Ruby Falls, Chattanooga Riverfront Travel Guide

4.6 (18185)

Experience the beauty of Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall in Chattanooga, Tennessee, surrounded by stunning rock formations and rich history.

Ruby Falls, a breathtaking underground waterfall located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a must-see destination for tourists. Descend into the caverns and witness the beauty of nature as water cascades from a height of 145 feet, illuminated by vibrant lights. The journey to the falls is just as captivating, featuring stunning rock formations and intriguing geological features that tell the story of the earth's history. Perfect for families, adventurers, and nature lovers alike, Ruby Falls offers a unique experience that combines adventure with education, making it a highlight of any trip to the region.

A brief summary to Ruby Falls

1720 Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, Tennessee, 37409, US
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Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ruby Falls.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved on uneven surfaces.
Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the waterfall and surrounding caverns.
Check the weather conditions, as it can affect the tours and visibility in the cave.
Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Hunter Museum of American Art

Walnut Street Bridge

Bluff View Art District

Renaissance Park

Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Chattanooga African American Museum

Explore Ruby Falls on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ruby Falls, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Chattanooga Riverfront, head west on W 2nd St toward Market St. Continue onto Riverfront Pkwy and follow signs for US-27 N. Merge onto US-27 N and stay on it for about 3.5 miles. Take exit 1B for I-24 W toward Nashville. Merge onto I-24 W and continue for approximately 3 miles. Take exit 178 for Broad St toward US-41 S/US-76 W. Continue on Broad St, then turn left onto Scenic Hwy. Ruby Falls will be on your right at 1720 Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409. There is parking available on-site. Note: Be aware of potential parking fees depending on the time of year.
Public Transportation

From the Chattanooga Riverfront, use the CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) bus service. Take bus route 2 (St. Elmo) from the nearest bus stop at 900 Riverfront Pkwy. Ride the bus for about 20-25 minutes and get off at the stop near the intersection of Scenic Hwy and Lookout Mountain. From there, it's a short walk to Ruby Falls at 1720 Scenic Hwy. Be sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time as services may vary, and you may need to pay a fare of around $1.50 for a one-way ticket.
Taxi/Rideshare

For a more direct route without navigating public transport, consider using a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Request a ride from your current location in Chattanooga Riverfront to Ruby Falls, located at 1720 Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409. The ride should take approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will vary, but expect to pay around $15-$25.

Discover more about Ruby Falls

Nestled within the picturesque Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Ruby Falls is a spectacular underground waterfall that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and historical significance. As you embark on the guided tour, you will descend 1,120 feet below the surface, where you will be greeted by the thunderous sound of water cascading down a 145-foot waterfall. The experience is enhanced by stunning light displays that create a magical atmosphere, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The journey to the falls is not only about the destination; the caverns themselves feature fascinating rock formations and unique geological features that have formed over millions of years, giving you a glimpse into the Earth's ancient past. Ruby Falls is also a historical landmark, as it was discovered in 1928 by Leo Lambert, who named it after his wife, Ruby. This adds a romantic touch to the already enchanting experience. Visitors can also explore the surrounding nature preserve, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the Tennessee Valley. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or on a solo adventure, Ruby Falls promises a memorable experience that beautifully combines adventure, education, and the awe of nature.