The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Chattanooga, Tennessee Now
BY TRIPVEEL EDITORIAL STAFF | November 2019
They don’t call Chattanooga the “Scenic City” for nothing… Tucked between the mountain ridges of the Appalachian foothills, along the beautiful Tennessee River—Chattanooga is one of America's most breathtaking cities. And it's no wonder this premier outdoorsy town is a haven for tourists and locals alike with its rich arts scene, delectable culinary delights and impressive mountain views.
Image courtesy of Chattanooga Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
1. THE HIKING
Signal Point once served as an important signaling post for the Union army during the siege of Chattanooga. A more challenging hiking option, you'll make your way through the rocks to emerge at the majestic Julia Falls Overlook. The trail traverses another rocky section before crossing Middle Creek on a suspension bridge, where you’ll then begin to work your way upward, following the white blazes of the Cumberland Trail past ledges, boulders and sandstone monuments above—eventually leading you to Middle Creek Gorge and Edward’s Point for more awe-inspiring views.
Image courtesy of Chattanooga Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Located on the eastern slopes of Lookout Mountain, Lula Falls is easily one of the Chattanooga area’s stunning natural destinations and a less challenging option. A variety of trails and old railroad beds leads to scenic overlooks, alongside the dawdling waters of Rock Creek and down to the base of the falls.
Image courtesy of Chattanooga Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
When it seems like the surroundings couldn’t be any more beautiful, the panoramic vista from the shaded, grassy east brow of the mountain is the actual must-see location.
2. THE ART
You can find plenty of spectacular street murals all around Chattanooga if you know where to look.
Chattanooga, Tennessee has a thriving street art and mural culture.
To locate some of Chattanooga’s most eye-catching wall art, click on any image above.
3. THE COCKTAILS
Located in the circa 1854 Dent House, the last standing antebellum home in Chattanooga—Polly Claire’s specializes in the “Art of Afternoon Tea.” But, this isn’t your typical teahouse, they like to keep it sassy and we recommend trying their signature “Lady Carlyle” for your artisanal craft cocktail fix—concocted with French-infused vodka liquor with mango, fresh squeezed blood orange, passion fruit and Prosecco.
Polly Claire’s in Chattanooga, Tennessee
This 165-year-old grand home is the perfect place where you can gather for lunch to experience a full four-course afternoon tea service or relax before a roaring fire enjoying a candle lit dinner. In addition to the savory four course Afternoon Tea complete with chilled shrimp cocktail, other favorites include their best-selling Lobster Bisque and Garlic Cheddar Scone Sammy filled with roasted turkey and melted sharp cheddar cheese.
For those craving something sweet (you’ll find plenty of sweetness here), end your experience with a Chocolate Decadence, served with warm vanilla bean ice cream and chocolate drizzle. Hungry yet?
4. THE GARDENS
In the heart of downtown, Glenn Miller Gardens sits on where the 14 tracks and 7 platforms served millions of train passengers for over 60 years. This beautiful setting is named after the world famous musician who recorded the Chattanooga Choo Choo song in 1941. An oasis among the bustle of the city, make sure to stop and smell the roses while you stroll through the formal gardens.
Glenn Miller Gardens at the Chattanooga Choo Choo
Situated atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City Gardens is a botanical and geological sensation that is naturally designed around a 100 foot cascading waterfall.
Featuring over 400 native species of plants and trees, each step you take along the Enchanted Trail reveals nature renewed.
5. THE ARCHITECTURE
Dating back to 1863 when Union troops prepared to defend Chattanooga, the Confederates encircled the city and prepared to lay siege. Confederate troops perched high atop Lookout Mountain to observe the Union Army down below. The gates of Point Park were built in 1904 as a memorial to the "Battle Above the Clouds."
The Faxon House was built in 1904 for Ross Faxon, a wealthy insurance broker. The Neoclassical-style mansion encompasses classical revival styles that contain both Georgian and Federal style elements.
Hunter Museum of American Art
