Outdoor Events & Activities in Chattanooga

From riverfront festivals to mountain hikes, Chattanooga earns its "Scenic City" nickname. Here's what's happening outdoors.

Get outdoor picks every Thursday

Weekend events with weather notes, parking tips, and links. Free.

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Chattanooga Renaissance Faire

May 23 · Coolidge Park · Festival Outdoor Family

Renaissance faire at one of Chattanooga's best outdoor venues. Costumes, performances, artisan vendors. Same day as Frazier Festival on Frazier Ave — the North Shore will be full all day.

Frazier Festival

May 23 · 22 Frazier Ave, North Shore · Festival Free

Annual North Shore street festival. Outdoor vendors, live music, local food. Free entry. Arrive before noon if you want parking.

River Games Chattanooga 2026

201 Riverfront Pkwy · Sports Water

Outdoor water sports competition along the riverfront. Kayaking, paddleboarding, river activities. Free to watch, participate with registration.

7 Bridges Marathon

400 River Street · Running Active

Chattanooga's scenic marathon — crosses seven bridges along the Tennessee River. Multiple race distances. One of the most scenic urban courses in the southeast.

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center

Daily · 400 Garden Rd · Nature Hike

300-acre arboretum with native wildlife, hiking trails, and guided nature walks. Spring wildflower season is peak right now. $12 includes arboretum access.

Chattanooga Market

Sundays · First Tennessee Pavilion · 10 AM–4 PM · Market Free

The region's largest outdoor market. Produce, crafts, food vendors, live music. Covered pavilion — runs rain or shine.

Lookout Mountain

Daily · Multiple trailheads · Hike Views

Multiple trail systems including Guild-Hardy, Cravens House, and Sunset Rock. Spring is the best season — wildflowers, moderate temps, and views of the valley before summer haze sets in.

Outdoor plans made easy

Every Thursday we round up the best outdoor events with weather context and parking tips.

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Updated: May 2, 2026. Submit an outdoor event →