Parking in Chattanooga: What You Need to Know

Before you embark on your Chattanooga adventure, it’s crucial to understand the parking situation. Free parking is a rarity, especially in the downtown area and its surroundings. The city’s parking rights have been privatized, making parking a potentially costly aspect of your trip. To minimize parking hassles, consider staying in a centrally located accommodation. Whether you opt for an Airbnb, VRBO, or a hotel, prioritize walkability and proximity to attractions to reduce your reliance on a vehicle.

Lodging Options in Chattanooga: Find Your Perfect Stay

Choosing the right place to stay is essential for a memorable vacation. Chattanooga offers a diverse range of lodging options to suit every preference and budget. From charming hotels and budget-friendly hostels to rustic campgrounds and cozy cabins, here’s a breakdown of the best places to rest your head after a day of exploring.

Hotels in Chattanooga

Bluff View Inn

Nestled in the heart of the art district, the Bluff View Inn is a hidden gem offering a tranquil escape just steps away from the Walnut Street Bridge and other popular attractions. Enjoy complimentary breakfast from Rembrandts coffee house, free parking, and high-speed internet for a seamless and relaxing stay.

Courtyard by Marriott Chattanooga Downtown

The Courtyard by Marriott is a centrally located and reasonably priced hotel, perfect for families and travelers seeking convenience. Take advantage of amenities like a pool, free parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Its prime location provides easy access to the Tennessee Aquarium, Walnut Street Bridge, and Creative Discovery Museum.

Hilton Garden Inn Chattanooga Downtown

This downtown Hilton offers a central location within walking distance of key attractions and features a refreshing pool. Situated near the Tennessee Aquarium, Creative Discovery Museum, and AT&T Ballpark, it’s an ideal choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action. Note that breakfast and parking are not included in the rate.

Hostels & Camping in Chattanooga

The Crash Pad

For budget-conscious travelers, The Crash Pad is a funky and clean boutique-style hostel offering a great alternative to traditional hotels. This centrally located hostel is ideal for singles, couples, and families, with included amenities like Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking.

Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground

Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground. This campground offers full-service RV and campsites, cozy cabins, and fascinating caverns and caves to explore. Enjoy amenities like a playground, sports facilities, an outdoor pool, and guided cave tours. Just a short 15-minute drive from downtown Chattanooga.

KOA Lookout Mountain/Chattanooga West KOA Holiday

Nestled on Lookout Mountain, the Lookout Mountain KOA is a peaceful retreat just 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Whether you have a camper, a tent, or prefer a cabin rental, this KOA offers clean and well-maintained facilities, including a large pool, jumping pillow, playground, frisbee golf, hiking trails, and gemstone panning.

Where to Eat in Chattanooga: A Culinary Journey

Chattanooga’s dining scene is diverse and delicious, offering something for every palate. From cozy coffee shops and family-friendly pizza joints to refined Southern cuisine and international flavors, here are some of the best places to eat in Chattanooga.

Coffee and Breakfast Spots in Chattanooga

Niedlov’s Cafe & Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee at Niedlov’s Cafe & Bakery. This family-owned cafe is a local favorite, known for its delicious pastries, bread, and breakfast dishes. Be sure to arrive early, as it tends to get busy. Visit their website for more information.

Mean Mug Coffeehouse

For a bohemian vibe and excellent coffee, head to Mean Mug Coffeehouse. This cozy coffee shop is perfect for enjoying a cup of joe, setting up for remote work, or grabbing a quick bite. Don’t miss their mocha and Sophia breakfast sandwich. Check out their website.

Rembrandt’s Coffee House

Located in the heart of the Art District, Rembrandt’s Coffee House is a European-style cafe offering rich coffee and a charming courtyard shaded by wisteria vines. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee before exploring the Hunter Museum of Art or strolling across the Walnut Street Bridge. Learn more here.

Lunch Spots in Chattanooga

Agave & Rye – Tacos

If you’re craving unique and delicious tacos, Agave & Rye is a must-visit. Located along the river walk near the Aquarium, this taco joint offers a wide variety of creative and flavorful tacos. View their menu online.

Mellow Mushroom – Pizza

For a casual and crowd-pleasing lunch option, Mellow Mushroom is a great choice. Their pizzas are delicious, and the restaurant has a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Try the Great White or the House Special for a satisfying meal. See their menu here.

Dinner Restaurants in Chattanooga

Grab and Go, Informal

Edley’s Bar-B-Que

For authentic Tennessee-style BBQ, Edley’s Bar-B-Que is a local favorite. Their meats are slow-smoked over Southern white oak, and their sides are made from scratch. Don’t miss the brisket and banana pudding. Visit their website for details.

Slack’s Burgers

Satisfy your burger cravings at Slack’s Burgers, where you can customize your burger with a variety of toppings and choose from beef, lamb, turkey, veggie, or chicken patties. Don’t forget to try their crispy Brussel sprouts and truffle fries. Check out their menu!

Dine-In Restaurants in Chattanooga

STIR

For refined Southern cuisine and fresh oysters, STIR is the place to go. Located in the historic Choo Choo Chattanooga complex, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with seasonal dishes and craft cocktails. The shrimp and grits are a must-try. View their menu here.

Flying Squirrel

With its funky ambiance and hyper-local menu, Flying Squirrel is a great choice for a memorable dining experience. Their menu changes with the seasons, offering unique and innovative dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Visit their website for more.

Dessert Spots in Chattanooga

The Ice Cream Show

Create your own custom ice cream masterpiece at The Ice Cream Show. Choose your base and add your favorite chocolates, nuts, and fruits for a delicious treat. Located near the Walnut Street Bridge, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a sweet treat while taking in the views.

Downtown Dough

For a unique and delicious dessert, head to Downtown Dough and try their edible cookie dough. Located along the riverfront near the aquarium, this dessert spot offers a variety of tasty treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Best Activities in Chattanooga: Adventure Awaits

Chattanooga offers a wide range of activities for all ages and interests. From exploring aquariums and museums to riding historic trains and hiking scenic trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

Family-Friendly Activities in Chattanooga

Creative Discovery Museum

The Creative Discovery Museum is a top-notch children’s museum with interactive exhibits and engaging activities for kids of all ages. From water play areas and indoor playgrounds to STEAM-focused activities and a rooftop treehouse, this museum offers hours of fun and learning. Check out their website.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is a must-see attraction for families. Divided into two buildings, one dedicated to sea life and the other to freshwater fish, this aquarium features stunning exhibits, touch tanks, and a butterfly pavilion. Be sure to purchase tickets online in advance. Get tickets and info.

Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park

For a smaller and more manageable zoo experience, visit the Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park. This stroller-accessible zoo features a fun play area and the opportunity to feed the giraffes. Check if your local zoo is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Reciprocity Program for potential discounts.

Historical Activities in Chattanooga

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Step back in time at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, where you can ride on a restored historic train and learn about the history of railroading. Your ticket includes entry to the museum and a 20-minute train ride to the “Restoration Station,” where you can watch the steam engine turn around on a turntable. Visit their website.

Point Park and Battles of Chattanooga Museum

Visit Point Park and the Battles of Chattanooga Museum for a dose of Civil War history and stunning views of the city. Point Park is a military park with cannons, a large memorial, and an unbelievable view. The museum is dedicated to the “Battle Above the Clouds” fought there in 1863. More information here.

Activities for Everyone in Chattanooga

Ruby Falls

Explore the depths of Ruby Falls, an underground cave featuring a 145-foot waterfall. Descend 260 feet into the rock and tour the cave to see unique rock formations and the thundering waterfall. Advanced online ticket purchase is required. Check out their website.

Hunter Art Museum

Located in the Art District overlooking the Tennessee River, the Hunter Art Museum features American art from the Colonial period to the present day. Explore the museum’s extensive sculpture garden and grab a coffee at Rembrandt Coffee House nearby. See their website.

Rock City Gardens

Immerse yourself in nature at Rock City Gardens, a botanical and rock garden featuring a breathtaking waterfall and stunning views. On a clear day, you can see seven states from the bluff. Purchase tickets ahead of time and arrive early to avoid crowds. For more information check out their website here.

Choo Choo Chattanooga

Choo Choo Chattanooga is an old rail station converted into a hotel with restaurants and a large courtyard featuring an arcade and train cars to explore. Click here for more information.