Top Rated Attractions in Chattanooga

In the United States, the highest honor bestowed upon a member of the military is the Medal of Honor. It is often presented to the family of the one who gave his life in battle. This museum honors the recipients of this prestigious medal, including those who are buried in the Chattanooga National Cemetery. In addition, exhibits chronicle the history of the award and lives of those who have received it. The museum is located inside the Northgate Mall, and admission is free.

Coal extraction was undertaken atop the Fredonia Mountain of Sequatchie Valley during the end of the 18th Century. Neighboring steel foundries and a railroad encouraged the mining activity thus creating the need for ovens to satiate demand for coke, a fuel used in iron and steel making. The mine started out with 40 ovens, but growing demand coaxed the holding company to add many more taking the number of ovens at this mine to a staggering 268. But, the Great Depression led the company into bankruptcy leaving the ovens and the mines in ruins. Today, the mine is converted into a park and the ovens are preserved to their historic condition. They can be visited free of cost.

Sail along the Lake Chickamauga by hiring a yacht at the Blue Heaven River Tours. Specializing in organising private water tours on their boats and ships that can comfortably accommodate 2-6 people. Set sail with that special someone on a private sunset cruise or spend the evening swimming, snorkeling and fishing. You can also bring in your own food to enjoy while you sail or stop at one of the many restaurants by the water to eat to your heart’s content. Party boats are also available for group sizer larger than 6. If you are looking for a memorable day on the water, then Blue Heaven River Tours certainly won’t disappoint. Also, since all tours are private, you are free to share this unforgettable experience with no one other than family and friends.

Just south of Chattanooga is the site of the area's longest and bloodiest battle of the United States Civil War. The U.S. War Department (now the Department of the Interior) declared this battlefield a National Military Park in the 1890s. It has attracted millions of visitors over the years. Chickamauga Battlefield, Lookout Mountain Battlefield and Point Park, Missionary Ridge and Moccasin Bend are the highlights of this attraction. A visitor's center provides detailed information about the history of the battlefield and the battles fought here. The self-guided tour takes you through several battle sites, the Wilder Tower Monument, and a common area for picnics and recreation.

The Chattanooga Riverfront is a picturesque stretch in the heart of downtown. Nestled on the edge of the Tennessee River, it is a great place for family recreation. It is located within short distance of several city attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, Walnut Street Bridge and Market Street Bridge, and lined by hotels and restaurants. Explore the riverside path for its public art exhibitions, occasional concerts, river tours and local eateries, as well as breathtaking views of the city.

Saints Peter and Paul Basilica is a quaint church nestled in Chattanooga. The histpry of this structure can be traced back to the 19th Century when it was built. The Roman Catholic Church boasts of Gothic designs along with Tudor Revival architectural elements. The interiors of the church are beautiful with the stained-glass windows by the famed American artist Louis Comfort Tiffany. Registered as a National Historic Place since 1979, this church invites history and architectural enthusiasts for tours.