Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga, Tennessee is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. From hiking trails to waterfalls and military parks to train rides, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Chattanooga is known for its rich history and fascinating landmarks. Visitors can explore the historic district, stroll through scenic gardens and underground caves, visit the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo train station, or learn about the Civil War at its military parks.

Chattanooga is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. The city boasts numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters, showcasing a variety of talents and performances.

CHATTANOOGA TRAVEL GUIDE

Top Attractions

Ruby Falls

A captivating natural wonder, Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall that is very popular among tourists. The falls were accidentally discovered in 1928 while exploring Lookout Mountain Cave. 

You can take a guided tour through the caves with fascinating rock formations which leads to the extraordinary falls. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 145 feet, creating a mesmerizing display of shimmering water and vibrant colors.

Rock City

Rock City is a popular tourist attraction located atop Lookout Mountain. It is a unique and enchanting place that offers gorgeous views of the surrounding natural beauty. 

It begins with a series of winding paths and gardens filled with vibrant flowers and plants. You’ll see enormous rocks, bridges, and waterfalls. The highlight is Lover’s Leap, a massive rock formation that provides panoramic views of seven states on a clear day. 

With its charming fairy tale elements like the Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, Rock City is a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages.

Incline Railway

The Incline Railway at Lookout Mountain is a unique and historic mode of transportation that has been in operation since 1895. The railway is a steeply inclined track that takes passengers up the side of Lookout Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. 

The railway cars are specially designed to navigate the incline, and they provide a safe and comfortable ride for visitors. Not only is it a convenient way to reach the top of Lookout Mountain, it is also a memorable experience that showcases the natural beauty of the area.

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Point Park

Point Park is a picturesque and historic park situated atop Lookout Mountain offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Tennessee River. 

You will find several monuments and plaques that commemorate the Civil War battles that took place in this region, and there are free tours that will tell the stories of it all.

There are also well-maintained walking trails that meander through lush greenery atop the mountain. We hiked the beautiful trail from the park to Sunset Rock. Tip: If you want a faster path back to the park you can walk on the road which takes about 15-20 minutes. Just use Apple or Google maps.

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a historic site located in the states of Georgia and Tennessee. It was established in 1890 and is one of the oldest national military parks in the United States. 

The park is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the significant Civil War battles that took place in the region. The Battle of Chickamauga, which occurred in September 1863, was one of the bloodiest battles of the war, with over 34,000 casualties. 

The park covers a vast area of over 9,000 acres and includes a variety of monuments, markers, and interpretive exhibits that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded during this critical period in American history. 

The park also offers numerous recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking, thus appealing for those interested in history or outdoor activities.

Hike to Sunset Rock

Hiking in Chattanooga

Chattanooga really is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning views. One of the best is the Lookout Mountain Trail. This trail takes you through lush forests and rocky terrain, leading to breathtaking vistas of the city below. 

Another popular trail is the Signal Mountain Trail, which winds through dense foliage and offers panoramic views of the Tennessee River. 

For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Cumberland Trail is a great option. This 300-mile trail spans across multiple states, offering hikers the chance to explore diverse landscapes and encounter wildlife along the way.

We enjoyed the Sunset Rock hike. You can find information on a few others here.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium offers an immersive and educational experience with a mission to inspire wonder, appreciation, and conservation of aquatic life. It boasts a wide range of exhibits and activities. 

The River Journey and the Ocean Journey each showcase diverse ecosystems and species from around the world. From the vibrant coral reefs to the mysterious depths of the Amazon Rainforest, the aquarium provides an up-close look at a variety of marine life. There are interactive displays, live animal encounters, and educational programs.

Chattanooga Choo Choo

The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic train station. Originally built in 1908, the train station was a bustling hub for passengers traveling across the country. Today, it has been transformed into a unique hotel and entertainment complex. 

The main attraction of the Chattanooga Choo Choo is the beautifully restored Terminal Station, which still retains its original architectural charm. You can explore the station’s grand lobby featuring intricate woodwork and stained glass windows. 

The complex also offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and live music venues. You can also experience a piece of history by staying in one of the train cars that have been converted into hotel rooms!

Chattanooga Riverwalk

The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a scenic trail that stretches along the Tennessee River. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding landscape. 

The Riverwalk is a paved pathway that spans about 13 miles, providing ample space for walking, jogging, or biking. Along the way there are many parks, picnic areas, and playgrounds as well as plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues near the trail.

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Restaurants, Distilleries, & Breweries

Chattanooga has many options when it comes to food and drink, both casual and fine dining.

Restaurants

Alleia is a highly-rated Italian restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu full of delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, From homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, the restaurant offers a taste of authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Chattanooga.

Public House is known for its gastropub atmosphere and extensive beer selection. It offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. 

The Frothy Monkey is a cozy coffeehouse and cafe located in the Chattanooga Choo Choo train terminal that serves up delicious coffee and pastries as well as a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. 

Puckett’s is a beloved local favorite. This cozy establishment prides itself on serving up delicious Southern cuisine in a relaxed and friendly setting. From their mouthwatering barbecue ribs to their famous fried green tomatoes, Puckett’s never fails to deliver on flavor. 

When it comes to craft beer and gastropub fare, Brewhaus is the place to be. This lively restaurant offers an extensive selection of local and international beers, along with a menu that features elevated pub classics like beer-battered fish and chips and hearty burgers. 

For those looking for a taste of Southern cuisine, the 1885 Grill is a must-visit. Located on the Tennessee River, this restaurant combines stunning waterfront views with a menu that showcases classic Southern flavors and specialties.

Also located in the Chattanooga Choo Choo train terminal, Stir is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and sustainable. With its commitment to quality and sustainability, Stir has earned a reputation as one of the top dining destinations in the city. And their craft cocktails are superb!

Distilleries

Chattanooga is also home to some exceptional distilleries. One such establishment is the Chattanooga Whiskey Co, known for its handcrafted bourbon and whiskey. The distillery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the distilling process and sample their award-winning spirits. The knowledgeable staff at Chattanooga Whiskey Co. are passionate about their craft and are always ready to share their expertise.

Gate 11 is another distillery that specializes in small-batch gin production. Located in the historic Southside neighborhood, Gate 11 offers visitors a unique experience with its innovative flavors and distinctive branding. The distillery’s tasting room provides an intimate setting to sample their gin creations while learning about the history and art of distilling.

Breweries

As for breweries, Chattanooga has that covered as well. One standout is Tailgate Brewery, known for their innovative and delicious beers. Located in the heart of Chattanooga, it offers a wide range of styles and flavors, including hoppy IPAs or smooth stouts.

Another good one is Chattanooga Brewing Co. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, they have been crafting delicious beers since 2010. Their taproom provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere where visitors can sample a variety of brews and learn about the brewing process.

Oddstory Brewing Co focuses on creativity and experimentation, offering a rotating selection of beers that are sure to please any beer lover.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Chattanooga offers a wide range of arts and entertainment options from galleries and museums to live performances and festivals. 

The Hunter Museum of American Art showcases an impressive collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day providing a unique opportunity to explore the rich artistic heritage of the United States.

The Tivoli Theatre, a historic venue that first opened its doors in 1921, hosts a variety of concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances throughout the year. The intimate atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a favorite among performers and audiences.

The annual Riverbend Festival is a week-long event featuring live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. This festival attracts both local and national musical talent and is a highlight of the summer season in Chattanooga.

Transportation

My suggestion is to have a car to get around Chattanooga. However, if you prefer other modes of transportation they are available. One popular option is the free electric shuttle service. These shuttles run along a designated route and make stops at various attractions and hotels in the downtown area. It’s a great way to explore the city without having to worry about parking or navigating through unfamiliar streets. 

Another option is the bike-sharing program, which allows you to rent a bike for a short period of time and ride it around town. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to get around Chattanooga while enjoying the beautiful scenery. 

For a more traditional means of transportation, there are also taxis and rideshare services available providing flexibility and convenience, allowing you to travel at your own pace.

Currency

The national currency in the United States is the US Dollar ($).  Click here to get the daily conversion.