Is your heart craving some natural beauty that will help you relax? Why don’t you visit Fiji, situated in the middle of nowhere, not exactly nowhere! You will forget all your worries with the endless South Pacific around you. Want to know what are the things to do in Fiji?
A travel destination that is nothing short of heaven, Fiji is home to 333 tropical islands. It is in the middle of the South Pacific, with authentic flavors, enticing culture, and beautiful nature. Read the article to learn more about what to do when in Fiji!
There are a variety of activities that travelers can experience with the abundant collection of flora and fauna. There is also the tribal culture for you to experience unique and thrilling events.
You Won’t Believe When I Say About The Best Things To Do In Fiji!
Fiji is more than just a travel destination. Instead, you will experience an authentic culture when you visit Fiji. If you are traveling from the US, you do not need a visa; your stay can be as long as four months.
You can book tickets on the 10 hours long direct flight from Los Angeles to Fiji. The destination in Fiji is Nadi International Airport; hence, if you live closer to Los Angeles, you are in luck. However, if you live elsewhere, you must travel to Los Angeles and then fly.
Fiji Airways and Air New Zealand are two airlines that operate in Fiji, and they both offer regular flights daily if you travel from the USA, Europe, or the UK. You could visit Fiji between May and September to experience clear blue skies.
You can go between October to April if you want to experience the rain. However, you do stand at the risk of experiencing a storm or cyclone. Some of the best resorts in Fiji are Sheraton Resort & Spa, situated on Tokoriki Island, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, and others.
1.Go For A Safari To The Sigatoka River!
The Sigatoka River Safari is very entertaining. It takes you around the Sigatoka River Valley, where you can visit villages, eat Fijian delicacies, drink Kava or Yaqona, a sedative and narcotic Figian drink, and dance. The drink is made with the crushed root of Yaqona and further strained with water.
The safari also includes coastal Inland Tours, including a river cruise, The Cannibals Cave Tour, or visiting a waterfall. The river safari lasts 4 hours, including the Kava ceremony in the local villages, where people drink from a big communal bowl.
A busy market is situated at the banks of the Sigatoka River across 4 km inland! You can visit this hub which gives glimpses of urban life in the provinces of Fiji. The market has small-scale shops creating a strong and bustling network of sellers and curry restaurants.
There is also the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park to visit if you want something exciting. The dunes are spread across 650 hectares while stretching across 3 km at the mouth of the river. You can have some fantastic views, especially when the dunes rise to 80m in some places.
2. Visit Kula Wild Adventure Park
One of the largest collections of native wildlife is boasted by Kula Eco Park, situated in a temperate forest. Tourists can use boardwalks to walk around and explore the wilderness. The collection of water birds, doves, patrons, and reptiles is to look for!
There are reptile enclosures, a reef fish aquarium, and aviary cages where the huge crested iguanas are the highlight considering they are only found in limited islands in Fiji such as Yasawa and Vanua Levu. Marine displays such as soft and hard corals, tropical fish, and ocean turtles exist.
3.Stroll Around The Garden Of The Sleeping Giant!
The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is 35 acres of rainforest that acts as an adventure park. There are zip wires which are used by travelers, mostly adventure junkies, who can fly across the jungle through these at a speed of 60 km per hour.
Also, there are ropes for swinging, pools for swimming, and you can also spot parrots. There are waterfalls to which you can walk around, or you can also get a 1 hour guided walk, a part of the package when you buy the entrance tickets.
The adventure park was founded by the actor Raymond Burr, also known as Perry Mason! A collection of flowering plants, orchids, and trees spread across the gentle trails across the landscape.
The park is situated just north of Nadi, so you can also take a guided tour to Nadi to experience the culture there. You can also take a dip in the thermal pools, which are pretty restorative!
4. Explore Nadi
One of the most authentic places to visit in Fiji is Nadi, a multicultural town with the perfect feel of the vibrant culture. You can enjoy the place, explore the shops, relish some authentic and native drinks, and eat delicious cuisine. So to answer, things to do in Nadi Fiji, read along!
A live tourism spot, Nadi creates opportunities for some of the most exciting things to do in Fiji. You can try the zip lining experience with Zip Fiji’s newest ziplining expertise, which only lasts 35 minutes and creates a beautiful and exciting adventure.
There are 5 km of zip lines across the canyons, mountain tops, and caves. If you like speed, you will love this experience as they create a jaw-dropping experience where you can take in the breathtaking ocean views and the limestone cave exploration. What can be more exciting than experiencing 3 diverse ecosystems?
There is also the Tifajek Mud Pool & Hotspring and Sabeto Hot Spring Mud Pool and Tours for you to dip and relax! Further, you can explore the souvenir market, which is open-air, where you will find cannibal forks, hand-painted clothes, wooden kava bowls, and others.
5.Try Sea-Kayaking!
Sea-Kayaking is one of the best things to do in Fiji! Sea-Kayaks are available in every resort for the guests to experience the beautiful sea and are usually addressed as a complimentary activity.
It is important to inform someone of your attempting the activity and wear a life jacket because it is important that you are safe. A sudden squall storm or dangerous current might be a risk. Hence, informing your resort regarding your activities would be best.
One of the best experiences you can get for Kayaking is visiting the Lavena Coastline, situated on Taveuni within the Bouma National Heritage Park. You will need to make a half-day trip to the coastline.
You can also access packages inclusive of camping on the beaches, snorkeling at the lagoons, overnight visits at villages, and Kayaking offered by two companies Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions and South Sea Ventures. The packages will give you a wholesome experience, along with helping you save some money.
6.Enjoy A Stunning View After Hiking The Waya Island
If you are in Fiji for stunning views of nature, worry not! We have got you covered. Waya Island is one of the most beautiful locales to offer spectacular views with its photogenic views and amazing hiking trails. Hiking is one of the things to do in Fiji island.
You will find rock protrusions, fantastic collections of flora and fauna, and ridges with knife edges, creating a beautiful view of the island. These elements create a picture where it seems as if a giant is peering from the island, floating in the sea, and slanting back!
There is the Octopus Resort situated on the northwest coast, where you can start your walking trails along the hills with or without a guide exploring the interiors of the island.
There is also a beautiful, unguided coastal walk you can enjoy with your partner or family. It is completely safe and offers a wonderful experience.
7. Walk Through The Fijian Markets
Wondering what to do in Fiji? If you are a people person, you must visit the Fijians Market as it is a mesmerizing place with exotic seafood, vegetables, and fruit collection. Due to heavy import duties, you might not find fashion and expensive lifestyle products.
Isolation is another factor that might make you feel that there is a lack of fashion and design, yet you must visit the urban municipal markets. Filled up to the brim with local produce, designs, and native culture, you will experience a mix of character, authenticity, and exoticism.
If you are one of those travelers who love connecting with the place when you visit, the handicrafts and local produce will steal your heart and money! (wink)
8. Live At Savusavu
The significant tourist center in Vanua Levu, Suvasavu, is the place to be if you want to experience rolling hills, sunsets, and a chilling beer.
There is a perfect place for scuba diving in the Namena Lagoon while Yachts anchor around Savusavu, creating the ideal locale for experiencing a social hub.
Many bars and restaurants on the waterfront create a perfect place for a romantic dinner or family outing. so, it is one of the best places to visit in Fiji! You can also take a peaceful walk around the Savusavu hills. Good options for fishing in the bay can also be attempted.
9. Attempt Snorkeling!
Have you ever tried snorkeling? It is one of the best experiences to have if you are an adventure lover. With vibrant coral reefs across most of Fiji islands, you should try snorkeling and scuba diving to explore diverse fish species.
Diving is available the whole year. However, it is the best experience, especially during October and November. The corals across Fiji are world known, especially due to their nutrient-rich channels spread between the larger islands such as Beqa Lagoon, Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and the rainbow reef.
10.Turn Up At The Fijian Meke Dance Night!
If you visit Fiji, you must attend the classic Figian night out, where the feast is complete with the underground oven-roasted pig. There is a song and traditional dance involved, which is called make. The tradition has been passed down through generations, thus, creating specific artistic expressions for Fijians.
The music that people enjoy on the dance night includes rhythmic clapping and chanting and the addition of Lali drum hits and bamboo sticks. Lali is a hollowed wood that is used in creating the rhythm. Recently, ukulele and guitar have also been introduced at dance nights.
Group dancing includes males or females; however, in recent times, the pakalolo dance has been introduced, where both males and females can dance together.
11.Take A Dive In Beqa Lagoon With The Sharks!
Do you want to check out tiger and bull sharks? Visit Beqa Island, situated south of Pacific Harbour, some 12 km away, and experience the shark-feeding dive-off. You will see some mean-looking sharks, such as Silvertips, sickle-fin lemon sharks, bull sharks, reef sharks, and tawny nurse sharks.
If you want one of the safest experiences, go with the Beqa Adventure Divers and Aqua Trek Beqa, as they claim the highest safety records. Apart from the sharks, you can also have a peaceful diving experience in the lagoons when Shark-feedoff is closed.
12.Try Skydiving!
Want to experience an adrenaline rush? Go and try skydiving in Fiji! Jump off the planes to ride the waves of the clouds and experience the beautiful view of Fiji from up above! Free fall and experience Fiji’s sandy beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise waters, creating a grandiose visual experience.
It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you must not miss at any cost. You will be charged somewhere around $300, which can go up to $650. The Skydive Fiji was established in 2004, and its safety record is among the highest.
Have an exhilarating experience with supporting staff on the ground and in the air. There are licensed pilots and instructors who ensure that people have an understanding of a lifetime of collecting priceless memories.
13. Have A Go At Birdwatching!
Carry your binoculars and travel feet! Fiji has a collection of exotic bird species, including the red-throated lorikeet and rare collared lory. Some endangered bird species can also be found; hence, lovers of aviaries or bird enthusiasts, plan that trip and explore the thick Kula WILD Adventure Park!
Conclusion
Fiji is never disappointing! Do you think you can be bored with such a variety of things to do in Fiji? It is a haven for travelers, especially the ones who are easily inspired by nature, attracted to the sea, and in love with mountains.
I have often realized that places with diverse ecosystems are perfect for people who are wanderers by nature. Fiji embraces travelers with all its beauty and diverse culture, so do not miss out on it!
Start planning and comment below to let us know about your choice of thing to do in Fiji!
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
Tahiti is one of the French Polynesian countries, which is largely known as a paradise for the French people and the rest of the world. Hence, every year, thousands and thousands of tourists visit Tahiti to bathe in the warm sun near the sea. Not only that but brilliant seafood, which shows the meeting point of indigenous culture and French cuisine.
So, if you are a vagabond like us and looking to find a new version of yourself, visiting Tahiti can be the solution for you. From warm beaches to hospitable people and brilliant nightlife, you get everything you want. Pack your bags, and let us sail to see the best landscape on the face of the earth.
Things To Do In Tahiti
Tahiti has many beautiful beaches and places to see, but you are not a Schrodinger’s cat and are available everywhere. That’s why, we will recommend places to visit and things to do in those places, as stated by Tahiti Travel Services -
La Plage de Maui
Most of the area in Tahiti is known for its volcanic black hue, La Plage de Maui is one of the places where you can see white beaches. It's one of the places that attracts customers from all over the world and sees the clear water and nearby lagoon. Hence, it makes the best place to visit your family and friends.
Besides, at La Plage de Maui, you can taste brilliant seafood, which is absolutely fresh and exquisite in every bite. It is another reason why tourists love the place, and visit every year to taste brilliant fishes and lobsters. Lastly, if you are an amateur snorkeler, you can visit the place and enjoy the beautiful crystal-clear water.
Fautaua Valley
Tahiti is a country for all seasons. You can visit during the rainy season from November to April to see Fautaua Waterfall. You can hike up the Fautaua Valley to see the dramatic nature of the waterfall. To reach the waterfall, you have to pass through Cascade de Fachoda to see the 450-foot waterfall, which turns into a big pool.
Therefore, if you are an adventure seeker, you can visit Fauntana Valley, embrace the beautiful natural wonders, and breathe in fresh air in your lungs. In many cases, the valley has steep slopes, so it's better to wear close-toed shoes. That way, you can complete the hike within the sunfall.
Moorea
How about having your lunch in Moorea? It is one of the sister islands of Tahiti, where you have to visit Te Honu Iti, which serves the most delicious food. Moreover, their service is brilliant and incredibly friendly.
Moorea has more rugged terrain than Tahiti and jaw-dropping scenic beauty, with Magic Mountain being the biggest attraction. You can hike up the mountain or take a bike to see the panoramic view from the top. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you might see sharks.
Plage du Taharuu
If you want to recreate the scenes of Vikings, then visiting Plage du Taharuu is a must. The volcanic black sands and palm trees will give a glimpse of solitude and atonement. Consequently, you can take your kids and other family members to play beach ball and swim around the area.
Moreover, Taharuu Beach is clean and picturesque, which is perfect for relaxing and forgetting the world beyond still exists. You can take a beer or any other drink from the snack bar and enjoy your day. However, you pay to access the beach and enjoy the serene nature of frothy white waves and deep blue water.
Mont Aorai
Another place you should visit is Mont Aorai. It stands at 6,778 feet high and is filled with lush rainforest terrain and brilliant scenery with misty fresh air looming around. Therefore, if you are planning to trek, you can walk around the rough terrain and experience the beautiful landscape.
Moreover, when you complete the lost calories, you can adjust it by visiting O Belvédère. You can try some of the best French cuisine and also see the beautiful vantage point. Just carry an umbrella, in case it may rain up top, as the weather is unpredictable at the peak.
Teahupoo
While talking about Tahiti, how can we miss out on Teahupoo? It is the place to enjoy surfing and racing against the high tides. In Teahupoo, tides can reach up to 25 feet high, which is the place for surfers to test their surfing board and their surfing skills.
Also, you can see the beautiful coral reef, which is an absolute feast for the eyes. Take good pictures for your Instagram and Facebook. Lastly, if you want to test your metal in surfing, in Teahupoo every year a surfing competition is held, participate in it.
James Norman Hall Home
James Norman Hall is a place for history lovers and nerds. The beautiful gardens in the area will highly impress the caretakers of maintaining the place. It is the place that highlights the bond of friendship between James Norman and Charles Nordhoff.
Both met during World War I and since then, they have stayed together and written novels together. Later, in 1920, they moved to Tahiti, where they wrote many novels together. The hall showcases the authors' lasting memories and belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Here are a few frequently asked questions -
What is Tahiti popular for? Tahiti is popular for its beaches and sand. How many days is enough in Tahiti? 10 days are enough to visit all the places in Tahiti. What is the best time to visit Tahiti? Even though you can visit Tahiti all season, it's best to visit them between May and October. Is Tahiti tourist-friendly? Tahiti is warm and welcoming to foreign tourists. What is the crime rate in Tahiti? The rate of serious crime is low in Tahiti.
The Bottom Line
In the end, if you are looking for an escape, you can visit Tahiti. It has the best natural landscape with mountains and beaches, which you can easily visit and enjoy. So, read the discussion and visit those places to do some fun activities.
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Does Tennessee have a beach? No, it does not.
For the longest time, I have been planning a long beach holiday. And something or else will always turn up ruining the plan.
The kids have their exams and there are family commitments. So, our beach vacation was always limited to Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake.
However, I had done my research on the closest beach to me and this time, we had a long weekend.
So our road led to Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to Knoxville, TN. Having said that, there are many beaches near Knoxville TN.
For example, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is one of the most popular ocean beaches near Tennessee. We also have Folly Beach in South Carolina and Oak Island in North Carolina.
In today’s Tour and Travel blog, we will talk about the beaches close to Knoxville TN, and tell you why they are most suitable for the ultimate Tennessee beach vacation.
What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville Tennessee?
Our journey to the closest beaches to Knoxville TN will start from Sullivan’s Island, as promised.
However, before taking you on a tour of these beaches, I wanted to share the best time to visit the closest beach from Knoxville TN.
Knoxville primarily has two tourist seasons. You can visit the closest beach to Knoxville, TN between March and June and September to November.
So, let’s begin the ultimate Knoxville beach journey. Here we go!
1. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 380.4 Miles
Travel Time: 6 Hours
I was looking for ocean beaches within 6 hours of me, and I found out Sullivan’s Island. It is a barrier island with an area of around 8.91 km².
Further, Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to TN, stands out with its local history. It has Fort Moultrie, built in 1776 and it still tells the story of how it protected the city from the cannonball attacks of the warships.
Moreover, Sullivan’s Island is important in the history of literature. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie between November 1827 to December 1828.
2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 412 Miles
Travel Time: 6 Hours 46 Minutes
Sitting in Knoxville, I was looking for beaches within 7 hours of me. I found the name of Myrtle Beach in South Carolina.
Myrtle Beach is nothing short of a fantasy island and it was once the hub of pirates. Further, Myrtle Beach is associated with the Indigenous people and roaming ghosts.
A visit to Myrtle Beach is incomplete without exploring the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. Further, you must spend some time at the Myrtle Beach State Park, and Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum.
3. Folly Beach, South Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles
Travel Time: 6 Hours 35 Minutes
Folly Beach, one of the closest beaches to Knoxville, is the ultimate destination to stay, eat, play. and explore!
Further, life on Folly Beach revolves around outdoor activities. From a casual stroll on the beach to more adventurous activities like surfing, boating, kayaking, and biking, Folly Beach offers you the opportunity to enjoy the best beach vacation.
Moreover, Folly Beach is a wonderful melting pot of modern entertainment and exploring wildlife. You can attend the Annual Folly Festivals and take part in birdwatching and exploring wildlife.
Blu Restaurant And Bar, Bert's Market, and Bounty Bar are some popular places to eat on Folly Beach.
4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 396.5 Miles
Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes
Kiawah Island with a majority of marshland, is located at a distance of 6 hours and 16 minutes by car from Knoxville.
To emphasize the adventure, let me tell you that the beach is often used for native wildlife watching!
Several locations across the beach are perfect if you are looking for wildlife spotting! The two locations popular for this purpose on the beach are Canvasback Duck Pond and Marsh Island Park.
What’s more, there are two scenic observation towers in Kiawah where you will get a 360-degree view of the sea and land!
If you are a hiker or like to bike, this beach is perfect! They have natural paths for these types of adventures.
For accommodation, there is a private 2nd story deck that you can rent to enjoy some stunning ocean views.
There is one popular restaurant called Jasmine Porch where you can splurge on good food, especially the Low-country favorites such as shrimp and grits, she-crab bisque, fresh seafood, po’boys, and burgers!
5. Isle Of Palms, South Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles
Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes
There is a playground for children, so this is the perfect destination if you have kids.
There is also a picnic area, so if you plan to spend the whole day out, you can go to this beach. For accommodation, there is a single-family cottage which is well decorated!
Food is another important part of the vacation, so I suggest the Sea Biscuit Cafe! Try out the seafood omelets, shrimp, and gravy because these are the low-country options.
6. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 411 Miles
Travel Time: 6 Hours 32 Minutes
You have to visit this beach for the best sunsets across the water! In a distance of 6 hours, 26 minutes from Knoxville, the coastal paradise is someplace to be visited.
If you are planning on staying the night, there is a resort rental that you can book. You can enjoy the outdoor and indoor pool, a tiki bar, etc.
You must catch the coastal area food, especially crab cakes, sandwiches, shrimp, grits, and salads.
7. Oak Island, North Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 441.5 Miles
Travel Time: 7 Hours 14 Minutes
If you are looking for a scenic beach, Oak Island is the place to visit for all adventurous activities.
Water sports are quite famous here, along with that, you can see Fort Caswell, used in the 1800s and 1900s. This is one of the beaches near Knoxville TN!
You will take 7 hours and 8 minutes to reach the beach and can visit the island lighthouse, which is situated just beside the fort.
There is a perfect walk to enjoy Oak Island Nature Center at the beach, so if you are a nature lover, you know where to go!
Further, adventures such as kayaking are the thing to do as an outdoor adventure sport. Many family homes and rentals are at a distance of the March beach, providing incredible views across the beach.
If you visit the beach, you must try out scrumptious food items such as steak, chicken, and pasta, apart from the delicious seafood.
8. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
Distance from Knoxville: 442 Miles
The beach is a little farther from Knoxville, TN, as it takes about 7 hours and 23 minutes.
There are three beaches in Wilmington: Kure, Carolina, and Wrightsville. All the beaches qualify as some of the best beaches near Knoxville.
Apart from common activities such as shopping and dining, there are interesting activities to perform, such as going on catamaran cruises, visiting the History Museum, and attending fairs and seasonal festivals.
The Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center organizes educational programs and treasure hunts for children.
IIn terms of food, you will find some of the best cheeseburgers at this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! If you are a picky eater, you will find various options, from steaks to seafood platters.
9. Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN
Distance from Knoxville: 449.5 Miles
Travel Time: 7 Hours 30 Minutes
The beach at Kure is beautiful, apart from the North Carolina Aquarium, which is situated at Fort Fisher.
Significant features are located at the beach, such as a nature play area, an adventure reef, and touch tanks.
This beach is located at a distance of 7 hours and 31 minutes.
Apart from the beach, you can also visit places such as the historical site of the Civil War Museum, the Fort Fisher State Site, beach cruises, a dog park, and a playground in front of the beach.
You cannot miss the food such as burgers, sandwiches, seafood and pasta! I am already drooling!
10. Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN
Distance from Knoxville: 434 Miles
Travel Time: 7 Hours
The beach is located at a distance of 6 hours and 55 minutes by road from Knoxville. Some of the place’s main attractions are the restaurants and the quaint little shops.
The beach is popular for people finding their relaxing haunt near Tennessee. Considering, it is the closest beach to Tennessee!
It is a low-key beach situated just outside of Savanah! Apart from relaxing on the beach, you can also access different amenities in Savanah, such as museums, historic architecture, upscale shops, ghost tours, and other attractions perfect for family outings.
Beautiful rentals are close to the beach and a 1-minute distance from where you can enjoy some stunning visuals.
The food available in and around the place is quite popular! One such restaurant is located near the waterfront called Bubba Gumbo.
The seafood Gumbo is their signature dish! You can also order fried fish, jambalaya, burgers, and crab cakes. They also popularly serve shrimp.
11. Simon’s Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN
Distance from Knoxville: 491.2 Miles
Travel Time: 7 Hours 32 Minutes
The beach is situated at a distance of 7 hours and 42 minutes from Knoxville, TN! The beach Oasis is a perfect place to relax, especially with all the amenities present to make your life easier.
The Neptune Park Fun Zone here is for family attractions.
You can also find a store to rent accessories for water sports restaurants, and several shops provide you with good food and the necessary equipment for the beach vacation, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and others.
There is one family beach rental along with its private swimming pool. The rental can host a family, which is pretty close to the lighthouse.
You cannot miss the delicious food available on this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! Once such a restaurant opens, Porch offers fried catfish, shrimp, and fried chicken.
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This outdoor oasis in the South is a solid wanderlust attraction. A scenic city that is always on the move can be your next perfect weekend getaway. The city is bustling with energy, and on a typical afternoon, you will see its locals as well as weekenders venturing into the Tennesse River along with their boards and boats. The bikers go up and down the hilly streets through the town, running and walking down the pedestrian bridge and playing with frisbees in the numerous parks. The parks look neat, being hedged by bike lanes and carefully placed benches. Public art makes the town come alive with color and socio-cultural significance.
The number of things that will stay with you long after you visit this town is too many, but one of them will be the food and the restaurants. There are also a lot of adventures to be had outdoors in this character-filled city. If you are looking for some weekend fun or a short trip to feel rejuvenated, this city is close by and has to offer a lot.
This is going to be the best weekend spot for you, and we have brought you the best of it. Here are some of the most fun and memorable things to do in Chattanooga.
Things To Do In Chattanooga
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If you have thought about going away sometime and taking a break, but you can’t think of any place so far. Chattanooga could be a great option. Here are some of the best things things to do in Chattanooga that will stay imprinted on your memory.
Tennessee Aquarium
tnaqua.org
One of the fun things to do in Chattanooga is visiting the aquarium. This aquarium maintains two buildings. There is River Journey which showcases the freshwater habitats from around the world, and Ocean Journey, where visitors are treated to the magnificent view of sea creatures and ocean life. It is recommended to spend at least three hours while visiting to take in a good fraction of the 10,000 animals that are here. If you are looking for things to do in Chattanooga with kids, they will love the adorable macaroni penguins and dreamy sea jellies.
Try visiting on a weekday, as it gets busier on weekends, for a more authentic experience. If you are looking for free things to do in Chattanooga, the city also offers a free shuttle to get here, making the experience pocket-friendly.
Lookout Mountain
cntraveler.com
There are three scenic attractions this mountain ridge has to offer. There is the Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Incline Railway. The Ruby Falls is the United States’ deepest and tallest underground waterfall standing at 260 feet. Rock City is where one can see seven states from the iconic Lover’s Leap. And when you hop on the Incline Railway, you will be witnessing the steepest passenger railway on Earth.
You need to spend a minimum of 4 hours at these mountains to gauge the highlights of the spot. Each of the three attractions has separate expenses, and the tickets are known to sell out fast.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns
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The Raccoon Mountain Caverns are located 1.3 miles off the I-24 at the Lookout Valley exit. It is less than 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. This mountain offers views of a cave in its natural state that has thousands of diverse rock formations. There are stalagmites, stalactites, flowstone, delicate soda straws, rimstone pools, columns, draperies, natural bridges, and a rare shield formation.
It also offers many wild cave “spelunking” expeditions for all those who want to go deeper into the caves and explore the mountain. An expedition to the waterfall dome allows visitors to get to the place with the view of the tallest underground, unassisted, naturally flowing waterfall.
Walnut Street Bridge
pickyourtrail.com
This is one of the best examples of the Phoenix wrought-iron truss bridges dating back to the years between 1884 and 1923.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
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This nostalgic train trip will offer aesthetically restored vintage locomotives and passenger cars that encase the intricate craftsmanship of ages long gone. The ride will take you through the beautiful Tennessee countryside that has awe-inspiring views bound to make you reflect on the simpler times of the past. The museum’s exhibit has an impressive set of artifacts, old photographs, and other memorabilia that help bring the rich railroading history to life.
The staff here are highly knowledgeable and will eagerly share information on railroad history while being dressed in period attire. The experience will provide you with lots of fascinating insights whether you are a history buff or otherwise.
Ruby Falls
simpleviewinc.com
This one is the deepest and tallest underground waterfall that is open for public access in the States. There are guided tours such as the classic waterfall tour, the lantern tour, and the extended cavern experience tour. The tour will take you along its beautiful cavern trail to a gorgeous waterfall that is surrounded by old geological formations that took millenniums to form. There are also extensively picturesque views of the Cumberland Plateau, Tennessee Valley, and the Tennessee River from the top of the Lookout Mountain Tower. The tours fill up pretty quickly. You must purchase the tickets online in advance for increased availability.
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery
chattanoogawhiskey.com
One of the other things to do in Chattanooga for adults is visit the whiskey distillery. This distillery is the first ever to craft whiskey in Chattanooga in over a hundred years. It boasts over 100 different barrels that mature in an aging cellar. Each visit to the distillery is an ode to the past, present, and future of hand-made bourbon. You can reserve a tour & tasting trip to check out their latest craft. This can also be one of the things to do in Chattanooga for couples.
You must be 21+ with a physical and valid ID.
Creative Discovery Museum
This museum is a hands-on children’s museum at the very heart of downtown Chattanooga. It is known to inspire children of all ages to innovate, explore, play, and create. The exhibits are designed to entertain as well as educate children on exploring the world around them. They are pushed to become inquisitive about art, science, music, water exploration, and dinosaur digging.
It was rated number #7 by Trekaroo of the children’s museums in the U.S. in 2015.
Wrapping Up
Chattanooga sure has everything you could want for a short trip away from the hustle of the city. If you want to know about things to do in Chattanooga this weekend, we hope this article gave you a headstart.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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