Nestled on the banks of the Tennessee River and surrounded by rugged mountain scenery, Chattanooga blends Southern charm, rich history and a vibrant contemporary lifestyle. This bustling, scenic city has a myriad of experiences to explore, but Redfin narrowed it down to his 11 experiences that truly epitomize everything the city has to offer. So if you currently own chattanooga houseplanning a move, or just want to know more, here are 11 must-do things Chattanooga is known for.
1. Incline Railway
Known as “America’s Greatest Mile,” the Lookout Mountain Incline Railroad offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Chattanooga Valley. The trolley-style vehicle climbs the mountain at 72.7% of his steepness, making him one of the steepest passenger railways in the world.
2. Rock City Gardens
Located just nine miles from downtown Chattanooga on Lookout Mountain is an iconic location. Rock City Gardens. With its huge ancient rock formations and his over 400 species of plants, Rock City is a place where natural beauty meets fairytale charm.
Be sure to check out Lover’s Leap for its incredible views of seven states (Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia), which are said to be visible on a clear day.
3. Chattanooga Choo Choo
Chattanooga Choo Choo proudly showcases Chattanooga’s rich railroad history. What was once a terminal station has now been transformed into a hotel and entertainment complex that blends railroad-era charm with modern luxury. The Chattanooga Choo Choo also hosts concerts, restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.
4. Tennessee Aquarium
Located on the downtown riverfront, the Tennessee Aquarium is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world. Thousands of creatures live here, from the nearby Appalachian Cove Forest to the Amazon River. A must-see for ocean lovers and Chattanooga residents alike.
5. Outdoor adventure
Chattanooga is considered the outdoor adventure capital of the South. The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers and trails for rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting. Some of the area’s most popular destinations include the Cumberland Trail, Raccoon Mountain and the Ocoee River.
6. Civil War History
Rich in Civil War history, Chattanooga is home to Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Parks, the oldest and largest of the Civil War parks in the United States. Numerous monuments and historical markers throughout the park reflect Chattanooga’s significant contributions during the war. Offering immersive history lessons, visitors can participate in informative battlefield tours and live reenactments that bring the past to life.
7. Broad Street
One of Chattanooga’s unique features is Broad Street, a vibrant space filled with artists, street vendors, musicians and local businesses. The area is also home to the Chattanooga Market, the largest producers-only arts, crafts and farmers market in the area. The market is held every Sunday and features a large selection of local produce, arts and crafts. The perfect place to soak up Chattanooga’s community spirit.
8. Walnut Street Bridge
Built in 1890, the Walnut Street Bridge is one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges and an integral part of the Tennessee Riverpark system.There are several bridges near Chattanooga apartmentsIt’s a great place for residents and visitors to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy great views of the river and downtown.
9. Bluff View Arts District
Overlooking the Tennessee River, this historic district is brimming with arts and food culture. There is also an art gallery, Hunter Museum of American Arthome to a handcrafted bakery and coffee house, it’s a haven for art lovers, food lovers, or anyone looking for a quiet afternoon.
10. Riverbend Festival
Each summer, Chattanooga’s Riverfront Parkway becomes the center of musical celebrations during the Riverbend Festival. Attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees, it features artists and singers of all genres, from local indie bands to international stars.some of the most notable past performers Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kid Rock, Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett.
11. Tech scene
Chattanooga has made great strides in technology, becoming the first city in the Western Hemisphere to offer citywide 1 Gigabit internet speeds. This infrastructure has sparked a boom in tech startups and turned Chattanooga into a tech hub known as “Gig City.”
What is Chattanooga known for? Final Thoughts
Chattanooga is a blend of diverse experiences, from historic roots to a vibrant modern lifestyle. We hope you enjoy exploring this city and making it your home. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, an art lover or a foodie, there’s always something new to discover in Chattanooga.
