Points of Interest between Chattanooga, Tennessee to Alpharetta, Georgia

picture of Chattanooga, Tennessee

Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Alpharetta, Georgia

If you're embarking on a road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Alpharetta, Georgia, there are several museums, parks, and landmarks on the way that you shouldn't miss. Here are some top picks for your journey!

An interesting fact about this road trip is that it takes you through some of Georgia's top Civil War landmarks. The state played a pivotal role in the Civil War, and you'll pass through several important historical sites on your way to Alpharetta.

If you're halfway through your road trip, you'll come across Adairsville, GA. This town is known for its historic 1847 railroad depot, which was one of the stops on Sherman's March to the Sea during the Civil War.

The drive from Chattanooga to Alpharetta is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes long, making it an easy road trip for a day or weekend getaway. It's a relatively short trip, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the attractions along the way.

Here are our top five picks for places to visit on this road trip, listed in order of the route you'll take:

  1. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum This museum is located in Chattanooga and has been operating trains since 1961. Visitors can take a ride on one of the historic trains and see the beautiful Tennessee countryside. It's a great attraction for both families and train enthusiasts. Point of interest recommendation: Take a ride on the Missionary Ridge Local, which takes you on a scenic journey through the mountains.

  2. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park This park is located in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia and commemorates the Civil War battles of Chickamauga and Chattanooga. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the park or participate in a ranger-led program. Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center to learn about the history of the Civil War battles in the area.

  3. Tellus Science Museum This museum is located in Cartersville, Georgia and features exhibits on fossils, minerals, and space. It's a great place to take children or anyone interested in science. Point of interest recommendation: Check out the planetarium to experience "virtual space travel" and learn about constellations.

  4. Red Top Mountain State Park This park is located in Cartersville, Georgia and is a great spot for hiking, fishing, and swimming. It's a beautiful park with plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family. Point of interest recommendation: Take a hike on the Homestead Trail, which follows the shoreline of Lake Allatoona.

  5. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center This nature preserve is located in Alpharetta, Georgia and features 46 acres of woodland, meadow, and wetland habitats. It also includes a heritage center with exhibits on the history of the area. Point of interest recommendation: Visit the visitor center to see a live beehive and learn about the importance of bees in the ecosystem.

Overall, this road trip from Chattanooga to Alpharetta is a great way to explore some of Georgia's top attractions. While it's a relatively short trip, you'll see a variety of museums, parks, and landmarks along the way.