The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
More than choo-choo
Chattanooga, just two hours away, offers plenty to do during the holidays,
That charming Southern city made world famous in 1941 by Glenn Miller’s recording. We all know the Choo-Choo, but there is so much more to do in Chattanooga than that catchy little tune suggests and it’s just a short jaunt north from Atlanta. Come along with us and take a tour…and yes, we’ll start with a train.
All Aboard
Since 1999, Tennessee Valley Railroad’s North Pole Limited train ride has taken passengers on a magical journey to the North Pole. Chugging up the tracks on the way to rendezvous with the Big Guy in the red suit, passengers are treated to refreshments, story-telling and sing-alongs. Lovely light displays dot the landscape along the tracks. On the trip back home, Santa rides along and greets all his guests and gives a keepsake gift to every good boy and girl.
Blessed by Mother Nature
Chattanooga is nestled right in the heart of some of the South’s most gorgeous topography. Mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers all intersect to create breathtaking views. Atop Lookout Mountain one of Chattanooga’s gems, Rock City, dons her holiday finest at this time of year. Her natural beauty is adorned in millions of lights, creating the Enchanted Garden of Lights. Starting at the Original 1932 Gatehouse, visitors take the North Pole Highway on a self-determined journey through the Magic Forest, the Arctic Kingdom, North Pole Village, Yuletown and Downtown Yuletown. Along the way enjoy the nativity show, savor the smells and have a treat at the Fudge Kitchen or do some shopping at the Holiday Marketplace. Leave the mountaintop and head underground for an adventure at Ruby Falls Christmas Underground. Help the local miners search for the extremely rare Joystone, a gemstone that helps spread the spirit of Christmas. Discover the secret ice cave, catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights and wander through the Sugar Plum Fairy Village where at journey’s end, Santa awaits to hear a child’s fondest wishes. Cruise the historic Tennessee River on the Southern Belle Riverboat. During the holidays, in addition to their lunch and dinner cruises, they also offer a Pancake Breakfast Cruise that includes a magic show and of course, Santa himself. In the evening, find a babysitter and take a romantic sunset cruise with your special someone. The scenery is exquisite and there is dinner and dancing.
All Around the Town
In the sunny South, outdoor ice skating is practically unheard of, but not in Chattanooga. From November 18 - January 16, Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens is the site of an outdoor ice skating rink. Glide in for fun during general skating times or enjoy one of the special theme events. Naturally, Santa will be on-hand (that guy is everywhere this time of year) and food vendors will be available because skating works up a hearty appetite! A visit to the Tennessee Aquarium is always a treat and this time of year, even the fish are in on the fun. The aquarium will host its Holidays Under the Peaks from mid-November to January 3. The special programs include quiz divers and experts who facilitate learning about creatures around the world and family units in the wild. Otters cavort, octopi wave with graceful tentacles and the penguins spruce up their “tuxedos” in anticipation of receiving holiday gifts. SCUBA Claus will be there…it’s the perfect blend of entertainment and education. Swing by the Chattanooga Zoo for Holiday Lights. This special event offers photos with costumed characters, animal enrichment activities, cookie decorating, crafts and activities, and a letter to Santa. For a small additional fee you can also ride a camel, a train or the carousel. There is also a live reindeer encounter and a photo-op with Santa. For all the lords and ladies out there, the Creative Discovery Museum is hosting the Amazing Castle Exhibit. A healthy dose of role playing allows children to dress the part and work in the workshops as a tailor or a carpenter, help cook a feast for the Great Hall, or work in the garden. But beware, a visit to the tower reveals that there a sleeping dragon lies.
Speaking of a Feast…
Chattanooga is home to a varied culinary scene. From barbeque and homestyle Southern cooking, to the exotic flavors of international cuisine to an elegant 4-star repast, there is something in Chattanooga to please every palate. The Honest Pint is Chattanooga’s only authentic Irish pub, kitchen and music venue. Traditional and Irishinspired fare include corned beef and cabbage, traditional Irish potato pancakes and the Reuben sandwich. Wash it down with a wellpoured Guinness or one of their other English, European and American craft beers on tap. Taco Mamacita offers up what they refer to as “fresh” Mex and housemade is the order of the day. Find everything from Baja fish tacos to Korean BBQ tacos and of course, exceptional margaritas. Attention to detail is the hallmark of St. John’s, a 4-star restaurant. Head chef Rebecca Baron’s eclectic menu is replete with locally sourced ingredients that make for a satisfying meal.Sugar’s Ribs features award winning fare for the barbecue “purist.” Meats are cooked fresh, more like a roadside barbecue stand, and Sugar’s has a comfortable dining area with a great view of the mountains and downtown. Ribs, chicken, sandwiches and sides served with sweet tea and followed by banana pudding is the meal of every Southerner’s dreams. If the number of dining choices is just too daunting, perhaps a sampling is in order. Eat. Sip. Walk. gives you an opportunity to try a number of dishes while learning about the history and regional variations of Southern food. Chattanooga Pints and Pedals is a leisurely bike ride tour that takes you (and all of your new friends) to some delicious destinations. The Chattanooga Brew Choo is the people (and beer) powered ride that takes you to 3 different bars during the two hour tour.
Sweet Dreams
From Atlanta, the drive to Chattanooga is roughly two hours so it only makes sense to stay a night — or several. There are accommodations to suit every “sleepover” style from traditional hotels to modern cabins to quaint and cozy bed and breakfast inns. Naturally, there are plentiful chain hotels and motels to fit every budget and there are also independently owned rentals like Battlefield Station located on Lookout Mountain. Take a step back in time in this turn-of-the-century chinking log cabin with an updated kitchen and bath. Perhaps complete luxury is more your style. Tennessee’s only AAA 4-Diamond Bed and Breakfast, The Mayor’s Mansion Inn, was built in 1889 and offers guests a timeless yet private escape and it’s only minutes from many of Chattanooga’s most popular attractions. If the weather is right, bring the RV and your camping gear and stay at one of many area campgrounds like Best Holiday Trav-L-Park. Located on a Civil War battle site in close proximity to local attractions, this campground consistently wins rave reviews and accolades.
Finally, here we are right back where we started… at the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Once upon a time, this 24-acre complex was home to the Terminal Station. Built during the golden age of railroads in 1909, this historic building is now part of a campus that includes two hotel buildings, dining, retail shops and a lovely rose garden.
Guests can choose to spend the night in a beautifully appointed authentic sleeper car, a luxury that was once reserved for only the wealthiest of patrons.