Have you hand-fed a red panda or crawled through a cavern before? If you answered no, check out some of these behind-the-scenes tours and unforgettable experiences next time you’re in Chattanooga.

WILD Encounters – Chattanooga Zoo

If you’ve always wanted to interact with some of the world’s most exotic animals, now’s your chance! The Chattanooga Zoo offers a variety of WILD Encounters that give guests an up-close experience with red pandas, meerkats, cotton top tamarin, Komodo dragons, and more. Each experience includes hand-feeding the animals and learning about their unique lifestyles from the Keepers. The 30-minute encounters range in price depending on which animal you want to visit and 10% of all funds from the WILD Encounter program go directly toward the Chattanooga Zoo's conservation programs and their efforts to save animals in the wild.

Create Your Own Adventure – Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center

If you’re craving a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure, Reflection Riding has you covered. Their "Design Your Own Nature Experience" lets you craft a personalized behind-the-scenes tour across their stunning 300-acre campus. Whether you want to meet animal ambassadors face-to-face, paddle down Lookout Creek on a guided canoe trip, or hike alongside a resident hawk, or more, this is your chance to tailor an adventure to your interests. With an expert naturalist as your guide, you’ll explore the beauty of Chattanooga’s natural wonders in a way that’s entirely your own.

Zoo Tours - Chattanooga Zoo

Experience the Chattanooga Zoo from a whole different perspective with a zoo tour! Visit 4-5 exhibits with this private, 30-minute tour and learn fun facts about the animals you meet. You may even get to see a special feeding!

Deeper Dives – Tennessee Aquarium

There are plenty of fish in the sea, and even more to see at the Tennessee Aquarium! With the Deeper Dives guided tours, you'll say "Good morning!" to some of the amazing animals at the Tennessee Aquarium.

During this in-depth exploration, an aquarium educator leads you through both River and Ocean Journeys for an exclusive 1.5-hour tour before the aquarium opens to the public. Experience your favorite exhibits from a whole new angle and join us behind the scenes each morning to witness firsthand how our dedicated team cares for the animals.

Wild Cave Expedition – Raccoon Mountain

For the true adventurer, a Wild Cave Expedition inside Raccoon Mountain is a must-do while in Chattanooga.  Explore the limestone cavern in its natural state as you crawl and climb through a maze of formations and passageways. These expeditions aren’t for the faint of heart and are known as some of the most rigorous excursions in the Southeast. Whether you choose the Canyon Crawl, Waterfall Dome, or Gypsum Crawl Expedition, be prepared to get dirty and put your spelunking skills to the test!

Cave Lantern Tours – Ruby Falls

If you're a fan of caves but not so keen on crawling through mud, the Ruby Falls Lantern Tour is perfect for you. Transport yourself back to 1928 and explore the cavern illuminated by handheld lanterns. This after-hours specialty tour offers a unique perspective on the rock formations, with exclusive stories shared by your guide.