Destination: Chattanooga

2012 Richards' Travel Guide to Chattanooga

Overview:

Chattanooga, Tennessee has been rated as one of the most "livable" cities in the United States. It features a historic downtown, scenic waterfront, and boasts an impressive list of citizens who call it home. We invite you to join us on a journey to this fair city by the river!

Getting There:

Chattanooga can be reached by car, plane or train. When traveling with multiple children, the Richards' Guide recommends using the largest car available in order to accommodate toys, games, sleeping bags, fans, breast pumps, bags of food, high chairs, pack and plays, strollers, movies, and books. Suitcases of clothing are optional. The ride time is best spent playing innumerable games of I Spy punctuated by coloring, reading, sporadic napping, and not-quick-anymore stops for bathroom and eating (but ONLY at participating Chick-Fil-A restaurants).

Accommodations:

Chattanooga offers many fine establishments for lodging. The Richards' Guide prefers Brinkley House, a four-star bed and breakfast that is becoming quite popular. A new location offers convenience to major roads and attractions. You will be greeted upon arrival with a welcoming committee led by Auntie Beckers Brinkley herself.

Food: 

Restaurant recommendations can be found at the end of this chapter. However, if staying at Brinkley House, you will have access to superior dining in an exquisite setting. Mama Brinkley continues her reign as head chef and offers home-cooked goodness that will delight any palate. Do not despair if your four-year old refuses to partake of her delicious concoctions - it simply means more for everyone else! If you are lucky, Daddy Brinkley may stop by to provide dinner entertainment with his delightful rendition of Peek-A-Boo Napkin.

Save room for a scrumptious dessert! 

(This the four year olds will eat!)

A side of Cat with dinner is optional for a surprising twist on a classic meal.

Attractions:

Chattanooga is well known for the song, "Chattanooga Choo-Choo", and trains are an integral part of the city. Take a ride on the Chattanooga Express!

Here comes the train!

Get off the track, the train is coming through!

Whoo, whoo! It's comin' round the bend and under the bridge! Whoo, whoo!

The Creative Discovery Museum is another local attraction that offers hours of fun for all ages with interactive displays, experiments, and several opportunities to get messy!

Roof-top view of Chattanooga

Fun and Games

Hunting for Dinosaurs

Spectator Seating

An Electric Experience!

Are you ready to get wet?

There are also many great walking tours to help you see the city and all of its attractions!

Religious Life:

Home to various religious groups and denominations, Chattanooga has a flourishing religious life. Try out  Concord Baptist Church for a taste of Christian love and learning. If arranged in advance, you can attend the Sunday School Class of Auntie Beckers and witness her teaching talents firsthand. Only a few spots are available and they are in high demand so book early!

Conclusion:

The best reason to visit Chattanooga? The people. The citizens of this city are gracious hosts, providing Southern hospitality mixed with pure delight at your presence. Spend a few days in Chattanooga and you will leave with more than a few souvenirs - you'll leave with a set of friends who treat you like family!

Old Friends

New Friends

Best Friends

Enjoy Chattanooga!