Did you know Chattanooga boasts more than 150 public murals, one of the largest outdoor sculpture collections in the Southeast, and galleries that keep their calendars full year-round? Here’s a handy guide to Chattanooga’s creative offerings.
Visit the Bluff View Art District
You’ll find some of the best river views in Chattanooga in the Bluff View Art District. It’s home to the River Gallery, the River Gallery Sculpture Garden, Rembrandt’s Coffee House, and beautifully restored homes from the 1800s and early 1900s, one of which, The Bluff View Inn, doubles as a cozy bed and breakfast. Seasonal events around the area bring additional shows and exhibits, so it’s worth checking our local events calendar before you visit!
Follow the Public Art Trail
With more than 100 outdoor artworks, Chattanooga can feel like an open-air art gallery. Check out the city’s Art Map to plan a walk, run, or bike ride through downtown, where you’ll come across amazing murals, mosaics, and metal sculptures of all sizes.
Pro Tip: Stop by the “City Thread” installation in Cooper’s Alley, a walkway turned interactive art space. Keep going into the MLK District to see “We Will Not Be Satisfied Until,” a massive mural that wraps the AT&T building with the faces of local residents along with several other murals that highlight local Black history and commerce.
Explore the Hunter Museum of American Art
Sitting above the Tennessee River, the Hunter Museum of American Art is worth visiting as much for the view as for the art inside! The museum mixes its permanent collection with seasonal exhibits to keep things fresh. Throughout the year, you’ll find unique installations, screenings, artist talks, hands-on activities, and all sorts of public programming for kids and adults.
Celebrate Art Festivals and Seasonal Events
Every spring, the 4 Bridges Arts Festival takes place at the First Horizon Pavilion with work from more than 150 regional and national artists. You can browse paintings, sculptures, handmade furniture, and jewelry while meeting the artists themselves.
Summer brings the SPLASH Youth Arts Festival to Miller Park, filling it with food, music, interactive exhibits, and craft stations for kids. The Black Arts and Ideas Festival celebrates African American culture through art, live music, and spoken word performances.
Even in winter, you’ll find illuminated installations, gallery nights, and the EPB Holiday Windows lighting up downtown.
Step into Sculpture Fields and Studios
At Sculpture Fields at Montague Park, you can explore more than 50 large-scale works spread across 33 acres. Depending on the season, you can choose from events like guided tours and kite-flying days. Throughout the year, local studios open their doors for art walks, giving you the chance to meet artists, see works in progress, and even try making something yourself!
Get to Know Chattanooga’s Creative Side
Ready to explore Chattanooga’s art scene? Start with murals, museums, and public art downtown, then branch out into galleries, live shows, and studio tours. For even more ideas, browse our full list of things to do in the city, and don’t forget to check our hotels page to find the stay that fits your trip.
