cities

Chattanooga

Open on map More cities Spin a random place Ask WorldAI

Overview

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 "Cha

Wikivoyage guide · 39 sections

▸Introduction269 chars

▸Understand2,189 chars

Chattanooga played an important role during the American Civil War, when it was a major railroad hub and one of the most industrialized parts of the Confederacy along with the nearby city of Atlanta, resulting in Chattanooga and being at the center of numerous pitched battles. Many of the tourist attractions center around Civil War history such as numerous battlefield parks in and around the city. It is less prominent today because of the decline of its famed railroad, made famous by the popular song "Chattanooga Choo Choo", which is also commemorated in numerous tourist attractions and the popular Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel. In 2020, the city was home to about 185,000 people. The racial makeup of the city is 62% White and 31% African American, with the remainder being other races or mixed-race.

Despite its economic loss and a small population, the city has become notably modernized, urbanized, and economically revitalized, receiving nationally recognition for the renaissance of its once-dilapidated, post-Industrial downtown, redevelopment of its riverfront, and the fastest Internet in the world. Within the last ten years the city has won three national awards for outstanding "livability", and nine Gunther Blue Ribbon Awards for excellence in housing and consolidated planning. An early cornerstone of this project was the restoration of the historic Walnut Street Bridge, which is now the world's longest pedestrian bridge. Chattanooga is the corporate headquarters and home of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Tennessee, Rock Creek Outfitters, Krystal, Chattem, Unum, the Chattanooga Bakery (home of the Moon Pie), and Miller Industries, the largest tow truck manufacturer in the world (Chattanooga is the birthplace of the tow truck, so you'll also find tourist attractions such as the Tow Truck Museum to commemorate this). Chattanooga is also home to the Tennessee Valley Authority, a self-funding government agency which operates numerous power plants in the South. Following the city's industrial decline, many businesses in the banking and insurance industries also set up operations in Chattanooga; the city is home to large branch offices of Cigna, AT&T and UBS.

Facts

Rank

—

Coordinates

—

Source

WBP almanac

External sources

Wikivoyage

Media

From Wikipedia184 words

WBP editorial3

River‑city rhythm

Chattanooga’s location at the confluence of the Tennessee River and Lookout Mountain gives it a natural flow that shapes daily life. Early morning joggers will find the Riverwalk a seamless, 13‑mile promenade that doubles as a commuter artery, while sunset‑lit kayak tours reveal a quieter side of the water, where downtown’s glass towers mirror the fading light. The river also anchors a subtle culinary current: chefs source fresh trout from local hatcheries, serving it on menus that echo the city’s industrial past yet look forward to sustainable gastronomy.

Rail heritage re‑imagined

What many visitors miss is how the city’s rail legacy is woven into its contemporary culture. Former freight depots now house art studios and microbrewery taprooms, preserving the echo of locomotive whistles while serving craft ales brewed with water from the river’s own aquifer. A weekend ride on the historic Incline Railway offers more than panoramic views; it’s a living museum of engineering that once connected mountain towns and now links cafés perched on the mountain’s edge with downtown’s coffee roasters.

Neighbourhood nuance

Beyond the well‑trodden tourist corridors, Chattanooga’s districts each tell a different story. The North Shore, with its repurposed warehouses, has become a hub for independent record labels and vinyl‑loving crowds, while St. Elmo’s tree‑lined streets host a seasonal farmers’ market that showcases heirloom vegetables grown on community plots. Staying in a locally‑run B&B in these areas offers a perspective that larger chains cannot provide: hosts who know the best spot for spotting migrating raptors on Lookout Mountain or the quiet bench where locals read The Appalachian Trail guide.

More in cities0

▸By plane908 chars

1 Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA IATA)) (The airport is east of downtown Chattanooga and you can easily get transportation from the airport to local hotels). It is serviced by: American Eagle; Delta Connection Carriers; Allegiant Air (nonstop service only from Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale; no onestops or connections).

There are non-stop flights to Chattanooga:

Atlanta, GA

Charlotte, NC

Chicago, IL (service from O'Hare International Airport)

Dallas, TX (service from Dallas-Ft. Worth International Airport)

Detroit, MI (service from Detroit Wayne County International Airport)

New York City, NY (service from LaGuardia Airport)

Orlando, FL (service from Orlando Sanford Airport)

Philadelphia, PA

Tampa Bay, FL (service from St. Petersburg/Clearwater Airport)

Washington, D.C. (service from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, otherwise known as National Airport, and Dulles Airport)

▸By boat1,512 chars

Chattanooga is accessible by way of the Tennessee River by personal water craft.

Ross's Landing (downtown Chattanooga). There are 11 mooring posts with electrical and water hookups.

Chickamauga Marina, Chickamauga Lake at the Chickamauga Dam, Kings Point Rd, ☏ +1 423 622-1978. May-Sep: Su-Th 8:30AM–6:30PM and F Sa 8:30AM-7PM; Oct-Apr: daily 8:30AM–5:30PM. Full service marina, complete with laundry/bath house. Fuel Dock/Ships Store open 7 days year round accepting all major credit cards.

Gold Point Yacht Harbor (just off the Tennessee River at mile marker 472), ☏ +1 423 622-1978. Constructed in 2001 and nestled into a picturesque cove. All business for Gold Point Yacht Harbor is conducted from the marina office located at the Chickamauga Marina.

4 Shady Grove Harbor, 1805 Clift Eldridge Rd, Soddy Daisy (enter the Soddy Creek Channel at Mile Marker 487, then travel 1.3 miles up Soddy Creek), ☏ +1 423 332-5613. Summer (Apr 1 - Labor Day): daily 8AM-8PM; winter: F-Tu 10AM-6PM. The Ship Store is equipped to satisfy all boating needs. (updated Aug 2019)

Island Cove Marina and Resort, Mile marker 477.5 on the Tennessee River, 6701 Highway 58, Harrison, ☏ +1 423 344-8331, fax: +1 423 344-6275. Ship Store hours: summer: M-Sa 8AM-6PM, Su 9AM-6PM; winter: M-Sa 8AM-5PM, Su 10AM-5PM. Featuring a full stocked ship store, transient dockage, bath house, laundry and a 24-hour fuel dock. They were awarded a 5 Anchor Rating by Quimby's Cruise Guide. Sydney's On the River restaurant also on site.

▸Attractions5,827 chars

1 Rock City, 1400 Patton Road (Located approximately 6 miles from downtown), ☏ +1-800-854-0675. 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. (updated Dec 2025)

2 Ruby Falls, 1720 South Scenic Highway, ☏ +1 423 821-2544. 8AM–8PM (except Christmas Day). 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. Adult $28.95, children ages 3 – 12 $18.95, 2 years and under are free. (updated Dec 2025)

3 Incline Railway (The Steepest Passenger Railway in the World), 3917 St Elmo (near Interstate 24), ☏ +1 423 821-4224. Every half hour. Between Memorial Day-Labor Day from 8:30AM-9:30PM, during April, May, September, and October from 9AM-6PM; November-March, from 10AM-6PM.. 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. Adult round trip $15, children ages 3–12 $7. (updated Sep 2022)

4 Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel, 1400 Market Street, ☏ +1 423 266-5000, toll-free: +1-800-TRACK29 (8722529). 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. (updated Mar 2017)

5 Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad Street (Downtown Chattanooga), toll-free: +1-800-262-0695. 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. (updated Mar 2017)

6 Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park, 1101 McCallie Avenue (2 miles from downtown Chattanooga), ☏ +1 423 697-1322. 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. $14.95 - $16.95 for adults, $12.95 - $14.95 for seniors, $11.95 - $13.95 for children age 3 - 12. (updated Dec 2021)

▸Museums2,847 chars

7 International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, 3315 Broad Street, ☏ +1 423 267-3132. 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. $8 for adults, $7 for seniors 55 and older, $4 for children 6 - 18, and free for children 5 and under.

8 Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View. Open M Tu F Sa 10AM-5PM; W noon-5PM, Th 10AM-9PM, closed Wednesdays Labor Day through Memorial Day. 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. $7 for adults, $3.50 children 3 - 12.

9 Creative Discovery Museum, ☏ +1 423 756-2738. Daily 10AM-1PM, 2-5PM. 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. Adult or child $16, senior 14, military or first responder $10. (updated Mar 2021)

10 Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, 4119 Cromwell Rd, ☏ +1 423 894-8028. 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. Tickets $25 - 125. (updated Dec 2025)

11 Houston Museum of Decorative Arts, 201 High Street, ☏ +1 423 267-7176. Open M-F 9:30AM-4PM. Open seasonally on Sa and Su. Closed major holidays. 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. Adults $7, children (4-12) $3.50. Discounts available for groups of 20 or more.

▸Area parks and greenspaces4,392 chars

Coolidge Park. This park features a beautifully restored carousel, a pavilion, an interactive play fountain, and lots of open space where the Navy and Marine Reserve Center once stood. A short walk across the Walnut Street Bridge allows visitors to enjoy Chattanooga's most popular park. It is part of the Tennessee Riverpark, a 22 mile long public park along the Tennessee River. Coolidge park is also a Wi-Fi Hotspot thanks to the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group.

12 Walnut Street Bridge, Walnut St., over the Tennessee River,. 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. (updated Mar 2021)

Renaissance Park. Another Northshore park. Adjacent to Coolidge Park, this 23-acre urban wetland park is a product of Chattanooga's 21st Century Waterfront project. Plans are underway to create an outdoor center to promote outdoor activities in the Chattanooga area, as well as a nature trail through the park.

Tennessee River Walk. A continuous 10-mile path stretching from Ross's Landing in the heart of downtown Chattanooga to the Tennessee Riverpark and the Chickamauga Dam, stopping various times along the way to open up into picnic areas. Start the trail in any number of places along Amnicola Highway, Riverside Drive, or Downtown. This linear greenway continues to grow and expand through several different projects.

Ross's Landing. A site of great significance for its relevance in Cherokee Indian and Chattanooga history, Ross's Landing has been renovated, adding a large pier, natural amphitheater and a large greenspace. Wrapping underneath Riverfront Parkway is a unique water feature for visitors to cool off in. Several mooring posts are available for boaters to make a stop off at this beautiful space. Car parking available between the river (Southern Belle riverboat) and the baseball stadium, off Riverside Dr. Free on Sundays.

Miller Park, 910 Market Street. 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.

13 Miller Plaza Pavilion, 850 Market St (across East Martin Luther King Blvd. from Miller Park), morgans@chattanoogacvb.com. 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. (updated Aug 2019)

Heritage park, 1428 Jenkins Road. A 22-acre park featuring a walking track, picnic tables with grills, and a bocce ball court.

14 Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center (Chattanooga Nature Center), 400 Garden Road, ☏ +1 423 821-1160. M-Sa 9AM-5PM. 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. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for children (4-11) and seniors (65+).

Maclellan Island. 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.

River Gallery Sculpture Garden, 400 East 2nd Street. 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.

▸Theaters and auditoriums1,800 chars

Chattanooga Theatre Center, 400 River Street, ☏ +1 423 267-8534. 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.

IMAX 3D Theater, 201 Chestnut Street (Just across the street from the Tennessee Aquarium), ☏ +1 423 266-4629. 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. (updated Jun 2018)

15 Memorial Auditorium, 399 Mccallie Avenue, ☏ +1 423 757-5042. Home to dozens of events, from graduations to live music, throughout the year.

16 Tivoli Theater, 709 Broad Street, ☏ +1 423 757-5050. 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.

▸Do6,900 chars

Climb the Walnut Street Bridge Climbing Wall (The Adventure Guild), ☏ +1 423 266-5709. 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.

Ride the Carousel in Coolidge Park. 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.

Play in the fountain at Coolidge Park. 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.

Walk the Riverwalk. 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.

Take a ride on the Southern Belle Riverboat, 201 Riverfront Parkway, ☏ +1 423 266-4488, toll-free: +1-800-766-2784. 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.

Attend the Annual Riverbend Festival, ☏ +1 423 756-2211. 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.

See a Chattanooga Lookouts baseball game, Bellsouth Park, 201 Power Alley (Less than a block from the Aquarium), ☏ +1 423 267-4849 (Box Office Telephone), +1 423 267-2208 (Office Telephone). 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. General admission: $4 for adults, $2 for seniors 55+ and children 7 - 12, with children 6 and under getting in free. Upper Box Seats are $5 and Lower Box Seats are $8. If you really want to splurge, skyboxes are available as well: 14 seats for $275, 32 for $425 per night..

Catch the Chattanooga Mocs. 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.

Enjoy Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park, toll-free: +1-877-525-3946. 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. (updated Jun 2018)

Explore the Raccoon Mountain Caverns, 319 West Hills Drive, ☏ +1 423 821-9403, toll-free: +1-800-823-2267. 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.

Take a ride with the Chattanooga Ducks, 201 West 5th Street, ☏ +1 423 756-3825. 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.

Craft Axe Throwing (Axe, Hatchet or Tomahawk Throwing), 619 Camp Jordan Pkwy #121, East Ridge, ☏ +1 423 216-4334, eastridge@craftaxethrowing.com. 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. (updated Oct 2023)

▸Buy1,324 chars

Chattanooga offers many shopping opportunities and generally lower prices than many other cities.

1 Hamilton Place Mall, 2100 Hamilton Place Blvd (Exit #5 on Interstate 75), ☏ +1 423 894-7177 (Customer Service). M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su noon-6PM. With over 200 stores, 30 eateries, and 17 theater screens, Hamilton Place Mall is a very popular shopping complex in the Chattanooga area.

Northgate Mall, 271 Northgate Mall (In Hixson, north of downtown Chattanooga), ☏ +1 423 875-4351. M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su 12:30PM-6PM. Over 100 stores, along with a number of great restaurants and theater screens.

Warehouse Row, 1110 Market Street, ☏ +1 423 267-1127, toll-free: +1-888-260-7620, fax: +1 423 267-1129. Hours: (Jan-Mar) M-Sa 10AM-7PM, Su noon-6PM; (Apr-Dec) M-Sa 10AM-8PM, Su noon-6PM. Closed Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day.. 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.

Mercantile at the Ridge, 6725 Ringgold Road (In nearby East Ridge, just off of Interstate 75), ☏ +1 423-654-7923. 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.

▸North Shore District1,957 chars

On the north shore of the Tennessee River, just across from downtown Chattanooga, the North Shore represents a great triumph in city growth and development. What was once a street of abandoned buildings and run-down homes has become one of the city's focal points. Mixed-use business and residential developments are underway, bringing even more people to the area. Coolidge Park, one of the city's most popular greenspaces, is the centerpiece of the North Shore District. The renovation of the Walnut Street Bridge as a pedestrian bridge is also heralded as part of the dramatic growth in the area. Frazier Avenue is considered to be the "Main Street" of this area, and many unique businesses are located here, such as ...

Rock Creek Outfitters, 301 Manufacturers Rd #109, ☏ +1 423 265-5969. M-Sa 10AM-6PM and Su 1-5PM. (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.

In-Town Gallery, 26A Frazier Avenue (between the Market St. and Walnut St. Bridges), ☏ +1 423 267-9214. M-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su 1-5PM, First Fridays until 8PM. 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!

▸Budget1,311 chars

Plenty of fast food restaurants litter the town, although not as many in the downtown area.

Clumpie's, 26B Frazier Avenue, ☏ +1 423 267-5425. A great little ice cream shop on Frazier Avenue in the heart of the Northshore.

Bea's Restaurant, 4500 Dodds Avenue, ☏ +1 423 867-3618. 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.

Zarzour's Restaurant, 1627 Rossville Avenue (off Main Street), ☏ +1 423 266-0424. 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".

Lee's Armandos, 4767 highway 58, ☏ +1 423 894-1413. 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.

Marsha's Backstreet Cafe, 5032 Brainerd Road, ☏ +1 423 485-7911. 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.

▸Downtown2,531 chars

Sushi Nabe of Kyoto, ☏ +1 423 634-0171. 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.

Sluggo's North, 501 Cherokee Blvd, ☏ +1 423 752-5224. Vegan restaurant in the North Shore district. Frequently hosts live music, all ages admitted. Serves beer.

Hair of the Dog, An English Neighborhood Pub, 334 Market Street, ☏ +1 423 265-4615. M-F 11AM-3AM, Sa Su noon-3AM. 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.

River Street Deli, 151 River Street (in the heart of the Northshore in Coolidge Park), ☏ +1 423 756-3354. 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.

Lupi's Pizza Pies, 406 Broad Street, ☏ +1 423 266-5874. The Chattanooga Pulse calls Lupi's tomato sauce "the city's best" and their calzones are "football-sized." Casual, family dining.

Mellow Mushroom, 205 Broad Street, ☏ +1 423 266-5564. 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.

Wally's Restaurant, 1600 McCallie Avenue, ☏ +1 423 698-4643. M-F 6AM-8PM, Sa 6AM-2PM. Breakfast from 6AM-11AM. Classic meat-and-three (vegetables) style restaurant that has been serving Chattanooga for over 70 years.

Pickle Barrel, 1012 Market Street, ☏ +1 423 266-1103. 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.

▸Coffee and tea1,751 chars

Velo Coffee Roasters, 509 E Main Street, 8AM-5PM. An institution of Chattanooga coffee that serves traceable, light roast, single-origin coffees that are roasted within this space. Location includes roasting space and full service espresso bar, including a garden patio seating.

Goodman Coffee Roasters, 1110 Market Street, 8AM - 5PM. Goodman Coffee is in the upscale Warehouse Row shopping center and is largely known for its wide selection of light to medium roasts of single origin coffees. Tea, pastries, and eggs are also available.

Sleepyhead Coffee, 735 Broad Street, M-Sa 8AM-3PM, closed Sunday. Intimate, bright multi-roaster that serves espresso drinks and vegan pastries. Sleepyhead is notable for its abundance of plants and green life within its space.

Mean Mug Coffeehouse, 114 W Main Street, M-Sa 7AM-5PM, Su 8AM-4PM. Popular Main Street stand-by for food, coffee, and tea.

Mad Priest Coffee Roasters, 1200 McCallie Ave, daily 7AM-6PM. A small tasting room for this local coffee roaster that serves espresso drinks and filter coffee. Mad Priest is known for their mission to support the refugee communities within Chattanooga.

Rembrandt's Coffee House, 204 East High Street, ☏ +1 423 265-5033. M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-11:30PM, Sa 8AM-11:30PM, Su 8AM-10PM. 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.

Stone Cup Roasting Company. 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!

▸Mid-range1,274 chars

Sonesta Select Chattanooga Hamilton Place, 2210 Bams Drive, ☏ +1 423 499-4400. Located just outside Hamilton Place Mall off of Interstate 75. Free high-speed Internet access available. Rates start at $94 per night.

Doubletree Hotel Chattanooga, 407 Chestnut Street, ☏ +1 423 756-5150. 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.

Hampton Inn, 1920 Hamill Rd, ☏ +1 423 877-3100. 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.

Hilton Garden Inn, 311 Chestnut St, ☏ +1 423 308-9000. Great location, close to attractions and restaurants as well as on the free electric shuttle route. Rates around $140 per night.

MainStay Suites, 7030 Amin Drive, ☏ +1 423 485-9424. This extended stay hotel offers guests fully equipped kitchens, free continental breakfast and an exercise room.

Residence Inn by Marriott, 215 Chestnut St, ☏ +1 423 266-0600. An all suite hotel located one block from the Tennessee Aquarium and an easy walk from many restaurants. Rates around $145 per night.

▸Splurge2,377 chars

1 Bluff View Inn, 411 E 2nd St, ☏ +1 423 321-0235. 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. (updated Nov 2018)

2 Chattanooga Choo Choo, 1400 Market St. 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. $225 for suits, $160 for train cars. (updated Nov 2018)

3 Chattanooga Marriott Downtown, Two Carter Plaza, ☏ +1 423-756-0002. Attached to the Convention Center and offering Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and meeting space. (updated Nov 2018)

4 Chanticleer Inn, 1300 Mockingbird Ln, Lookout Mountain, GA, ☏ +1 706 820-2002, fax: +1 706 820-7976. 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.

5 Courtyard by Marriott Downtown, 200 Chestnut Street, ☏ +1 423-755-0871. Located only one block from the Tennessee Aquarium. Free high-speed Internet access available. Rates start at $134 per night. (updated Nov 2018)

6 The Chattanoogan, 1201 Broad St, ☏ +1 423-756-3400. An upscale hotel and conference center located downtown. Rates start at $129 per night. (updated Nov 2018)

7 The Read House, 107 W M.L.K. Blvd (In the heart of downtown, corner of W M.L.K. Blvd and Broad St), ☏ +1 423-266-4121. Opened in 1926, the Read House is steeped in history, playing host to such celebrities as Winston Churchill and Al Capone. Room rates start at $110 per night, valet parking offered at $11 per night.. (updated Nov 2018)

▸Internet1,932 chars

(Many of the city's parks have WiFi hotspots in them. See WirelessInTheParks.com for more information regarding this venture.)

Chattanooga Area Convention and Visitors Bureau - 2 Broad Street, next to the Aquarium. The Chattanooga Visitors Center provides maps of downtown, sample itineraries, attraction tickets, and more. Official Chattanooga Tourism site.

Coolidge Park - The area centering around the Carousel is a Wi-Fi Hotspot thanks to the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group. It uses 802.11b. WEP security is turned off.

Grey Friars Coffee - Using 802.11a/b. SSID "Greyfriar24"

Chattanooga Choo Choo/Holiday Inn - Located at 1400 Market Street.

Panera Bread -

Located near the Target in the Hamilton Place Mall Area. 1810 Gunbarrel Road.

417 Market Street, Near Jack's Alley

Stone Cup Roasting Company - Located in the Northshore Distinct. 224 Frazier Avenue.

The Walden Club - 633 Chestnut Street, 21st floor. The Walden Club is a members-only restaurant in the Republic Center.

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Lupton Library - Located at the center of the UTC campus offering 802.11b on an open network.

Barnes & Noble - Near Hamilton Place Mall at 2230 Hamilton Place Blvd.

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport

Holiday Trav-L-Park - Free 802.11 WiFi for all campers.

Located near Northgate Mall, next to the TJ Maxx strip mall. 620 Northgate Mall.

The UPS Store - Located near the Best Buy in the Hamilton Place Mall Area. 2288 Gunbarrel Road. May require subscription to Boingo Wireless service

Krystal Restaurants - Nearly every Krystal Restaurant in the Chattanooga area.

McDonald's - Service is $9.95/day or $29.95/month through the provider Wayport.

2003 Dayton Blvd in Red Bank

4502 Rossville Blvd, 6220 Lee Hwy

1117 E 3rd Street. This location very close to Erlanger Hospital and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus.

Amigo's Mexican Restaurant - Located in Hixson at 5450 Highway 153.

▸Medical2,979 chars

The Chattanooga area has three major hospitals with 3 full-service Emergency Departments and 3 limited-service Emergency Departments:

Memorial Hospital, 2525 de Sales Avenue, ☏ +1 423 495-2525, +1 423 495-8 (plus ROOM# to call patient room). Their main hospital is located minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Memorial is a part of the Catholic Health Initiatives. This hospital has a full-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay.

Memorial North Park Hospital (located in the Hixson community in the North part of Chattanooga), ☏ +1 423 495-7100 (General Number), +1 423 495-7124 (Patient Information), +1 423 495-7 (plus ROOM# for patient room direct). This hospital has a limited-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay.

Memorial North Shore Health Center (Located West of Coolidge Park off of Cherokee Blvd), ☏ +1 423 756-1506. They are open M-F 8:30AM–4:30PM..

Erlanger Hospital, 975 East Third Street (Their main hospital, the Baroness Campus, is located just a block from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, minutes from downtown), ☏ +1 423 778-7000. Erlanger is a non-profit, academic teaching center and is a Level One Trauma Center for adults. This is a very busy tertiary care referral center, expect long wait times if presenting to the Emergency Department for a non-emergency complaint. If you have a primary care need, please call ☏ +1 423-778-LINK (5465) to get a referral to an Erlanger Physician near you. Erlanger maintains the LifeForce Air Ambulance, the region's only air medical service.This hospital has a full-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay. Children are not seen primarily at this facility as they are seen at T.C. Thompson's next door.

T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital (Located next door to Erlanger), ☏ +1 423 778-6011. T.C. Thompson's is the only hospital in the region with immediate availability of pediatric subspecialists, providing a special environment of healing for all children. This hospital has a full-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay. Adults are typically not seen here as they are seen next door at Erlanger.

Erlanger North Campus (The North Campus is in the next door city of Red Bank north of Downtown Chattanooga), ☏ +1 423 778-7811. This hospital has a limited-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay.

Parkridge Medical Center, 2333 McCallie Avenue, ☏ +1 423 698-6061. This hospital has a full-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay.