Local Transportation: Chattanooga

Public Transportation

The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates the public bus system and the free Downtown Electric Shuttle. The city does not have a metro or tram system.

CARTA bus routes connect downtown with various neighborhoods and attractions. A hub is the CARTA Transfer Center at 1300 Chestnut Street downtown. The Downtown Electric Shuttle operates on a loop, mainly serving the downtown core from the Chattanooga Choo Choo to the Tennessee Aquarium, with stops at major attractions.

Fares & Accessibility

CARTA Bus: Single ride $1.50. Day pass $5.00. Pay with cash (exact change) or CARTA Bus Pass app.
Downtown Electric Shuttle: Free of charge.
Accessibility: CARTA buses are wheelchair accessible.
Hours: CARTA Bus hours vary (early morning to late evening). Shuttle runs daily, typically every 10-15 minutes.

Route Planning

Use Google Maps or the CARTA Bus Pass app for real-time bus tracking and route planning for efficient travel.

Downtown Shuttle

The Downtown Electric Shuttle is excellent for quick trips between main downtown attractions, saving time and walking.

Group Travel

For groups, purchasing a day pass for CARTA can be cost-effective for multiple bus rides throughout the day.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Taxis are typically marked with company names (e.g., Checker Cab, Yellow Cab) and roof lights.
Fares are metered; a downtown trip might cost $7-$15. Most taxis accept cash and credit cards.
Hail them on the street in some downtown areas, find at taxi stands (e.g., Chattanooga Choo Choo), or call for pick-up.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Chattanooga, offering various service levels.
Safety: Use official apps. Confirm driver/vehicle matches app info before entering. Share trip details with a trusted contact.
Airport: Taxis and ride-shares are readily available at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA).

Rental Options for Local Exploration

Car Rental

Major companies available at CHA and downtown. Book in advance.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Options are limited; search online for private companies.

Bike Share

Chattanooga Bicycle Transit System (Bike Chattanooga) available.

Local Bike Shops

Daily/weekly rentals for various bike types.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving in Chattanooga observes standard U.S. Laws. Drive on the right, seatbelt use is mandatory, and hands-free cell phone use is common. Roads are generally well-maintained. Traffic can be heavy during peak commute hours, especially on interstates and downtown streets.

Requirements & Safety

A valid driver's license is necessary. International visitors may need an IDP.
Follow all traffic laws, including speed limits and signaling.
Stay aware of weather conditions, especially during winter (potential for ice) or summer (heavy rain).
Always use a hands-free device if operating a cell phone while driving.

Parking Information

Downtown Chattanooga has many paid parking garages and metered street parking.
Rates for parking vary depending on location and duration.
Many hotels feature guest parking, often for an additional fee.
Free parking may be found in some areas, especially on weekends or evenings.

Walking & Cycling

Chattanooga is a pedestrian-friendly city, especially in its core areas like Downtown, North Shore, and the Bluff View Arts District.
The Tennessee Riverwalk, a paved 16.1-mile path, is ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Free maps and guides for self-guided tours are available at the Chattanooga Visitor Center.

Chattanooga is recognized as a bicycle-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and extensive greenways.
Wear a Helmet when cycling, follow traffic laws, and be aware of vehicle traffic.
Some major roads are not suitable for cycling due to high traffic and lack of bike lanes.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Chattanooga Star Bus Tours offer guided excursions of city highlights.

Amphibious Tours

Chattanooga Ducks tours explore the city and river in an unique vehicle.

Incline Railway

The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, a funicular, ascends the mountain with scenic views.

Accessibility Services

Chattanooga strives to make its attractions and transportation accessible for all visitors. While newer facilities are designed with accessibility in mind, some older historical sites may have limitations.

Public Transport Accessibility

CARTA buses are wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps or lifts.
The Downtown Electric Shuttle is also accessible for mobility devices.
Information on accessible routes can be found on the CARTA website or through Google Maps.
Drivers are trained to assist passengers with mobility needs.

Attraction & Lodging Accessibility

Many newer attractions and hotels are built with accessibility features like ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Older historical sites may present limitations due to their original structure.
Check specific venue information or call ahead to confirm accessibility details.
Many hotels feature accessible rooms with roll-in showers and other accommodations.

Outdoor Accessibility

Riverwalk

The Tennessee Riverwalk is a paved, largely flat path suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Smooth, accessible path

Coolidge Park

Features wide paths and accessible attractions like the carousel and interactive fountain.

Family-friendly and accessible

Lookout Mountain

Ruby Falls and Rock City offer accessible routes. The Incline Railway cars are accessible.

Main attractions accessible

Special Services for Mobility Needs

Assistance & Support

Local organizations may offer specialized assistance for travelers with disabilities.
Rental services for wheelchairs or scooters might be available in the city.
Contact the Chattanooga Convention and Visitors Bureau for specific requests or information.

Planning Resources

Consult online resources and reviews that focus on accessible travel in Chattanooga.
Calling attractions or hotels directly can confirm their current accessibility status.
Look for accessible parking options near attractions, which are often marked.

Limitations & Considerations

Some historical homes or smaller shops may lack ramps or wide doorways.
Uneven sidewalks or cobblestone areas in older districts might present challenges.
Some natural trails or specific viewpoints on mountains might not be fully accessible.
Always confirm ahead for specific needs, especially for private tours or smaller venues.

Accessible seating in theaters or event venues may be limited, so book in advance.
While ride-sharing is common, ensuring an accessible vehicle may require special requests or more waiting time.
For any complex needs, direct communication with service providers before arrival is highly recommended.
Consider weather conditions which may impact mobility, like ice in winter or extreme heat in summer.

Accessibility Tip

Chattanooga is continuously working to improve accessibility for all.

The city's commitment to urban renewal also extends to creating inclusive public spaces.

Local Transportation