Chattanooga, TN

Budget Travel Idea: A Weekend Getaway to Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a vibrant city nestled along the Tennessee River, surrounded by mountains and packed with activities for budget-conscious travelers. With its rich history, scenic beauty, and a variety of free and affordable attractions, Chattanooga makes for an ideal weekend getaway. Here's a detailed guide to help you enjoy this charming city without breaking the bank.

Sample Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Downtown Chattanooga

Morning

Breakfast: Start your day at Milk & Honey, a popular local café offering delicious breakfast options at reasonable prices. Try their avocado toast or a breakfast sandwich, both under $10. Pair your meal with a cup of their locally roasted coffee for an extra boost.

Activity: Head to the Tennessee Aquarium, one of Chattanooga’s top attractions. While it isn't free, it's worth the admission price, especially if you buy tickets online in advance to save a few dollars. The aquarium offers a fascinating journey through two buildings, showcasing river and ocean habitats. Don’t miss the River Journey building, where you can see river otters, alligators, and a massive sturgeon tank. The Ocean Journey building features touch tanks, butterfly gardens, and mesmerizing jellyfish displays.

Lunch: For a budget-friendly lunch, visit Champy's Famous Fried Chicken. Their lunch specials, like fried chicken tenders and Mississippi Delta homemade hot tamales, are both affordable and delicious. The restaurant's funky decor and lively atmosphere add to the experience.

Afternoon

Activity: Explore the Hunter Museum of American Art. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month, or you can check for other discount days. The museum features a wide range of American art from the Colonial period to contemporary works. Take your time to appreciate the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Stroll: Take a walk across the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Enjoy stunning views of the Tennessee River and the city skyline. On the other side of the bridge, you’ll find Coolidge Park, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the river.

Evening

Dinner: Head to Taco Mamacita for dinner, where you can enjoy a variety of creative tacos at budget-friendly prices. Their mix-and-match tacos allow you to try different flavors without spending too much. Don’t miss their signature "Memphis" taco or the "California Club" for a unique twist on classic flavors.

Night Activity: Check out the Chattanooga Riverfront. Often, there are free events and live music performances happening in the evening, especially during the summer months. Take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, enjoy the night lights reflecting on the water, and maybe catch a free outdoor concert or event.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

Breakfast: Start your day at Bluegrass Grill, known for its hearty and affordable breakfast options. Their homemade biscuits and gravy are a must-try, and the portions are generous. Pair your meal with a fresh fruit smoothie or a cup of hot coffee.

Activity: Visit Rock City Gardens. While there's an admission fee, you can find discounts online or through local tourism brochures. The gardens offer breathtaking panoramic views, unique rock formations, and beautiful gardens. Explore the "Lover's Leap" and "Fairyland Caverns" for a magical experience.

Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab a sandwich from River Street Deli before heading to Coolidge Park. This scenic park along the river has plenty of spots for a relaxing picnic and offers free access. Enjoy your meal while watching the river flow and people enjoying the park’s amenities.

Afternoon

Activity: Spend the afternoon hiking at Signal Mountain or Lookout Mountain. Both offer a range of trails for different skill levels, with stunning views and no admission fee. Lookout Mountain also features the famous Point Park, where you can learn about the Civil War history of the area. Take the Incline Railway to the top of Lookout Mountain for spectacular views.

Evening

Dinner: For an affordable yet tasty dinner, try The Terminal Brewhouse, which offers a variety of hearty dishes and craft beers at reasonable prices. Their bison burger and pizzas are local favorites. The restaurant’s historic building adds to its charm, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind.

Night Activity: Enjoy a free concert at Nightfall Concert Series, held every Friday night from May to August in Miller Plaza. This event features a variety of musical genres and is a great way to experience Chattanooga's vibrant music scene. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the live performances under the stars.

Must-Try Restaurants for Each Budget

Budget:

Aretha Frankenstein’s: Known for its giant pancakes and affordable breakfast options, this quirky spot is a must-visit for a hearty meal to start your day.
Good Dog: A local favorite for gourmet hot dogs with a variety of toppings at budget-friendly prices. Their house-made potato chips are a perfect side.

Mid-Range:

Public House: Offers Southern-inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Their lunch specials are particularly good value, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for a midday break.
Foodworks: Known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a moderately priced meal. Their brunch menu is a local favorite, featuring dishes like crab cake benedict and French toast.

Splurge:

St. John’s Restaurant: A fine dining experience with a seasonal menu and an extensive wine list. Perfect for a special night out, this restaurant offers exquisite dishes in an elegant setting.
Easy Bistro & Bar: Offers a range of seafood dishes and craft cocktails in an elegant setting. Their raw bar and unique entrees make it a great place for a splurge-worthy dinner.

Accommodation Options for Each Budget

Budget:

The Crash Pad: A boutique hostel offering affordable dormitory and private room options. It’s perfect for budget travelers who still want a unique and comfortable place to stay.
Moxy Chattanooga Downtown: A trendy hotel with reasonable rates and a fun, youthful atmosphere. Enjoy the modern amenities and vibrant social spaces without breaking the bank.

Mid-Range:

Chattanooga Choo Choo: A historic hotel with unique rooms and an on-site entertainment complex. Stay in a renovated train car for a memorable experience.
Bluff View Inn: A charming bed and breakfast located in the arts district. Enjoy cozy rooms, delicious breakfast, and proximity to local attractions.

Splurge:

The Read House: A luxurious historic hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch amenities. The rich history and opulent decor make it a great choice for a splurge.
The Edwin Hotel: A modern boutique hotel with upscale rooms and a rooftop bar. Enjoy stunning views, luxurious accommodations, and excellent service.

Must-Try Events and Festivals

Riverbend Festival (June): A multi-day music festival featuring a variety of genres and artists, held along the riverfront. Enjoy great music, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere.
Chattanooga Market (April to November): A weekly market offering local produce, handmade crafts, and live music. It's a perfect place to spend a Sunday morning browsing and enjoying local flavors.
Moon River Festival (September): A two-day music festival with a lineup of popular and emerging artists, set in Coolidge Park. Experience fantastic music in a beautiful setting.
Mainx24 (December): A 24-hour festival celebrating the Southside neighborhood with parades, music, art, and food. Participate in various activities and events throughout the day and night.

Money-Saving Tips and Hacks

Use Public Transportation: Chattanooga offers a free electric shuttle service that runs throughout downtown, making it easy to get around without spending on transportation.
Look for Discounts: Check online for discounts on attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. Websites like Groupon and the Chattanooga tourism site often have deals.
Take Advantage of Free Activities: Many of Chattanooga's best attractions are free, such as walking across the Walnut Street Bridge, exploring Coolidge Park, and hiking the nearby mountains.
Visit During Off-Peak Times: Travel during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and attractions.
Pack Snacks and Water: Save money by bringing your own snacks and water bottles while exploring the city.

SimpleSmarties Travel Pro Tips

Plan Ahead: Research and plan your itinerary in advance to take advantage of free days at museums and find the best dining deals.
Stay Flexible: Be open to changing your plans based on weather or unexpected free events happening in the city.
Engage with Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on the best budget-friendly spots to eat, visit, and explore. They often have insider tips that you won't find in guidebooks.
Travel Light: Save on baggage fees by packing only the essentials. This also makes it easier to navigate the city and its public transportation.
Download Useful Apps: Use apps like Google Maps for navigation, Yelp for restaurant reviews, and Eventbrite to find free or low-cost events happening during your stay.

With its mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and budget-friendly dining options, Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a perfect weekend getaway for travelers looking to explore without overspending. Follow this guide to make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories.