by Lisa Iannucci
Last updated: 7:00 PM ET, Wed September 20, 2017
When most travelers think of traveling to Tennessee, they likely picture touring Nashville or Memphis.
However, Chattanooga has something for everyone to get out and explore.
It's been twice voted as the "Best Town Ever" by Outside magazine, named one of "The 45 Places to Go" in the universe by the New York Times and listed as one of the "20 Best Mountain Towns in America" by Men's Journal.
"You can enjoy a relaxing adult-only spa getaway at The Chattanoogan Hotel," said Shannan Wright with Addicted 2 Mickey's World. "If you are taking the kids along, be sure to take in some history and beautiful scenery atop Point Park."
If you're looking for a small zoo to spend a quiet afternoon, be sure to check out the Chattanooga Zoo.
"It is hidden away and can be hard to find if you aren't really looking for it, but it is worth searching for," said Wright. "Be sure you aren't expecting something like the San Diego Zoo. It isn't that, but it is neat for a smaller zoo and a great place for a little local getaway."
Try scheduling a trip for the fall because the colorful Chattanooga foliage is a sight to be seen. The city offers many options to see the brilliant changing colors by foot, boat, train, or bike:
[READMORE]READ MORE: The Best Live Music Venues in Nashville[/READMORE]
By Foot
Enjoy miles and miles of breathtaking vistas from Signal Point (the southern terminus of the Cumberland Trail), Raccoon Mountain, Sunset Rock, Lula Lake Land Trust, Prentice Cooper State Park, Point Park and more.
By Boat
Take a cruise aboard the Tennessee Aquarium's River Gorge Explorer or the Chattanooga Riverboat Co.'s Southern Belle. For something even more unique on the downtown Tennessee River, try the Chattanooga Ducks or Chattanooga Cycleboats.
By Train
Jump on board the Tennessee Valley Railroad or Lookout Mountain Incline Railway for a variety of train rides that take you through the beautiful Tennessee Valley or straight up Lookout Mountain.
[READMORE]READ MORE: The 4 Must-Try BBQ Dishes in Memphis[/READMORE]
By Bike
Ride the 13-mile paved Riverwalk that runs parallel to the Tennessee River and through the scenic Bluff View Art District to see the leaves.
There are several festivals to experience throughout the year, including the Wine Over Water Food & Wine Festival, 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, Enchanted MAiZE, Haunted Cavern, WinnepeSPOOKah!, Halloween Eerie Express and Boo in the Zoo.
For the bravest of the brave, you should test your fright limits during ChattaBOOga! in October where you will experience terrifying creatures, chilling ghost hunts, a haunted trail deep in the woods and haunted amusement park rides.
Finally, Nashville and Memphis aren't the only cities known for their music. There is plenty of live tunes and entertainment to enjoy at Chattanooga's Comedy Catch, Revelry Room, Track 29, Tivoli Theater and various restaurants throughout the area that have live music on a weekly basis.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
