Experience Chattanooga: Top Things to Do
There's more to Chattanooga, TN, than the Choo Choo. The city played a large role in the Civil War. It saw wild swings of fortune during the 20th Century but is firmly on the rise, with Volkswagen opening its first North American plant in decades and a thriving art community rising alongside an economic uptick. Chattanooga offers a fantastic indoor/outdoor experience for those who visit this southeastern Tennessee town. You, too, may be surprised by all that the city offers.
01 Stay at the Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo
It's not just a song but a functioning hotel and piece of Americana. The Chattanooga Union Station was built during the mid-19th century and then demolished and rebuilt in the early 20th century. The new station called Terminal Station gained worldwide fame in 1941 when the song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" by Glen Miller and His Orchestra became a hit. It closed in 1970 with the decline of railroad passenger traffic, but thanks to a group of enterprising local businessmen, the building was spared and transformed into a hotel that capitalized on the song and the nostalgia of a bygone era. The hotel still has tracks from the railroad running through the property as well as the original Southern train, and Victorian train cars serve as sleeping options for its guests.
02 Bike Chattanooga
With the Chattanooga Bicycle Transit System you have the option of checking out this lovely city by bike. There are over 400 bicycles available, located at 43 stations throughout the city. Currently, a single-day pass costs $10, and a three-day pass runs $20. Once you pay this fee at any of the stations, you can grab a bike as you please and return it to any station. The pass allows for unlimited trips under 60 minutes, and you can confirm rideable availability on a mobile app or the system map. For a slightly higher fee, you can also explore Chattanooga on an electric scooter. It's a great way to leisurely explore the city at your own pace rather than having an Uber whizz past something interesting at 30 MPH.
03 Participate in a distillery tour at Jack Daniels
Roughly 90 miles from Chattanooga in Lynchburg, you can relive the history of Jack Daniel's Tennessee whiskey and gain insight into what makes the brand so beloved. Even teetotalers will enjoy the informative and entertaining guided tours of the oldest registered distillery in the US, where whiskey is made, aged, and bottled. You'll get to see and smell the historic Barrelhouse 1-14 and can choose to sample a flight of five flavors. The property also happens to have great views.
04 Be inspired at Bluff View Art District
The Houston Museum of Decorative Arts, The River Gallery, and the Hunter Museum of American Art all call this scenic bluff with downtown and Tennessee River views home. The River Gallery has a brilliant sculpture garden designed by landscape architect Joe Baasch, perfect for a meditative meander. The Hunter Museum features three buildings with varying architectural styles, and its exhibits, which include many contemporary styles and the work of Andy Warhol, are just as impressive. There are also a number of quaint coffee shops and restaurants to be found in the Art District.
05 Take a deep dive at the Tennessee Aquarium
The popular Tennessee Aquarium comprises two buildings and follows, with spectacular effect, the voyage of a raindrop on land all the way to the sea. You can begin at River Journey, with its freshwater focus on the birds, otters, turtles, and alligators that populate Tennessee and elsewhere. Then, move on to Ocean Journey, which spotlights saltwater denizens like penguins, sharks, reef fish, and jellyfish. Add-on experiences include short marine documentaries at the Imax theatre, feeding the Secret Reef, or going behind the scenes to see how the animals are cared for before the aquarium opens its doors.
06 Get wild at the Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park
Chattanooga Zoo is located a little over a mile away from downtown and guarantees a wild time. It cares for more than 650 animals, representing over 160 species, including some rare and endangered ones. With an online entry fee of $12.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids, this non-profit attraction is affordable, and funds go toward caring for the creatures on site. The zoo offers add-on activities such as giraffe feedings, animal interactions, carousel rides, and tours to the wildlife enclosures. Various themed events like the Asian Lantern Festival add to the appeal.
07 Amble through Rock City Gardens
Chattanooga's proximity to the Georgia border makes this family-friendly Peach State attraction much closer than it reads—Lookout Mountain is a mere 15-minute drive from downtown. Rock City Gardens contains a 4,100-foot walking trail for an undemanding stroll among gardens and fascinating rock formations. Jump at the chance to take your date to Lover's Leap, where you can gaze at seven states or admire the 90-foot waterfall while holding your sweetheart's hand. Or venture through Fairyland Caverns, where Frieda Carter's enthusiasm for folklore is on full display.
08 Tour Raccoon Mountain Caverns
Keen on an underground adventure? The Raccoon Mountain Caverns incorporate over five miles of well-lit subterranean walking paths. The caves have been open since 1931 and have remained a popular tourist destination for those traveling through the South. Despite all the foot traffic, there's still a thriving ecosystem involving spiders, bats, and salamanders. An excellent campground is available a stone's throw from the cave's entrance if you wish to make a weekend out of your visit.
09 Learn about the Civil War at Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
Chattanooga saw Confederate and Union victories and defeats during the Civil War. On the Tennesse side of this military park, you will have an opportunity to visit Chattanooga National Cemetery, Signal Point, Lookout Mountain, and parts of Missionary Ridge. At Chickamauga Battlefield, take a guided tour with a park ranger free of charge to have the battles put in perspective by someone who has done their homework.
10 Cross the Walnut Street Bridge
What do you do with a bridge scheduled for demolition? Turn it into one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges and host concerts and an annual wine tasting to complement the grand river views. The Walnut Street Bridge connects the north and south sides of Chattanooga, which was quite significant given the racially segregating nature of the river running through town.
11 See cascading Ruby Falls in the dark
This accidental discovery along the Tennesse River Gorge is one of Chattanooga's most visited tourist attractions. The Lookout Mountain Cave was closed in 1905 for railroad construction. A local cave explorer, Leo Lambert, led a team to build an elevator from the surface so the cave could be reopened to the public. As it happens, a newly found 18-inch crack in the rocks turned out to be the entrance to Ruby Falls. It's the United States' largest underground waterfall and includes zip lines and various other activities in addition to the sheer spectacle.
12 Inhale fresh air at Audubon Acres
If hiking and history excite you, don't miss out on Audubon Acres in East Brainerd. It offers five miles of hiking trails on either side of Chickamauga Creek in a sanctuary spread over 132 acres. You can tour the visitor's center, explore the forested portions, or visit the Spring Frog Cabin, built in the 1700s, and Little Owl Village, which likely dates back to the 1500s.
13 Take the Kids to the Creative Discovery Museum
Rainy day in Chattanooga with the kids? Look no further than the Creative Discovery Museum, one of the nation's most exceptional children's museums. This interactive and well-curated museum appeals to kids up to 12 years old, with different sections for different age groups and interests. The Creative Discovery Museum promises hands-on learning and fun between 10 AM and 5 PM daily.
14 Have a moment of silence at Chattanooga National Cemetery
It's hard not to be moved by the sacrifice and valor enveloped within Chattanooga National Cemetery. Sprawled over 120 acres, this is the largest national cemetery in the state and one of the oldest military cemeteries in the country, established in 1863. More than 44000 veterans are interred at this site, which offers excellent views of three Civil War battle sites.
15 Support small businesses at Chattanooga Market
Plan a shopping excursion and buy fresh farm produce and handicrafts at the twice-weekly Chattanooga Market. This vibey, producer-only market is a cut above the rest and features arts and crafts and delicious homemade goods from over 50 farms and 130 artisans. If you want some entertainment on the side, the market has free live music from regional musicians. Food trucks serving local delicacies help shoppers refuel in between bouts of shopping.
16 Step back in time at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
All aboard for a journey back in time at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Ride on vintage railway cars, learn the rich history of the railroad from staff dressed in period costumes, and view the museum's collection of locomotives and rolling stock, each with its own story to tell. Whether you're a history buff or a train enthusiast, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination.
17 Appreciate Black history at Bessie Smith Cultural Center
Celebrating the rich African American history and culture in Chattanooga, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center is a beacon of knowledge and understanding. The center offers a variety of exhibits and events that highlight the contributions and achievements of African Americans. From visual art to musical performances, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center is a vibrant and vital part of Chattanooga's cultural landscape.
18 Enjoy the water on a Chattanooga Riverboat Cruise
Set sail on the Tennessee River with a Chattanooga Riverboat Cruise. Sightseeing on the Southern Belle offers a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a romantic sunset cruise backdropped by fall foliage or a fun-filled adventure for the whole family, Chattanooga Riverboat Cruises has something for everyone.
19 Get your water sports fix at Chickamauga Lake
Chickamauga Lake is a haven for fans of the outdoors. The lake's calm waters are suitable for canoeing and kayaking, while its shores offer plenty of opportunities for picnicking and bird-watching. Go fishing at Lakeshore Marina or party on a pontoon—Chickamauga Lake is the ideal destination, no matter your mood.
20 Go hiking at Greenway Farms Dog Park
This park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as an off-leash dog park for you and your furry friends to stretch your legs. With canoe and kayak rentals available, you can also take to the waters of the North Chickamauga Creek.
21 Walk in the shadow of world-class art at Montague Park Sculpture Fields
Art and nature come together at the Montague Park Sculpture Field. This unique park features over 40 sculptures scattered across its landscape, creating a dynamic and engaging environment. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Montague Park Sculpture Field should be on your itinerary.
22 Sniff and sip at Chattanooga Whiskey
Experience the rich flavors and history of Tennessee whiskey at Chattanooga Whiskey. This distillery offers guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about whiskey-making and sample various offerings. Chattanooga Whiskey provides a memorable experience for connoisseurs and novices alike.
23 Kick back at The Bitter Alibi
Step into a world of craft beer and cozy ambiance at The Bitter Alibi. This dimly lit bar and restaurant offers a relaxing setting for catching up with friends or unwinding after a long day. With a variety of quality draft beers and a friendly staff, The Bitter Alibi is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
24 Spend some moola at Warehouse Row
Discover a unique shopping experience at Warehouse Row. Established in 1904, this retail hub has been revitalized and now features an assortment of local boutiques and popular stores. Looking for the latest fashion trends? You'll find 'em here. What about distinctive home decor? Warehouse Row has got you covered.
25 Discover real-life heroics at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
Pay tribute to the nation's bravest at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. This museum is dedicated to the recipients of the highest military award in the country, showcasing a variety of exhibits and hosting events that pay homage to their commitment and fortitude. From personal belongings to diaries and uniforms, the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center provides a poignant and stirring look at American heroes.
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