Chattanooga Tunnels Private Guided Tour
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Chattanooga Tunnels Private Guided Tour

Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Chattanooga Tunnels Extended Guided Tour is a 3.5-hour exploration of the city's hidden underground network, blending historical insights with both driving and walking elements. Starting at Ross's Landing, the tour covers significant tunnel locations, including the Walnut Street Bridge, Cameron Hill, and the Chattanooga Choo Choo Complex. Participants will delve into the tunnels' roles during the Civil War, their use in the Prohibition era, and their importance to the city's rail and industrial development. The tour also includes a lunch break at a local eatery and visits to the Bluff View Art District and the St. Elmo neighborhood. The experience concludes with a visit to a Civil War site, highlighting the tunnels' strategic importance during the Battle of Chattanooga, before returning to the starting point at Ross's Landing.

Available options

Chattanooga Tunnels Private Guided Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Begin your journey at Ross's Landing, the historical heart of Chattanooga, where you’ll meet your guide and group. Receive an introduction to Chattanooga’s rich history, including its strategic importance during the Civil War and its development as a transportation hub.

2
Stop 2

Tunnel Entrance - The Walnut Street Bridge Area - The entrance near the Walnut Street Bridge leads to one of Chattanooga's lesser-known tunnels. These tunnels played a vital role during the Civil War, serving as hidden passageways and storage spaces. Enter the first tunnel, feel the cool air, and imagine the activities that might have taken place here during wartime.

3

Drive to Cameron Hill, once a prominent neighborhood in Chattanooga. Beneath it lies a network of tunnels that played key roles during the city’s development. Walk through the remaining sections of these tunnels, hearing about their use in rail transport and as escape routes during the Civil War. Your guide will also share stories of Cameron Hill's transformation and eventual demolition.

4

• History: Visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo Complex, a historic railway station turned hotel, which sits atop some of Chattanooga's most famous tunnels.
• What to Expect: Explore the tunnels beneath the station that once facilitated the movement of goods and passengers across the Southeast. Hear stories about the golden age of rail travel and the role these tunnels played in Chattanooga’s economy.

5

Take a break to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant known for its Southern cuisine and Oyster Bar. Relax and refuel while discussing the morning’s discoveries with your guide and fellow travelers.

Please understand that each guest will be paying for a meal and/or beverages of his or her choice.

6

Secret Tunnels and Hidden Pathways
Continue your journey to the Bluff View Art District, an area known for its scenic views and hidden tunnels. Explore tunnels and passageways used by early settlers and artists. Learn about the area’s development and its current status as a cultural hub.

7

The Lookout Mountain Tunnels: Venture to the historic St. Elmo neighborhood at the base of Lookout Mountain. This area is home to several tunnels used for transportation and storage in the early 20th century. Walk through some of the tunnels and hear about their role in supporting the local community and industries. Your guide will also share stories about the neighborhood’s historical significance.

What's not included

Traveler is responsible for their own meal.

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Travelers will meet the driver and guide at the ice cream shop at the end of the Walking Bridge.

About Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a vibrant city nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. With a revitalized downtown, a thriving arts scene, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.

Top Attractions

Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain offers stunning views of Chattanooga and the surrounding valleys. It's home to popular attractions like Ruby Falls and Rock City.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Tennessee Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the U.S., the Tennessee Aquarium features a wide range of marine and freshwater exhibits, including river otters, penguins, and sharks.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate

Riverfront Park

A beautiful urban park along the Tennessee River, featuring walking paths, sculptures, and the iconic Walnut Street Bridge.

Park 1-2 hours Free

Chattanooga Choo Choo

A historic train station turned hotel and entertainment complex, offering shops, restaurants, and live music.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, variable for dining and entertainment

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hot Chicken

A spicy fried chicken dish, a Southern favorite with roots in Nashville but popular in Chattanooga.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and allergens (egg, dairy)

Grits

Creamy cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese, butter, or shrimp.

Breakfast Vegetarian (check for dairy)

Catfish

Fried or grilled catfish, a staple of Southern cuisine, often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten (fried) or can be grilled for a gluten-free option

Popular Activities

Hiking Whitewater rafting Rock climbing Zip-lining Riverfront strolls Spa treatments Wine tasting Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chattanooga is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from downtown
By bus

Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

CARTA operates a fleet of buses that provide affordable and reliable transportation throughout Chattanooga. Buses are equipped with bike racks and Wi-Fi.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Northshore Southside

Day trips

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The most visited national park in the U.S., offering stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
10 km (6.2 miles) • Half day

A historic inclined railway offering stunning views of Chattanooga and the surrounding valleys.

Ocoee River
80 km (50 miles) • Full day

A popular destination for whitewater rafting and outdoor activities, offering thrilling rapids and beautiful scenery.

Festivals

Riverbend Festival • June Nightfall • May to October (Friday nights) Chattanooga Film Festival • April

Pro tips

  • Visit the Tennessee Aquarium and the Riverfront Park for a unique and memorable experience
  • Explore the Southside district for its artsy and eclectic atmosphere, as well as its local breweries and art galleries
  • Take a day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for stunning mountain views and outdoor adventures
  • Try the local cuisine, including hot chicken, grits, and catfish, at iconic eateries like The Feed Co. Table & Tavern and Tupelo Honey
  • Ride the Incline Railway for a thrilling and scenic experience, and combine it with a visit to Ruby Falls and Rock City for a full day of adventure
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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