Where To Eat, Play, and Stay in Chattanooga
11.09.2023 - 17:48
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Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and Cumberland Plateau, Chattanooga is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of hikes and bouldering spots within an hour’s drive. Not to mention the gorgeous Tennessee River that runs through downtown, offering a variety of watersports activities. Over the past decade, the word has gotten out about Chattanooga for more than just outdoor enthusiasts, too, with a mix of restaurants, attractions, and accommodations that have made the city and surrounding area one of the coolest weekend getaways in the country.
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Animal lovers will not want to miss the Tennessee Aquarium. Start off with the freshwater exhibits in the River Journey Building, which focuses on the freshwater ecosystems of the southeastern United States. Be sure to check out the river monsters exhibit, which feature some of the world’s largest river fish. While Chattanooga may be far from the sea, experiencing the Atlantic and Pacific marine ecosystems is not thanks to the aquariums ocean Journey building. Aside from sealife, you’ll always find some lemurs hanging around. Before you leave, check out the butterfly garden, which is home to more than 1,000 butterflies.
Tennessee Aquarium: 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
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This 317-acre center is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature. The arboretum features over 1,000 different types of trees and plants, including some rare and endangered species. Take a stroll on one of the 15 miles of trails which take you around the lake and through the property. Be sure to explore the treehouse built over the wetlands then explore the lake on a canoe.
Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center: 400 Garden Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37419
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Foster falls is a short 45 minutes north west of Chattanooga. This 60-foot waterfall is an impressive one. Just a short walk from the parking lot is a platform that offers a stunning view of the waterfall. If you’re up for a little longer of a hike, follow the trail 0.3 miles down to the base of the waterfall. Here, you’ll have gorgeous views of this waterfall up close. This is a great hike year-round, though in the summer go in the morning or late afternoon to escape the heat.
Foster Falls: 498 Foster Falls Rd, Sequatchie, TN 37374
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Incline Railway is one the steepest passenger railways in the world, with a 72.7 percent incline grade toward the top. The ride alone is noteworthy after grabbing tickets at the bottom. Then at the end of the line, you can grab ice cream or fudge and take the stairs to the top of the station for incredible views of Chattanooga.
Incline Railway: 3917