Chattanooga

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 is famous for being immortalized in the popular 1941 song Chattanooga Choo Choo, made famous by Glenn Miller.

Walnut Street Bridge over the Tennessee River.

Understand

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, immortalized in the popular song Chattanooga Choo Choo, which is also commemorated in numerous tourist attractions and the popular Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel. As of the census of 2000, there are 155,554 people, 65,499 households, and 39,626 families residing in the city. There are 72,108 housing units at an average density of 205.9/km² (533.3/mi²). The racial makeup of the city is 59.71% White, 36.06% African American, 0.29% Native American, 1.54% Asian. 2.11% of the population are Hispanic or Latino of any 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 and redevelopment of its riverfront. 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, and 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.

Get in

By car

I-75 (North-South) and I-24 (East-West) intersect in Chattanooga.

• I-75 - Easy access from Atlanta and Knoxville. Begins in Hialeah, Florida and ends in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan at the Canadian border.
• I-24 - Easy access from Murfreesboro, Nashville and Kentucky.
• I-59 - Connects to I-24 just Southwest of Chattanooga, gives access to Birmingham, Alabama, Southeast Mississippi and ends near New Orleans.

By plane

There is regular air service through the 🌍 Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA  ^IATA). The airport is located 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 to Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale; no onestops or connections).

There are non-stop flights to/from Chattanooga:

• Atlanta, GA
• Charlotte, NC
• Chicago, IL (Service to O'Hare International Airport)
• Dallas, TX (Service to Dallas-Ft. Worth International Airport)
• Detroit, MI (Service to Detroit Wayne County International Airport)
• New York City, NY (Service to LaGuardia Airport)
• Orlando, FL (Service to Orlando Sanford Airport)
• Philadelphia, PA
• Tampa Bay, FL (Service to St. Petersburg/Clearwater Airport)
• Washington, D.C. (Service to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, otherwise known as National Airport, and Dulles Airport)

By bus

• 🌍 Greyhound, 960 Airport Rd, 1-800-231-2222. Service to Chattanooga begins and ends at their station found near the airport. To get downtown from Greyhound walk a couple blocks to Van Ness Rd & Lee Hwy and catch the inbound CARTA route 4 bus to downtown. Last stop is at Market St. & W 4th Ave.
• 🌍 Megabus. Service from Atlanta, Nashville, Knoxville, Lexington, Louisville, Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Chicago. The bus stop is located on Market Street at West 14th Street, next to the Chattanooga Choo Choo.

By boat

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, [phone], . Full service marina, complete with laundry/bath house. Fuel Dock/Ships Store open 7 days year round accepting all major credit cards. Hours: Summer, May 1 - Sept 30, Su-Th 8:30AM–6:30PM and F-Sa 8:30AM-7PM; Winter, Oct 1 - Apr 30, M-Su 8:30AM–5:30PM.
• Gold Point Yacht Harbor, just off the Tennessee River at mile marker 472, [phone], . 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.
• Shady Grove Harbor, Longitude 85° 08' Latitude 35° 16', 1805 Clift Eldridge Rd, Soddy Daisy, [phone] (fax: [phone], emergency: [phone] or [phone]), . To get to the harbor, enter the Soddy Creek Channel at Mile Marker 487, then travel 1.3 miles up Soddy Creek. Summer (Apr 1 - Labor Day) open 7 days 8AM-8PM; Winter, F-Tu 10AM-6PM. The Ship Store is equipped to satisfy all boating needs.
• Island Cove Marina and Resort, Mile marker 477.5 on the Tennessee River, 6701 Highway 58, Harrison, [phone] (fax: [phone]), . 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. Ship Store hours: Summer, M-Sa 8AM-6PM, Su 9AM-6PM; Winter, M-Sa 8AM-5PM, Su 10AM-5PM. Sydney's On the River restaurant also on site.

Get around

Downtown Chattanooga

By car

When a speed limit is not posted, assume that it is 35 mph (56 km/h), especially when downtown or in a residential area.

Rental Car Companies:

• National Car Rental, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, [phone].
• Dollar Rent A Car, [phone].
• Avis Rent A Car, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, [phone].
• Enterprise Rent A Car, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, [phone].
• Donna's Rent A Car, 1419 South Moore Road, [phone].
• Thrifty Car Rental, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, [phone].
• Access Car Rental, 2114 Chapman Rd, [phone].
• Access Car Rental, 3150 Broad Street, [phone].
• Hertz Rent a Car, Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, [phone].

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 the Holiday Inn Choo-Choo and Tennessee Aquarium, along with new service to Chattanooga's North Shore shops and Coolidge Park.

There are also buses servicing the remainder of the city for a fare. As of January 2012, the fares are:

• Adult - $1.50
• Seniors - $.75
• Persons with Disability - $.75
• Students - $.75
• Children 5 and under are free with a paying passenger

Special reduced fares require a photo ID issued at the CARTA bus depot.

CARTA schedules are available at many of the local banks, shopping malls, social service agencies, hospitals, colleges, universities, the downtown post office, libraries and through CARTA.

By Bike

A bike share system in Chattanooga.

There are bike sharing services in Chattanooga.

See

Attractions

Rock City

Ruby Falls

• Rock City, 1400 Patton Road (Located approximately 6 miles from downtown), [phone], . 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 $18.95, Children ages 3 – 12 are $10.95, 2 and under are free. Combination tickets in form of Double play (Save $4) - Ruby falls + rock city for $33.90 ($18.90 for children, ages 3–12), or Triple play (Save $5) covering Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline are available at any of the three attractions for $45.90 ($23.90 for Children, ages 3–12).
• 🌍 Ruby Falls, 1720 South Scenic Highway, ☎ [phone]. 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 admission is $19.95, Children ages 3 – 12 are $11.95, 2 years and under are free. (updated Mar 2017)

View from Lookout Mountain

• 🌍 Incline Railway (The Steepest Passenger Railway in the World), 3917 St Elmo (Near Interstate 24), ☎ [phone]. 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. Adult admission, round trip, is $14. Children, ages 3 - 12, $7. (updated Mar 2017)
• 🌍 Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel, 1400 Market Street, ☎ [phone], 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)
• 🌍 Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad Street (Downtown Chattanooga), toll-free: [phone].
  

  Tennessee Aquarium as seen from the Market Street Bridge
  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)
• 🌍 Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park, 1101 McCallie Avenue (2 miles from downtown Chattanooga), ☎ [phone]. 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. Admission is $6 for Adults, $4 for Seniors, $3 for Children Age 3 - 15. (updated Mar 2017)

Museums

• 🌍 International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, 3315 Broad Street, ☎ [phone]. 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.
  

  Hunter Museum
  Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for Seniors 55 and older, $4 for Children 6 - 18, and free for children 5 and under.  
• Chattanooga Regional History Museum, 400 Chestnut Street, ☎ [phone]. A museum featuring regularly changing exhibits concerning regional history. Adults $4, Seniors $3.50, Children ages 5 - 18 are $3. 
• 🌍 Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View. Open M-Tu and F-Sa 10AM-5PM; W 12PM-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. Admission is $7 for Adults, $3.50 Children 3 - 12.  
• 🌍 Creative Discovery Museum, ☎ [phone]. 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. 2008 admission is $8.95 for adults and children ages 2 and up. Family memberships are available. Value-pack tickets for the Aquarium, IMAX and Creative Discovery Museum are also available. Visit the website for current hours.  
• 🌍 Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, 4119 Cromwell Rd, ☎ [phone]. 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 available seasonally. Tickets $12.50 - $79.  
• Houston Museum of Decorative Arts, 201 High Street, ☎ [phone]. 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. Admission: Adults $7, Children (4-12) $3.50. Discounts available for groups of 20 or more. 

Area parks and greenspaces

• 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.
  Watch the activity in Coolidge park through an entire day/night cycle of June 9 and 10, 2003. (Requires Windows Media Player)
• Walnut Street Bridge. The renovation of this 113-year old historic bridge as a linear pedestrian park was completed in May 1993. 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.
• 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.
• 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. 
• Miller Plaza, 850 Market Street. Directly across from Miller Park is a pavilion, outdoor stage and a fountain. This site is used a couple of regular, free concert series: "Nightfall" and "Rhythm & Noon." 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. Rhythm & Noon is held every Friday from May through August. Miller Plaza is also a WiFi hotspot sponsor by the City of Chattanooga and AirNet Group.
• Heritage park, 1428 Jenkins Road. A 22-acre park featuring a walking track, picnic tables with grills, and a bocce ball court. 
• 🌍 Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center (Chattanooga Nature Center), 400 Garden Road, ☎ [phone]. 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+).  
• Reflection Riding, ☎ [phone]. M-Sa 9AM-5PM year round, and Su 1PM-5PM March through October. Located at the Chattanooga Nature Center. This 300-acre arboretum, botanical garden and historic site located on Lookout Mountain. The seasons are most evident as your travel through the grounds, with summer's wildflowers and autumn's changing of colors. There are also rental facilities available on the acreage, perfect for parties, weddings or other occasions. Cost of admission is $6 per car, or you can pay per individual for admission to both Reflection Riding and the Chattanooga Nature Center. 
• 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 auditoriums

• Chattanooga Theatre Center, 400 River Street, ☎ [phone]. 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), ☎ [phone]. 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)
• Memorial Auditorium, 399 Mccallie Avenue, ☎ [phone]. Home to dozens of events, from graduations to live music, throughout the year. 
• Tivoli Theater, 709 Broad Street, ☎ [phone]. 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. 

Other sights

• 🌍 Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Avenue, ☎ [phone]. 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.  

Do

• Climb the Walnut Street Bridge Climbing Wall, ☎ [phone]. Inside Coolidge Park, (The Adventure Guild). From April through November, the wall is open F 6PM-9PM, Sa 1PM-9PM, and Su 1PM-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, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. 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. Sight seeing 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 2 1/2 hours on the river, depending on your cruise type. 
• Attend the Annual Riverbend Festival, ☎ [phone]. 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 at Bellsouth Park, 201 Power Alley (Less than a block from the Aquarium), Box Office Telephone [phone], Office Telephone [phone], . 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 is $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: [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Walk with Chattanooga Sidewalk Tours, 100 Walnut Street (South end of Walnut St. Bridge), ☎ [phone]. 7PM. The Bluff and Bridges tour includes the Walnut Street Bridge, Bluff View art district, and Coolidge Park area. It lasts about 90 minutes and covers about a mile and a half. Also available for an additional but identical charge: "Walk downtown with Chattanooga Sidewalk Tours," which gathers at 827 Broad Street in front of the Read House. $15 adults, $7 children. 

Learn

Continuing/community education

• 212 Market Restaurant, 212 Market Street, [phone], . Cooking classes.

[phone], . Cooking classes.

Buy

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

• 🌍 Hamilton Place Mall, 2100 Hamilton Place. M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su 12PM-6PM. Blvd. (Exit #5 on Interstate 75) Mall Management, [phone]. Customer Service [phone]. 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), [phone], . 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, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone], fax: [phone]. 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. 
• East Ridge Flea Market, 6725 Ringgold Road, ☎ [phone]. Sa-Su 9AM-6PM. In nearby East Ridge, just off of Interstate 75, the East Ridge Flea Market is 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 District

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, 100 Tremont Street (Corner of Tremont and Frazier), ☎ [phone]. M-Sa 10AM-6PM and Su 1PM-5PM. (Other locations at 2200 Hamilton Place Blvd, 191 River Street, 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. 
• Knitting Mill Antiques, 205 Manufacturers Road (in the Northshore district, minutes from Frazier Avenue), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone]. 
• In-Town Gallery, 26A Frazier Avenue (between the Market St. and Walnut St. Bridges), [phone], . Open 7 days a week (M-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su 1PM-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!

Southside District

This area between the Chattanooga Choo-Choo and Finley Stadium is still being renovated but has been popular for redevelopment. Several retail businesses have opened along Market Street near the Choo-Choo, but these listed here a little off the well-beaten tourist path:

• Chattanooga Market, 1826 Carter Street. At the First Tennessee Pavilion. Seasonal Sundays, 12PM-5PM. Themed events including live music are scheduled throughout the growing season. Vendors set up booths, which includes area farmers, artists, and restaurants. 
• Galleries At Southside, 1404 Cowart Street, ☎ [phone]. 

St. Elmo District

In contrast to the more metropolitan downtown, the quaint, historic St. Elmo district at the foot of Lookout Mountain offers a walkable residential area with several small boutique shops and restaurants, including

• The Mod. 
• Clock Works and Vintage Watches, 3905 St. Elmo Avenue, ☎ [phone]. 

Eat

Budget

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

• Clumpie's, 26B Frazier Avenue, ☎ [phone]. A great little ice cream shop on Frazier Avenue in the heart of the Northshore. 
• Nikki's Drive Inn, 899 Cherokee Blvd (Right outside the tunnels, 2 minutes from Market Street), ☎ [phone]. Great hush puppies and short-order food. A Chattanooga institution for more than 20 years. 
• Bea's Restaurant, 4500 Dodds Avenue, ☎ [phone]. 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), ☎ [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Southern Burger Co. A local food truck that you can find downtown any given day of the week. They are also at the Chattanooga Market on Sunday's. They offer an assortment of gourmet burger combos for under $11. Call at [phone].
• Marsha's Backstreet Cafe, 5032 Brainerd Road, ☎ [phone]. Local home cookin' - every day a different set of entree's. Everything from turnip greens, to fried okra and meatloaf. When you think of homestyle southern cookin', you'll think of Marsha's. 

Mid-range

Downtown

• Sushi Nabe of Kyoto, ☎ [phone]. 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 Tarayaki. 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, ☎ [phone]. Vegan restaurant in the North Shore district. Frequently hosts live music, all ages admitted. Serves beer. 
• Sticky Fingers, Downtown restaurant at +1 423 265-RIBS, Hamilton Place at +1 423 899-RIBS, . Open 7 days. Some of the best BBQ in Chattanooga! Top rated ribs: Memphis Style Wet, Memphis Style Dry, Tennessee Whiskey, Habanero Hot, Carolina Sweet. Average price of $10. Two locations in Chattanooga, one downtown in Jack's Alley at 420 Broad Street, the other on the perimeter of Hamilton Place Mall. Casual, family dining.
• Big River Grille & Brewing Works, 222 Broad Street, ☎ [phone]. Open 7 days. It'sd in a large, renovated warehouse a 1/2 block from the Tennessee Aquarium, Big River is a part of the Gordon Biersch family and Chrissy's favorite spot along with the sister location in Nashville. The restaurant, separated from the main bar by a beautiful brick wall, features an amazing menu with an average price of $15. Expect it to be very busy on summer weekends. Patio seating available. Casual, family dining. 
• Hair of the Dog, An English Neighborhood Pub, 334 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Taco Mac, 423 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. M-F 11AM-3AM, Sa-Su noon-3AM. Sports-bar style restaurant showcasing Buffalo wings and a wide range of beers on tap or in a bottle. 
• Out of The Blue Bakery Cafe. Located in the center at the Riverpark on Amnicola. In addition to delicious sandwiches, pick up a kite for a flight through the park! Casual, family dining.
• River Street Deli, 151 River Street (in the heart of the Northshore in Coolidge Park), ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Pisa Pizza, 551 River Street, ☎ [phone]. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F 11AM-11PM, Sa noon-9PM. Established in 1999 near what was to become Coolidge Park, Pisa Pizza has 38 toppings, five pasta dishes and six different hot hoagies in its Chattanooga decorated dining room. Featuring lunch specials from 11AM to 2PM, they are open seven days a week. Casual, family dining. 
• Lupi's Pizza Pies, 406 Broad Street, ☎ [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• River Inn Restaurant, 2134 Suck Creek Road, ☎ [phone]. Tu-Th 5PM-9PM, F-Su noon-10PM. A little catfish house nestled alongside the river. In addition to Catfish, Flounder, Trout, Frog Legs, are available as well as the standard steak and chicken fare. Two large decks, one covered, the other screened and a large inside room with fireplace. Docking facilities available. About 20 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Casual, family dining. 
• Porker's Bar-B-Que, 1251 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. BBQ near the Choo-Choo. Casual, family dining. 
• Wally's Restaurant, 1600 McCallie Avenue, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Sekisui, 200 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. Japanese dining just across from the Aquarium, on the same block as 212 Market restaurant, upstairs. 
• Pickel Barrel, 1012 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Northshore Grille, 16 Frazier Avenue, ☎ [phone]. It's in the booming Northshore district just above Coolidge Park. Northshore Grille bills itself as a "Smokin' Crabshack & Canteen". Casual, family dining with outdoor seating available. 

St. Elmo

• Mojo Burrito, 3815 St. Elmo Avenue, ☎ +1 423 822-MOJO (6656). and 138B Market Street (right by the aquarium), [phone]. In Historic St. Elmo, Mojo Burrito makes some of the best, fresh, healthy, customizable food you can find. Expect to spend around $7 - $9 for your meal including a big fat burrito. Casual, family dining. 
• Mr. T's Pizza, ☎ [phone]. 
• Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe, 4001 Saint Elmo Ave, ☎ [phone]. Great, homestyle barbeque. Have the "dirt pie" for dessert! 

Brainerd/Hamilton Place Mall

• The Chop House. A Chattanooga favorite for great steaks and chops in a warm, friendly environment. Well-known for their famous, delicious and massive onion rings. 
• NaGoYa Sushi Bar, 4921 Brainerd Road, ☎ [phone]. M-Sa. Small Japanese family restaurant. Nigiri, Maki and home made oriental dishes and fresh sauces. Fourteen tables, five cooks, five wait staff, excellent service. 
• Acropolis, 2213 Hamilton Place (on the right as you enter the Hamilton Place Mall complex from Shallowford Road), ☎ [phone]. Blvd. Serving a large menu of Greek fare in a family-style restaurant. 
• Kanpai of Tokyo, 2200 Hamilton Place (in the Toys R Us complex next to the mall), ☎ [phone]. Lunch M-Th 11:30AM-2PM, F noon-2PM. Dinner M-Th 5PM-9:30PM, F-Sa 5PM-10PM, Su 5PM-8PM. Blvd. Hibachi style Japanese cooking as well as sushi. 
• Shogun, 1806 Gunbarrel Rd (Located just outside of the mall), ☎ [phone]. Hibachi style cooking in the main dining area and a small but accomplished sushi bar to the side. Monday nights feature dollar sushi night with a portion of the menu at specially reduced prices. 
• Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine, 5845 Brainerd Rd, ☎ [phone]. Fantastic thai food tucked away along Brainerd Road, near Hooters and Eastgate Town Center. 
• Golly Whoppers Sandwich Shoppe, 6337 East Brainerd Rd (Located in a shopping plaza between I-75 and Brainerd Road), ☎ [phone]. Golly Whoppers serves fantastic food, sandwiches to soups. 
• Out of the Blue Bakery Cafe, 3230 Brainerd Road, ☎ [phone]. A delightful sandwich shop with a second location in the Riverpark plaza on Amnicola. 
• Na Go Ya, 4921 Brainerd Rd, ☎ [phone]. Located near the corner of Brainerd and Moore Road in an old Taco Bell building, Na Go Ya offers sushi and other Japanese meals at affordable prices. 

Hixson/Northgate Mall

• Ichiban Japanese Steak House, 5425 Highway 153, ☎ [phone]. Located in the Bi-Lo shopping complex, this restaurant has hibachi style cooking and a light sushi menu. 
• Amigo's, 5450 Highway 153 (in the Hobby Lobby shopping complex), ☎ [phone]. Standard Mexican fare featuring fifty cent tacos and one dollar domestic beers on Monday nights. 
• Cancun Mexican Restaurant, 5307 Highway 153 (right outside the mall complex), ☎ [phone]. Standard Mexican fare in a family-friendly environment. 

Splurge

• 🌍 Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar, 1459 Riverside Dr, ☎ [phone]. 11AM-10PM daily, with their bar staying open until 11PM. 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! Entrées average $15 - $18, excluding dipping into the raw bar. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 J Alexander's Restaurant, 2215 Hamilton Pl Blvd, ☎ [phone]. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 St. John's Restaurant, 1278 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. Next door is St. John's Meeting Place, a more relaxed atmosphere and a la carte menu, with bar or floor seating. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 Terra Nostra Tapas and Wine, 105 Frazier Avenue, ☎ [phone]. M-Th 4:30PM-10PM, F-Sa 4:30PM-11PM, Su 4:30PM-9:30PM. Featuring International Cuisine from Spain, Italy, France, North & South America, Asia and the Caribbean, this unique restaurant is in the heart of the Northshore. They offer over 60 wines by the glass and 80 by the bottle, along with indoor or outdoor seating. Tapas is often small dishes, so expect to order a number of dishes that average $7 a piece. (updated Nov 2018)

The Bluff View Art District is host to several restaurants, art museums and galleries, as well as lodging.

• 🌍 Back Inn Cafe, ☎ [phone]. M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-11PM, Sa 8AM-11PM, Su 8AM-10PM. Located in the Bluff View Art District, upscale global cuisine with an extensive wine list is offered. Patio seating is available, offering stunning views of the river. Featured on The Food Network's "$40 A Day"! Average entrée prices are Breakfast: $7; Lunch: $10; Dinner: $22. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 Tony's Pasta Shop and Trattoria, 212 High St, ☎ [phone]. 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 entrée price is $11. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. (updated Nov 2018)

Drink

Alcohol

• Big River Grille & Brewing Works, 222 Broad Street (only a 1/2 block from the Tennessee Aquarium), ☎ [phone]. Located in a large, renovated warehouse, Big River is a part of the Gordon Biersch family. The bar, separated from the restaurant by a beautiful brick wall, features pool tables and generous amounts of seating, both at the bar and at tables. Big River is also a brewery, creating their own award-winning ales and lagers and features seasonal specials as well. Expect it to very be busy on summer weekends. 
• Bud's Sports Bar, 5914 Lee Highway, ☎ [phone]. 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! 
• Chattanooga Billiards Club, 1/2 Cherry Street, ☎ [phone]. 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, [phone]. Go there for more billiards, live music, and a cigar lover's heaven. 
• Riverside Wine and Spirits, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• Rhythm and Brews, 221 Market Street, ☎ [phone]. Located on the back side of Big River, Rhythm and Brews offers live music every night around 9PM. All shows are 21 and up, unless otherwise noted. 

Coffee and tea

• Chesnut Roast Coffee Cafe, on the corner of 6th and Chesnut. M-F 6:30AM–4:30PM. Offers a variety of options, from coffees to sandwiches.
• GreyFriar's Coffee and Tea, at Jack's Alley in Downtown Chattanooga.
• Rembrandt's Coffee House, 204 East High Street, ☎ [phone]. 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! 

Sleep

Budget

• The Crash Pad, 29 Johnson St (at Baldwin St, one block off E Main St), ☎ [phone]. 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. Dorms $27, privates $70. 
• Days Inn - Rivergate/Convention Center, 901 Carter St, ☎ [phone]. 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. 
• La Quinta Inn, 7015 Shallowford Rd, ☎ [phone]. Located near Hamilton Place Mall just off of Interstate 75, 8 miles from downtown. Rates start at $55 per night. 
• Microtel Inns & Suites - Hamilton Place, 7014 McCutcheon Road, ☎ [phone]. Some rates as low as $38. 
• Ramada Limited, 6650 Ringgold Road, ☎ [phone]. 
• Travelodge Chattanooga/Hamilton Place, 2361 Shallowford Village Dr, ☎ [phone]. 
• Wingate by Wyndham Chattanooga, 7312 Shallowford Rd, ☎ [phone]. 

Mid-range

• Chattanooga Choo Choo, 1400 Market Street, toll-free: +1-800-TRACK29 (8722529). Part of the Holiday Inn family. Standard rooms from $99 - $149. The hotel is an end-point for the free electric shuttle that services downtown. 
• Courtyard by Marriott - I-75, 2210 Bams Drive, ☎ [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. 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, ☎ [phone]. This extended stay hotel offers guests fully equipped kitchens, free continental breakfast and an exercise room. 
• Residence Inn by Marriott, 215 Chestnut St, ☎ [phone]. An all suite hotel located one block from the Tennessee Aquarium and an easy walk from many restaurants. Rates around $145 per night. 

Splurge

• 🌍 Bluff View Inn, 411 E 2nd St, ☎ [phone]. 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)
• 🌍 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)
• 🌍 Chattanooga Marriott Downtown, Two Carter Plaza, ☎ [phone]. Attached to the Convention Center and offering Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and meeting space. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 Chanticleer Inn, 1300 Mockingbird Ln, Lookout Mountain, GA, ☎ [phone], fax: [phone]. 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. 
• 🌍 Courtyard by Marriott Downtown, 200 Chestnut Street, ☎ [phone]. Located only one block from the Tennessee Aquarium. Free high-speed Internet access available. Rates start at $134 per night. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 The Chattanoogan, 1201 Broad St, ☎ [phone]. An upscale hotel and conference center located downtown. Rates start at $129 per night. (updated Nov 2018)
• 🌍 The Read House, 107 W M.L.K. Blvd (In the heart of downtown, corner of W M.L.K. Blvd and Broad St), ☎ [phone]. Opened in 1926, The Read House is steeped in history, playing host to such celebrities as Winston Churchill and Al Capone. The Read House combines the ambiance of yesterday with today's modern conveniences in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. Room rates start at $110 per night, valet parking offered at $11 per night.. (updated Nov 2018)

Stay safe

• The Chattanooga Police Department operates a police precinct located on Walnut Street in Downtown Chattanooga. (Closed)
• The Chattanooga Police Department's Traffic Division uses patrol cars without emergency lights on their roof. Instead they have numerous blue lights mounted in the front grill and rear window. In September 2006 the police department announced increased speed limit enforcement due to numerous recent speed-related fatal accidents.
• The City of Red Bank, which is very close to the North Shore district, employs photo enforced traffic lights. A rolling right turn on red will very likely result in a citation.
• Avoid travelling at night except near the Waterfront areas, as much of Chattanooga is still in poor shape economically and thus prone to crime.

Connect

Telephone

Local Phone Numbers - The Area Code for Southeastern Tennessee (which includes Chattanooga) is 423.

Internet

(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.

Newspapers

• Chattanooga Times Free Press, . This is the city's mainstream newspaper providing local, regional, and national news.
• Enigma, . Weekly Anternative Newspaper available for free all over the city.
• The Pulse, . Chattanooga's Alternative Newsweekly is available free in over 250 locations throughout the city. Provides local news, arts, dining, music and entertainment information as well as a weekly calendar of events. All content as well as expanded calendar listings and a dining guide is available online as well.

Radio

• WUTC, . Transmitting at 88.1 FM and located on the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, WUTC is a National Public Radio (NPR) affiliate. When not playing NPR programs, the format is a mix of blues, jazz and alternative music.
• WAWL, . Transmitting at 91.5 FM, streaming on the web and located on the Chattanooga State Technical Community College campus, WAWL's format is college radio at its best with a very wide variety of music and with specialty shows in the afternoons and evenings. Requests at [phone] are very welcome.

Cope

Medical

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, [phone], . Their Patient Room Direct Line is " [phone]+ROOM# " (patient room number) 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, General Number: [phone], Patient Information [phone], Patient Room Direct [phone]+ROOM#. Located in the Hixson community in the North part of Chattanooga. 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, [phone]. Located West of Coolidge Park off of Cherokee Blvd. They are open M-F 8:30AM–4:30PM.
• Erlanger Hospital, 975 East Third Street, [phone], . Their main hospital, the Baroness Campus, is located just a block from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, minutes from downtown. 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 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, [phone]. Located next door to Erlanger, 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, [phone]. The North Campus is in the next door city of Red Bank North of Downtown Chattanooga. 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, [phone], .This hospital has a full-service Emergency Department. Anybody with an Emergency medical condition may present to this hospital regardless of ability to pay.

Law Enforcement

Of course in any emergency situation, call 911!

• Chattanooga Police Department, the non-emergency number is [phone].
• Hamilton County Sheriff's Department, For matters outside of the city limits. [phone]
  • Hamilton County Jail, The Hamilton County Sheriff's Department administers the jail. For information, contact [phone]

Weather

• Summer (Jun-Aug), average temperature of 80°F (27°C), with maximums in the low 100s (38°C). Scattered thundershowers quite often appear and disappear almost as quickly, sometimes dropping almost an inch of rain in 30 minutes or less.
• Autumn (Sep-Nov), average temperature of 61°F (16°C).
• Winter (Dec-Feb), average temperature of 40°F (4.5°C), with a number of days below freezing (32°F, 0°C). Very little snow or ice in the valley, but fairly often in the higher elevations such as Lookout and Signal Mountains. Almost any amount of snow or ice in the valley will stop nearly all activity in the city.
• Spring (Mar-May), average temperature of 59°F (15°C).

Go next

Nearby: (While they may not necessarily be huge tourist attractions, they are nearby)

• Ocoee, TN. A popular destination for water sports such as white water rafting and kayaking, as well as fishing.
• Sewanee, TN. Home of the University of the South, and many scenic views.
• Cleveland, TN. 30 minutes North of Chattanooga. M&M Mars has a plant here.
• Dalton, GA. Home of SHAW Industries, one of the world's largest carpet manufacturers.

Not quite as nearby, but still reasonable:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Explore acre upon acre of forested mountains with a 2 hour drive North.
• Knoxville. About a 1.5 hour drive.
• Nashville. About a 2.5 hour drive.
• Atlanta, GA. About a 1.5 hour drive. (Including Marietta, Decatur and Stone Mountain)

Routes through Chattanooga

Nashville ← Wildwood ←	W  E	→ END
Knoxville ← Cleveland ←	N  S	→ Dalton → Atlanta
Knoxville ← Cleveland ←	N  S	→ Wildwood → Birmingham
Lexington ← Rockwood ←	N  S	→ LaFayette → Rome
Nashville ← Tracy City ←	N  S	→ Dalton → Atlanta
Memphis ← Monteagle ←	W  E	→ Cleveland → Hendersonville
Murfreesboro ← Huntsville ←	W  E	→ END
END ←	W  E	→ Cleveland → Asheville
END ←	W  E	→ Dalton → Anderson
Frankfort ← Crossville ←	N  S	→ END