Last week I drove to Chattanooga, Tennessee for a girls’ trip and spent a few days at the stylish Dwell Hotel (that lobby photo above is the one everyone takes — guilty as charged). This was my April stop for my 12 trips in 12 months project.
Chattanooga is only about a two-hour drive from Atlanta, so it’s an easy getaway and a great city to explore for several days.
I’m not sure when I’ll be back, and this trip definitely wasn’t focused on the outdoorsy activities that Chattanooga is known for — though we did spend time outside. Still, I’m glad I went and wanted to share the places we visited, so you have ideas for your own trip.
Chattanooga, Tennessee Travel Guide
To be clear, this is the non-outdoorsy version of a Chattanooga travel guide. The city has a wealth of hiking trails and outdoor adventures, but our itinerary leaned toward design, food, spas, and easy walking sights. We packed a lot into a short trip — some spots were fantastic, others less so — but the following recommendations are the highlights you’ll likely enjoy.
Where to Stay in Chattanooga
The Dwell Hotel
If you want a memorable place to stay, book the Dwell Hotel. Its mid-century aesthetic and thoughtful design make it irresistibly photogenic, and the onsite bar Matilda Midnight plus the restaurant Terra Mae mean you could happily spend an evening without leaving the building.
Each room is uniquely themed with different wallpaper and decor — there’s a flaming room, a tropical room, and more. It’s playful and well done. We also compared another nearby hotel during our trip and the Dwell clearly stood out. If you’re visiting Chattanooga, staying at the Dwell is highly recommended.
Where to Eat and Drink in Chattanooga
Matilda Midnight
Located on the Dwell Hotel’s first floor, this mid-century bar is a must-visit. Order the nachos and try the cocktail called “The Lovers.” The atmosphere is intimate and stylish.
Milk and Honey
This gelato shop came highly recommended and lived up to it. The Oreo cheesecake gelato was my favorite. They also serve breakfast and lunch if gelato isn’t your thing.
Public House
Attached to Warehouse Row, Public House is an easy stop for a meal or drink while you shop or explore downtown.
Terra Mae
We had breakfast at Terra Mae every morning and returned for dinner once. Even though it’s the hotel restaurant, it’s open to the public and worth trying. It’s also a good spot for photos, especially during quieter hours.
Flying Squirrel
We hoped to visit Flying Squirrel but didn’t make it. It’s frequently praised, so consider it if you have the time.
Maple Street Biscuit Company
The biscuits and gravy and the sweet potato fries are favorites. It’s a great casual breakfast or brunch stop.
Tupelo Honey Cafe
Located in Warehouse Row, Tupelo Honey offers classic Southern dishes. I haven’t been to the Chattanooga location, but I enjoyed the Asheville one and would recommend it if you haven’t tried it before.
Wildflower Tea Shop
This charming tea shop impressed us with friendly staff and quality tea. I enjoyed a flowering jasmine tea — a lovely, peaceful experience.
Things to Do in Chattanooga
Warehouse Row
Just around the corner from the Dwell Hotel, Warehouse Row has shops, a spa, and several restaurants. It’s a convenient and walkable hub, and there’s a shuttle that picks up in front to take visitors around the city if you prefer not to drive.
The Woodhouse Day Spa
Located on the second floor of Warehouse Row, The Woodhouse Day Spa was a highlight. The atmosphere is a bit shabby-chic, but the staff were attentive and the massages were excellent. The relaxation room — where you can lounge, sip tea, and unwind — made the experience feel luxurious. If you want a top-quality spa day in Chattanooga, this is the place.
Tennessee Aquarium
We didn’t go inside due to time, but the aquarium looks impressive from the outside and sits along the Tennessee River with attractive photo spots and river views. If you have time, visiting inside is worth it.
Hunter Museum of American Art
We walked by the Hunter Museum and enjoyed the riverfront views and the winding sidewalk near the bridge. The glass-bottom bridge and riverside setting make this an attractive stop — you can easily visit the aquarium and Hunter Museum in the same outing.
Other U.S. Destinations You Might Like
If you’re planning additional trips, here are a few places I’ve written about that you may enjoy:
- Winter Park, FL — a surprising range of activities and charming streets to explore.
- Atlanta — my picks for the best coffee spots from when I lived there five years.
- Jacksonville, FL — a practical travel guide with things to do.
- Richmond — places you don’t want to miss for history and food.
- Charleston — a girls’ travel guide with classic southern charm.
- Road trip from Atlanta to Asheville — an action-packed drive with scenic stops.
- Miami — a list of top places to visit in the city.
- Lower East Side, NYC — things to do in that vibrant neighborhood.
Have you ever been to Chattanooga? If so, tell me what I missed — I’m always looking for new spots to try next time.