13 Things to Do in Chattanooga

Chattanooga is only about a couple hours drive from Atlanta. We have been there once for a day out with Thomas The Tank Engine train ride. But we are planning to go back there again. Here are some of the fun, family-friendly things to do in Chattanooga.

1) The Tennessee Aquarium: This is one our must-do list our next trip to Chattanooga. The aquarium is situated right on the waterfront in Chattanooga downtown with small water creek between the two buildings. The ticket price is $19.95 for adult and $12.95 for child (age 3-12). There are also several combo tickets for IMAX, River George Explorer and Creative Discovery Museum.

2) Inclined Railway: Hop on the trolley-style railcars that take you up the side of Lookout Mountain in one of the steepest passenger railway. It was a really fun experience when we went there last year. Once you get to the top, you can enjoy the view from the Lookout Mountain and check out the little gift shop there. You can purchase ticket online for $14 per adult and $7 per child (3-12). They also have Lookout Mountain Triple Play ticket (including Incline, Rock City & Ruby Falls) for $42 per adult and $23 per child.

3) Creative Discovery Museum: Check out the hands-on children's museum. Especially now till September 28, you will get to have the adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog. The ticket price is $8.95 for anyone older than 2 years old. However, we consider getting a member with the children museum since one of the highest level of membership is the nationwide level that allows you to enjoy free admission to various children museum nationwide through the Association of Children's Museum reciprocal program.

4) Rock City: Go up the Lookout Mountain and check out Rock City featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens and see 7 States (on a clear day)

5) Ruby Falls: Hike to Ruby Falls, the 145 foot underground waterfall beneath the Lookout Mountain's surface.

6) Bluff View Art District: Take a nice stroll in this historic neighborhood filled with restaurants, coffee houses, art gallery or take a break at one of the gardens, plazas or courtyards.

7) Walnut Street Bridge: Cross the Tennessee river on one of the longest pedestrian bridge from Chattanooga's downtown to the North Shore. Enjoy the leisure walk over the river.

8) Coolidge Park: Take a break and bring the kids to the Coolidge park to enjoy the restored 100 year old carousel and an interactive play fountain. Admission fee is $1.00 for adults and $0.50 for children 12 and under.

9) Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum: All aboard!!! Go ride with the TVRail that offers a wide variety of rides to suit your needs. Check out the schedule and price online. Also check out for special ride like Day Out with Thomas or North Pole Limited during special events.

10) Chattanooga Choo Choo: Stay in the one of the coolest hotel. The Chattanooga Choo Choo by Holiday Inn offers the train fanatic a chance to sleep aboard an authentic train car. Oh.. Mr. Z had a blast last year when we stayed there. He couldn't stop asking when the train will move. The hotel area also features several trains that they can enjoy and nice garden in the middle of the area. Lovely.. lovely place!

11) Chattanooga Nature Center: For the nature lover, this is a great place to visit. Explore the Blue Heron boardwalk, Wildlife Wanderland and Discovery Forest Treehouse. The admission fee is relatively low $7 for adults and $3 for children (4-11)

12) Southern Belle Riverboat: Take a river cruise along the scenic Tennessee River on the Chattanooga Riverboat. With current promotion of Kid is free for every paying adult, it's a great deal. There are several types of cruise to choose from ranging from sightseeing, lunch or dinner cruise. There will be one that suits your need.

13) Chickamauga Dam Reservation: Picnic by the Dam and enjoy the view. For the outdoor enthusiasts, enjoy fishing, boating and swimming at this no-fee reservation.