
Best Museums & Art Galleries in Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States
1. Creative Discovery Museum
A children's museum with hands-on exhibits that inspire creativity and learning.
- Interactive Experience: Offers interactive exhibits that allow children to learn through play.
- Educational Focus: Provides educational programs and workshops that support STEAM learning.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Designed with families in mind, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
2. Tennessee Aquarium
A world-class aquarium showcasing freshwater and marine life from around the globe.
- Unique Species: Features rare and unique species like the albino alligator and the puffer fish.
- Conservation Efforts: Dedicated to wildlife conservation and research efforts.
- Immersive Exhibits: Offers immersive exhibits like the River Journey and Ocean Journey, giving visitors an up-close look at aquatic life.
3. Chattanooga Market
A weekly open-air market offering local arts, food, and live music.
- Local Artisans: Showcases handmade goods from local artists and artisans.
- Farm-to-Table Food: Offers fresh, locally sourced food from area farms.
- Community Gathering Space: Serves as a community gathering space, bringing together locals and tourists alike.
4. Chattanooga History Center
A museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Chattanooga and the surrounding region.
- Local History: Features exhibits on the Civil War, railroads, and the Scenic City's industrial past.
- Historic Buildings: Located in a beautifully restored 1895 iron factory.
- Community Engagement: Offers educational programs, events, and opportunities for community engagement.
5. Rock City Gardens
A unique attraction featuring gardens, rock formations, and breathtaking views.
- Natural Wonders: Features the world-famous Enchanted Trail, with over 400 native plant species.
- Panoramic Views: Offers panoramic views of seven states from Lookout Mountain.
- Family-Friendly Adventure: A family-friendly destination with numerous activities and attractions for all ages.
6. The Hunter Museum of American Art
A museum dedicated to American art from the colonial period to the present.
- American Art Focus: Features a diverse collection of American art, including works by Georgia O'Keeffe and Norman Rockwell.
- Stunning Location: Located on the scenic Riverfront Park, offering beautiful views of the city and river.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, workshops, and events for all ages.
7. The Chattanooga Shooting Star Gallery
A contemporary art gallery featuring works by local, regional, and national artists.
- Local Art Scene: Showcases the vibrant and diverse art scene of Chattanooga.
- Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for visitors.
- Artist Workshops: Hosts workshops and events where artists share their techniques and insights.
8. The National Patriot Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of military service in America.
- Military History: Features exhibits on the history of the U.S. military, including artifacts from various conflicts.
- Patriotism and Service: Emphasizes the importance of patriotism, service, and sacrifice in American society.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for schools, scouts, and other groups.
9. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving the history of railroading in the Tennessee Valley region.
- Railroad History: Features vintage locomotives, rail cars, and exhibits on railroad history.
- Ride Experiences: Offers ride experiences on historic trains, including the Day Out With Thomas events.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and workshops for all ages.
10. The Chattanooga Zoo
A zoological park featuring animals from around the world.
- Wildlife Conservation: Supports wildlife conservation efforts through educational programs and partnerships.
- Animal Encounter Experiences: Offers animal encounter experiences, such as giraffe feedings and behind-the-scenes tours.
- Family-Friendly Attraction: A family-friendly destination with a petting zoo, playground, and picnic areas.
11. The Chattanooga Gallery of Fine Art
A contemporary art gallery featuring works by local, regional, and international artists.
- Contemporary Art Focus: Focuses on contemporary art, with a rotating selection of exhibitions.
- Artist Talks and Workshops: Hosts artist talks, workshops, and events to engage visitors with the artwork.
- Changing Exhibitions: Offers a new exhibition every six weeks, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for visitors.
12. The Chattanooga African American Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of African Americans in Chattanooga.
- Local African American History: Features exhibits on the history and contributions of African Americans in Chattanooga.
- Community Engagement: Serves as a community gathering space, fostering cultural understanding and dialogue.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for schools, scouts, and other groups.
13. The Southern Belle Riverboat
A historic riverboat offering sightseeing tours on the Tennessee River.
- Historic Riverboat Experience: Offers a unique, historic experience on one of Chattanooga's most iconic landmarks.
- Sightseeing Tours: Provides sightseeing tours with narration about the history and landmarks along the river.
- Special Events: Hosts special events, such as dinner cruises and holiday celebrations.
14. The Chattanooga Art Institute
A non-profit organization offering art classes, workshops, and exhibitions for all ages.
- Art Education: Offers a wide range of art classes and workshops for adults and children.
- Artistic Development: Supports artistic development through exhibitions, competitions, and scholarships.
- Community Engagement: Serves as a hub for the local art community, fostering creativity and collaboration.
15. The Chattanooga Glass Studio & Gallery
A glass studio and gallery offering classes, workshops, and custom glassware.
- Glass Art Focus: Specializes in glass art, with a focus on functional and decorative pieces.
- Artist Workshops: Offers workshops where visitors can learn to create their own glass art.
- Custom Glassware: Creates custom glassware for weddings, businesses, and events.