Chattanooga’s guided tours showcase the best of this Tennessee river city. Local tours cut through the tourist fluff and deliver authentic experiences worth your time and money. The standout Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour offers an unforgettable evening watching thousands of endangered grey bats emerge at sunset. History buffs will appreciate the well-researched walking tours through downtown’s Civil War sites and architectural gems. For active travelers, the Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour provides a thrilling dam descent, while Segway tours offer an efficient way to cover the scenic riverfront. Cycling tours, especially along the Incline Railway route, combine exercise with spectacular views.
Let’s explore the top-rated tours that make Chattanooga special.
Key Points
- Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour offers a unique wildlife viewing experience, with up to 100,000 endangered grey bats during nightly hunts.
- North Shore & Coolidge Park Guided Segway Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Chattanooga’s riverfront and historic districts.
- Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour allows visitors to experience kayaking through the dam lock, descending 50 feet.
- Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour led by a historian offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s local highlights and Civil War history.
- Incline Railway Bike Tour combines cycling through iconic landmarks with the experience of the Incline Railway.
Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour With Chattanooga Guided Adventures
The Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures offers adventurers a unique opportunity to observe up to 100,000 endangered grey bats during their nightly hunts.
This 2-hour tour takes place on Nickajack Lake, Tennessee River, near Chattanooga, where guests can paddle in kayaks to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon. With a maximum group size of 20, the tour provides an intimate wildlife experience led by knowledgeable guides who share information on local conservation efforts and the ecological significance of the bats.
Priced at $75 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment such as kayaks, life jackets, and group throwbags. Guests depart from the Mapleview Recreation Area in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, with a recommended arrival 10 minutes prior to the Eastern Time departure.
While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. With a 98% recommendation rate and 4.9 average rating from 240 reviews, the Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour offers a memorable and educational adventure in the heart of Chattanooga.
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Chattanoogas North Shore & Coolidge Park Guided Segway Tour
Chattanooga’s North Shore & Coolidge Park Guided Segway Tour offers visitors a unique and engaging way to explore the city’s vibrant riverfront and historic districts. This 2.5-hour tour boasts a stellar 4.9/5 rating from 177 travelers, with 99% recommending the experience.
Small group sizes (maximum of 6) ensure personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides, who share insights into Chattanooga’s rich history and landmarks often missed by visitors.
The tour highlights include traversing parks, bridges, and riverside vistas while gliding effortlessly on Segways. Participants rave about the ease of navigation and the sheer enjoyment of the tour.
With all taxes and fees included, this tour provides an excellent value proposition. However, it’s important to note the physical requirements, as the tour isn’t suited for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Chattanoogas North Shore & Coolidge Park Guided Segway Tour Review
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Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures
This 3-hour Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures allows participants to experience the unique thrill of kayaking through the Chickamauga Dam lock, descending approximately 50 feet.
With 56 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, this tour is a must-try for those seeking an adventurous way to explore Chattanooga’s scenic Tennessee River.
Included in the tour are a kayak, life jacket, paddle, and a knowledgeable guide who leads the group. Safety equipment, such as a throw-bag, towline, and first aid kit, are also provided.
The tour departs from the River Park Boat Ramp and returns to the same location.
Participants must be able to get in and out of a kayak unassisted and shouldn’t have any back problems or serious medical conditions.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Reviewers consistently praise the guides, Brandon and Zach, for their professionalism and informative nature, making this tour a truly enjoyable and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures Review
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Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Chattanooga, the Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour led by historian J.D. Harper is an ideal choice. The tour provides an engaging exploration of the city’s local highlights, including the Tennessee River Walk, Tivoli Theatre, and Historic Read House Hotel.
Ideal for history buffs and first-time visitors, the tour offers educational insights on architecture, Civil War history, and the city’s landscapes.
The tour starts at the Chattanooga Visitor Center, where you will meet the guide who’ll be wearing a name badge for easy identification. The walking tour lasts approximately three hours and concludes back at the meeting point.
With a maximum of 25 travelers per group, the tour offers a personalized experience and an opportunity to connect with fellow participants.
Inclusive of all fees and taxes, the tour also includes gratuities for the knowledgeable guide.
Wheelchair accessible and welcoming of strollers and service animals, the tour is easily accessible by public transportation.
Read our full review: Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour Review
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Incline Railway Bike Tour With Chattanooga Guided Adventures
The Incline Railway Bike Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. This tour accommodates up to 6 travelers and departs from the ChargePoint Charging Station, where you will meet their guide under the flags with blue bike helmets laid out.
The tour includes snacks, ice cream, and use of the bicycles, as well as tickets for the Incline Railway, Chattanooga’s famous steep-grade funicular railway. Participants will cycle through the city, taking in the sights before boarding the railway for a thrilling ride up Lookout Mountain.
With a perfect 5.0 rating across multiple review platforms, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Chattanooga.
It’s not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
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Fall Colors Bike Tour With Chattanooga Guided Adventures
Chattanooga Guided Adventures offers a captivating Fall Colors Bike Tour that allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the city. This guided tour departs from the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, leading cyclists on a journey to discover Chattanooga’s stunning fall foliage.
Along the way, participants are provided with a kayak, life jacket, paddle, and group throw bag, as well as the expertise of a certified guide. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience.
Accessibility is a key consideration, as the tour is stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions. Most visitors can comfortably participate, making this tour suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
Upon returning to the meeting point, travelers can look forward to a memorable exploration of Chattanooga’s vibrant autumn landscapes.
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The Sum Up
Chattanooga offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. From kayaking through a bat cave to exploring the city’s highlights on a Segway, there’s something for all. These tours provide an engaging and informative way to experience the area’s natural beauty, history, and attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover or a city enthusiast, Chattanooga’s guided tours are an excellent way to make the most of your visit.