Murfreesboro to Chattanooga

103 miles • 1 hour 35 minutes • via I-24 East

Chattanooga – known as the Scenic City – sits along the Tennessee River at the base of Lookout Mountain. From the Tennessee Aquarium and Ruby Falls to the Walnut Street Bridge and a thriving North Shore dining district, Chattanooga is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Murfreesboro. The drive southeast on I-24 crosses the Cumberland Plateau, making the journey itself part of the experience.

Murfreesboro to Chattanooga – Quick Facts

Distance

103 miles

Murfreesboro to downtown Chattanooga

Drive Time

~1h 35m

Under normal traffic conditions

Best Route

I-24 East

Straightforward interstate route

Estimated Gas Cost

$12–16 one way

Varies by vehicle & fuel prices

Getting from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga

The drive from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga follows I-24 East (also signed as I-24 South in some sections) for the entire route. It is one of the most straightforward interstate drives in Tennessee – no major highway changes or complicated interchanges are required. The route crosses the Cumberland Plateau, climbing through the mountains near Monteagle before descending into the Tennessee Valley toward Chattanooga.

Primary Route: I-24 East

Fastest

The fastest and most direct path from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga. Take I-24 East from Murfreesboro and follow it approximately 103 miles directly into Chattanooga. The route crosses the Cumberland Plateau near Monteagle, with the road climbing to over 1,900 feet in elevation before descending into the Tennessee Valley.

• Distance: ~103 miles
• Drive time: ~1 hour 35 minutes
• Highway driving the entire route
• Crosses the Cumberland Plateau with mountain scenery

Alternative: US-41 Scenic Route

Scenic

US-41 offers a slower, more scenic alternative that passes through small Tennessee towns between Murfreesboro and Chattanooga. This route takes considerably longer but provides a glimpse of rural Middle Tennessee and the small communities along the old highway corridor. It is best suited for travelers with extra time who want a more leisurely drive.

• Passes through Manchester, Monteagle & small towns
• Slower with surface streets and traffic lights
• Good for travelers seeking a back-roads experience

Monteagle Mountain & Driving Tips

Steep Grades on I-24

The Monteagle Mountain section of I-24 includes steep grades on both the ascent and descent. Trucks are required to use lower gears, and brake-check areas are provided. Drivers should be aware of slower-moving commercial vehicles in the right lane.

Winter Weather Caution

The Monteagle area sits at a higher elevation than either Murfreesboro or Chattanooga and can experience ice, snow, and fog when conditions are clear at lower elevations. Check TDOT road conditions before winter travel across the plateau.

Best Times to Travel

Weekend mornings generally offer the smoothest drive. Fridays and Sunday afternoons can see heavier traffic as travelers head to and from Chattanooga. The Monteagle area occasionally has construction-related slowdowns.

Stops Along the Way

The 103-mile stretch of I-24 between Murfreesboro and Chattanooga passes through several communities and notable areas on the Cumberland Plateau worth exploring.

Manchester

Located about 60 miles southeast of Murfreesboro, Manchester is the home of the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival grounds, which hosts one of the largest music festivals in the United States each summer. Nearby, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park features a 2,000-year-old Native American ceremonial site, waterfalls, and hiking trails along the Duck River. Manchester also serves as a gateway to the South Cumberland region.

Monteagle

Monteagle sits atop the Cumberland Plateau at the crest of Monteagle Mountain along I-24. The small community has become known for its mountaintop restaurants and proximity to South Cumberland State Park, one of Tennessee's premier natural areas. South Cumberland offers access to dramatic gorges, waterfalls including Foster Falls, and miles of backcountry hiking trails. Monteagle is a popular rest stop for travelers crossing the plateau.

Sewanee

Located just off I-24 near Monteagle, Sewanee is home to the University of the South, a private liberal arts college with a striking Gothic-style campus set across 13,000 acres atop the Cumberland Plateau. The university's Domain, as the campus and surrounding land are known, includes hiking trails, natural bridges, and scenic overlooks. The town has a small but charming village center with local shops and dining.

Jasper & Kimball Area

The Jasper and Kimball area marks the descent from the Cumberland Plateau into the Tennessee Valley as I-24 approaches Chattanooga. Jasper is the seat of Marion County and offers a small-town Tennessee atmosphere. The area provides access to the Tennessee River gorge and the surrounding natural landscape that defines the approach to Chattanooga from the northwest.

Things to Do in Chattanooga on a Day Trip

Chattanooga has undergone a major transformation over the past few decades, evolving into one of the most visited cities in the Southeast. The city's attractions span natural wonders, aquatic exhibits, historic sites, and an increasingly vibrant food and arts scene along the Tennessee River.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world and serves as the centerpiece of Chattanooga's downtown riverfront. The facility includes two buildings – the River Journey building, which traces freshwater ecosystems from the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico, and the Ocean Journey building, which features saltwater exhibits including sharks, sea turtles, and a butterfly garden. The aquarium is located along the Tennessee Riverwalk and is within walking distance of the Walnut Street Bridge. Admission is charged; tickets can be purchased in advance online.

Lookout Mountain: Rock City, Ruby Falls & Incline Railway

Lookout Mountain is home to three of Chattanooga's most iconic attractions, each separately ticketed. Rock City features a trail through ancient rock formations, a swinging bridge, and a panoramic overlook that is said to offer views of seven states on a clear day. Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall located deep within the mountain, accessible via guided cave tours. The Incline Railway is a historic funicular that climbs the steep face of Lookout Mountain, operating since 1895. Visitors can choose individual attractions or combination tickets depending on their interests and time.

Walnut Street Bridge

The Walnut Street Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, spanning the Tennessee River and connecting downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore district. The bridge was originally built in 1891 and was converted to pedestrian-only use after a new vehicle bridge was constructed. Walking across the bridge offers views of the river, Lookout Mountain, and the downtown skyline. The bridge is free to cross and serves as a central connector between two of Chattanooga's most popular areas for dining and entertainment.

Coolidge Park & North Shore

Coolidge Park sits on the north bank of the Tennessee River at the far end of the Walnut Street Bridge. The park features a restored antique carousel, a play fountain popular with families during warmer months, open green space, and river views. The surrounding North Shore neighborhood has developed into one of Chattanooga's most popular districts for independent restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and casual dining. Frazier Avenue, the main commercial street on the North Shore, is walkable and has a distinct neighborhood character.

Chattanooga Choo Choo

The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic terminal station that has been converted into a hotel and entertainment complex in the Southside district. The landmark, made famous by the Glenn Miller Orchestra's 1941 hit song, features the restored terminal building, gardens, model trains, and a collection of shops and restaurants. The surrounding Southside neighborhood has seen significant growth, with breweries, restaurants, and arts venues adding to the area's appeal.

Bluff View Art District

The Bluff View Art District is a pedestrian-friendly enclave perched on a bluff overlooking the Tennessee River, just south of the downtown core. The district is home to the Hunter Museum of American Art, which occupies a striking combination of a historic mansion and modern glass-and-steel galleries. The area also features sculpture gardens, coffee houses, fine dining restaurants, and galleries. The walkable district connects to the riverfront via staircases and paths, making it easy to combine with a visit to the aquarium or the Walnut Street Bridge.

Raccoon Mountain & Signal Mountain Hiking

For visitors seeking outdoor activities beyond Lookout Mountain, Raccoon Mountain and Signal Mountain offer additional hiking and nature opportunities in the Chattanooga area. Raccoon Mountain features a network of mountain biking and hiking trails, along with the TVA Raccoon Mountain Pumped-Storage Facility, which includes a visitor center and reservoir with recreation areas. Signal Mountain, located north of downtown Chattanooga, offers trails, scenic overlooks, and a residential mountain community with local dining options. Both mountains provide a more rugged, less commercialized outdoor experience compared to the Lookout Mountain tourist attractions.

Where to Eat on a Chattanooga Day Trip

Chattanooga's food scene has grown significantly in recent years, with a mix of riverfront dining, neighborhood restaurants, and a thriving craft brewery culture. The route from Murfreesboro also offers road trip dining options along the way.

Riverfront & Downtown Dining

Chattanooga's downtown riverfront area near the Tennessee Aquarium offers a range of dining options within walking distance of the city's main attractions. The area around Broad Street and the Bluff View Art District features restaurants with river views, Southern-inspired menus, and upscale casual atmospheres. Downtown Chattanooga is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore dining options on foot between sightseeing stops.

North Shore Restaurants

The North Shore district, accessible via the Walnut Street Bridge from downtown, has developed into one of Chattanooga's most popular dining neighborhoods. Frazier Avenue and the surrounding streets feature independent restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and casual eateries with a neighborhood feel distinct from the tourist-facing downtown corridor. The North Shore is known for its mix of creative comfort food, local bakeries, and farm-to-table-inspired dining.

Craft Brewery Scene

Chattanooga has a growing craft brewery scene, with several breweries operating taprooms in the downtown and Southside districts. The Southside neighborhood near the Chattanooga Choo Choo has become a hub for craft beer, with multiple breweries within walking distance of each other. Many of Chattanooga's breweries offer food menus or welcome food trucks, making them a good option for a casual meal alongside locally brewed beer.

Road Trip Stops: Manchester & Monteagle

For those looking to break up the drive, Manchester and Monteagle both offer dining options along the I-24 corridor. Manchester has a selection of restaurants and fast food near the interstate exits. Monteagle, sitting at the top of the Cumberland Plateau, has a handful of locally known restaurants where travelers stop for a meal while crossing the mountain. These stops can serve as a convenient midpoint break on the drive between Murfreesboro and Chattanooga.

Practical Tips for Your Chattanooga Day Trip

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April – May) and fall (September – November) offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Chattanooga on foot and enjoying Lookout Mountain. Fall foliage in the Tennessee Valley and along the Cumberland Plateau is particularly scenic. Summer is popular for river activities and Coolidge Park but can be warm and humid. Winter visitors can enjoy smaller crowds and seasonal events at Rock City.

Lookout Mountain Admission

Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway are separately ticketed attractions on Lookout Mountain. Each charges its own admission fee, and visiting all three requires purchasing individual or combination tickets. Plan accordingly based on available time and interest – visiting all three attractions on Lookout Mountain can take half a day or more. Check each attraction's website for current hours and pricing.

Downtown Parking

Downtown Chattanooga offers several public parking garages and surface lots near the Tennessee Aquarium and riverfront area. Rates vary, and spots can fill quickly on busy weekends and during events. The downtown core is compact and walkable, so parking once and exploring on foot is a practical approach. The Walnut Street Bridge provides pedestrian access to the North Shore without needing to move a vehicle.

Jack Daniel's Detour via Lynchburg

Visitors can combine a Chattanooga day trip with a stop at the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg by taking a short detour off I-24 near Manchester. Highway 55 south from the Manchester area leads to Tullahoma and Lynchburg, where guided distillery tours are available. This detour adds roughly 30 to 45 minutes of additional driving and works best when Chattanooga is a full-day destination or an overnight trip.

Budget Estimates

A Chattanooga day trip can be done on a variety of budgets. Walking the Walnut Street Bridge, Coolidge Park, and the riverfront is free. Paid attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway each have separate admission fees. Check each attraction's website for current pricing. Factor in gas, parking, meals, and any souvenirs when planning a daily budget.

Planning Your Day

With a 1 hour 35 minute drive each way, departing Murfreesboro in the morning allows a full day in Chattanooga. A typical itinerary might include the Tennessee Aquarium in the morning, lunch downtown or on the North Shore, and Lookout Mountain attractions in the afternoon. Alternatively, visitors can focus on either the downtown riverfront area or Lookout Mountain to allow a more relaxed pace.

Frequently Asked Questions: Murfreesboro to Chattanooga

How far is Murfreesboro from Chattanooga?

Murfreesboro is approximately 103 miles from Chattanooga, Tennessee. The drive takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes via I-24 East under normal traffic conditions. The route is straightforward, following I-24 southeast from Murfreesboro directly into downtown Chattanooga.

What is there to do in Chattanooga for a day trip?

Chattanooga offers a wide range of day trip activities. The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world. Lookout Mountain features three separately ticketed attractions: Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway. The Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, connects downtown to the North Shore district and Coolidge Park. The Bluff View Art District, Chattanooga Choo Choo, and a thriving riverfront dining scene round out a full day.

What are the best stops between Murfreesboro and Chattanooga?

Several communities along I-24 between Murfreesboro and Chattanooga make worthwhile stops. Manchester, about 60 miles from Murfreesboro, is near Old Stone Fort State Park and the Bonnaroo festival grounds. Monteagle sits atop the Cumberland Plateau and offers mountaintop restaurants and proximity to South Cumberland State Park. Sewanee is home to the University of the South, a picturesque campus with notable architecture and hiking trails nearby.

Is the drive from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga scenic?

Yes, the I-24 corridor from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga is considered one of the more scenic interstate drives in Tennessee. The route crosses the Cumberland Plateau, climbing and descending through the mountains near Monteagle. The stretch around Monteagle Mountain features steep grades and elevated views of the surrounding ridges and valleys. In autumn, the fall foliage along this section of I-24 is particularly striking.

Can I visit Jack Daniel's on the way to Chattanooga?

Yes, the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg is a short detour off the route to Chattanooga. Lynchburg is located near Tullahoma, which can be reached by exiting I-24 near Manchester and taking Highway 55 south. The detour adds roughly 30 to 45 minutes to the overall trip depending on time spent at the distillery. Guided tours of the Jack Daniel's campus are available and can be booked in advance.

What is the best time of year to visit Chattanooga?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through November) are widely considered the best times to visit Chattanooga, offering mild temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration at Lookout Mountain, Rock City, and the riverfront. Summer is popular for river activities, Coolidge Park, and the Tennessee Aquarium, though temperatures can be warm and humid. Winter visits are quieter, with the holiday light displays at Rock City drawing seasonal visitors.

More Day Trips from Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro sits at the center of a region rich with day trip destinations. Explore more options from the Murfreesboro area.

Murfreesboro to Chattanooga