Erected in 1890, the Walnut Street Bridge was the first to connect Chattanooga's downtown with the North Shore. Structural modifications have been made to turn the bridge into what is now a pedestrian walkway. The 1/2-mile span is the longest pedestrian bridge in the world and very popular among local residents. Providing spectacular views of Coolidge Park, the Tennessee Aquarium and the Riverfront, the bridge is available for weddings and special events.
Start at the top of a raging river and then delve beneath the surface to discover all the life that teems within. It is all a part of the experience of the world's largest freshwater aquarium. Within the 12-story structure, you will see birds, snakes, river otters and turtles in their natural habitats, as well as fish indigenous to the Tennessee River.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a non-profit organization that came into being with the goal of bringing back the steam engines and locomotives which have become a thing of the past. Today everyone can actually experience the nostalgic feeling by walking past the working repair shops. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a great venue for holding a birthday party or picnics for your kid. It offers great variety like the Christmas Special, the Autumn Leaf Special, the Valentine Dinner Train and the Halloween Eerie Express. Also, it has been one of the prime locations for shooting movies, including October Sky, Heaven's Sky and Fool's Parade.
Just west of Chattanooga is a high ridge known as Raccoon Mountain and Raccoon Mountain Cave. For adventurous people this area offers camping, but there is a lot more to do than simply pitch a tent. Drive like the Andrettis on the go-kart course or go exploring in the caverns in and around the area you can pan for gold and gemstones in the creeks that run along the base of the mountains.
Tivoli Theatre is tagged as the "Jewelbox of South." With the capacity of accommodating around 2000 people, and brilliant lighting and sound systems, this theater has a magnificent stage and promises an unforgettable experience to every visitor. The theater also houses a large number of huge rehearsal and dressing rooms.
Pamper your child with a fun-and-learn experience by visiting Creative Discovery Museum. This museum is a popular landmark in Chattanooga and sees more than 209000 visitors every year. Its interactive exhibits like RiverPlay, Rooftop Fun Factory, Arts Alley, Inventors' Clubhouse, The Little Yellow House, Lookout Tower, Excavation Center and make learning fun. Children of all ages, right from four-months babies, are sure to find something according to their liking. Besides the exhibits, the museum hosts several fun activities for families visiting together. All in all, you are sure to enjoy a visit here.
This downtown museum features a collection of 247 artifacts from the personal collection of Mose and Garrison Siskin. The Siskins founded a physical rehabilitation hospital, preschool and steel company here in Chattanooga. Among the artifacts are Christian and Judaic pieces from the 16th to 20th centuries, made of stone, wood, fine art, ivory, porcelain and silver. In addition to western religions, Buddhism, Hindu and Confucianism are also represented.
Admission is free.
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.
Few things in life are more fulfilling, more entertaining than a live musical performance. So it is fortunate that the Scenic City is home to the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Association. The area's premiere performance guild is better than ever as it approaches its 70th year. Concerts are held in the historic Tivoli Theatre downtown and the "Pops in the Park" series is performed in Coolidge Park.
Gallery 1401 is a popular name among the art aficionados in town. Nestled in the downtown region, Gallery 1401 is known for showcasing beautiful artworks by 30 local and international artists. The gallery has a great collection of fine art and offers framing and handling services to the art connoisseurs in town. Stroll through this gallery to witness the charming artworks.
Located within the Blythewood Farms, Hair Conrad Cabin is a historic Cherokee residence, and considered to be the oldest standing residential property in the county. A prominent attraction along the Cherokee Trail of Tears, the cabin is named after the prominent Cherokee personality that built it.
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.