Just a short 2-1/2 hour-drive from Franklin, Chattanooga offers the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly fun, making it an ideal weekend escape. One of its most iconic attractions, Ruby Falls, takes visitors on a journey deep inside Lookout Mountain to witness this breathtaking underground waterfall. Being practically in Franklin's backyard, you've likely visited this little gem. But Ruby Falls has a lot of new tours planned for 2026. Need a little change of pace after the holidays? This quick getaway could be just what you need to cure your post holiday slump.
Specialty Tours
Ruby Falls now offers a selection of specialty cave adventures based on your
preferences and interests. These feature a smaller group size, an expert guide,
extended time at the waterfall, and in-depth information specific to the selected tour.
Specialty Tours are only on select days and times and tend to sell out in advance. Make
your reservations several days in advance.
Geology Tour – Launched in the Fall 2025, the Geology Tour is ideal for those
with a curiosity in caves and geology. Guests will learn how Ruby Falls Cave was
formed, the science behind the cave’s most curious formations, and how they
have changed over time. Discover fossils embedded in limestone and learn how
natural chemical reactions determine the size, shape and hue of formations over
thousands of years. Ages 10+up.
History Tour – For the history lovers and early risers. Hear the incredible lore and
rich 97-year history of Ruby Falls while exploring the cavern trail to the
underground waterfall. Ages 12+up.
Gentle Walking Tour – This early morning tour has the most relaxed pace out of
all the cave adventures. Perfect for those who prefer additional time to take in the
beauty found underground. Ages 12+up.
Lantern Tour – Explore the cave on this after-hours Friday night tour solely by
the light of handheld lanterns. Ideal for a memorable date night. Ages 10+up.
Romance at Ruby (January and February) - Hear tales of legendary romances, including
the love story behind Ruby Falls on this special, after-hours Lantern Tour. Ticket
includes professional photo and Valentine’s gift.
Adults-Exclusive Cave Walk – For those traveling kid-free, this adult–exclusive Cave
Walk is a very popular option. Ideal for empty nesters, couples + groups of friends. Ages
15+up.
Treetop Hideaways at Ruby Falls
Enjoy rustic and refined treehouse lodging from the treetops of Lookout Mountain. Debuting in 2023, these three boutique treehouses are the perfect escape while still only a few minutes away from the heart of Chattanooga. Featuring private firepits, fully stocked kitchenettes, wraparound decks, and even private outdoor soaking tubs, Treetop Hideaways will be one of your most memorable stays. Each treehouse sleeps 2-5.
Castle Cafe
Make memories around the table while surrounded by the beauty of Lookout Mountain. Historic Ruby Falls Castle was fully restored to its original 1929 glory in 2022. Included in its reopening is the Castle Cafe, where guests enjoy a seasonal menu for a casual breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and lighter fare in the historic limestone castle.
The Quiet Season
The quiet season that comes with the new year is an ideal travel time for adventure lovers with a flexible schedule. Ruby Falls is no exception. January and February are months free of crowds yet still filled with plenty of adventure. During the quiet season, Ruby Falls guests enjoy the opportunity to engage more with their tour guide, ask questions, and truly immerse yourself in the unmatched beauty of Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain.
RubyFalls.com