Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States
1. Ruby Falls
Underground waterfall located in Lookout Mountain, offering guided tours and a unique experience to explore the deepest commercial cave in Tennessee.
- Natural Wonder: Provides an opportunity to witness a natural wonder that is not commonly found.
- Underground Tour: Allows visitors to explore the depths of a cave while learning about its geology and history.
- Unique Eco-system: Offers a glimpse into an unique ecosystem that exists beneath the Earth's surface.
2. Creative Discovery Museum
Interactive children's museum focusing on art, science, and technology, providing a hands-on learning experience for families.
- Educational Play: Offers a fun way to learn about various topics such as art, science, and technology.
- Interactive Exhibits: Encourages creativity and active participation from visitors of all ages.
- Family-friendly: Provides a family-friendly environment that encourages bonding and learning together.
3. Tennessee Aquarium
A world-class aquarium showcasing river habitats from the Tennessee River watershed and around the world, including a shark exhibit and a Butterfly Garden.
- River Conservation: Promotes awareness and understanding of river conservation through education about various aquatic species.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides opportunities for visitors to interact with various aquatic animals, such as penguins and otters.
- Butterfly Garden: Offers a peaceful and beautiful environment filled with butterflies and other exotic plants.
4. Chattanooga Whiskey Distillery
Historic distillery offering tours, tastings, and a restaurant with Southern cuisine. It's one of the few remaining Tennessee whiskey producers.
- Tennessee History: Provides insights into the rich history of Tennessee whiskey production.
- Distillery Tour: Allows visitors to learn about the distilling process and the unique flavors of Chattanooga Whiskey.
- Local Cuisine: Offers a taste of Southern cuisine in a relaxed and rustic atmosphere.
5. Bluff View Art District
Historic neighborhood showcasing art galleries, shops, restaurants, and gardens, offering a unique blend of local culture and artistic creativity.
- Artistic Community: Provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant art community of Chattanooga.
- Unique Shops: Offers a variety of unique shops featuring locally made products, antiques, and collectibles.
- Garden Sanctuary: Provides a peaceful sanctuary filled with lush gardens, sculptures, and water features.
6. The Incline Railway
A funicular railway that climbs steep Lookout Mountain, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
- Stunning Views: Provides breathtaking views of Chattanooga and the surrounding valley.
- Unique Transportation Experience: Offers a unique transportation experience as it ascends and descends Lookout Mountain.
- Historical Significance: Showcases the history of the railroad and its role in Chattanooga's development.
7. Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel
Historic hotel located in a restored train station, offering unique accommodations and a variety of dining options.
- Historical Preservation: Showcases the preservation of Chattanooga's railroad history.
- Unique Accommodations: Provides a unique lodging experience in renovated train cars.
- Diverse Dining Options: Offers a variety of dining options, including Southern cuisine and craft cocktails.
8. Point Park
A park located atop Lookout Mountain, offering stunning views of Chattanooga and the Tennessee River Gorge.
- Stunning Views: Provides breathtaking views of Chattanooga and the surrounding area.
- Historical Significance: Showcases the history of Lookout Mountain and its role in the Civil War.
- Peaceful Retreat: Offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below.
9. Chattanooga Market
Weekly outdoor market offering locally produced goods such as art, crafts, food, and live music.
- Local Artisans: Provides an opportunity to support local artists and crafters.
- Fresh Local Produce: Offers a variety of fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal foods.
- Live Music: Features live music performances from local and regional artists.
10. Sculpture Fields at Montague Park
Outdoor sculpture park featuring over 40 large-scale sculptures by renowned artists.
- Art Appreciation: Offers an opportunity to appreciate large-scale, outdoor art installations.
- Unique Landscape: Provides a unique landscape for viewing and photographing the sculptures.
- Art Education: Offers educational programs and tours about the history and meaning of each sculpture.
11. Chattanooga Zoo
Zoological park featuring a variety of animals from around the world, including a primate habitat and an African exhibit.
- Animal Conservation: Promotes animal conservation through education and awareness.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the animals and their habitats.
- Family-friendly: Provides a family-friendly environment that encourages learning and bonding.
12. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Railway museum featuring historic trains, locomotives, and exhibits about the history of rail travel.
- Historical Preservation: Showcases the preservation of Chattanooga's railroad history.
- Railway Education: Offers educational programs and exhibits about the role of railways in American history.
- Train Rides: Provides opportunities to ride historic trains through scenic areas around Chattanooga.
13. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
National military park preserving the sites of the battles of Chickamauga and Chattanooga during the Civil War.
- Civil War History: Provides insights into the history of the Civil War and its impact on the region.
- Monumental Beauty: Offers a serene, monumental beauty that pays tribute to the soldiers who fought in the battles.
- Educational Tours: Provides educational tours and programs about the battles and their significance.
14. Coker Cocke Exposition Center
Unique venue hosting antique shows, car shows, and other events showcasing vintage items and vehicles.
- Vintage Treasures: Offers a chance to discover and appreciate vintage treasures from the past.
- Unique Events: Provides a venue for unique events, such as antique shows and car shows.
- Nostalgic Experience: Offers a nostalgic experience that transports visitors to another era.
15. Sticky Fingers Ribhouse and Wine Bar
Barbecue restaurant and wine bar offering live music performances and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Southern Cuisine: Provides an opportunity to taste authentic Southern cuisine, especially barbecue.
- Live Music: Features live music performances from local and regional artists.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding and socializing.