East Tennessee has much to offer in the way of summertime activities and vacation stops. Whether you are traveling to Chattanooga, Knoxville, or Gatlinburg, you will find many interesting stops along the way. I have researched some of the most popular destinations in hopes that it will add to your list of things to do and see in Tennessee. This article will focus on Chattanooga, please see my list of articles for other East Tennessee Cities.
One of the most popular attractions in Chattanooga is the Tennessee Aquarium and IMAX Theater. These two attractions are located in close proximity to one another and they offer combination ticket prices. The aquarium is one of the world’s largest freshwater aquariums in the world. Visitors can enjoy a pathway that leads through replications of the Appalachian High Country right down to the Mississippi Delta. The attraction boasts of over 900 animals and aquatic creatures. The IMAX Theater offers 3-D movies in a facility that is over 6-feet tall. Children and adults alike will enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium followed by taking in a show at the IMAX. This attraction is just off Interstate 24 and easy to find. Tickets can be purchased as the door or advance purchases can be made online at the Tennessee Aquarium website. The website offers the ability to plan your entire Chattanooga visit at the click of a mouse. You will have the option of planning every detail of your trip, including which Chattanooga hotel to use while you are there.
Another popular Chattanooga tourist attraction is Ruby Falls. Ruby Falls is located inside Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. Ruby Falls boasts of having the world’s largest underground waterfall. The sight is simply breathtaking. It is estimated that Ruby Falls is over 30-million years old. The cave has undergone major renovation since its discovery and once was used as a fall-out shelter during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The cave has a rich history and extraordinary geological views. The cave maintains a temperature of around 60 degrees year round, however due to relative humidity the temperature feels more like 70 degrees. If you have children in a stroller, you will want to avoid this stop, as strollers are not allowed inside the cavern. The pathway sometime narrows, however if you have a front carrier, you and your child will love the sights inside the cave. Ruby Falls is located near the Tennessee River, on South Scenic Highway and is easily accessible off Interstate 24.
The Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga is a great place to visit if you have children. The philosophy of the Creative Discovery Museum is that kids learn when they are having fun. They offer many hands-on activities for children such as the Gooey Workshop and the Rooftop Fun Factory. The Creative Discovery Museum is located near the Tennessee Aquarium and relatively simple to access. Tickets to the Creative Discovery Museum can be combined with Tennessee Aquarium tickets in a combination package.
Lake Winnepesaukah has a Georgia address, but is still considered a Chattanooga attraction. This huge amusement park is located off Interstate 24, and will provide many hours of fun and entertainment for your entire family. There is no charge for parking at this facility. This attraction offers many rides, games and great food along with free concerts. The tickets for this attraction can be purchased at the gate, or online by visiting their website. Lake Winne offers a family environment and does not allow alcoholic beverages inside the park. They will allow smoking, but only in designated areas. After you’ve made your rounds to the Tennessee Aquarium and Imax, Ruby Falls and the Creative Discovery Museum, Lake Winnie will provide a full days worth of fun and won’t break your budget. Unlimited ride tickets can be purchased for $20.00.
These are just a few of the great attractions that Chattanooga has to offer. If you would like more information on any of the attractions above, please visit each attractions website or contact the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy your vacation!
