Chattanooga Independent

Overlooked by majestic mountains and towering ridges, Chattanooga is a Tennessee cityOpens in a new window surrounded by natural marvels, as well as a layered history of Native American culture, Civil War battlefields and railroad dominance. Find out where the famous song “Chattanooga Choo Choo” came from at the old Terminal Station and Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Or make the most of the verticals by climbing Lookout Mountain or scaling Rock City for astounding views across Chattanooga's national parks.

Things to see

Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls is one of many attractions on Lookout Mountain, south of the city center, but with an underground waterfall and an extensive cavern complex, it's a sight not to be missed. Possibly the caves' best feature is how they maintain a stable temperature throughout the year, so would-be spelunkers can visit, come rain, shine or even snow.

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway

The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is the steepest passenger railway in the world. The ride presents a stunning view of Downtown Chattanooga and the surrounding hills and valleys as you trundle your way up to the observation deck, the highest available overlook point on the mountain.

Tennessee Aquarium

Sitting on the city's scenic waterfront, the Tennessee Aquarium maintains massive aquatic exhibits and forest habitats. Guests can get closer than they might imagine to underwater predators here, with the Shark and Ray touch tank, or meet some of the cuddlier locals at the River Otter Falls.

Rock City

Rock City rests on top of Lookout Mountain: a garden that bursts with color and grazes the clouds. The area includes a winding nature trail, fascinating rock formations and swaying rope bridges.

Chattanooga Choo Choo

Chattanooga was a major hub of railroad activity during the height of railway expansion, and the Chattanooga Choo Choo complex highlights the city's rich rail history. Now predominantly a hotel, this 1901-built Terminal Station and train depot is now populated with modern restaurants and shops, as well as lush rose gardens and a model railway.

Where to stay

Downtown

Downtown Chattanooga is home to many attractions and the banks of the Tennessee River. You’ll find that the most sought-after attractions, like the aquarium, are within walking distance of Downtown Chattanooga. It's also a cultural and collegiate area, with the University of Tennessee campus south of the waterfront, along with several theaters and venues for arts and events.

Lookout and Signal Mountains

If you can’t get enough of the views, you’ll even find Chattanooga hotels on or near the mountains. Less crowded than the Downtown area, Marriott, Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn all have branches close to the base of Lookout Mountain, as well as the boundaries of National Parks Chattanooga and Chickamauga.

Hamilton Place

This area of south of Downtown offers convenient access to the airport off the I-75 (around a ten minute drive away) and the cavernous Hamilton Place Mall – pick this district if you fancy a few rounds at Hickory Golf Course.

Travel information

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport(CHA)Opens in a new window serves the city of its namesake, and Chattanooga hotels nearest the airport include Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn and Staybridge Suites. For those choosing to stay outside of town, there is a shuttle and plenty of taxi companies to get you where you want to go. Get around Downtown by CARTA bus or the free, central shuttle. Plenty of locations are also doable on foot here, and the pedestrian bridge across the river, as well as the bike share system, encourage exhaust-free transport.

Best time to stay

The spring and fall months are dominated by mild temperatures. Spring is a great time to enjoy the area's thriving plant life. Crowds are fairly small in the fall months, so many hotels will offer lower rates.

The summer months can be humid, with July highs reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but Chattanooga offers many indoor attractions, water fountains and shady parks. Chattanooga's winter weather can be a little unpredictable, so make allowances for snow and ice when traveling at colder times of the year.