Official Launch 2026
•Founding Host Applications Now OpenJoin Early
Chattanooga, TN

Best Bars in Chattanooga: Scenic Views & Southern Craft

The Bitter Alibi
Top Pick

The Bitter Alibi

825 Houston St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

A sophisticated cocktail lounge in the heart of Southside, The Bitter Alibi features expertly crafted drinks, an extensive whiskey selection, and a refined atmosphere. The bar is known for its creative seasonal cocktails and knowledgeable bartenders who can craft custom drinks based on your preferences.

Craft Cocktails
Date Night
Whiskey Selection
Upscale Atmosphere

Insider Tip

Ask the bartender for an off-menu creation based on your favorite flavors - they love the challenge.

Chattanooga Brewing Company
Top Pick

Chattanooga Brewing Company

1804 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

One of Tennessee's oldest craft breweries, Chattanooga Brewing Company offers award-winning beers in a spacious taproom with outdoor seating. The brewery features a rotating selection of seasonal and experimental brews alongside their flagship beers.

Craft Beer
Outdoor Seating
Brewery Tours
Groups

Insider Tip

Visit on Saturdays for free brewery tours at 2pm and 4pm to learn about their brewing process.

The Foundry
Top Pick

The Foundry

1 W 20th St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

A stunning rooftop bar offering panoramic views of downtown Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain. The Foundry features craft cocktails, local beers, and a full menu in a modern industrial-chic setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Rooftop Views
Sunset Drinks
Special Occasions
Instagram Photos

Insider Tip

Arrive before sunset (around 7pm in summer) to watch the city lights come on from the best seats.

Whiskey Thief Tavern
Top Pick

Whiskey Thief Tavern

401 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

A cozy whiskey bar featuring over 200 whiskeys from around the world, craft cocktails, and Southern-inspired small plates. The intimate space offers a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere perfect for whiskey enthusiasts and novices alike.

Whiskey Selection
Craft Cocktails
Small Plates
Intimate Setting

Insider Tip

Join their whiskey club for exclusive tastings and access to rare bottles not available to the public.

Barrelhouse Ballroom
Top Pick

Barrelhouse Ballroom

1 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

A hidden gem combining craft cocktails with live music in an intimate setting. The speakeasy-style bar features vintage decor, creative drinks, and regular performances from local and touring musicians across various genres.

Live Music
Craft Cocktails
Hidden Gem
Date Night

Insider Tip

Check their calendar for 'Songwriter Sundays' featuring acoustic performances in an intimate setting.

Songbirds Guitar Museum
Top Pick

Songbirds Guitar Museum

35 Station St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

A unique combination of guitar museum and live music venue with a full bar. The intimate space showcases rare vintage guitars while hosting world-class musicians. The bar offers craft cocktails, local beers, and a music-focused atmosphere.

Live Music
Music History
Intimate Shows
Unique Experience

Insider Tip

Arrive early to tour the guitar museum before shows - admission is included with your ticket.

Tony's Pasta Shop & Trattoria
Top Pick

Tony's Pasta Shop & Trattoria

212 High St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

While known for Italian cuisine, Tony's rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Tennessee River and Walnut Street Bridge. The casual rooftop space features Italian wines, craft cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sunset drinks.

River Views
Sunset Drinks
Italian Wine
Casual Atmosphere

Insider Tip

The rooftop can get crowded on weekends - visit on weeknights for a more relaxed experience.

Heaven & Ale
Top Pick

Heaven & Ale

151 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405

A Belgian-inspired beer bar featuring an extensive selection of Belgian and craft beers, along with elevated pub fare. The cozy space offers both indoor seating and a riverside patio with views of the Tennessee River.

Belgian Beer
Riverside Patio
Beer Selection
Casual Dining

Insider Tip

Try the moules frites (mussels and fries) paired with a Belgian ale for an authentic experience.

The Flying Squirrel Bar
Top Pick

The Flying Squirrel Bar

55 Johnson St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

A trendy cocktail bar with a playful atmosphere, creative drinks, and a menu of elevated bar snacks. The modern space features colorful decor, comfortable seating, and a lively vibe that attracts a young professional crowd.

Creative Cocktails
Young Crowd
Late Night
Groups

Insider Tip

Happy hour (4-7pm daily) features $2 off all cocktails and half-price appetizers.

Big River Grille & Brewing Works
Top Pick

Big River Grille & Brewing Works

222 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

A downtown brewpub offering house-made craft beers and American cuisine in a spacious, family-friendly setting. The brewery features a variety of beer styles brewed on-site, from light lagers to hoppy IPAs.

Craft Beer
Family-Friendly
Downtown Location
Brewery Tours

Insider Tip

Order a sampler to try all their house beers - it's the best way to find your favorite.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best neighborhood for nightlife in Chattanooga?

Southside is the epicenter of Chattanooga's nightlife, featuring the highest concentration of craft breweries, cocktail bars, and music venues. The district is walkable and offers diverse options from upscale cocktail lounges to casual brewpubs.

Are there rooftop bars in Chattanooga?

Yes! The Foundry offers the best rooftop experience with panoramic mountain and city views. Tony's Pasta Shop also has a popular rooftop bar with Tennessee River views. Both are must-visits for sunset drinks.

Is Chattanooga's bar scene expensive?

Chattanooga offers excellent value compared to larger cities. Craft beers typically cost $6-8, while cocktails range from $10-14. Many bars offer happy hour specials, and the overall cost is lower than Nashville or Atlanta.

Can I walk between bars in Chattanooga?

Absolutely! Southside and downtown are very walkable, with most bars within a 10-15 minute walk of each other. The free electric shuttle also connects major nightlife areas. Northshore requires crossing the Walnut Street Bridge but is worth the scenic walk.

Ready to Experience Chattanooga's Best Bars?

Join our guided bar crawls and discover the city's top nightlife spots with expert local hosts.

Browse Bar Crawls