Discover Chattanooga: Perfect Weekend Getaway from D.C.
CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee — With its rich history and vibrant culture, Chattanooga offers an ideal weekend escape just a two-hour flight from Washington, D.C. From arts and culinary delights to outdoor adventures, the city is packed with attractions that cater to all ages.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Chattanooga’s past at the historic Terminal Station in the Chattanooga Choo Choo complex, once a bustling railway hub. Now a lively destination for dining and entertainment, the complex features eateries like Stir, known for its made-from-scratch dishes, and Frothy Monkey, a cafe praised for its creative coffee blends.
“Chattanooga embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and creativity,” said local tour guide Briana Garza, owner of Chatt Taste, a culinary tour company. “Each corner of the city tells a unique story.”
At night, the Terminal Station comes alive with comedy shows at The Comedy Catch, where visitors can enjoy local and national stand-up acts alongside delicious bites. For a more upbeat evening, Station Street offers numerous bars featuring live music.
The Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Chattanooga African American Museum also provide a glimpse into the city’s rich African American heritage, historically centered in the Ninth Street district, now M.L. King Boulevard. The museum’s premiere exhibit, “Chattanooga’s Black Soundtrack,” celebrates legendary musicians like Bessie Smith and highlights the contributions of local artists.
“Our goal is to preserve and share the cultural legacies that shaped this community,” said museum director Malik Jones.
Families and foodies can also enjoy a guided culinary tour through Chatt Taste, where participants sample cuisine from various local restaurants while learning about Chattanooga’s history. Tours are operational Thursday through Sunday, offering food tours that cover Downtown or Southside.
Another popular attraction, Ruby Falls, invites adventurers to explore America’s deepest cave, featuring a stunning underground waterfall. The guided tour, which takes about 90 minutes, includes a mesmerizing light show over the 145-foot waterfall. Guests can also grab a bite at the café inside a castle-inspired setting after their underground journey.
The open-air sculpture park in the Southside, featuring over 50 large-scale pieces from local and international artists, enhances the city’s artistic landscape. Visitors can roam freely while enjoying the artistic expressions set amidst charming gardens.
To reach Chattanooga, travelers can find nonstop flights from Reagan National Airport, making it accessible for a quick getaway. Further, the electric shuttle and Bike Chattanooga bicycle share system offer easy options for getting around the city.
Travelers looking for lodging close to the bustling Southside attractions can consider the Kinley Chattanooga Hotel, which combines modern comfort with historical charm.
Briana Thomas is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist passionate about exploring cultural narratives. As an avid traveler, she encourages everyone to discover the hidden gems in places like Chattanooga.
