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.

Discover the contributions made to the Chattanooga area and the nation by African-Americans through pottery, sculpture and other artistic expression. This museum offers a look into the diverse African-American history through artifacts, letters, and photographs. From the music of Bessie Smith to the civil rights work of Martin Luther King Jr., you will find the rich and proud heritage of the African-American community 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.

This rather unusual museum celebrates the history and evolution of the humble tow truck. In 1916, Chattanoogan Ernest Holmes sold the first tow truck for commercial use, and the entire towing industry began right here in this city. The museum commemorates this important invention by featuring an array of antique and 20th-century tow trucks, alongside other vintage memorabilia.

During the United States Civil War, the Confederate armies of Chattanooga used the East Brow of Lookout Mountain as their lookout point. The panoramic view of the valley gave the Confederates an advantage over any approaching Union Army. However, during the bloody battle for Chattanooga, the northern troops waited for the clouds to fall upon the point and advanced under the cloud cover. Before the Southern troops knew what was happening, their fate was sealed. This park and museum commemorates this struggle for visual superiority. The Confederates were defeated and the post captured, but it was a valiant battle now known as the Battle Above the Clouds.

Visitors to the Scenic City are often surprised by the rich history of Civil War battles fought in Chattanooga. This museum allows you to "watch" the battles unfold on an enormous electric map. All the battlefields are drawn and the armies arranged for battle. Their movements are portrayed with a brilliant collection of sound and lighting effects. Elsewhere in the museum is a collection of artifacts from the period including uniforms and personal effects of the soldiers. The museum is closed on Christmas. See website for more information.