Labor Day marks that time of the year when summer starts to wind down and fall becomes the star of the show. But before swinging into autumn, it’s the perfect time to make a last stand on the warm weather. Here's the rundown on Labor Day weekend happenings in Chattanooga.
For the Family
Creative Discovery Museum
Whether putting on a puppet show at the ArtSpace theater, programming a robot to play fetch at the robotics table in STEM Zone, digging for dinosaur bones in UnEarthed, or exploring ocean habitats and more in the Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure! exhibit (open through 9/10), this museum is full of hands-on family fun.
Chattanooga Market
Spend a Sunday morning at the Chattanooga Market like a local. Come explore vendors from local farms, food artisans, body and self-care and a few places dedicated to rotating artists. It's a great way to get out and spend time with the family while exploring local Chattanooga vendors.
Cave Walk to Ruby Falls
Discover the hidden beauty inside Lookout Mountain on the Cave Walk to Ruby Falls led by a Ruby Falls guide. Descend 260 feet by glass-front elevator into the mountain and explore the cavern trail to the tallest and deepest cave waterfall open to the public in the United States. Learn the story behind the accidental discovery of the cavern, see stunning rock formations, and experience the thundering waterfall!
High Point Climbing and Fitness Kids Zone
Kids as young as three years can burn off energy in High Point's Kid Zone! Junior adventurers can climb a spider web, hop from building to building in the tower zone, check out the bouldering section, and more!
Foodies
Fall Food Truck Rally
September 1 I First Horizon Pavilion I 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Labor Day weekend fun! We'll be rounding up local food trucks for a Reggie White Street party! Experience some great local eats and treats, live music and your favorite Market vendors.
Labor Day Brunch at Whitebird
September 2 | Whitebird | 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Celebrated for its modern take on Appalachian fare, Whitebird is extending its fan-favorite brunch for Labor Day! Start with a biscuit board or crispy fried green tomatoes, then help yourself with their menu of sweet and savory brunch favorites.
Outdoor Dining
Nothing screams Labor Day Weekend like some good outdoor dining. Lucky for you, Chattanooga offers many different spots for all your different taste buds. Check out our list of 15 of the best restaurants in Chattanooga with outdoor seating. From tacos to fine dining, there's something for everyone.
Enjoy a Picnic
The best way to get outside and enjoy some sunshine is to have a picnic with someone you love whether that's your partner, pet, or pal! No matter what, the Scenic City has so many spots to picnic and lots of places to grab some good food. We've made it easy with a list of our favorite spots to picnic and where to find the food.
Nature Enthusiasts
Riverboat Cruises
Chattanooga prides itself on its river and floating the cool waters has never been easier. From steamers to historic WWII landing crafts, there are plenty of ways to get your riverboat cruise on. If a more hands-on approach is your style, try renting a kayak/SUP board from L2 Outside or River Drifters.
Adventure to a Swimming Hole
Swimming holes are what Southeastern summers are all about. Chattanooga is home to some seriously incredible places to take a dip – especially on hot and humid days. Here's a sampling of some of our favorite places in the Chattanooga area to cool off.
White Water Rafting
Looking for an adventure this Labor Day Weekend? Whitewater rafting might just be the highlight of your trip. Located about an hour from Chattanooga in the Cherokee National Forest, the Ocoee continues to host world-class paddlers at events throughout the year. The dam-controlled river has consistent releases that enable prime rafting conditions from the spring through the fall. Visitors can expect about 10 miles of excellent Class III and Class IV rapids, making the Ocoee one of the top whitewater rafting locations in the country. Sound like fun?
Paddle to a wild river island in the heart of Chattanooga
Does an adventure to an 18.8-acre wildlife refuge sound fun to you? What if we told you it's only accessible by boat, has rich history, and is right between Chattanooga's bustling downtown Riverfront and Northshore neighborhoods? If you're still intrigued, check out our guide to paddling to Maclellan Island!
Looking for a Variety of Events?
Nightfall Concert Series
Friday, Aug. 30 | 7 p.m. | Miller Plaza | Free
The final concert of the 2024 Nightfall series features AJ Lee & The Summit with New Dismembered Tennesseans as the opening act. Enjoy food trucks, vendors, soccer play, and roller skating at this free concert series in the heart of downtown.
TVFCU Riverfront Nights Concert Series
Saturday, Aug. 31 | Ross's Landing | Free
Chairs, blankets, and leashed pets are welcome at Ross’s Landing for free live music under the stars with The Maleman: A Night of Motown + Rick Rushing & The Blues Strangers. For their final night of this free concert series, enjoy extended hours + food and activities.
Chattanooga Football Club Men VS. Atlanta United II
Sunday, Sept. 1 | Finley Stadium | Tickets Vary
Be there for history as Chattanooga's professional soccer team, Chattanooga Football Club, kicks off its first ever season in MLS NEXT Pro. Join the boys in blue as they take on Atlanta United II, the Atlanta United FC affiliate in MLS.
Enjoy an Extended Scenic Train Ride with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Times, locations, and ticket prices vary. See website for details.
Chickamauga Turn, Copperhill Special, and Hiwassee Loop
The Chickamauga Turn offers a charming 90-minute layover in downtown Chickamauga, where you can explore the historic Crawfish Springs and the beautiful Gordon-Lee Mansion. Choose to indulge in a delightful dining car luncheon or upgraded seating in dome, observation, or parlor cars.
The Copperhill Special Train Ride takes you through the stunning Tennessee Valley and the Hiwassee River Gorge, offering breathtaking views of lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque farmlands. This historic route showcases the region's natural beauty and rich history.
For a unique engineering marvel, the Hiwassee Loop Train Ride is a must-see. This 4.5-hour excursion navigates the rugged Hiwassee River Gorge, climbing over 900 feet in elevation within a short distance via the Bald Mountain Loop. Experience unparalleled views of the springtime colors as you wind through the trees on this 50-mile round trip, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Labor Day Weekend Events Calendar
Find even more events on our events calendar.
