Lookout City, Ross’s Landing…….names of our wonderful city from times that passed long ago. We became “Chattanooga” in 1838. Chattanooga (a Creek Indian word) — “rock coming to a point.” That rock coming to a point? That’s the tip of Lookout Mountain, looking almost as if it’s reaching out to get a better view of the Tennessee River. What a view that is!
Much of my career has been spent working alongside Chattanooga’s incredible community leaders. I’m privileged to have had a front row seat to so many community-changing events – a revitalized waterfront that reconnected us to the Tennessee River, this mid-sized southern city becoming a tech and start-up hub with the world’s fastest internet, an old Army ammunition site transforming into a major automobile manufacturer’s new world-class North American facility and so much more.
A couple of years ago, our family was presented with a big opportunity and a big decision. A new opportunity in my husband’s career important for our family also presented the possibility of leaving the city we love and are invested in so deeply. We just couldn’t do it. Instead, we’d go to great lengths by maintaining homes in two states, changing my career, pulling off some crazy commutes and sleeping less. Thus, the #modernmobilefamily + #twostatefamily were born! Countless resources and hard work have been dedicated to revitalizing the Dynamo of Dixie, perhaps one reason you’ll find us so fiercely loyal and overcome with pride (and refusing to leave!).
For many years, I’ve enjoyed offering visiting friends and colleagues recommendations on how to spend time in our scenic city. I LOVE this request! There are endless possibilities! We always suggest being outside as much as possible. Much of Chattanooga is best experienced on foot. Recommendations we’ve shared with visitors over the years follow suggestions from Lucinda.
We hope you’ll come see for yourself….it’s possible you too will go to great lengths to never leave.
— Betsy
Chattanooga is a really good place to go with lots of things to do. Be sure to visit the Hunter Art Museum and the Children’s Creative Discovery Museum. You should take a walk on the Walnut Street Bridge. Check out all of the really cool restaurants. The Zoo is fun too. Try to go to the Zoo on a nice sunny day and NOT when it is raining. I’ve been in the rain several times and I do not suggest it. We like to ride bikes on the Riverwalk also. I hope you have fun visiting Chattanooga. My mom has included a good list below too. Thank you for reading. –Lucinda, 8 years old and Chattanooga-born and raised
Our Chattanooga highlights in addition to Lucinda’s :
Point Park + Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain: Point Park is part of the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park (get your Passport to Your National Parks book stamped here – see our blog on the Passport program). Hike from Point Park to Sunset Rock for the best sunset views around! Soak up the view and the history. https://www.nps.gov/chch/learn/lookout-mountain.htm
Renaissance + Coolidge Parks: These parks connect and offer views of downtown and the river, with many spots to relax with a picnic and frisbee. Kids always love the charming carousel! Walk from Coolidge Park across the Walnut Street Bridge to the Bluff View Art District.
Bluff View Art District + Hunter Museum of American Art: We’ve spent many wonderful afternoons here enjoying the museum, art gallery, restaurants and, a place particularly special to our family, the River Gallery Sculpture Garden. Rembrandt’s is good stop during a bike ride or walk on the Riverwalk (you’ll have earned dessert on the patio).
21st Century Waterfront and Downtown: Enjoy the river views from the pier and expansive green spaces (there is also a playground). Visit the Tennessee Aquarium, do some rock climbing at High Point, visit the children’s museum and catch a Chattanooga Lookouts game – all within easy walking distance! We love the Blue Plate Diner patio!
Southside District: Kids love climbing in the old train cars at the Chattanooga Choo Choo. A visit to the Hot Chocolatier is highly recommended (just across the street). Walk to Clyde’s Restaurant on Main Street for lunch. Sit by the back windows next to the corn hole game. Main Street has a couple of art galleries, shops and fun street art.
For many more worthwhile options, our Visitors Bureau has useful information at www.chattanoogafun.com.
Modern Mobile Family 