Map offers an engaging presentation of the Civil War battles that took place around Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain. This educational attraction uses lights, sound, and a detailed terrain map to illustrate troop movements and battle strategies. Visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of how geography influenced these crucial military campaigns.
8. Ruby Falls High Point ZIP Adventure
TREETOP ZIPLINING EXPERIENCE
Ruby Falls High Point ZIP Adventure allows visitors to soar through the treetops on Lookout Mountain for a unique perspective of the landscape. This seasonal attraction operates from March through November, offering thrilling zipline experiences for adventure seekers. Participants glide above the forest canopy while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
9. Ruby Falls Treehouse
LUXURY FOREST ACCOMMODATION
Ruby Falls Treehouse offers visitors the opportunity to spend the night in a luxury treehouse nestled on Lookout Mountain. This unique accommodation combines the charm of treehouse living with modern amenities and comfort. Guests can enjoy a memorable overnight experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountain landscape.
10. Swing-A-Long Bridge
THRILLING MOUNTAIN CROSSING
The Swing-A-Long Bridge at Rock City provides visitors with a thrilling way to cross between rock formations on Lookout Mountain. This suspension bridge sways gently as visitors walk across, adding an element of adventure to the Rock City experience. From the bridge, guests can enjoy unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape and rock formations.
11. Seven States Flag Court
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWPOINT
Seven States Flag Court at Rock City offers one of the most impressive panoramic views in the southeastern United States. On clear days, visitors can see into seven different states: Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. The viewing area features state flags representing each visible state and informational markers about the distant landmarks.
12. Rocky Top Guides
EXPERT ROCK CLIMBING ADVENTURES
Rocky Top Guides offers rock climbing experiences on the incredible sandstone bluffs surrounding Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain. Their professional guide service provides all necessary rental gear including harnesses, helmets, and shoes for guided climbing tours. Climbers of all skill levels can learn 'the ropes' while enjoying the natural beauty of the region from a vertical perspective.
13. Lookout Mountain Castle
HISTORIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Lookout Mountain Castle, built in 1929, houses a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a casual meal surrounded by history and nature at Ruby Falls. The limestone castle offers a seasonal menu featuring meals, snacks, coffee, and local craft beer in a unique setting. Diners can make memories around the table while experiencing the historic atmosphere of this mountain landmark.
14. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
AMERICA'S OLDEST MILITARY PARK
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park preserves the sites of two major Civil War battles that were crucial in determining the outcome of the war. As America's oldest and largest military park, it encompasses over 9,000 acres of battlefields, monuments, and historic structures. Visitors can explore museum exhibits, take self-guided driving tours, and hike trails that follow the footsteps of Union and Confederate soldiers.
15. Tennessee Aquarium
RIVER JOURNEY EXPLORATION
The Tennessee Aquarium in nearby downtown Chattanooga showcases aquatic ecosystems from the mountains to the sea through immersive exhibits. Visitors can explore two distinct buildings: River Journey, which traces the path of freshwater from the mountains to the ocean, and Ocean Journey, featuring saltwater environments. The aquarium houses thousands of animals including otters, penguins, sharks, and a butterfly garden in a family-friendly setting just minutes from Lookout Mountain.