There's nothing like a trip to the zoo. Children love to watch animals in their natural environment. At Warner Park, you won't find a giant panda or a pride of lions, but you will find jaguars, monkeys, birds, small mammals and reptiles. The small size makes it ideal for bringing young children without fear of losing them in the crowd. Small selections of barnyard animals live in the petting zoo, providing city folk with a glimpse of the country.

Rows and rows of short white granite rise from the ground as a stark reminder of those who gave their lives in battle. This national cemetery is the second largest in the USA, and was established in 1863. Over 12,000 Union soldiers were buried here during the battles in and around Chattanooga, most notably "Andrews Raiders," the first four men to win Medals of Honor. Veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam are resting here, too. All U.S. Veterans of the Armed Forces are eligible for interment in this beautiful cemetery.

Mirroring Chattanooga’s unique heritage and the transformations that have taken place over time, Fort Wood is located close to the Eastern boundaries of Chattanooga of 1838. It was taken over by the city in 1851. During 1900 and 1910, Fort Wood gained prominence as an affluent neighborhood and many esteemed citizens built their homes here. The area still retain its charm and is beautifully lined with trees, and the structures are fine examples of the early 20th-century styles of architecture.

Perched atop the rocky cliffs overlooking the Tennessee River is the Bluff View Art District, Chattanooga's address for fine art and sculpture. Visitors desiring accommodations off the beaten path can sleep in luxury at the Bluff View Inn Bed and Breakfast and enjoy a meal at one of the area's restaurants. Evenings, partake of the coffee houses and nightlife, and afternoons can be spent strolling through the sculpture garden.

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.

Long ago, the only way to reach the top of Lookout Mountain was via this mile-long railroad. Today, it is still a popular way to ascend the heights, but by tourists, not residents. The ride aboard the original rail cars provides a gorgeous view of the valley below and the ridge above. An informative narration along the ride tells the history of both the mountain and the railway. Fresh squeezed lemonade, tasty fudge and a gift shop are inside the station at the top. Once you are finished shopping, you're ready to visit a number of Lookout Mountain attractions including Rock City, Ruby Falls or Point Park.

Take a half-mile walk into the center of Lookout Mountain to the largest underground waterfall in the United States. This 145-foot fall funnels 300 gallons of water per minute into a subterranean river. The gorgeous falls are highlighted with colored lights and a reflecting pool. There is a 10-story observation tower, Ruby Falls Fun Forest for kids, and walking tour through the caverns, which lasts one and one-half hours.

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.

Extending from Tennessee to Northeast Alabama and finally to Northwest Georgia, Lookout Mountain spans three geographical zones and is one of its kind in the region. Seated high at 2,389 feet (728 meters), this viridescent mountain majestically watches over the town and is home to a string of remarkable sites such as Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, Rock City, Chickamauga, and Chattanooga National Military Park Ruby Falls among others. A paradise for tourists and a serene sanctum for locals, Lookout Mountain is one of the most coveted sights in Chattanooga. Visitors can ride up the mountain on the Incline Railway that pierces through the clouds and offers panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs. The prolific Rock City replete with a waterfall, swinging bridge, a fairytale cavern, and a cafe, boasts a sweeping view of seven states, of America, a fact numerous visitors have attested to. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the cascading of Ruby Falls, one of the tallest underground waterfalls in the world. This enthralling retreat also boasts of scenic trekking routes and the Sunset Rock, a lovely vantage point offering stunning views of the sunset.

Rock City is a beautiful collection of gardens atop Lookout Mountain providing stunning views of the city and profound solace from the busy world below. One of many popular sites above the mountain, this attraction offers thrills at a swinging bridge, chills at the edge of Lovers' Leap and spills inside Mother Goose's Nursery for kids. Trails lead through Fat Man's Squeeze (you better work out before you come here) to the scenic overlook where you can see Seven States (you'll just have to come see how they pull that one off).

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.