Support Us Button Widget

10 activities for retired locals in Chattanooga

If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of retirement in Chattanooga.

Folks kayaking

Having fun in the Scenic City has no age limit. | Photo via Outdoor Chattanooga

Goodbye, 9-5. If you (or someone you know) recently retired, you might be looking for activities catering to older adults. Clock into our retirement guide, and find opportunities in Chattanooga that work for you.

Get fit

If you’re not planning on slowing down in your retirement, keep moving with fitness classes designed for older Chattanoogans.

  • Register for Outdoor Chattanooga’s Silver Adventures series where you can take a private visit to Lula Lake or pick up a new skill like Adult Archery — both offerings are free.
  • Check out Senior Classes at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga, from Latin-inspired cardio dance to strengthening balance + coordination.
  • Grab some friends and head to one of our pickleball courts.

There’s no wrong way to get fit. Your first step could be as easy as finding walking trails at a local park or exploring one of Chattanooga’s easier hikes.

Spend time with the grandkids

If you’re looking to spend time with the grandchildren, explore these 25+ kid-friendly activities in the Scenic City and pick one that’s your speed. Pro tip: Don’t drive — take a ride on CARTA’s free shuttle services or enjoy discounted fares for seniors (kids five and under travel for free).

Volunteer

Give back to the community by volunteering at a local organization. Whether you’re interested in supporting a community center or want to volunteer outdoors, check out our full list.

NOOGAtoday | Hunter experience

See permanent and traveling exhibits when visiting the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Photo by NOOGAtoday

Explore the arts

Beat the crowds and take a weekday trip to one of Chattanooga’s many museums, and be on the lookout for senior discounts (we see you, Hunter Museum of American Art). You can also enjoy a performance —older adults can receive discounts for shows at spots like the Chattanooga Theatre Center.

Bonus: Connect with other older adults in Chattanooga through Facebook.

More from NOOGAtoday
Over the next 10 days, we’re launching a reader-driven campaign to sustain what we do best.
Whether you’re a retired service member or active-duty, these places are extending a “thank you” with special offers.
Run or walk for a cause this holiday season.
To help make your entire process at the Chattanooga Airport as smooth as possible, we’ve created a guide that covers everything from gates and parking to details on the airport’s nine nonstop flights.
Local food banks are seeing a surge in demand — here’s what you can do to help.
Nearly eight months into its 18-month closure, the iconic blue bridge is showing fresh color and steady progress toward reopening in 2026.
Don’t be afraid. Concerns about everything from flood damage to environmental health can be solved by getting in touch not with the Ghostbusters, but with these Chattanooga resources.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
From live music to pig races, here’s your guide to this year’s fair at McDonald Farm.
How to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s most popular animals.