One of the many reasons I love living in Columbia is the proximity to so many other major cities. One such city is Chattanooga, TN.
Chattanooga will always hold a special place in my heart; living in a place 20 years will do that to you. But it is also a great place to visit. There is so much to do in Chattanooga and it is a quick four and a half hour drive from Columbia. I never mind driving there because it is all interstate and you can follow the signs all the way there without using your GPS.
Here are some tips for your next visit to Chattanooga.
Where to stay
My parents live in the area so we always bunk with them but if I did not have a place to stay, I’d choose one of the amazing hotels below. You can’t go wrong with any of them!
- The Edwin Hotel – If you’re headed to Chattanooga for an adult only trip, the Edwin Hotel is the place for you. This luxury boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga and offers a full-service spa and rooftop plunge pool. From lobby to guest rooms to the restaurants, you’ll feel like you’re living in the lap of luxury.
- The Kinley – From the moment you enter The Kinley you’ll notice what sets them apart from other Chattanooga hotels; the breathtaking pieces of art by local female artists. Traveling with your dog? The Kinley offers a VIP (Very Important Pup) package for your furry friend. For a small fee your pup can enjoy a cozy dog bed, special dog food bowl and dog food. In addition, the guest rooms at The Kinley are unique. They even offer rooms with bunk beds. Perfect for family stays!
- The Westin Chattanooga – This family friendly hotel is located right in the middle of downtown Chattanooga. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, shopping, theatre, and family attractions within walking distance. A special feature of the Westin is that all guest rooms feature floor to ceiling windows to give you breathtaking views of both the city and the Tennessee mountains.
- The Chattanoogan – Located in the Southside district, The Chattanoogan is a family friendly hotel in close proximity to downtown and the Tennessee Aquarium. Want to relax after exploring all day? Take advantage of the full-service spa.
Don’t feel like staying in a hotel? An Airbnb is another great option! I’d recommend finding one either in the North Shore area, the South Side Historic District, or along the Tennessee River.
Where to eat
Chattanooga has a wide variety of foods and flavors from traditional favorites to local fresh. Check out all of my favorites below!
- Taco Mamacitas – Craving Mexican? Taco Mamacitas is the place for you! There are two locations in Chattanooga to choose from.
- Urban Stack – If it’s mouth-watering burgers and specialty drinks you’re after, Urban Stack is where it’s at.
- Daily Ration – Are you a breakfast and brunch lover? Then head on over to Daily Ration for some tempting fare.
- Milk and Honey – This Chattanooga staple features a little something for everyone with sandwhiches, salads, a variety of coffee drinks, bakery items, and gelato.
- Clumpies Ice Cream – When you’re ready for ice cream, head to Clumpies! You’ll find a variety of unique flavors like Lemon Lavender Muffin, Chocolate Orange Gingersnap, and Blueberry Moonpie S’mores.
- Stir – Looking for something a little more high end? Stir features craft cocktails and artisinal ice, an oyster and seafood cold bar, and always fresh made-from-scratch food.
- Il Primo – With two locations in Chattanooga, Il Primo is where it’s at for delcious Italian food like grandma made.
- White Bird – If you’re looking for a restaurant with a special local flare, try White Bird. White Bird partners with regional producers and artisans from the Tennessee River Valley to bring you local food and recipes, with a fun modern twist.
Where to play
One of the many draws to the area is the wide range of activities to do both inside and out. There are great activities for the whole family!
- Creative Discovery Museum – This interactive children’s museum will thrill your children from the moment they step in to the moment they leave. With areas like the STEM zone, Little Farm, Weather Pod, and the Make-It Workshop, your kids won’t want to leave!
- Lake Chickamauga – With 810 miles of shoreline and a variety of activities available, Chickamauga lake is a wonderful way to enjoy Chattanooga. Whether you want to go fishing or just enjoy being out on the water, you can rent a boat from Lakeshore Marina. In addition, there’s a fun little park located just above the Chickamauga dam where you can go swimming and rent kayaks.
- Natural Swimming Holes – If you’re looking for a unique place to swim with breathtaking views, look no further than the Blue Holes just outside of Chattanooga. These natural swimming holes are a wonderful way to cool off and appreciate the beauty of Tennessee at the same time.
What to see
- Signal Point – If you’re looking to explore the mountains of Tennessee and part of history at the same time, then check out Signal Point. Located atop Signal Mountain, Signal Point overlooks the Tennesse River and offers breathtaking views. It was the only high ground area controlled by Union troops in 1863.
- The Flying Saucer House – While you’re exploring Signal Mountain, you might as well stop and check out one of it’s most famous landmarks, the famed flying saucer house. This 2,000 square foot house is shaped just like, you guessed it, a flying saucer. It’s considered “futuristic arcitechture” and was built by Curis King in 1970. You can find out more HERE, including what on earth would make King build such a house in the first place.
- Rock City – Just six miles from downtown Chattanooga, located atop Lookout Mountain, you’ll find a true marvel of nature, Rock City. Here you’ll find massive natural rock formations, gardens with over 400 species of plants and flowers, and impressive mountain top views, including Lovers Leap which boasts a panoramic view of seven states. Children will be enchanted by Mother Goose Village, Fairyland Caverns, and chasing gnomes on a gnome quest.
- Ruby Falls – Discover a hidden gem deep inside Lookout Mountain. Inside the beautiful caverns below the mountain flows a magnificent waterfall; Ruby Falls. After you explore the caverns, go atop the mountain for more adventures. Here you’ll have a chance to glide through the trees on a zipline and climb tour, take in the breathtaking views of Cumberland Plateau, take part in special events, and spend the night in a treehouse hideaway.
- The Tennessee Aquarium – Come on in and explore hundreds of types of creatures who live in the sea, on the land, and soar through the sky! At the Tennessee Aquarium you’ll see a variety of marine animals like sharks, otters, fish of all types, jellyfish and turtles. And don’t forget to hop on over to Penguin Rock to see these adorable tuxedo friends. Want to escape to the tropics while visiting the aquarium? Step into the butterfly garden where you’ll be greated by over ten types of butterflies as you stroll through this lush oasis.
If you are looking for somewhere new to explore this summer Chattanooga is your place! It’s great for an adult only weekend away or a family trip. So start planning your trip today!
