Visit Charming and Historic Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, Tennessee is one of the largest cities in the state of Tennessee, located in the southeastern corner of the state. It is in a beautiful setting with the nearby mountain ridges and updated downtown and riverfront areas. It is a popular city for conventions, where facilities are booked year after year. At the junction of four interstate highways, it is easy to reach from any location.
Facts and History
The city received its name from a Muskogean word meaning "rock." It is possible that this was a reference to Lookout Mountain, which rises up above the city. Its first inhabitants were Native Americans, Muskegon, and Cherokee, who were relocated to Oklahoma in the 1830s.
Chattanooga was the site of a pivotal battle during the American Civil War. There were two battles fought from November 23 - 25, 1863 during the Battle of Chattanooga. During the Battle of Lookout Mountain and the Battle of Missionary Ridge, the Confederate forces were defeated, eliminating their control in Tennessee. This was Ulysses Grant's last battle in the west before being appointed commander of all the Union armies.
Chattanooga is nestled between the ridges of the southern Appalachian Mountains, with the Tennessee River separating the city from Walden's Ridge. The population of the city in 2000 was around 155,000.
"Must See" Attractions in Chattanooga
Many efforts have been made to improve the services and attractions in this city. More than five miles of a river walk have been constructed from downtown, leading through the historic art district and several parks. There are several popular festivals downtown along with historical sites and sporting events.
For a fascinating outing, go deep underground and see the wonder of Ruby Falls and the beautiful rock formations deep within Lookout Mountain. The sparkling 145-foot waterfall is reached by descending into the cavern by elevator. Then along the paved pathway you will see the inside of the cavern as your guide leads you to the falls. This enjoyable and educational excursion is something you don't want to miss during your visit to Chattanooga.
Enjoy the outstanding view from Lookout Mountain as you visit incredible Rock City. See the magnificent 140-foot waterfall and look over the edge at Lover's Leap. Wind your way through ancient rock formations and caverns that bring you to the Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village. Enjoy more than 400 species of flowers, plants and shrubs.
Ride "America's Most Amazing Mile" up Lookout Mountain on the Incline Railway. The trolley-style railcars have thrilled visitors for over a century as they carry you up the mountain into the clouds. It is the world's steepest passenger railway. At the top you can visit the Lookout Mountain Station and the observation deck. Special rates are available when you buy a package to see all three attractions on the mountain.
For those interested in Civil War History, Point Park on Lookout Mountain was built in memory of the Battle above the Clouds. It contains monuments and memorabilia from the Civil War. At the entrance of the park, The Battles of Chattanooga Museum features a three-dimensional electronic map that depicts the three-day battle. With exceptional detail, 5,000 soldiers, sound effects and lights, the battle is replayed before your eyes. You can also see a collection of relics and weapons and visit the bookstore.
Downtown Sites & Outdoor Activities
The Tennessee Aquarium (www.tnaqua.org/ ) is located on the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga. This remarkable site gives you a chance to see wildlife from all over the world. Visit the six glass domes and see the splendid variety of marine life that swim, fly and crawl in their natural habitats. Baby gators, giant catfish, huge snapping turtles, and frolicking otters live in this protected home. Find deep-sea coral gardens with tiny seahorses, sharks, stingray, and colorful reef fish swimming together. See the shark and ray touch pool and the beautiful rainforest. See Penguins Rock and watch the Macaroni and Gentoo penguins waddle, dive, and swim in their new gallery. Another great attraction is the Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park.
Downtown Chattanooga (www.downtownchattanooga.org/ ) offers outdoor entertainment on the riverfront. Concerts, festivals, and sports events are going on year round. The Riverbend Festival is held in June with nine days of food and fun for all. Walking and biking are popular as well as the riverboat cruises. Coolidge Park is in the Northshore District and is a comfortable place to walk, play Frisbee, ride the carousel, or climb the rock wall.
Those who love outdoor sports find Chattanooga offers a great variety of activities. There are several challenging golf courses for those who love to try out a new course. There are many opportunities for arduous exercise in exploring the mountains and caves and biking. Hiking, camping, fishing, and hang-gliding are other great activities for the outdoor enthusiast.
Choose Your Accommodations
Whether you are on business or traveling with your family, you will find a pleasing assortment of accommodations available. You will find bed and breakfast inns, family and pet friendly hotels, even a Victorian train car hotel. If your tastes are more rustic, you can choose to stay in a secluded cabin or enjoy your own campfire at a campground.
The Chattanooga Choo-Choo Holiday Inn (www.choochoo.com/ ) combines luxury with history and charm, and is located just downtown on Market Street. There you can enjoy swimming pools, gardens, restaurants, a model train, and actual train cars you can sleep in. For incredible river and mountain views, the Bluff View Inn on 2nd Street is located in the downtown art district. Guests are given beautiful accommodations in three restored turn-of-the-century homes with outstanding amenities.
At the foot of Lookout Mountain, Pettit House Bed & Breakfast is housed in a spacious home from the 19th century. Large guest rooms and a full breakfast combine with the scenery for a special getaway. The Mayor's Mansion Inn on Vine Street was built in 1889 by the city's mayor. This beautiful old mansion will enchant you with its historic air and breathtaking views. Enjoy modern conveniences and a dedicated staff for an unforgettable stay.
Chattanooga, Tennessee is a multifaceted and interesting city to visit. You will be able to pack your stay with fun things to do or just find a pleasant spot to stop and enjoy yourself. Learn about history, visit the mountains, and partake of the downtown activities to benefit from all this city has to offer.