The Top Five Popular Attractions Between Chattanooga, TN and East Ridge, TN
Are you planning a trip between Chattanooga, TN and East Ridge, TN and wanting to make the most of your journey? In this guide, we'll cover the top five popular attractions to visit on your way, from picturesque natural landscapes to historical landmarks and cultural centers, all within a short driving distance.
The Route and The Halfway Point: Chattanooga, TN
The journey between Chattanooga, TN and East Ridge, TN covers around 10 miles, which takes around 20 minutes to drive. Chattanooga is a popular tourist destination with a rich history and scenic surroundings. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is known for its abundance of outdoor activities, art, and culture, and has been ranked as one of the top places to live in the United States.
On your way to East Ridge, be sure to take a stroll down the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, spanning over the Tennessee River and connecting the North Shore area to Downtown Chattanooga. You can also visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo, once a bustling train station from the 1900s, now converted into a hotel, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Top Five Places To See
- Ruby Falls
- Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
- Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
- Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
- Creative Discovery Museum
1. Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is one of the most spectacular underground waterfall attractions in the United States, located on the historic Lookout Mountain. You can take an elevator down the mountain to enter the caverns, where you'll embark on a guided tour of the breathtaking underground waterfall. A 145-foot underground waterfall formation, the Ruby Falls stands tall, glistening with its stunning hues of brown, tan, cinnamon, and gold. Visitors will experience a wide network of mysterious underground passages, stalactites, and stalagmites along the way.
2. Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
Hop on the Incline Railway and experience a 72.7% vertical rise to the top of Lookout Mountain. This architectural marvel built by John Crass during the 1890s is officially America's Most Amazing Mile. Visitors will have a bird's-eye view of the beautiful city of Chattanooga and its surrounding natural surroundings at the top. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Appalachians from the observation deck, or visit the historic Civil War site - Point Park and its Museum.
3. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a historical landmark that played a significant role in the American Civil War. Visitors can walk the same fields where generals and soldiers clashed, resulting in one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War culminating in the Confederate defeat in the Chattanooga Campaign. The park is home to multiple hiking and biking trails, as well as outdoor events and interpretive programs that offer a glimpse into the lives of soldiers fighting back in those times.
4. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a popular destination for all train enthusiasts, with a collection of antique railcars dating back to the early 1900s. Visitors can choose from various train rides (even a Santa Express ride during Christmas time), visit the museum, and learn about the history of railroads in the southeast. You can also step aboard The Missionary Ridge Local, a steam-powered train that goes through the historic Civil War-era tunnel.
5. Creative Discovery Museum
The Creative Discovery Museum is a great place to take your kids, where they can have some hands-on experience exploring science, art, music, and much more. Exhibits like Mystery Room, Riverplay, and Inventor's Clubhouse make learning entertaining, and the museum offers a variety of programs and camps for children of all ages.
Conclusion
Chattanooga offers visitors an array of cultural, historical and natural attractions, all within a short driving distance. In this guide, we've highlighted the top five popular attractions to visit on your way to East Ridge: Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and Creative Discovery Museum. These attractions are perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. So embark on the journey, absorb the sights and sounds, have some fun, and make unforgettable memories. Safe travels!