//
City in the United States
Photo: The original uploader was Zmjohnston at English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Chattanooga is the 4th largest city in Tennessee. It is the seat of Hamilton County. It is in Southeast Tennessee on the Tennessee River and near the border of Georgia. It was immortalized in the popular 1941 song "Chattanooga Choo Choo", made famous by Glenn Miller.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
Located on Lookout Mountain, Rock City has been an attraction in some form or another since 1823. However, when Garnet Carter, inventor of Miniature Golf, and his wife opened Rock City Gardens in 1932 it became a huge draw. Carter hired Clark Byers to travel the nation's highways, offering to paint farmer's barns in exchange for letting them paint "See Rock City" on them. Rock City Gardens features a 4100 ft walking trail, a 90-foot waterfall, a 180-foot-long suspension bridge, and Lover's Leap where you can "see seven states." Open year round, except Christmas Day, at 8:30AM. From the middle of November until the end of the year, they have the "Enchanted Garden of Lights" from 6PM-9PM which features local school/church groups performing and the entire gardens decorated in holiday lights. Adult admission is $45, children ages 3 – 12 are $35.
This thundering 145-foot waterfall inside Lookout Mountain has been a popular attraction since 1929. Named after the founder's wife, Ruby Falls was found by Leo Lambert in 1923 as he and his corporation were drilling a shaft to open the historic Lookout Mountain Cave to the public. During the drilling, a small opening was located and after a 17-hour trip, Leo emerged with tales of beautiful rock formations and a spectacular waterfall. Parking is on-site, attended and free. Allow approximately two hours for your visit. Those with claustrophobia may be a little unnerved by the elevator ride into the caverns. No strollers are permitted, and the cave tour is not wheelchair accessible. Ruby Falls is weatherproof and 60 degrees year round. Combination tickets covering Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline are available at any of the three attractions.
The Steepest Passenger Railway in the World
In November of 1895, the Incline in its second incarnation made its first ascent up Lookout Mountain on what is the steepest passenger incline in the world. Renovation in that was completed in 1986 has brought the station back to its original splendor. Traveling at a 72.7% grade, the trolley-styled cars pass at the midpoint of the 10 minute one-way trip. After arriving at the upper station, a short walk will take you to Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park where a spectacular view of Mocassin Bend and the Tennessee River await you; the ride itself is interesting even if the view at the top is obscured by fog, but that does mean a 20-minute wait in the gift shop for the next train. A popular attraction; some cars may fill up on weekends. Good for kids, but most passengers are adults.
Erected in 1908 with an 85-foot cast-iron dome rising majestically over the lobby, the Terminal Station served thousands of passengers until 1970, when the trains stopped running. In 1973, after a 4 million dollar renovation, it was reopened to the public as a hotel. Authentic private rail cars were furnished as unique sleeping quarters. The dome is decorated with magnificent colors and it is stunning when lit up at night, and the Choo Choo Holiday Inn is preparing to enter its second century as a premier hotel and convention center. The private rail car rooms are still available, and there are a variety of shops and dining options on the 35-acre complex. While there, see the world's largest model railroad setup showing a scale version of the Chattanooga Valley, an authentic 1880s steam engine (the only one of its type in the area), and the beautifully restored Terminal Station.
The Tennessee Aquarium features two buildings, "Ocean Journey" and "River Journey." The River Journey focuses on freshwater environments, carrying you through mountains forests, swamps, valley and lakes, both in the Tennessee Valley and throughout the world. Some of the special attractions are the seahorses and otters. The Ocean Journey building offers opportunity to touch stingrays, visit a butterfly garden and see sharks. Both buildings stand out in the skyline with their pitched glass roofs and have become a popular landmark for photographers. Expect to tour for at least two and a half hours, more during the summer. During the summer, hours are extended and tickets are time-stamped. Purchasing tickets in advance during the summer months (or even all year) is an extremely good idea. Not only are they cheaper, you can also plan on an entry time. Combination tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are available. First admittance at 10AM and last at 6PM, outside of summer months.
Also referred to as the "Warner Park Zoo", it is on 6 acres in the middle of Warner Park. March – October the park is open 9AM–5PM, everyday, November – February 10AM–5PM, everyday, and closed New Years Day, Christmas Day, Martin Luther King Day, and Thanksgiving Day. Cheaper prices online.
The museum can be found on the right in a blue and white building as you drive toward the mountain, a short drive from downtown. Chattanooga was chosen as the site of the museum because the first wrecker was built here at the Ernest Holmes Company. You'll find dozens of antique tow trucks and pictures of Hall of Famers.
Perched on an 80-foot bluff on the edge of the Tennessee River, the Hunter Museum of American Art offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. This panorama is equaled only by the exceptional collection of American art inside recognized as one of the country's finest.
Corner of Chestnut and 4th. Search for Lost Dinosaur Bones! Build Slot Cars! Create Your Own Music! Walk Through A Picture! Captain a ship in RiverPlay! Creative Discovery Museum isn't just for children, although it was designed for them in mind. There are lots of interactive exhibits here, enough to keep even the most hyperactive of kids entertained. Revolving exhibits, such as "Clifford, the Big Red Dog" and "Curious George" keep the Museum fresh for multiple visits. Creative Discovery Museum was voted as one of the top 20 children's museums in the nation by Child magazine. Plan on spending approximately 2 hours in the Museum. Value-pack tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are also available. Visit the website for current hours.
Ride the 50 minute Missionary Ridge Local for a guided tour of their restoration shop or grab the 4 hour roundtrip ride into Chickamauga, Georgia. Special tours like the Autumn Leaf special or the Steam All the Way, North Pole Limited, Valentines (sometimes dinner) available seasonally.
Located in a century-old Victorian house in the Bluff View Art District. It is home to antique glass and ceramics, as well as antique furniture, music boxes, coverlets and other rare pieces from the collection of the late Anna Safley Houston. It boasts the world's largest collection of pitchers.
Built in 1890, it is the oldest and largest surviving truss bridge in the South. The Walnut Street Bridge was condemned and slated for demolition when local citizens convinced the City of Chattanooga to commit the funds earmarked for the bridge's demolition to its restoration, providing the balance of the renovation cost could be raised. As the world's longest pedestrian bridge it serves as the link between downtown Chattanooga and the now thriving Northshore District.
The park, one-acre in the middle of downtown, is very popular with the downtown lunch crowd. It has an outdoor amphitheater, a large fountain and beautiful grassy areas. Homeless people are known to relax in the shade here and a number of mission organizations stop here to offer free lunches to them. Some residents have complained that these free lunches bring more homeless to the park area, but the ones that do frequent the area tend to leave well enough alone. Panhandling or begging is rare.
Containing an outdoor stage and public fountain, this is the site of a regular, free concert series called "Nightfall." The Nightfall series, held each Friday evening from May through September, is extremely popular, especially with area bikers, but it is still a very friendly crowd. Also offers a WiFi hotspot sponsored by the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group.
A 22-acre park featuring a walking track, picnic tables with grills, and a bocce ball court.
Chattanooga Nature Center
Established in 1979, the Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center includes a 1400 foot boardwalk meandering through seasonal wetland and lowland forest. The RRANC sponsors summer camps each year and space is always limited.
Located under Veteran's Bridge in the middle of the Tennessee River. An 18-acre island that was granted by Robert J. Maclellan to the Chattanooga Audubon Society in with to intent for it to be used as a wildlife sanctuary. Tours of the island are available through the Chattanooga Ducks.
Located in the Bluff View Art district, this piece of greenspace on the bluff near the Veteran's Bridge offer a little peace and a lot of beautiful art.
It was founded in 1924 as the "Little Theatre", but this community theater has grown up: it has a modern facility and grown up name. Classes, as well as auditions for the more than 15 productions are held year round.
This six-story-high IMAX 3D Theater features two 3D films that change regularly, often themed closely to the latest special attraction at the Aquarium, and feature films. Tickets purchased at the box office may not be for an immediate showing, so advance purchases are best for planning purposes. Single movie tickets are $11.95 for adults, $9.95 for children 3-12 (or higher for feature films). Combination tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are available.
Home to dozens of events, from graduations to live music, throughout the year.
Known as the "Jewel of the South," the Tivoli has entertained Chattanoogans, offering everything from silent movies to Broadway blockbusters, for over 75 years. One nugget of its history: in 1926 the Tivoli became one of the first public buildings in the country to be air-conditioned. The Tivoli was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and received a $7-million renovation that was revealed to an excited audience in 1989. The Tivoli is the home of the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Association. It also offers a venue to other music artists, Broadway shows and dance troupes. The Tivoli has installed a movie projector, calling back to its early days a first-class movie house.
It was designated as a national cemetery "in commemoration of the Battles of Chattanooga, Nov. 23 - 27, 1863" by Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas on Christmas Day of 1863. In addition to Civil War veterans, there are 78 German prisoners of war from the First World War and a number of prisoners of war from Germany and other Axis countries dating from the Second World War, the largest number of German (and other Axis) POWs interred in the United States. The 120-acre cemetery was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1996 and it features one of five memorial entrance archways built in national cemeteries. The archway approaches 40 feet in height. A number of other monuments have been erected throughout the cemetery.
The Adventure Guild
Inside Coolidge Park, (The Adventure Guild). From April through November, the wall is open F 6PM-9PM, Sa 1-9PM, and Su 1-5PM. Climb on one of the limestone towers that supports the Walnut Street Bridge. Located within Coolidge Park, the wall is open seasonally to the general public and for groups on a reservation basis. There are as many as 30 distinct climbing routes perfect for novices to experienced climbers. All equipment is provided! The price for open climbing $5 per-hour-per-person with a three climb minimum or $15 for the entire day, with the capability to come and go as you'd like.
All of the various animals represented on the carousel were hand carved in St. Elmo, a historic neighborhood in Chattanooga. The carousel is 50 cents for children 12 or under and Seniors 55 or over. There are no wet clothes allowed on the carousel since it is all hand carved wood.
If you've got kids, be sure to bring them either a change of clothes or a swimsuit as the fountain is nearly irresistible. If they are still in diapers, swim diapers are required. Water spouting animals ring the fountain area and are fair game for climbing. Adults have been known to thoroughly enjoy playing in the water as well.
Enjoy the natural beautiful of Chattanooga's riverfront by taking a walk down its linear greenspace. This project has drawn and inspired civic leaders from around the country. Take a picnic lunch and slip under the shade to watch time pass you by in any one of a number of picnic areas along the way.
Pier 2. The Southern Belle is a lovely paddlewheel boat that cruises the Tennessee River near Chattanooga. Lunch, dinner or just sightseeing cruises are available. The "Dixeland Dinner Cruise" features delicious slow-cooked prime rib, shrimp creole and live music. Starting in mid-October, the Fall Leaf Cruises begin allowing you to take a ride up the river and marvel at the changing colors of the trees. The Riverboat is also available for private parties, including the opportunity to be wed on the promenade deck. Sightseeing cruises are $12 for adults, and $5.25 for children ages 3 - 12. Lunch cruises, $17 for adults and $8 for children, and the dinner cruise is $31 for adults, $17 for children. Expect to spend between 1 hour and 2½ hours on the river, depending on your cruise type.
An annual nine-day music festival that just celebrated its 30th year that consumes the riverfront part of downtown. 6 stages, including one on a barge, and vendors are set up all over the area. Don't expect big, crazy headliners, though - the organizers of the festival have said time and time again that they bring in acts that A) They can afford and B) Will make the majority of the attendees happy. Some nights can get a little rowdy, as this is the south and beer certainly is popular, but the local Sheriff's Department and Police Department bring out their finest to keep things safe. For fans of the blues, be sure to check out the Bessie Smith Strut, which features great blues artists and the town's finest BBQ.
The Chattanooga Lookouts, an AA farm team for the Minnesota Twins, have moved from Historic Engle Stadium into the brand new, $10 million, AT&T Field. The brick walled stadium sits on Hawk Hill and offers the majority of their seating along the first base line.
The Mocs represent the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in NCAA Division I sports, competing in six men's sports and nine women's sports as a member of the Southern Conference. The most popular sports, as at most schools, are football (competing in the second-level Division I FCS) and men's basketball, with women's basketball gaining a higher profile.
Lakeview Drive, Rossville, Georgia. (Just over the state line). Lake Winnie, as it's referred to amongst the locals, has been putting smiles on faces for over 80 years. With rides for the whole family and concerts featuring famous country artists, Lake Winnie is open Thursday through Sunday from late April through early August. They are also open on weekends in the beginning of April and after the end of the summer season into September. An unlimited ride pass, with admission to Lake Soakya, is $35 ($25 for seniors 60+ and children 1-2). Other packages available. All guests under 21 must accompanied by a parent or adult chaperone - it seems that too many people were just dropping their kids off.
Visit Raccoon Mountain's 5½ miles of explored and mapped passageways in the Lookout Valley either on a 45 minute, come-as-you-are walking tour or on a deeper cave expedition. The front portion of the cave, the Crystal Palace, is where you'll take a guided walking tour. Admission for this trip is $11 for adults (13 - 64), $10 for seniors (65+), and $5.50 for children (5 - 12). The "wild cave" tours have a number of different packages, prices and times. They range from 1 hour to 8 hours, even overnight if you'd like and from $25 to $100 per person, with discounts for groups. All equipment, lights, helmets, pads, and gloves, are part your wild cave admission. The caves are open year round except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, rain or shine, because it's underground.
Climb aboard a World War II-era amphibious vehicle for a tour of downtown Chattanooga before it glides into the water for a tour of the Tennessee River. Tours run from 10AM to around dusk and last approximately 1 hour.
Axe, Hatchet or Tomahawk Throwing
A destination for axe-throwing, tomahawk, and hatchet enthusiasts. Craft beverages are available. Groups and parties welcome. Experts will guide you through axe-throwing, ensuring a safe and entertaining experience for all skill levels.
A great little ice cream shop on Frazier Avenue in the heart of the Northshore.
A little off the beaten path, Bea's offers real home cooking. Take a seat at a table, any table, occupied or not, and start grabbing what you'd like off the lazy susan in the center of the table.
This fabulous "meat and 3" defines down-home atmosphere. Established in 1918, it's certainly one of Chattanooga's oldest establishments. The menu changes daily, but you can always get the best burger in town. Featured in Gourmet magazine and the book "Road Food".
These are the best burgers you will ever eat.a great place to order in or carry out, a true mom and pop joint.it also has various other locations throughout Chattanooga.
Local home cookin' - every day a different set of main courses. Everything from turnip greens, to fried okra and meatloaf. When you think of homestyle southern cookin', you'll think of Marsha's.
Open 7 days. Some of the best Sushi in Chattanooga. Located inside Coolidge Park, this restaurant is extremely convenient and serves fantastic food. Not only is traditional sushi available, but also simpler fare such as Chicken Teriyaki. If you're eating sushi, keep in mind that rolls are 6 pieces and Nigiri are 2. The bill at the end of the meal depends on how much and what you ate! Casual, family dining.
Vegan restaurant in the North Shore district. Frequently hosts live music, all ages admitted. Serves beer.
With the look and feel of an old English pub, this is quickly becoming a local favorite. A custom hand operated dumb-waiter delivers food and drinks to their second level where there are dart boards, pool tables and a great jukebox. A full bar with an assortment of over 50 beers compliments their small but exceptional "un-ordinary" menu. Be sure to check out their rotating specials.
A New York deli sitting in Coolidge Park. These fantastic deli sandwiches from an actual New Yorker are perfect fare for a day lounging in the park. Open for lunch M-Sa, but if you can squeeze a reservation, you may be lucky enough to attend one of the famous themed dinners on a Friday night! Casual, family dining.
The Chattanooga Pulse calls Lupi's tomato sauce "the city's best" and their calzones are "football-sized." Casual, family dining.
Part of the Atlanta-based chain featuring Spring Water-based dough and excellent ingredients. Next to the Bijou Movie Theater and less than a block from the Aquarium, the 1960s and 70s-themed pizzeria features outdoor seating. Casual, family dining.
Breakfast from 6AM-11AM. Classic meat-and-three (vegetables) style restaurant that has been serving Chattanooga for over 70 years.
Housed in the historic Park Plaza building, a unique triangular building with traditional Victorian architecture. Serves a wide range of pub foods to a wide range of customers. Casual environment with some outdoor seating.
Great, homestyle barbeque. Have the "dirt pie" for dessert!
Blvd. Serving a large menu of Greek fare in a family-style restaurant.
Blvd. Hibachi style Japanese cooking as well as sushi.
Fantastic Thai food tucked away along Brainerd Road, near Hooters and Eastgate Town Center.
Located in the Bi-Lo shopping complex, this restaurant has hibachi style cooking and a light sushi menu.
Standard Mexican fare featuring fifty cent tacos and one dollar domestic beers on Monday nights.
Located 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga on the site of the old Sand Bar Restaurant, the Boathouse features oysters on the half shell along with plenty of Gulf Coast fare such as catfish and shrimp. On Mondays, Gulf Oysters are half price! Main courses average $15 - 18, excluding dipping into the raw bar.
Next door is St. John's Meeting Place, a more relaxed atmosphere and à la carte menu, with bar or floor seating.
Located in the carriage house of Bluff View Inn's Thompson House, with a classic Italian menu featuring fresh, house-made pastas, sauces, and breads. Outdoor deck views of the Tennessee River. Average main course price is $11. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.
Bud's is probably the best place in town to grab a beer and watch a game on the television. The lively crowd will keep you entertained even when, man, when the television doesn't.oh and not to mention the best wings in town!
725. Climb the tall flight of stairs to enter the downtown location of CBC is the original and has the classic pool hall environment. Friendly bar staff, plenty of pool tables, and a bunch of smoke. 21 and up after 6PM nightly. Serving a range of bar foods. Their second location is near Hamilton Place Mall at 110 Jordan Dr, +1 423 499-3883. Go there for more billiards, live music, and a cigar lover's heaven.
600 Manufacturer's Road. An excellent liquor store only a few blocks from the Northshore heart of Frazier Avenue. Wines and spirits from around the world. From Old Crow Whiskey to the best of wines. Beer, including kegs also available.
In the Bluff View Art District. It is the ultimate Chattanooga spot for coffee and mouth-watering desserts and candies. You'll find fine coffees, handmade chocolates and fresh-baked pastries and sandwiches.
In the Northshore District, the Stone Cup serves coffee that is freshly roasted on site once a week. They serve more than coffee, though, with a menu covering all your day's meals. Be sure to try one of their 5 unique Stone Cup Signature Blends!
Chattanooga's only hostel, located on the Southside. Free parking, free wifi, free breakfast. Restrooms located in the hallways on each floor. Security lockers provided in the dorms. 24 hour access.
Centrally located between the tourist attractions such as the Aquarium and the Convention Center, just off of US 27. Rates start at $60 per night.
Located just outside Hamilton Place Mall off of Interstate 75. Free high-speed Internet access available. Rates start at $94 per night.
Suites and rooms available, rates vary so check site for details. Newly remodeled with a nice contemporary style. Saltwater Pool is an unexpected plus as well.
This is in the northeast or Hixon area. Rates around $100 per night. Free High-Speed Internet access in the rooms. Free hot breakfast - actual hot food, not just a waffle maker and a toaster. Has a pool and an exercise room.
Great location, close to attractions and restaurants as well as on the free electric shuttle route. Rates around $140 per night.
This extended stay hotel offers guests fully equipped kitchens, free continental breakfast and an exercise room.
An all suite hotel located one block from the Tennessee Aquarium and an easy walk from many restaurants. Rates around $145 per night.
A beautiful Bed and Breakfast located in the Bluff View Art District with sixteen unique rooms spread through three historic homes. Prices range from $105 – 240 depending on when you stay and which category room you pick. All rates include a full gourmet breakfast. Themed packages are available, complete with gift certificates and/or tickets for area attractions. Cancellation policy is very strict, requiring at least eight days notice.
A unique hotel that restores old train cars to offer as rooms, as well as offering conventional rooms and the beautifully restored train station and courtyard for anyone to enjoy, and a modern semi-casual restaurant called the Frothy Monkey. Very child friendly because of the inclusion of outdoor game areas and an arcade. Also includes numerous areas inside and outside for special events such as weddings. part of the Historic Hotels of America Registry.
Attached to the Convention Center and offering Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and meeting space.
Constructed of mountain stone in the 1930s and renovated in 2002, and located atop Lookout Mountain. Offering 17 rooms and 5 cottages. Several rooms offer jacuzzi tubs and/or gas log fireplaces. Rates range from $100 to $180. All prices include a full breakfast and afternoon coffee, tea, and cookies.
Located only one block from the Tennessee Aquarium. Free high-speed Internet access available. Rates start at $134 per night.
An upscale hotel and conference center located downtown. Rates start at $129 per night.
Opened in 1872, the Read House is steeped in history, playing host to such celebrities as Winston Churchill and Al Capone. Since 1872 it has never been closed for a day.
With over 200 stores, 30 eateries, and 17 theater screens, Hamilton Place Mall is a very popular shopping complex in the Chattanooga area.
Over 100 stores, along with a number of great restaurants and theater screens.
Part of the Prime Outlets family, Warehouse Row is the premier fashion center in the Chattanooga area. This is an elegant setting, with hardwood floors and two levels of famous brand name stores.
one of Tennessee's largest indoor flea markets. Featuring over 200 vendors, you are very much nearly guaranteed to find a bargain. Free parking and air conditioned.
(Other locations at 1530 Riverside Dr, 2200 Hamilton Place Blvd, and in Ocoee, TN. The River Street location, 2 minutes from the main store, specializes in kayaks and canoes.). Founded in 1987, this is one of Chattanooga's best and well-known outdoor supply stores. With a large list of top quality brand names and highly knowledgeable staff, Rock Creek can get you into the best stuff out of doors in the Chattanooga Area.
Founded in 1974, In-Town Gallery is one of the oldest co-operative galleries in the United States. Member-owned and operated by more than 30 local artist members, In-Town Gallery is a comfortable to browse. When you enter, you will be greeted by one or two member artists who are happy to guide you through the gallery. It is vibrant and full of creative energy and inspiration. The prices are surprisingly affordable considering it shows some of the best original artwork in the Chattanooga area. In-Town Gallery is a "must-see" Chattanooga art gallery!
Themed events including live music are scheduled throughout the growing season. Vendors set up booths, which includes area farmers, artists, and restaurants.
By plane
By bus
By boat
Chattanooga is accessible by way of the Tennessee River by personal water craft.
By bus
The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority, better known as CARTA, provides one of the easiest way to move around downtown Chattanooga via a free electric shuttle that operates between…
By bike
There are bike sharing services in Chattanooga.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Chattanooga · Regional · CHA
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Chattanooga and United States.
Travel tipsFind the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
Travel tipsFind the best time to visit Hawaii in 2026. Compare whale seasons, big-wave surf, dry shoulder months, hotel rates, and island microclimates.
8 min read
InspirationDiscover the best places to visit in April. Compare Dutch tulip fields, Thailand's Songkran water festival, Roman spring gardens, and cherry blossoms.
6 min read
Travel tipsA practical guide to travelling with medication and refrigerated drugs like insulin and GLP-1s. Learn airline rules, customs papers, and cooling tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.