Be Well City Guide: Chattanooga
When you think of Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain, you may picture a red, black, and white “See Rock City” sign. But there is much to do in the ‘Nooga besides Rock City and the Tennessee Aquarium.
It can be expensive to travel, but don’t let that deter you. We’ve rounded up a few things to do around the area that are mostly budget friendly. Hopefully we’ll convince you to plan a trip to this charming little city soon!
What to Do
Arts & Culture
Chattanooga is home to unique experiences in shopping, art, and culture. The Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, spans across the Tennessee River and connects Chattanooga to the north shore. Be sure to check out the Bluff View Art District and see the public art – specifically the River Gallery Sculpture Garden. Here you will find one of my favorite coffee shops, Rembrandt’s Coffee House.
Sightseeing
If you want to explore Lookout Mountain, visit the mile-long Incline Railway. On top of the mountain, you can also explore the historic Civil War battle site of the Battle for Chattanooga, take a short hike to Sunset Rock on the western side, or stroll along the quaint sidewalks to get a taste of the locals’ life.
Shopping
For shopping, visit Warehouse Row, a collection of historic, multi-use buildings that were forts during the Civil War and a warehouse district in the 1900s. Warehouse Row fosters community and celebrates the rich history that Chattanooga has to offer. Inside you can find a variety of places, from Anthropologie to lululemon to Goodman Coffee (another personal favorite). There are also a lot of local shops and interesting stores along Frazier Avenue.
Where to Stay
It can be intimidating to find a place to stay, because it is often the most expensive part of the trip. Airbnb is a great way to save money when you travel. Depending on how many people are travelling together, you can find ways to split the cost that helps everyone. The Southside Home Airbnb is only $57 per night and accommodates four guests, while this apartment Airbnb is only $48 per night and also sleeps four. The Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel ($154/night) is a “destination experience,” with everything from a heated indoor pool to beautiful outdoor gardens.
Where to Eat
Chattanooga is host to a wide variety of restaurants, from vegan cafés to Southern soul food. Taco Mamacita is popular among both locals and tourists, offering unique, modern “fresh-mex” combinations and one-of-a-kind tacos. For avocado toast served all day or homemade gelato in the afternoon, visit Milk & Honey. Clumpies Ice Cream Co. is also a Chattanooga original and favorite that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re wanting a fun and fancy brunch on Sunday morning, visit Tupelo Honey, located in Warehouse Row. For burgers on locally made buns, soul food, and classic Southern sides, try Urban Stack. If that’s not your vibe, go to Cashew, a vegan café offering delicious gluten free desserts, nachos, and sandwiches.
If you have more suggestions for the Chattanooga area, we would love to hear them, so please share in the comments. Safe travels!
Be well, Auburn.
Photography: Rebekah L., Milk & Honey
Managing Editor
Texas-born, but Birmingham-raised, Rebekah thrives in a fast-paced and creative environment. She has finally found her place in public relations after a myriad of diverse majors. As a fourth-generation Auburn student, Rebekah is learning to make Auburn her own each day.
Rebekah is inspired by art, writing, and all the unique experiences life has to offer. Her dream is to be a writer and speaker who inspires and impacts lives across the world.
In the meantime, she enjoys finding her favorite color yellow in everyday things, collecting all things butterfly, and making glittery collages to display on her walls.
