Whitewater Rafting the Full Ocoee River with Outland Expeditions
If you're anywhere near East Tennessee this summer- whether you're local to the Chattanooga area or road-tripping in from Nashville or Atlanta- whitewater rafting the Ocoee River should seriously be on your list. It's high-energy, wildly scenic, and a perfect excuse to get your crew together for the kind of outdoor adventure you’ll all be talking about for years.
We recently rafted the full Ocoee (including the Olympic section!) with Outland Expeditions, and it was easily one of the most fun things we’ve done this season. Adrenaline rushes, mountain views, refreshing swim breaks, and a surprisingly good riverside BBQ lunch—there honestly wasn’t a single part of the day we didn’t enjoy.
The Experience
Outland Expeditions has been family-owned and operating since 1981, which shows in how smoothly everything runs and how friendly the staff is. From the moment you arrive at their Benton outpost, you’re greeted by guides who clearly love what they do.
The full Ocoee River trip is a 10-mile guided run that includes both the Upper and Middle sections of the river. The Upper features the Olympic whitewater course used in the 1996 Atlanta Summer Games- yes, it's the real deal. Expect Class III and IV rapids that keep things thrilling but totally doable for first-timers willing to paddle a bit. It's intense in the best way, with enough breaks for swimming and catching your breath between the splashes.
Our guide, Kyle- who’s been leading trips for 13 years- was a total pro and made sure we felt safe and had a blast the entire time. Every boat gets its own guide, so don’t worry about having to figure it all out on your own.
Midway through the full trip, you break for lunch, and we were honestly impressed. Blue Hole BBQ caters the meal, and it hits the spot after a few hours on the river. Pulled pork, sides, and lemonade/sweet tea helped recharge us for the second leg of the trip.
The atmosphere overall? Laid-back, high-energy, and welcoming, whether you're showing up with a group of teens, your adventurous partner, a bachelorette trip (what we did!) or your college buddy crew reuniting for a weekend.
What to Know Before You Go
Location: Outland Expeditions is located in Benton, TN- about 40 minutes northeast of Chattanooga. It’s a pretty drive along the Ocoee Scenic Byway.
Trip Options:
- Middle Section: 5 miles, $35–$46 (a great place to start if you’re new to rafting)
- Upper Olympic Section: 5 miles, $50–$58
- Full Ocoee Combo Trip (Upper + Middle): 10 miles + BBQ lunch, $81–$95
All trips include a guide and necessary gear (helmet, paddle, and life jacket). You’ll need to bring a swimsuit, secure footwear (no flip-flops), and a dry change of clothes for afterward.
Group Discounts: Extra savings kick in for groups of 11 or more. A great reason to plan that big reunion or team outing.
Booking: Reserve online at www.outlandexpeditions.com and use the code “WEBBCHATTS” for 10% off.
Minimum Age: Participants must be at least 12 years old to raft the Ocoee.
Season: Trips run Memorial Day through mid-October on weekends, with expanded weekday availability in summer.
Parking: Free and available on-site.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Outland has budget-friendly group cabins that sleep up to 150 people. Ideal if you’re planning a big family reunion, youth group trip, or bachelor(ette) weekend.
- Pack a towel and an extra trash bag to store wet clothes post-trip.
- They have super cute hats in their giftshop! My sister and I each got one and love them haha
- Photo packages are available if you want to relive your rafting faces later- they’re taken by a pro setup along the river.
- Plan a weekend trip around rafting with nearby hikes, waterfalls, or a visit to Parksville Lake!
Final Thoughts
Whitewater rafting the Ocoee River with Outland Expeditions is hands-down one of the best ways to get outside and make memories this summer. The Full Ocoee Combo Trip is a full-day adventure that doesn’t just deliver on thrills- it’s also well-run, scenic, and genuinely fun from start to finish. Between the experienced guides, Olympic-level rapids, and that delicious BBQ lunch, it’s the kind of back-to-nature experience that locals and visitors alike will love.
Whether you’ve rafted before or are looking to try it for the first time, this East Tennessee classic is one of those “must-dos” that lives up to the hype. And hey- don’t forget that 10% off code while you're at it!!
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Why Whitewater Rafting the Full Ocoee River Needs to Be on Your Summer Adventure List in East Tennessee
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New Hamilton Place Hibachi + Sushi + Boba Spot! (& Grand Opening Deals!)
100 Ramen & Hibachi & Sushi Bar just opened by the Aloft Hotel in Hamilton Place- and they've got some cool grand opening deals I'm sharing below! There's a big menu with lots of Japanese variety, and it's a great mix of comfort food and healthy options (they’re even right next door to Crunch Fitness, so it’s basically balanced, right?).
Address: 2090 Hamilton Place Boulevard, Chattanooga, TN
My First Visit
I went in to give it a try, and here’s the rundown:
- Shrimp Hibachi – fresh, sizzling, and loaded with flavor.
- Gyoza appetizer – the perfect comfort bites
- Chicken Katsu Donburi- not many places have this around town, I was a big fan!
- Boba Tea – I love fruit boba tea!! And popping pearls! I got the mango, and it was great! And okay, confession: I’m usually not a milk tea person. But their ZangZang Boba Tea? Surprisingly good.
- Tonkotsu Ramen – my personal favorite of the night. Rich, hearty, and exactly what you want in a bowl of ramen.
- Sushi – beautifully crafted by Kevin, the sushi chef. Nothing here is pre-made, so yes, it may take a little longer if he’s busy- but the results are so worth it.
I got to talk to the owners and they told me they’re aiming to be a healthier, quick, intentional option while still giving you all the fun of a full ramen + hibachi + sushi + boba lineup.
Grand Opening Deals You Don’t Want to Miss!!
This Friday (August 22) is the Grand Opening, and they’re going big with the deals! Be sure you've followed their page (@100ramenandbar_chatt ) and commented on my recent @webbchatts post about them!
✨ The first 20 people who show up (and prove they shared + commented on my Instagram post) get a FREE bowl of ramen.
✨ From 11 AM to 4 PM, everything on the menu (except alcohol) is half off if you’ve shared + commented + followed them!!
✨ Can’t make it Friday? use the coupon below for 20% to use any other day in August!
I’ll be there too, hanging out and trying more dishes- so come say hi, grab some food, and let’s support this new locally owned spot together!!
(Free parking- it's Hamilton Place!)
Check out their website: https://taste100.com/order/100-ramen-bar-2090-hamilton-place-boulevard
And if you want more insider Chattanooga finds, be sure to follow me on Instagram @webbchatts — I’m always sharing the best new spots, events, and hidden gems around the Scenic City! THANKS!!!
Things to actually do in Chattanooga when someone says “there’s nothing to do here”
Why Living in Chattanooga is Anything But Boring
You’ve probably heard someone say it before—“There’s nothing to do in Chattanooga.” But if you’ve spent even a weekend here, you know how far off that is. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, local art, great food, or just exploring neighborhoods with charm, Chattanooga brings something for everyone. I’ve lived here for years, and I still find new places to love. So if you’re feeling stuck in a rut or visiting for the first time, here’s your friendly reminder: there's way more going on than you think.
The Experience:
Chattanooga is the kind of place that offers a little bit of everything—but it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Downtown along the riverfront, you’ll find walkable streets lined with restaurants, galleries, and coffee shops. The Bluff View Art District has cobblestone paths, public sculptures, and one of the best views in town. Grab a coffee from Rembrandt’s and stroll over to the Hunter Museum or just take a seat and people-watch.
For outdoor lovers, there’s no shortage of options. Lookout Mountain offers hiking trails just minutes from downtown—Sunset Rock and Point Park are two favorites, especially in the fall. Prefer water? Rent kayaks or paddleboards from L2 Outside and float right through the Tennessee River. And don't sleep on sunrise walks at Stringers Ridge—the city views from the observation deck are always worth the early wake-up.
It’s not just nature, either. We’ve got a great local music scene with venues like The Signal and Barking Legs Theater. The Chattanooga Market at First Horizon Pavilion is packed with food, handmade goods, and live performances every Sunday from spring to late fall. Whether you’re hanging out on a casual afternoon or planning a bigger weekend adventure, there’s always something buzzing.
What to Know Before You Go:
Here are a few basics for planning your visit or staycation:
- Parking downtown is fairly straightforward. The Republic app makes it easy to pay for spots. On weekends, some garages are free after a certain hour—Shayna: Add local garage recs here.
- The Chattanooga Market is open Sundays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., from April through November, located at the First Horizon Pavilion (1826 Reggie White Blvd).
- L2 Outside offers paddleboard, kayak, and bike rentals with hourly and full-day pricing—reservations recommended on weekends.
- The Bluff View Art District is open year-round and free to explore; individual business hours vary.
- Local music and event tickets can be found on venues’ individual websites or through Eventbrite.
Extra Tips or Bonuses:
- If you’re planning a weekend in the city, consider staying at The Edwin Hotel—it’s walking distance to the Walnut Street Bridge and has a spa and rooftop bar with river views.
- For serious food lovers, plan your Saturday night around reservations at Easy Bistro or Alleia—Shayna: Insert another local favorite here!
- Into history? Check out the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge and walk over to the North Shore neighborhood. There’s good shopping, a cozy park, and spots like Clumpies Ice Cream for a quick treat.
- Local festivals like Nightfall, Riverbend, and Moon River keep the calendar full—Shayna: Add upcoming confirmed events and links here.
Final Thoughts:
No matter your vibe—outdoorsy, artsy, foodie, or just someone looking for a good way to spend the day—Chattanooga makes it easy. The city has a way of blending energy and ease that keeps locals exploring and visitors coming back. So next time someone hits you with the “there’s nothing to do” line, you’ve got a whole list ready to go.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
A Night Out at Westbound Honkytonk: Chattanooga Bar Review
Your guide to Chattanooga bars: Westbound Honky Tonk
If you’re looking for a high-energy night out in Chattanooga- with a little line dancing, a lot of music, and a place to celebrate- Westbound Honky Tonk on Station Street is where the party’s at. Whether you're planning a bachelorette bash, a milestone birthday, or just a night out with friends, Westbound delivers a unique mix of nightclub vibe and Southern flair. It’s lively, it’s fun, and it’s far more than just country music.
The Experience
From the outside, Westbound blends in with the other venues on bustling Station Street (see more on Station Street below!) But step inside on a weekend night and you’ll find a fun party atmosphere. The space is open and energetic, with alarge dance floor, pulsing lights, and DJs who bring a fresh vibe each night. Depending on who’s spinning, you might catch everything from country classics and hip-hop throwbacks to pop hits and EDM favorites.
The decor currently features many great country artists painted or hung up in portraits on the walls, giving nods to its honky tonk name while still feeling like an upscale nightlife venue. There are line dancing nights, live performers, and guest DJs that rotate regularly—so no two visits feel exactly the same.
One of the standout features? Westbound’s VIP section. If you're with a group, especially for a special occasion, booking this space is well worth it. You’ll get your own personal servers, complimentary bottle service, exclusive DJ access for song requests, and a private, decorated area to hang in—plus the ability to dip in and out of the crowd as you please.
What to Know Before You Go
Location: 24 Station St #106, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Hours: Typically open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (Thursdays are line dancing days!). Times vary, so always check their Instagram @westboundhonkytonk for current hours and DJ/event schedules.
Age Restrictions: Public events are strictly 21+. However, the space is available for private rentals, and any age group can attend those events.
Cover Charge: Pricing varies by night and DJ. Some nights have free entry before a certain time; others may have a small cover at the door. Get there early to avoid a wait!
Parking: Trust ME—don’t forget to pay for parking on Station Street. Enforcement is strict, and tickets are no joke. You can also park a few blocks over on Main Street and walk.
Music: Not just country! While the name might suggest cowboy boots and twangy tunes, the actual music range is diverse. DJs bring their own styles, playing everything from EDM to 2000s hip-hop, pop anthems, and yes, the occasional country hit.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
Planning a party? Westbound is especially popular for bachelorette weekends, birthdays, and group outings. Reach out to them in advance via Instagram or their website to inquire about reserving the VIP section or even renting the venue outright for a private event.
Station Street: Looking for food beforehand? Station Street is packed with nearby restaurants. Stir is an easy pregame option for cocktails and small bites, or walk over to Main Street for some of my favorite tacos- Bollywood Tacos! (PS- Station Street in general is a great spot for "bar hopping" in Chatt- there's a good number around the area (Reagan's, Boneyard, 50/50 Wine Bar, Elsie's Daughter, etc., and you can hop on a free "Ride-Go-Cart" or uber/walk to other nearby bars like Shady's Corner, Hi-Fi Clydes and more!)
Photo ops include the signs inside the bar, themed party decorations in VIP, and Station Street's string lights backdrop outside the venue.
Final Thoughts
Westbound Honky Tonk has carved out a niche in Chattanooga’s nightlife scene by offering something a little different—accessible and welcoming for newcomers, but thoughtful enough for locals who are looking for a reliable go-to for weekend fun. If you’re between 21 and 40 and like to dance, celebrate, or simply enjoy a night out with friends, this spot delivers. And if you’ve been writing it off as “just a country bar,” it might be time to give it a second look.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!