In the foothills of the Appalachian mountains in the state of Tennessee lies the city of Chattanooga. A major city during the Civil War, twenty-nine different railroads trail inside and out of the area. With a diverse population, this city is the perfect mix of nature, history, and fun. Here are ten things to do in Chattanooga:
Creative Discovery Museum
One of the top children museums in the United States, the Creative Discovery Museum opened its doors in 1995 and prides itself in inspiring all children to explore, innovate, create, and play. Inside of the museum lies: a science theater, play gym, exhibits, and more. They also do special events, such as Sensory Nights, for children with sensory sensitivity, that take place the first Thursday of every month. Lastly, they offer CDM at Home, a source of play-based activities and experiences to enjoy at home, from Creativity TV to Get Out and Get Moving.
Lookout Mountain
A mountain ridge that meets at the borders between states Georgia, Alabama, and Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain’s 2,388 elevation (and tourist viewers) allows for a beautiful bird’s eye view of the Tennessee Valley and all that it has to offer. Conveniently located where Ruby Falls, the Incline Railway, and Rocky City, this mountain is the perfect place for sightseeing multiple places in one location.
Ruby Falls
America’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall (260 ft deep) open to the public, Ruby Falls publicly opened in 1929. Dog moms can drop off their pups at their dog kennels. Adrenaline junkies can take a shot at the High Point Zip Adventure. Romantics can stroll through the waterfall during Romance at Ruby. Feminists can take their stance (and walk) at 100 Million Steps in March. And fun fact lovers can rejoice in National Day of Caves and Karst.
Coolidge Park
A waterfront park, known for its interactive play fountain and restored vintage carousel, Coolidge Park offers a place for park lovers to walk, bike, rock climb, fish, kayak, and play in more than 23 acres worth of land. Overlooking the Tennessee River, this park is also conveniently closely located to other local entertainment, art galleries, shops, restaurants, and the Walnut Street Bridge.
Walnut Street Bridge
One of the world’s largest pedestrian bridges, the Walnut Street Bridge was built in 1890. This 2,376 ft long bridge was the first to connect Chattanooga, Tennessee’s downtown with North Chattanooga. Encased in blue railing, this half-mile-long bridge goes over the beautiful Tennessee River and has even become a place for weddings and special events.
Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
Located in Lookout Mountain, the Incline Railway played a pivotal role during the Civil War as the place where the Battle Above the Clouds took place. A funicular railway system that’s over 125 years old, this railway is powered by two 100 horsepower winches on a one-mile-long single-track system, except for the passing loop in the middle, allowing both counter-balanced trains to operate at one time. This ride goes through the scenic views of mountains and valleys, some of which are historical landmarks. The Railway is also near other attractions, both above and below the mountain.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Founded as a chapter of the National Railway Historical Society in 1960, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum was created with the intention to preserve the experience and tradition of railroads. Instead of lugging around coal, these trains are now made to provide an interactive and historical experience. You can watch the scenery of Chattanooga with the Missionary Ridge or Hiwassee Loop Train Ride or enjoy a meal while riding on the Chattanooga Dinner Train.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns
Established in 1929, the Raccoon Mountain Caverns was originally created to tour what was believed to be the biggest room in the cave, the Crystal Palace Room, which was covered in limestone rock. Today, the Caverns have expanded as a campground filled with RVs and cabins, in addition to their amenities. Their offered activities include: Panning, swimming, hiking trails, and more.
Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center
Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center is an environmental learning hub that reconnects Chattanoogans with nature. They offer 14 miles worth of trails, multiple gardens, playscapes for children, an animal center, canoe riding, picnic tables and more. Some of their attractions, such as the Blue Heron Boardwalk, are wheelchair accessible. The Center is dog friendly; and for plant moms, you can even shop their native plant selection!
The Chattanooga Market
The region’s largest producer-only marketplace, the Chattanooga Market provides healthy, fresh produce, artisan foods, and arts and craft wares from locals. Open all year and in five weekly locations, their family tradition Holiday Chattanooga Market will be taking place on Saturdays for the entire month of December. They will have 200 vendors selling unique gifts, artisan foods, holiday decor, clothing, jewelry, soaps, candles, CBD products, sweet treats, and more.
