Things to actually do in Chattanooga when someone says “there’s nothing to do here”

Insider Tours at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga- Behind the Tank Magic

If you've ever wished you could explore the Tennessee Aquarium before the crowds come in—and maybe even catch the animals during their morning routines—this one’s for you. The “Insider Tours,” part of the Aquarium’s Deeper Dives series, offer a one-of-a-kind way to see Chattanooga’s most popular attraction from a whole new perspective.

Whether you're a local looking for a fresh experience or hosting out-of-town guests, this tour turns a beloved destination into something more meaningful. Expect quiet, early morning access, an up-close look at animal care, and some incredible stories from expert educators who clearly love what they do.

The Experience

The Insider Tours take place in the peaceful hours before the aquarium opens to the public. This makes a big difference—not just in the number of people around, but in the overall vibe. When you’re walking through the exhibits with just a handful of guests and a knowledgeable guide, there's time to slow down, ask questions, and really observe the animals.

Your 1.5-hour tour covers both River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings, hitting key tanks and exhibits with a behind-the-scenes twist. Ever wondered how the Aquarium cares for thousands of species daily? You’ll get a glimpse into the animal kitchens, life support systems, and more. Petting stingrays, spotting sleepy river otters, and watching penguins get their breakfast are just a few of the memorable moments you might encounter.

One of the most rewarding parts of the Insider Tour is the Aquarium Educator leading your group. These folks are passionate about conservation and incredibly knowledgeable about the animals in their care. They make the tour informative without it ever feeling like a lecture.

What to Know Before You Go

Availability: Insider Tours are offered Thursday through Sunday mornings. Tours begin before regular operating hours, so plan for an early arrival.

Cost: $50 per person ($45 for Aquarium members). This is in addition to general admission, so you’ll need a regular ticket or membership as well.

Booking: Advance reservations are required. You can book directly through the Tennessee Aquarium website’s Deeper Dives section.

Age Requirement: Guests must be at least 8 years old. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Group Size: Tours are limited to just 8 participants, so you’ll want to reserve your spot well in advance—especially during busier seasons. A minimum of 2 guests is required for tours to run.

Parking: The Aquarium offers parking through nearby garages and lots. The Republic Parking garage on Riverfront Parkway is the closest and most convenient. Shayna: Add your own tip about parking availability or validated options if applicable.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Perfect Morning Pairing: After your tour, you’ll probably be ready for a good breakfast. Check out Bluegrass Grill (a local favorite for hearty morning meals) or Rembrandt’s Coffee House in Bluff View if you're craving pastries and espresso in a cozy garden setting.

- Make It a Day Trip: Since you're starting early, you’ve got the whole day ahead. Walk along the Tennessee Riverwalk, pop into the Hunter Museum of American Art, or spend time exploring Coolidge Park just across the Walnut Street Bridge.

- Great for Locals Too: If you’ve been to the Aquarium before and think you’ve seen it all, this tour adds a whole new layer. It’s especially fun with visiting family or curious kids who ask a lot of questions—because here, you’ll have someone to answer them.

- Holiday or Special Treat: This would make a thoughtful gift for a nature lover or a memorable birthday outing for a grade-school-aged kid. It's also a creative date idea for couples who want something beyond the standard dinner-and-a-movie.

Final Thoughts

The Tennessee Aquarium’s Insider Tour is a thoughtful, enriching way to engage with one of Chattanooga’s treasures. With early-morning access, small group sizes, and passionate guides, it feels like a VIP peek into daily life at the aquarium. Whether you’re seeing the river tank from above or watching jellyfish slowly pulse in quiet solitude, there’s something extra special about experiencing it all without the usual crowd.

This is a great experience for families with older kids, travelers looking for something off the beaten path, or locals who always meant to dig a little deeper into their own city.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

White Duck Taco Shop in Chattanooga: Playful Tacos, a Frozen Cheerwine Margarita, and a Whole Lot of Local Charm

There’s a fresh flavor on McCallie Avenue that's quickly becoming a local favorite — White Duck Taco Shop has opened its Chattanooga location, bringing with it a globally-inspired menu, relaxed vibe, and food that’s both playful and seriously satisfying. Tucked between Missionary Ridge and downtown, this locally owned taco bar is the kind of spot you’ll want to revisit with friends, family, or coworkers — especially on a sunny afternoon when the patio is in full swing.

What makes it worth a visit? Think outside the standard Tex-Mex menu — here, tacos range from Chicken Tikka Masala to crispy Pork Belly, all served on fresh flour or corn tortillas with generous fillings and bold flavors. Pair that with a frozen Cheerwine margarita and a shady patio, and you’ve got something special.

The Experience

Walking up to White Duck Taco Shop, the first thing you’ll notice is the architecture — modern-industrial but welcoming, blending local design details with clean lines and plenty of outdoor space. The building has a breezy, open-plan feel, with a spacious patio out back complete with shaded seating and a grassy lawn area perfect for kids to stretch their legs.

Inside, the ordering process is simple: head to the counter, order a few tacos (they come out quick!), and grab a drink while you wait. If it’s your first visit, definitely chat with the friendly staff — they’re happy to explain the rotating taco options and suggest pairings. The menu pulls ingredients and flavors from around the world. Some of the standout options include:

- Bangkok Shrimp — light, creamy, with a bit of a citrus bite
- Pork Belly — rich and crispy, balanced with a fresh slaw
- Chicken Tikka Masala — crowd favorite with warm spices and tender chunks of chicken
- Buffalo Chicken — for those who love a little heat and vinegar
- Steak & Cheese — a comfort classic reimagined taco-style

Don’t skip the sides — the Street Corn Salad goes fast and for good reason. The Chips & Queso hit the table quickly, making it easy to snack while you wait for the main event.

Drinks range from local beers to non-alcoholic sodas, but the frozen Cheerwine margarita deserves a shoutout. Sweet, nostalgic, and surprisingly balanced, it might just be the sleeper hit of the drink list.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: 1519 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Hours: Open daily, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: Tacos are $5.25 each. Most people are satisfied with 2–3 plus a side. Very reasonable for the flavor and portion.
How to Order: Counter-service. Fast and efficient.
Website: https://whiteducktacoshop.com/
Instagram: @whiteducktacochattanooga for updates, taco specials, and a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Great for families: The grassy play area gives little ones space to move while parents enjoy food at a shaded outdoor table.
- Plans are in the works for an onsite brewery and live music stage — exciting additions that will only enhance the community vibe.
- For a fun date night or casual weekend hangout, grab tacos here and then head up the ridge or towards downtown for dessert or drinks.
- Nearby: The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus is close by, as well as Sculpture Fields at Montague Park—making it easy to turn taco night into a full afternoon outing.

Final Thoughts

White Duck Taco Shop hits that sweet spot between casual dining and adventurous flavor. With its creative menu, breezy atmosphere, and thoughtful design, it’s a welcome addition to Chattanooga's ever-growing food scene. It’s a great pick for families looking for something relaxed, couples wanting a low-key meal with quality drinks, or locals in need of a reliable go-to spot with new things to try.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

My Go-To Walking/Running Spot: The Tennessee Riverwalk!

If you're looking for a simple way to reset your brain, get your steps in, or enjoy the fresh air without leaving town, the Tennessee Riverwalk is one of the best places in Chattanooga to do it. Whether you're logging miles on a morning run, going for a weekend stroll with your dog, or just needing a break from screen time, this 13-mile greenway offers some of the prettiest and most peaceful river views in the city. It’s one of those spots locals return to again and again — not just for the beauty, but for how easy and accessible it is. Especially right now with the Walnut Street Bridge closed, the Riverwalk is a great place to walk for Chattanooga views!

The Experience

The Tennessee Riverwalk is a paved, multi-use trail that stretches roughly 13 miles along the Tennessee River, connecting downtown Chattanooga to the Chickamauga Dam. As you move along the path, you’ll pass through a mix of parks, boardwalks over the water, marshy wildlife viewing areas, quiet neighborhoods, and bustling parts of town like the Bluff View Art District and the Riverfront.

You’ll see joggers and cyclists, people walking their dogs, families riding bikes together, and folks just quietly enjoying a walk by the water. The trail is very well maintained, with restrooms, water fountains, and signage throughout — each half mile is marked so you can keep track of your distance.

One of our favorite stretches is the section near 2101 Amnicola Hwy. This part of the trail includes wide, open views of the river, plenty of shade from the trees, and close proximity to spots like the Chattanooga Area Food Bank and the Tennessee Riverpark, which has picnic areas and parking. It’s a good entry point if you're driving in, and usually less crowded than the downtown sections.

What to Know Before You Go

Trail Length: About 13 miles one way
Accessible From: Chickamauga Dam (north end) to Ross’s Landing downtown (south end)
Trail Type: Paved, flat, mostly shaded in parts
Parking: Dozens of access points with parking lots. Popular spots include:
- 2101 Amnicola Hwy (my go-to spot! Though it is a little hard to turn left out of if you're going during peak traffic hours)
- TN Riverpark (4301 Amnicola Hwy)
- Ross’s Landing (201 Riverfront Pkwy)
- Battery Place near Bluff View Art District
Pet Friendly: Yes — there are dog waste stations and trash cans throughout
Restrooms: Available at various trailheads and park areas
Accessibility: The trail is accessible for wheelchairs, bikes, and strollers
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Admission: Free

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- If you want to pair your walk with a bite to eat, stop at the nearby Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar (just off Amnicola Highway) for riverfront dining. Or, head downtown for coffee from Rembrandt’s and stroll the art-lined part of the trail near the Bluff View Art District.
- Into biking? You can rent bikes or e-bikes downtown via Bike Chattanooga stations and hop right onto the trail.
- This is a great place for a beginner-friendly run or training walk — the wide, flat path makes it a favorite for local running groups.
- Looking for a pretty spot for photos? The boardwalks over the water (especially near the Walnut Street Bridge and at Blue Goose Hollow) are especially scenic.
- During spring and early fall, this trail is perfect for a sun-soaked walk without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re local or just visiting for the weekend, the Tennessee Riverwalk is one of those places that makes you appreciate how much green space Chattanooga offers without needing to drive out of town. It’s peaceful, well-kept, and flexible for however you want to enjoy it — a long solo run, a quiet morning walk, a bike ride with friends, or a sunset view with your dog.

If you’re from out of town, it’s an easy way to explore some of Chattanooga’s most scenic neighborhoods and riverfront areas. And if you’re local, you probably already know it’s a go-to spot for decompressing at the end of the day.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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