Explore Chattanooga Holiday Guide 2022

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HOL IDAY GUIDE 2022 • FREE

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2022

HEARTOFTHE MOUNTAIN Don’t miss the all-new immersive realm at Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights

2022 Gift Guide Holiday Fun Chattanooga’s Favorites

Enchanted For 90 Years

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NOV 14 – DEC 31 NOOGA LIGHTS - CHESTER FROST PARK For six weeks between Christmas and New Year, Chester Frost Park will be transformed into an immersive drive-thru lighting experience for all ages. This magical winter light experience, located on Dallas Island inside Chester Frost Park, is the perfect destination for families, friends, and work groups looking for a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate this holiday season! noogalights.com NOV 18 - JAN28 ICE ON THE LANDING Ice skating for all ages at Ice On The Landing in The Glenn Miller Gardens at The Chattanooga Choo Choo. Open every day from November 18 through January 29, 2023. Check website for rates and schedule. iceonthelanding.com

from downtown Chattanooga, this magical Christmas lights experience is one of Chattanooga’s memorable winter events. seerockcity.com/events/enchanted garden-of-lights

NOV 18 - DEC 23 TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM / NORTH POLE LIMITED CHRISTMAS TRAIN As their most popular annual event, North Pole Limited train rides have been a family tradition since 1999. During the magical holiday season, trains take riders on an imaginary journey to the North Pole. Along the way, you’ll be treated to refreshments and storytelling while you write your own personal letter to Santa. As the North Pole Limited train gently rolls down the rails, a number of lighted displays can be seen outside. When you arrive at the North Pole, Santa will come on board for a special visit with all the passengers. tvrail.com/ train-rides/north-pole-limited DEC. 26 - JAN. 8 TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM / HOLIDAY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TRAIN The Holiday Lights Train Ride is a festive way to enjoy the holiday season starting after Christmas Day. The train ride takes you through a variety of light displays, from twinkling snowflakes to towering Christmas trees. You can also enjoy holiday music and hot cocoa during the ride. The Holiday Lights Train Ride is a great activity for families or groups of friends. It’s a fun and

NOV 18 - JAN1 ROCK CITY’S ENCHANTED GARDEN OF LIGHTS

Celebrate 28 years of holiday tradition at Rock City’s award-winning Enchanted Garden of Lights — with the all-new Heart of the Mountain realm - joy, wonder, and magic await! Warm your heart during this nighttime, family tradition as you walk through Rock City Gardens’ winter wonderland. Located a quick drive

Holiday Guide 2022

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unique way to see the holiday lights and get into the spirit of the season. tvrail.com/train-rides/holiday christmas-light-train DEC. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM / SANTA’S HIWASSEE HOLIDAY TRAIN A round-trip one-hour and 15-minute ride along the beautiful Hiwassee River Gorge. Features of this ride include: writing a letter to Santa, a gingerbread cookie, chocolate milk, and a special visit from Santa! tvrail.com/train-rides/hiwassee-holiday-train

decorations and activities make Ruby Falls especially festive this time of year. Write your Christmas wish on an ornament and add it to the Forest of Wishes, a colorful display of hope and good cheer. Take the entire family on a guided walking tour through the Ruby Falls cavern to the gorgeous underground waterfall and swoon at the sweeping views of the Cumberland Plateau from scenic overlooks. Visit Santa Saturdays & Sundays Nov. 26 - Dec. 18. rubyfalls.com

NOV 25 - DEC 24 TENNESSEE AQUARIUM HOLIDAYS UNDER THE PEAKS Celebrate the season with a holiday visit to the Tennessee Aquarium! Your adventure through a fun-filled underwater wonderland begins with holiday music and decor in the River Journey lobby. Look for seasonal surprises throughout your tour – including a light-bedecked tree twinkling in sync with the jolly jolts of an Electric Eel!Nov.-Dec 24, Dec. 26-31: TN Aquarium’s Holidays Under the Peaks and Polar Express 3D-IMAX. tnaqua.org/Holidays NOV - DEC TENNESSEE AQUARIUM IMAX POLAR EXPRESS 3D Experiencing this holiday tale on the giant six-story screen has become a family tradition for many. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train

NOV 23 - JAN1 ELECTRIC POWER BOARD’S HOLIDAY WINDOWS

In downtown Chattanooga, along Market and Broad Sts. at MLK Blvd., The EPB (Electric Power Board) presents a showcase of whimsical, animatronic, holiday themed windows along the sidewalk. A delight for generations, the windows have been a Christmas tradition for over 80 years. The holiday decorations have now spread across the street to Miller Park for an expanded downtown holiday experience. epb.com NOV&DEC RUBY FALLS AND THE FOREST OF WISHES The holidays are all about making happy memories and spending time with the people you love. Classic holiday

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Explore Holiday Events ride to the North Pole, he embarks upon a journey of self-discovery showing him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Audiences are drawn into

without festive music, cookies, and hot chocolate? This will become a family tradition you won’t want to miss! Your reservation includes all day in the Museum for three people in addition to the workshop. cdmfun.org/event/gingerbread-workshop-22 NOV 25 - JAN1 RACCOON MOUNTAIN CAVERNS FESTIVE HOLIDAY LIGHTS Raccoon Mountain Caverns will be decorated with festive holiday lights and inflatables to delight kids of all ages. Pricing for Christmas Caverns will be $24.95 for adults and $17.95 for kids. Kids will get a goodie bag, plus there will be photo opportunities, coffee and hot chocolate set up for guests as they exit the tour. Reservations recommended. raccoonmountain.com

this immersive film, grasping at falling snowflakes, ducking as the train screeches into their lap and feeling the howl of the steam whistle in surround sound. tnaqua.org/imax/the-polar-express-3d NOV 25 - DEC 18 CREATIVE DISCOVERY MUSEUM GINGERBREAD WORKSHOPS Kick off the holiday season and create masterpieces out of gingerbread, icing, candy, and more! We’ll provide the pre-built gingerbread house along with icing and an impressive mountain of candy to make a truly unique design. And what holiday event would be complete

Newly Added Experiences for the Whole Family!

Nov. 18th-Jan. 1st

Tickets Online Only! to reserve your spot today! visit

Holiday Guide 2022

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COOL NIGHTS HOTCHOCOLATE BY SARAH BIRMANNS A s the temperatures drop, we start to think about the traditions and flavors that In the heart of the Bluff View Art District at 204 High Street is Rembrandt’s Coffee House , a delightful European baked goods shop that serves what many Chattanoogans claim is the

announce the holiday season, especially hot chocolate. All over the world, chocolate is a popular drink in many forms—spicy Mexican hot chocolate with pepper, thick European hot chocolate made with cream, and (of course) the American version, hot cocoa with marshmallows. Here in Chattanooga, all three varieties can be found and more, as we’ve got plenty of ways to ease your craving for something sweet and cozy.

best cup of hot chocolate to be had. Made with melted dark chocolate and piles of whipped cream, it is one of many coffee, pastry, and food items available on site. Made with European chocolate, Rock City will be whipping up its delicious house blend during those chilly nights at the Enchanted Garden of Lights . Experience the sights and sounds of Christmas on Lookout Mountain while sipping their seasonal specialty drink. During the holidays, ice cream and hot chocolate can go together!! At all three

Hot Chocolatier

The Hot Chocolatier at 1437 Market Street downtown is an obvious choice for a cup of the delicious brew. There are many varieties of drinking chocolate, bonbons, desserts, and kits for making these confections for you to take home as a souvenir. Try their hot chocolate bombs—a hollow shell of chocolate filled with hot cocoa and marshmallows that melts in your cup. Nearby, at 1400 Market Street, is a popular branch of a regional favorite, The Frothy Monkey . Offering an impressive menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, their drink menu is extensive and creative. The hot chocolate is served with a frothy heart on top, and they also offer an espresso, graham cracker, and marshmallow concoction that is sure to please.

Clumpies locations, the hot chocolate is made with Belgian chocolate, high fat cocoa powder, and topped with a heaping serving of house made marshmallows.No matter where you decide to get your cup of chocolate holiday cheer, you can be sure it will be sweet and delicious!

Clumpies

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YOUR HOLIDAY GUIDE TO AHIDDENMOUNTAINGEM Ruby Falls is Home to Thundering Waterfall Views, Scenic Guided Cave Walks,

E ven though it’s just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, this natural attraction is truly a world apart. Head deep inside Lookout Mountain, where Ruby Falls, home of the famous underground waterfall, creates a spectacular setting to recharge and savor the holiday season. Nature, history, and adventure intersect at this not so little mountain escape. A few of the perks drawing visitors this time of year include family-friendly, guided CaveWalks to see the waterfall, spectacular views from atop historic Lookout Mountain Tower, sweet treats in the cafe (in a castle!), and beautiful classic holiday decorations. Best of all, even if the weather outside is frightful, the cave maintains a cozy 60-degree temperature year-round! Cave adventures begin by boarding a glass-front elevator which descends 260 feet into Lookout Mountain, delivering visitors to their guide at the entrance of the half-mile long, paved cavern trail leading to the 145-foot waterfall. Guided CaveWalks are available daily, and special experience options including an after-hours Lantern Tour on Friday nights

and an early-access GentleWalking Tour are offered on select dates. Holiday festivities kick off after Thanksgiving, on November 24, and continue through December. Stop by to visit Santa on Saturdays and Sundays, November 25 – December 18, for a special meet and greet with professional photos available for purchase. Write your Christmas wish on an ornament and add it to the Forest of Wishes, where thousands of heartfelt holiday aspirations create a colorful display of hope and good cheer. Visit on December 30 and take part in Discovery Day, celebrating the 94th anniversary of the discovery of Ruby Falls. Stay for a casual meal, local craft beer, and holiday treats by the café’s cozy stone fireplace in historic Ruby Falls Castle. Shop for one-of a-kind gifts and Christmas keepsakes at the Village Gift Shop. Cave adventures require advance purchase of timed-entry tickets. Ensure ticket availability by purchasing your tickets online several days in advance. To buy tickets, see Santa’s schedule and more, visit RubyFalls.com.

and a Charming Historic Castle

Holiday Guide 2022

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Rock City Birdhouses For decades Rock City Gardens’ legacy of barn, billboard and

birdhouse advertising has directed motorists up Lookout Mountain to the world-famous attraction. The Rock City birdhouse is a perfect

gift for someone who traveled the highways and bi-ways and remembers those three iconic words, “See Rock City.” Available in a variety of sizes at Rock City or at their website. shop/seerockcity.com

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Bricks of Honor Purchase a Brick of Honor at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and leave a lasting tribute to a fellow veteran, family member, or loved one. Bricks come in three sizes and become a part of the Walk of Valor outside of the Heritage Center in downtown Chattanooga. Located at 2 AquariumWay next to the Aquarium. Open daily. 423-877-2525. mohhc.org/donate

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Pedego Electric Bikes Electric bikes are great for commuting, ease of use, longer rides and running errands. They are especially easier for older riders and folks with disabilities. The electric motor provides a “boost” or pedal assist which makes all the difference. Pedego Chattanooga is a family-owned business offering the #1 electric bike and is a wonderful place to check out this hot new trend in bicycling. Rent before you buy, and you will be hooked. And it is a terrific way to tour Chattanooga. Located at 157 River St. on the North Shore. Open Tues. – Sun. 423-653-8987. pedegoelectricbikes.com/dealers/chattanooga

Holiday Guide 2022

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Ignis Glass Studio Blow your own heirloom glass ornament or paperweight. With the help of professional artists, you may choose colors, assist with working the piece, and actually trap your own breath in glass. Call to make an appointment. 423-265-2565. Open Friday – Sunday. Located at 409 Broad St. Downtown. ignisglass.com 4

The Coker Museum houses one of the finest private car collections in the southeast. Housed in the world famous Honest Charley’s Speed Shop, the collection includes over one hundred vintage cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and airplanes. Visit the shop to find a fun gift for the car buff in your family. Located at 1309 Chestnut St. Open Tues. – Saturday. 888-795-7077. Check website for more info. www.cokermuseum.com

Chattanooga Whiskey Whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to this one-of a-kind, experimental distillery that brought distilling whiskey back to Chattanooga after a 100-year ban. Located in the heart of downtown, visitors can take a tour of the craft production process, sample a flight of the latest award winning offerings, and grab a favorite bottle in the Retail Bottle Shop. Check the website for hours and tour times. Open Daily. Located at 1439 Market St. 423-760-4333. chattanoogawhiskey.com 6

MoonPie General Store

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What is more original to Chattanooga than a MoonPie. The MoonPie General Store offers branded apparel, retro gifts, home goods, candy, toys, and of course every variety of the authentic MoonPie. Located at 429 Broad St. downtown. 423-877-0592. moonpie.com

Life is Good Store The Life is Good Store is a locally owned and operated store that immerses you in the complete Life Is Good brand. Located downtown, the shop is the perfect place to pick up a Chattanooga branded gift and share your cheerful, optimistic holiday spirit with friends and family. Open daily. Located at 411 Broad St., Suite 101. 423-326-8297. 8

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Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

R ock City is taking the Enchanted Garden of Lights to a whole new realm as the attraction continues to celebrate its 90th anniversary year with never-before-seen views, themes and activities! Rock City Gardens is merrily anticipating the addition of a Christmas Market, an all-new realm and a seated dinner available nightly in Santa’s Workshop & Kitchen! Jolly adventures await guests as the 28th season of this beloved holiday tradition begins Nov. 18, with over a million sparkling LED lights adorning Lookout Mountain through Jan. 1. “This year we are so excited to unveil a brand-new realm as part of the Enchanted Garden of Lights, named the Heart of the Moun tain, ” said Doug Chapin, president and CEO of See Rock City Inc. “This part of the Enchanted Trail from Fat Man’s Squeeze through the Hall of the Mountain King has never been open at night during this event before, and we cannot wait to share it with you!” As guests journey into the new Heart of the Mountain realm, Ibsen the sculpted troll offers safe passage, with glow steps, new ROCK CITY OPENS NEW REALM: HEART OF THE MOUNTAIN Photo Credit - Dan Henry

waterfall features and the enhanced Rainbow Hall lighting the way to Observa tion Deck where for the first time guests can get photos of the waterfall and Christmas star! Heart of the Mountain colorfully illuminates the natural beau ty of an iconic attraction, paired with a whimsical world of gnomes, trolls and fairytales! You’ll start your journey down North Pole Highway to visit the six uniquely themed realms: Heart of the Mountain, Magic Forest, Arctic Kingdom, North Pole Village, Yule Town and Fairyland Caverns. Walk through one of the world’s tallest and one-of-a-kind Christmas trees with lights that “dance” to music in the Magic Forest. Watch icy borealis colors twinkle in the Arctic Kingdom. Stop by Café 7 in North Pole Village and warm up with holiday drinks like the house-made favorite hot cocoa, and delicious, comfort-food offerings. Do some holiday shopping in the new Bavarian-style Christmas Market! Mrs. Claus is there too for storytime and gingerbread cookies to decorate! In Yule Town visit Santa’s Workshop & Kitchen, for a seated meal available nightly and photos with St. Nick (through Dec. 23)! Tickets are only available online at www.seerockcity.com/ lights and must be purchased in advance. Check Facebook for updates on sellouts. Closed Christmas Eve. 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. (the park will close at 11 p.m.) weeknights 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. (the park will close at midnight) weekends 7 06-820-2531 Photo Credit - Joe Howell

Photo Courtesy of Andrew Keller Photo redit - Dan Henry

Holiday Guide 2022

BIG SAVINGS!

Look for the FREE Explore Chattanooga Coupon Map at area hotels, campgrounds, welcome centers, info centers, airport and select shops and attractions.

OVER 35 Money Saving Coupons!

Photo Courtesy of Dan Henry

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Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

Holiday Traditions at the Tennessee Aquarium

S tart creating your holiday memories at the Tennessee Aquarium and IMAX 3D Theater. Between November 25 through the end of the year, Holidays Under the Peaks will take you through a fun-filled underwater wonderland. Holiday music and decor will fill the River Journey lobby as you begin your search for seasonal surprises through out your tour. Included is a light-bedecked tree twinkling in sync with the jolly jolts of an Electric Eel. This year also marks the return of SCUBA Claus , diving on select Saturdays in December (Dec 3, 10, & 17)! At the IMAX Theater another holiday favorite returns. In keeping with beloved traditions, The Polar Express 3D is a ‘must see’. The story of a young boy, who embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express creates a magical experience, all in 3D. A special screening is available which you can enjoy while dressing in your favorite pajamas. Meet the conductor, enjoy hot cocoa and snacks, and enter to win Polar Ex press themed prizes. This event is fun for the entire family and all who truly believe! Visit tnaqua.org for scheduling details and tickets.

Holiday Guide 2022

Ring in 2023 Chattanooga Style If you’re celebrating with children, both the Creative Discovery Museum and The Chattanooga Choo Choo offer some thing for the whole family. Party at the Moxy Hotel in down town Chattanooga, serving up drinks, food, and live entertainment. The elegant Read House Hotel hosts a Roaring Twenties party. The Edwin Hotel makes the evening easy with a ticketed event in their pent house bar. The classy Westin Hotel will give you a New York style party with live enter tainment, drinks, and a real ball drop. If dancing is more your style, the best places to see and be seen are Regan’s or the Westbound Bar on Station Street . The Southern Belle New Year’s on the River Cruise is a fun way to see the city lights and watch multiple fireworks displays as you float along on the Ten nessee River.

Showcasing Chattanooga through its history, landscape, art, and culture.

Knowledgeable guides show you the city with expert historical insights of Chattanooga’s 200-year-old history, unique stories, fun trivia, along with highlights of landmarks & attractions. Tours begin at the Chattanooga Choo Choo located at 1400 Market St. Hop aboard the Chattanooga Trolley for a guided tour of the city!

PRIVATE CHARTERS, PARTIES, WEDDINGS, AND CUSTOM TOURS AVAILABLE!

Book Now! Purchase your tickets online at ScenicCityTours.com or call 423-226-8687.

*Check websites for event details.

homemade pastas • Italian wines authentic dishes • rustic tradition

signature sweets • European charm house-roasted brews • casual fare

bluf fv iewar tdi str i ct . com

423.321.0235

@bluf fv iewar tdi str i ct

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Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

HEART-WARMING HOLIDAYS AT THE BLUFF VIEW

L ocated in downtown Chattanooga, Bluff View Art District is a creative destination specializing in the visual, culinary, and horticultural arts. Designed to have a European feel, the district occupies an historic neighborhood sitting high atop a bluff overlooking the Tennessee River. One of Chattanooga’s favorite destinations, Bluff View offers a full 360 degrees of natural, historic, and handcrafted splendor. During the holidays, Bluff View transforms into a magical and romantic destination. Lighted trees, buildings and decorations make it a perfect spot to get in the holiday spirit. Celebrate the season with family and friends at Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria and enjoy classic Italian cuisine featuring house made pastas, fresh herbs, tossed with heart-warming sauces and an outstanding wine list.

Stop by Rembrandt’s Coffee House for seasonal hot drinks, seasonal pastries and specialty desserts, pastries and cakes, seasonal coffee roasts and holiday merchandise. Also on site is the Bluff View Bakery offering seasonal breads such as German Stollen Bread and Pannetone. Decorative table breads are also available for gifts or your own special occasions. The award-winning River Gallery offers fine art exhibits from local, regional, and nationally recognized artists. The gallery hosts working artists throughout the holiday season and is the perfect place to find museum-quality and unique gift options. Take an afternoon or evening stroll and enjoy all that the Bluff View Art District has to offer during the holidays. For holiday hours and additional information: www.bluffviewartdistrictchattanooga.com

Holiday Guide 2022

RaccoonMountain Caverns and Campground

Raccoon Mountain Christmas Caverns Caverns will be decorated with festive holiday lights and inflatables to delight kids of all ages. Kids will get a goodie bag, plus there will be photo opportunities, coffee and hot chocolate set up for guests as they exit the tour. Christmas Caverns begins Nov. 25 through Jan. 1. Closed Christmas Day. Check website for rates & specific hours. Reservations recommended. www.raccoonmountain.com

Our hours are Sun to Fri 9am to 5pm, last tour at 4pm and 9am-6pm on Sat, last tour at 5pm.

Conveniently located close to downtown Chattanooga and just 1.3 miles off HWY 24 at exit # 174. www.raccoonmountain.com 319 West Hills Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37419 423-821-9403

Play the Exhibits Experience the Classics.

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An interactivemuseumdedicated to the nostalgia, history, science, and fun behind the fascinating game of pinball! PLAY. LEARN. REPEAT!

HOLIDAY FUN FOR FAMILIES AND GROUPS!

1800 ROSSVILLE AVE CHATTANOOGA, TN 423-551-3306

409 Broad St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 Check website for hours. www.ChattanoogaPinballMuseum.com

BOOK ONLINE AT ESCAPEEXPERIENCE.COM

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Holiday Guide 2022