Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chattanooga, TN to Tullahoma, TN
Chattanooga, TN, and Tullahoma, TN, are located about an hour and a half away from each other, making them perfect destinations for a road trip. The scenic drive provides breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley and the Cumberland Plateau. The halfway point between these two destinations is Monteagle, TN, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Top Five Things to do:
1. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga
The Tennessee Aquarium is a popular attraction in Chattanooga, known for its immersive exhibits showcasing marine life from all over the world. It's a must-visit for families and anyone interested in aquatic wildlife. The aquarium is divided into two main buildings: River Journey and Ocean Journey. The River Journey building caters to freshwater species, including otters, turtles, and alligators. The Ocean Journey building, as the name suggests, features animals that inhabit saltwater environments, like sharks, stingrays, and penguins.
Interesting fact: The Tennessee Aquarium is home to the largest freshwater turtle collection in North America.
2. Explore Rock City Gardens
Located on top of Lookout Mountain, Rock City Gardens offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the winding paths through the rock formations and take in the scenic beauty. Rock City is home to unique attractions like the Fairyland Caverns, a mystical journey through caves filled with sculptures of fairies and gnomes, and the Swing-A-Long Bridge, a suspension bridge that sways as you walk.
Interesting fact: Rock City's iconic "See Seven States" view from Lover's Leap boasts seven states on a clear day: Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Alabama.
3. Take a stroll on the Chattanooga Riverwalk
The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a paved trail that follows the Tennessee River's shoreline for over 10 miles, connecting downtown Chattanooga to nearby parks and attractions. The trail is accessible to pedestrians and cyclists alike, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the river and city skyline. Along the way, there are plenty of places to stop and take a break, including parks, restaurants, and cafes.
Interesting fact: The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a part of the Tennessee River Park System, which spans over 16 miles of the Tennessee River and its tributaries.
4. Visit the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg
Although Lynchburg is not located directly between Chattanooga and Tullahoma, it's only a short detour away and well worth the visit. The Jack Daniel's Distillery is the oldest registered distillery in the United States, producing whiskey since 1866. Visitors can learn about the distilling process, tour the facilities, and taste Jack Daniel's whiskey samples.
Interesting fact: The recipe for Jack Daniel's whiskey has been a closely guarded secret for over 150 years and is known only to a handful of individuals.
5. Hike the Machine Falls Trail in Tullahoma
The Machine Falls Trail in Tullahoma is a popular hiking destination, featuring a 1.6-mile loop trail that leads to a stunning waterfall. The trail is well maintained and perfect for all skill levels, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the natural surroundings. The waterfall itself is a beautiful sight, with crystal clear water cascading down a 60-foot drop into a pool below.
Interesting fact: The Machine Falls Trail is located within the Short Springs Natural Area, a diverse ecosystem home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Conclusion
Overall, the road trip from Chattanooga to Tullahoma provides the perfect mix of nature, outdoor adventure, and city attractions. By stopping at Monteagle, visitors can break up the drive with a scenic half-way point. With all of the exciting attractions along the way, this route is sure to provide a memorable trip for everyone. The road trip takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a great weekend getaway option.