Chattanooga Travel Guide |
 All aboard on a family fun vacation in Chattanooga. A trip to Chattanooga is a worthwhile family vacation destination. The fun and exciting activities will amaze you along with the family friendly atmosphere that only Chattanooga can provide. What more could you ask for when you throw in the southern hospitality of the warm and friendly people of Chattanooga?
Chattanooga Choo Choo: The icon of this great town has got to be the Chattanooga Choo Choo. This stationary train is not only a piece of locomotive history but also houses guest rooms at the Holiday Inn. Climb aboard the front of the train for a great photo op. The grounds are beautiful with fountains and blooming flowers. The surrounding area has shops, ice cream and a restaurant.
Tennessee Aquarium: An amazing journey awaits you by river and by ocean to the wondrous creatures that make them their homes. One of our favorite areas was the River Otter Habitat, you actually feel like you are visiting them in their natural environment. We thoroughly enjoyed this aquarium. If you are in the mood for an IMAX movie get the combo tickets. The IMAX theater is located a block away. Children under 3 are FREE into the aquarium.
Model Train Museum: located in the same area as the Chattanooga Choo Choo, you will find a large room filled with model train displays throughout. There is a nominal fee to enter but well worth it for that little train enthusiast. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum: Chattanooga really can get your child excited about the railroad and various train engines. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is the top train attraction in Chattanooga and not to be missed. Many of the trains are stationary so feel free to walk through and take a trip back in time. While at TVRM, hop on a live locomotive for a real life historic ride. The trains run various routes with running times from one hour to over 6 hours.
Ruby Falls: Take an elevator down where your tour guide will lead you through a cave adventure. The best part is the waterfall that awaits you at the end. The path in the cave is paved and stroller friendly. The tour takes about an hour but there are other things to do once you are done. Visit the Gemstone Panning or Fun Forest playground.
Incline Railway: Take a historic ride up to Lookout Mountain on an incline railway. Ride on a clear day for the best views. Once on top be sure to visit the National Park Service's Point Park where the famous "Battle Above the Clouds" was fought in1863 during the Civil War. Chattanooga Zoo: Just outside the downtown area you will find the Chattanooga Zoo where your visit can last about 2 hours. Children 2 and under are FREE. Chattanooga Nature Center: Get up close and personal with native wildlife and animal residents of the nature center, some endangered or threatened. Enjoy the many miles of hiking trails and even visit the largest tree house in the country. Your child will surely have a nature education experience at the Chattanooga Nature Center. River Walk: River Walk comprises approximately 8 miles of path along the Tennessee River. Take a walk or rent a bike or even a segway in the summer to enjoy this outdoor scenic area. Every other Saturday in the summer you can also catch a free concert along River Walk or join in the fun for family nights every Tuesday. Located just behind the Tennessee Aquarium. Coolidge Park: Just across the Red Bridge from the Tennessee Aquarium is Coolidge Park. Cool off in the entertaining water spouts or go for a ride in the magnificent carousel, hand carved by local artisans.
Fall Creek Falls State Park: One of the most beautiful State Parks in the south, Fall Creek Falls is also home to the largest waterfall in the eastern United States along with several other breathtaking falls. A trip to Fall Creek Falls will prove to be anything but boring when you take advantage of the park activities, such as camping, hiking, boating, horseback riding and picnicking. The park also houses four playgrounds. Ocoee Rafting: Get ready to get wet and have an amazing thrill ride on the Ocoee River. The rapids are pretty strong on this rafting experience and not suitable for younger children. Hiawassee Rafting: If you are looking for a more tame water rafting experience for the little ones, try the Hiawassee River. The rapids are very mild and tubing is a popular water sport for the kids. The Lost Sea: Visit America's largest underground lake with a guided cave tour and then a glass bottom boat ride. The lake is filled with fish and the caves allow for entertaining history. Visit the Sweetwater Village for a trip back in time as shop owners give you a historical experience to sell souvenirs. Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park: If your child is looking for that adventure thrill, a day at Lake Winnepesaukah might be the place. The amusement park caters to the family fun experience with thrill rides, family rides and rides just for little ones. Open seasonally. Mayfield Dairy Farms: Located 1 hour from Chattanooga is the Mayfield Dairy Farms where they provide free tours of their milk and ice cream productions. The tour gives you a glimpse of how ice cream is made and the best part kids love are the free samples. The Mayfield Dairy Farms has been family owned and operated for 4 generations. There is no milk production on Wednesdays, no ice cream production on Saturday and the Farm is closed on Sundays. Farms: Many parents have asked us about farming experiences in various parts of the country. If your children enjoy any part of farm life from growing produce to farm animals they will love Tennessee. Here are a few farming experiences we found-
Big River Brewing Co. : A large family style restaurant with excellent food and indoor and outdoor seating. The wait staff is extra friendly and accommodating to those with children. You can find this fantastic restaurant on 222 Broad right near the Aquarium. Parents might appreciate the brewery too! Porkey's BBQ: Locals rave about this family style BBQ restaurant. If we have learned anything about our travels is that we should always listen to the locals. Check out this restaurant close to the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Hampton's Vaudeville Cafe: If you are looking for something different yet entertaining for your family meal, try a dinner show. Enjoy an evening of family fun, mystery, laughter and lots of food at this murder mystery dinner show. Locals tell us the shows are great. Shows vary in times from Thursday thru Saturday with a 1pm show especially for kids on Saturday- pizza show. Call or book online for reservations.
Although we did not find much shopping in town, there are plenty of outlet malls in the area. If you are looking for souvenirs you will find them at most any attraction.
Chattanooga is filled with family friendly activities throughout the year. Here are just a few we found:
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Creative Discovery Museum:
Rock City: