Chattanooga is your quintessential Tennessee city, walking a fine line between its rich historical legacy and moving forward in its own time. With the Tennessee River flowing through its heart, this charming railroad town has a host of wonderful attractions to explore.
The Tennessee RiverTo experience Chattanooga at its best, take a boat ride on the gorgeous Tennessee River. Choose from a solar-powered party boat, speed boat, or a yacht. You could also kayak or go rafting on the waters. A day out on the waters is an excellent way to take in the beauty of Chattanooga.
The Chattanooga Choo Choo Railway LineVisit the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo Line which was America’s most crucial train line in the 1800s. It connected the northern and southern states and was the first to provide non-stop services. Visitors can explore restaurants, shops, and see displays of an antique engine.
Lookout MountainAdventure lovers can climb the magnificent Lookout Mountain that towers above the city. Visitors can walk along a 4100ft walking trail that offers stunning views of Chattanooga and the surrounding landscape with the shimmering waters of the Tennessee River in the distance.
If a long walk isn’t for you, take a ride on the delightful Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. The line is a historic funicular railway where guests sit in trolley-style railcars and glide their way to the top of the mountain.
Some of the most popular attractions at Lookout Mountain are Rock City, Ruby Falls (a spectacular underground waterfall), the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park, and Battles for the Chattanooga Electric Map and Museum.
This beautiful place is easily accessible from the city. Good hotels such as Hotel Chattanooga East Ridge are located only 20 miles from Lookout Mountain.
Chattanooga ZooThe Chattanooga Zoo is a zoo with a difference. It offers a detailed and intimate experience of getting to know the animals, their habitat, and their behaviors. Located amid a picturesque setting, the Chattanooga Zoo is a fantastic place to learn more about the varied species of wildlife that call it home.
Stroll Through the Art DistrictIf long walks, the arts, and getting to know the streets is your idea of a good holiday, make your way to the Art District in Chattanooga.
Visitors will find great art, charming stores, stalls selling intricate handicrafts, as well as great restaurants. The Art District is perfect for an evening stroll or a nice walk in the morning.
Whiskey TastingA trip to the heart of Tennessee would be incomplete without a visit to its amazing whiskey distilleries. Visitors can find the oldest-registered distillery in the United States here, popularly known worldwide as Jack Daniel’s. Choose from a variety of tours led by experts and enjoy the taste and stories on the origins of this legendary whiskey.
Chattanooga Ghost ToursEvery city has its share of ghosts and ghost stories. If you’re a fan of the supernatural, sign up for one of the many Chattanooga Ghost Tours. Reportedly the best ghost tours in the country, they promise to introduce you to the stories and spirits that inhabit this city. For even more thrills and chills, some tours also cover old taverns and cemeteries.
Food in Chattanooga:Try delicious Southern-style food or different world cuisines at several restaurants in Chattanooga. Alleia Restaurant is popular for great Italian food. The Bluegrass Grill is a local favorite for the best brunch in the city in a warm and home-like setting.
How to reach ChattanoogaSome of the cities with regular flights to Chattanooga Airport are Atlanta, Nashville, and Knoxville. Tourists could also take buses that ply from Birmingham International Airport, Atlanta to Chattanooga.
Best Accommodation in ChattanoogaEnjoy a wonderful and comfortable stay at the various OYO Hotels in Chattanooga. With a vast array of services and amenities, the hotels will cater to all your travel needs when in the city.
Hotel Chattanooga East Ridge are the best options for staying in Chattanooga.
A room at Hotel Sweetwater TN West will be around $35 per night while a room at Hotel Chattanooga East Ridge will also cost $34 per night. If you are lucky, you may also get some discounts if booking via the website.
Shopping in Chattanooga can be quite exciting, both for fashion lovers and bargain hunters alike! Hamilton Place is one of the biggest shopping complexes in Tennessee, with 200+ specialty stores offering almost everything under the sun. If you’re looking for something more boho-street and affordable, try the boutiques for apparel and accessories on Frazier Avenue within the North Shore area or the retail jaunts within Warehouse Row. Chattanooga Market is also one of the USA’s top public markets, offering a plethora of goodies for you to check out!
Nature lovers will relish the prospect of getting away to the Lookout Valley or Highland park on a weekend. If you’re seeking a historically illuminating trip with the kids in tow, try Fort Wood which is a lovely neighborhood with a massive sprinkling of history. Knoxville is another destination that you can visit for the amazing food, fabulous pop-up farmers’ markets, concerts and breweries. You may also consider Atlanta, to visit for checking out landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Garden, World of Coca Cola and the bevy of famous restaurants, shopping plazas and architectural delights that the city is known for.
The summer months of June and July are always a good time to visit as the hiking trails and the camping sites come alive with families. The parks are in full bloom and a number of spring festivals are held as well.
Transportation in Chattanooga is taken care of by the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority and you can traverse the city via 17 routes. You can also try the free electric shuttle service for getting around the city while bicycle-sharing solutions are offered by PBSC Urban Solution.
You can fly to the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport which is well connected to major cities and if you’re traveling by road, you can enter Chattanooga via bridges like the Walnut Street Bridge, Market Street Bridge or the Olgiati Bridge. The railroad here is lovingly called the Chattanooga Choo Choo and connects to several destinations.
Enjoy pulsating music, dancing and clubbing at hotspots like Regan’s Place, La Onda Nightclub and Lunch, Alan Gold’s Discotheque and more. The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera is where you should head to enjoy live theatrical performances.