Curator’s statement
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Tennessee, Chattanooga beckons with its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture. From the iconic Lookout Mountain to the bustling riverfront district, this charming city offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Join us as we delve into the heart of Chattanooga, uncovering its scenic wonders, historic sites and eclectic attractions that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and authentic Southern charm.
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Things to do in Chattanooga
Chattanooga Zoo: Explore over 140 different species in an environment that emphasizes care and conservation. The zoo offers educational programs and is a great way to learn about animal life.
Tennessee Aquarium: This aquarium showcases a wide variety of marine life, including stingrays, sharks, and penguins. It's an educational visit that emphasizes the beauty and diversity of aquatic animals.
Audubon Acres: A perfect spot for hiking enthusiasts, offering trails that are both accessible and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Walnut Street Bridge: The world's longest pedestrian bridge provides a unique view of the city and hosts various events, making it a lively place to visit.
Bluff View Art District: This cultural hub offers art galleries, dining, and picturesque views, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the local arts scene.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns: Offers tours through fascinating cave systems, including the opportunity for more adventurous spelunking experiences.
Hunter Museum of American Art: Focuses on American art from the colonial period to the present, housed in a beautiful setting that overlooks the Tennessee River.
Houston Museum of Decorative Arts: Features a rich collection of antique glass, ceramics, and other decorative items, providing a glimpse into America's artistic past.
Learn about Bessie Smith and the African American Experience: Explore the life of blues legend Bessie Smith and the broader African American history in Chattanooga at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.
Coolidge Park: Offers outdoor activities like a historic carousel, a splash park, and spaces for picnics, making it a family-friendly destination.
Day trips
Lookout Mountain: Just a short drive from Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain offers stunning natural beauty and several attractions, including Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, explore ancient rock formations, and journey deep underground to see the majestic Ruby Falls waterfall.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Approximately two hours from Chattanooga, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike scenic trails, spot wildlife, explore historic sites, and take in breathtaking mountain views. Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail are popular spots within the park.
Jack Daniel's Distillery: Located in Lynchburg, Tennessee, about two hours from Chattanooga, the Jack Daniel's Distillery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the history and production process of this famous whiskey. The tour includes a visit to the historic distillery buildings, barrelhouses, and a tasting of Jack Daniel's spirits (for those of legal drinking age).
Places to eat & drink in Chattanooga
Attack of the Tatsu offers a unique fusion of Izakaya and Ramen shop favorites, promising an authentic taste of Japan with every dish.
The Downtowner presents an exquisite breakfast and brunch experience in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, emphasizing homemade breakfast choices.
Kai Bistro merges the bold flavors of Korean dishes with the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, offering a vibrant dining experience.
Elsie’s Daughter combines classic cocktails and French-Belgian cuisine, offering an elegant dining atmosphere inspired by the Beaux Arts style.
Uncle Larry’s Restaurant is renowned for its "fish so good it will smack ya," serving up a variety of seafood dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
Company Chattanooga is a speakeasy-themed bar that captivates with its intimate ambiance and high-end cocktails.
State of Confusion introduces a diverse menu with dishes like lomo saltado and pecan-crusted rainbow trout, complemented by open-air dining options.
Whitebird offers chic and innovative dining, featuring dishes like smoked venison rack and creamed spinach fried oysters.
Feed Table and Tavern focuses on farm-fresh cuisine, with a menu that includes buffalo calamari and jalapeno cheddar hushpuppies.
Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar specializes in seafood, with weekday specials and exceptional views of the water.
Hennen’s delivers a seafood-centric menu with an extensive wine collection in a trendy setting.
Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Exploring Provincetown, MA: A Seaside Haven of Art, History and Natural Beauty.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Tennessee.