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

September 3 I 11 a.mm - 4 p.m.

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 3 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.

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. 

A Taste of Culture

Wanting to mix it up and try out some different foods? Chattanooga is home to a diverse selection of restaurants that is sure to brighten up your holiday weekend. Check out 5 diverse restaurants that will take you from the coast of Greece to the streets of Latin America all within a few miles of each other.

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. You can even try out the Kymera E-Jet Bodyboard or the Lift E-Foil Surfboard from Adventure Sports Innovation to change things up. 

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? 

Tennessee Paragliding Open 2023

Aug. 26 - Sept 2 | Times Vary | Locations Vary | Free for viewing

Tennessee Paragliding Open aka HURRICANE OPEN is an annual xc race to goal paragliding competition held in the Sequatchie Valley of TN, a famous location for Hang Gliding comps back in the 90s and a WORLD CLASS flying location.

Nightfall Concert Series

Friday, Sept. 1 | 7 p.m. | Miller Plaza | Free

The final concert of the 2023 Nightfall series features Jemere Morgan, whose reggae music is influenced by R&B, hip-hop, and pop; with local musician Swayyvo as the opening act. 

Chattanooga Football Club Men VS. Los Angeles Force

Sunday, Sept. 3 | Finley Stadium | Tickets Vary

Chattanooga FC is back for its 15th season of pro soccer, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the game, this is an event you won't want to miss.

We have a range of ticket options available, including general admission bleachers, reserved midfield chair backs, and discounted youth tickets for kids aged between 4 and 17 years old. And the best part? Children aged 3 and under can come along for free!

Hiwassee Loop Train Ride

Sunday, Sept. 3 | 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. | See website for ticket prices

The Hiwassee Loop is a true engineering marvel, recognized for its spiraling track that traverses the rugged Hiwassee River Gorge. This extraordinary loop, also known as the Bald Mountain Loop, allows trains to climb more than 900 feet in elevation within a short distance, providing passengers with unparalleled views and unforgettable moments.

Take in the stunning springtime colors as you ride through the beautiful lower Hiwassee River gorge on a 50-mile roundtrip. The 4.5-hour excursion takes you to the top of the famous Hiwassee Loop, one of only 6 in North America, and the only one east of the Mississippi River. The train winds its way through the trees, providing a picturesque view year-round.