Explore Chattanooga Holiday Guide 2023

YOUR VISITOR’S GUIDE TO

THE BEST OF CHATTANOOGA

®

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2023 • FREE

ROCK CITY’S ENCHANTED GARDEN OF LIGHTS A FAMILY TRADITION

Holiday Events Making Memories 2023 Gift Guide

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2023

Explore | WHAT TO DO

Explore Holiday Events

NOV 24 - JAN 28 ICE ON THE LANDING Ice skating for all ages at Ice On The Landing in a new location in the Southside’s open-air, First Horizon Pavilion. Open every day from November 24 through December 18th and January 3-28. Check the website for rates and schedule. www.iceonthelanding.com

DEC 26 - 31 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 unique way to see the holiday lights and get into the spirit of the season. www.tvrail. com/train-rides/holiday-christmas-light-train DEC TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM / SANTA’S HIAWASSEE 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! www.tvrail.com/train-rides/hiwassee-holiday-train NOV 1 - JAN 31 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. www.epb.com

Ice On The Landing

NOV 17 - JAN 6 (closed Christmas Eve) ROCK CITY’S ENCHANTED GARDEN OF LIGHTS

Celebrate 29 years of holiday tradition at Rock City’s award-winning Enchanted Garden of Lights. Take a stroll down the lighted Grand Corridor in Yule Town, experience the twinkle of icy lights in the Arctic Kingdom, and the Magic Forest comes alive to reveal exciting enchantments! Allow the wonder of the Heart of the Mountain to thrill you. Located a quick drive from downtown Chattanooga, this magical Christmas lights experience is one of Chattanooga’s memorable winter events. www.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. www.tvrail.com/train-rides/ north-pole-limited

NOV. 22 – DEC 31 NOOGALIGHTS – HOLIDAY LIGHTS DRIVE-THRU EXPERIENCE In its second year, NoogaLights is Chattanooga’s only drive thru lighting experience.

Nooga Lights

Holiday Guide 2023

Explore | WHAT TO DO

Explore Holiday Events

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. 24 - Dec. 23.

Located this year in Soddy Daisy, the displays are brighter and better than ever with freshly customized lighting exhibits and some of the fan-favorite exhibits from years past. This year, tune in with any FM radio to enjoy music timed to the light show. Open on select nights. Check the website for show nights and hours. Located at: 12000 Dayton Pike Soddy Daisy, TN 37379. Save by purchasing your tickets online. Tickets also sold at the gate. For online ticket purchases, visit www.noogalights.ticketspice.com/ noogalights-in-soddy-daisy-2023 or email tickets@ noogalights.com. NOV 24 (free) REINDEER ON THE

www.rubyfalls.com NOV 24 - 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 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 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 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 - DEC CREATIVE DISCOVERY MUSEUM WINTER PLAYLAND & PJ’S WITH SANTA! Start the season with Snow Night, a members-only evening of festive fun and snow surprises. Join in at GingerbreadWorkshops, complete with mountains of candy to deck the halls on a gingerbread house with the whole family. At PJs with Santa members will meet Santa and explore the Museum after-hours in cozy pajamas! Winter Playland wraps up with Cheers to the New Year. www.cdmfun.org

RIVERFRONT & LIGHTED BOAT PARADE Holiday joy will fill downtown with “Reindeer on the Riverfront & Lighted Boat Parade”, Friday November 24th. Returning with even

Lighted Boat Parade

more food, artists and entertainment vendors! FREE to attend and fun for the whole family with live reindeer and Santa on site for free pictures, hot cocoa bar, mini-train rides, fire pits, face painting/balloon animals, and holiday tunes followed by the annual Lighted Boat Parade and spectacular fireworks show. 4:00pm - 6:30pm - See Real Live Reindeer 4:30pm - 7:30pm - Pictures with Santa 7:00pm - 8:00pm - Lighted Boat Parade 8:00pm - Fireworks www.rivercitycompany.com/events/reindeer-on-the riverfront-amp-lighted-boat-parade-2 NOV 24 - DEC 23 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 decorations and activities make Ruby Falls especially festive this time of year. Write your Christmas wish on an

explore chattanooga | 3

Holiday Guide 2023

Explore | WHAT TO DO

Explore Holiday Events DEC 2 MAINX24 - PARADE AND FESTIVAL - MAIN STREET

MAINx24 is a 24-hour long festival celebrating Main Street and the surrounding Southside, held every December since 2007. MAINx24 features programming all day long, from parades to music projects, it has been a way to celebrate and showcase the burgeoning Southside. MAINx24 is organized completely by residents, merchants, and friends of the Southside community. www.mainx24.com WEEKENDS IN DEC CHATTANOOGA HOLIDAY MARKET - FIRST HORIZON PAVILION The Holiday Market features 200+ local food vendors, artists and crafters each Saturday & Sunday in December offering unique gifts and festive preparations –everything you’ll need for the holiday season! www.chattanoogamarket.com

MAINX24 Parade

Tickets Online Only! Nov. 17 th to Jan. 6 th

explore chattanooga | 5

Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

MERRY LIGHTS AND NIGHTS AT ROCK CITY

W arm your hearts this season at Rock City Gardens’ Enchanted Garden of Lights! Chattanooga’s brightest holiday light experience takes place every evening beginning at 4:30 p.m. from November 17 through January 6 (excluding Christmas Eve). This wonderland of a million lights illuminates six distinct holiday realms and features festive fun for everyone. The journey begins through one of the world’s tallest walk through lighted Christmas trees. From there, take the North Pole Highway to each of Rock City’s magical realms, including the colorful Arctic Kingdom, Heart of the Mountain and more! Move along with the dancing trees of the Magic Forest and afterwards bundle up in the new Arctic Kingdom igloos. From Yuletown, gaze upon Rock City’s fabulous view of the Chattanooga Valley. Bring Santa a wish list at the North Pole Village! Get a picture with jolly ole St. Nick and decorate a delicious cookie with Mrs. Claus. Stand at

attention for the Toy Solider! Everyone’s favorite mime, Jerry, is on guard in full uniform. Warm up with hot chocolate and delectable holiday-themed treats like chocolate chip cookies and powdered sugar donuts, as well as giant roasted turkey legs, burgers and hot dogs at select food locations throughout the park. As always, the Fudge Kitchen is busy making its guest-favorite holiday flavors! Head over to the Christmas Market for sweets, gifts, winterwear and spirited drinks. Rock City-themed Christmas ornaments and other festive collectables, including holiday gnomes and light-up merchandise like cotton candy sticks are available for purchase at various retail locations. Tickets for Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights are available online only at www.seerockcity.com/lights. Purchase timed tickets early for best availability.

Holiday Guide 2023

Explore | WHAT TO BUY

ELEVATE YOUR MEMORIES WITH A GEM MEMBERSHIP!

Rock City’s unlimited pass does all the heavy lifting. A Gem Membership lets you skip the lines with no reservations required and includes unlimited visits and seasonal events, for one year from date of purchase! Members also receive exclusive member discounts, complimentary seasonal food & beverage options, and a special VIP gift upon registering or renewing. Enjoy Rock City with a year-round pass that fits your schedule! BENEFITS INCLUDE: Unlimited visits to Rock City Gardens, anytime, and for all seasonal events, no reservations required. Skip the Ticket Line – separate VIP entry anytime. Exclusive VIP gift – given at the time of registration or renewal. Downloads on all DEI Souvenir Photos ($10 prints on Santa Photos, $6.99 Digital Downloads). Complimentary Seasonal Food or Beverage Offerings Current Offering: Starbucks Apple Croissant or Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew *Excludes alcohol www.seerockcity.com Exclusive Member Discounts – *15% off food and merchandise. $5.00 prints and $2.99 Digital

explore chattanooga | 7

Play the Exhibits Experience the Classics.

Explore Chattanooga Differently!

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

• “Little Vehicles” Guided City Tour • Swincar (electric ATV) Backcountry Tours • ChattaScooter Art Tour • ChattaScooter Rental Program • e-Scooter & e-Bike Rentals, Sales & Repairs • Inside family fun on VR Simulators

191 River St., Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-591-5654 AdventureSportsInnovation.com

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

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

Handcrafted in Since 1999 CHATTANOOGA, TN

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!

Northshore 26B Frazier Ave. Southside 1401 Market St. CLUMPIES.COM St. Elmo 3917 St. Elmo Ave.

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

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

Holiday Guide 2023

Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY CHARM MEETS ONE-OF-A-KIND ADVENTURES MAKE LASTING MEMORIES AT RUBY FALLS.

O nly a few minutes from downtown Chattanooga, the iconic Ruby Falls Castle on Lookout Mountain comes into view, dressed in bountiful boughs of holly and twinkling string lights. The crisp mountain air and the classic Christmas decorations create a timeless atmosphere, perfect for making lasting memories and embarking on new adventures. STUNNING VIEWS & HOLIDAY DELIGHTS Ruby Falls, a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure lovers, transforms into a winter wonderland with festive treats and Christmas delights during the holiday season. A 35-foot-tall Christmas tree on the Village Plaza creates a picture-perfect backdrop for holiday photos. Families can spark new memories on a guided Cave Walk to the Ruby Falls waterfall. After exploring the cave, climb historic Lookout Mountain Tower for panoramic views overlooking the Tennessee River and Cum berland Plateau. Evening guests can enjoy the star-filled sky above the city’s twinkling lights. FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAVE ADVENTURES Cave adventures begin by boarding a glass-front elevator, which descends 260 feet into a cave deep in the heart of Lookout Moun tain. Guides lead guests along the half-mile-long cavern trail to see ancient geological formations before arriving at the towering

90-foot underground waterfall. Here, guests escape the winter weather, as the cave naturally stays a cozy 60 degrees year-round. Guided Cave Walks are available daily, and specialty experiences, including an after-hours Lantern Tour and early-access Gentle Walking Tour, are offered on select dates. HOLIDAY GEMS & CHRISTMAS TREATS Add your holiday wish to the Forest of Wishes, where thou sands of heartfelt holiday aspirations create a colorful display of hope and good cheer. On select dates, visit with Santa and have a professional photo taken. Shop for unique gifts and Christmas keepsakes in the Village Gift Shop, then stop by the cafe in the his toric Ruby Falls Castle for holiday treats, local craft beer, a casual meal, or hot cocoa by the stone fireplace. PLAN YOUR VISIT Holiday festivities begin November 24 and continue through December 23. Visit on December 30 and participate in Discovery Day, celebrating the 95th anniversary of the discovery of Ruby Falls. Cave adventure tickets are sold online only. Purchasing tickets several days in advance ensures ticket availability. To buy tickets, see Santa’s schedule and more, visit www.RubyFalls.com.

explore chattanooga | 9

1

MoonPie General Store What is more original to Chattanooga than a MoonPie. The MoonPie General Store offers wonderful holiday gifts. Choose from 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. www.moonpie.com

2

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 Aquarium Way next to the Aquarium. Open daily. 423-877-2525. www.mohhc.org/donate

3

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. www.seerockcity.com

Holiday Guide 2023

Ignis Glass Studio

4

5

Coker Car Museum 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

Blow your own heirloom glass ornament or paperweight. With the help of their 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. www.ignisglass.com

ADVENTURE SPORTS INNOVATION (ASI)

6

Electric scooters are easy to operate and can be used to commute to work/school, bring along on road trips, or just to ride for fun! ASI carries a wide variety of the best scooters for kids and for adults, at the best prices. At their family-owned innovative storefront, you can find entry-level, mid-range, mobility, and high-performance scooters from as low as $399. Try before you buy and get advice and service from their local experts. Located at 191 River Street on the Northshore. Phone: (423) 591-5654. www.AdventureSportsInnovation.com FB/IG: @asichatt

GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE! ASI Gift Cards available in store or on their website for: Scooter Tours/Rentals/ Purchases, Swincar Tours or VR Adventures!

Life is Good Store The Life is Good Shop is a locally owned and operated store that celebrates the optimistic lifestyle. 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. ligchattanooga.com 7

explore chattanooga | 11

Explore | WHERE TO SHOP

TOW A GIFT HOME FROM HATTIE’S

You’ll be pleasantly surprised when you step into the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum and experience one of the area’s most well-curated gift shops. Hattie’s on Holmes, the namesake of Ernest Holmes Sr’s wife, Hattie, boasts a large variety of items including toys, handbags, candles, t-shirts, and much more. Chattanooga has been credited as the birthplace of the tow truck thanks to Chattanooga native, and inventor, Ernest Holmes. In 1916, after a frustrating attempt to pull a friend’s truck out of a ditch, Holmes outfitted a Cadillac with a unique pulley system in his garage. A life-saving industry was born out of Holmes’ invention! So, whether you are looking for a souvenir, birthday gift, or doing some Christmas shopping - Hattie’s can ‘hook you up’. While rich in history, the International Towing Museum is the only place in the world that offers a close encounter with a tow truck that is fun, positive, and nostalgic. And Hattie’s on Holmes is a bonus! Located at 3315 Broad Street, be sure to stop by, and tell them Explore Chattanooga sent you!

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Open Daily 411 Broad St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423-326-8297 ligchattanooga.com

The Life Is Good brand resonates with local store owners, Roy and Jacqui Gress who also believe in “Do what you love, Love what you do.” They look forward to sharing that message of optimism and hope with you.

Downtown Chattanooga Chattanooga Merchandise Local Good Vibes

MoonPie and RC ... It’s a Southern Thing!

NOSTALGIC TOYS & GAMES APPAREL GIFTS FOR THE FAMILY

Open Daily 423-877-0592 Downtown at 429 Broad St., Chattanooga, TN 37421

General StorE

Holiday Guide 2023

Photo Courtesy of Dan Henry

explore chattanooga | 13

Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

VISIT THE NORTH POLE! On the Tennessee Valley Railroad T he most popular annual event at the Tennessee Valley Railroad has

• Traditional ticket holders will receive a homemade chocolate chip cookie, hot chocolate, a keepsake boarding pass, ornament, and bell. • Santa’s Private Car ticket holders will receive an extended visit with Santa, a homemade chocolate chip cookie, hot chocolate with a souvenir cup, a keepsake boarding pass, an ornament, a bell, and kids receive a copy of the North Pole Limited storybook. The North Pole Limited runs November 17 - December 23. Get your tickets now at tvrail.com.

been the North Pole Limited train rides which have become 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 enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. 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. Two different ticket options are available.

401 Broad St., Near 4th & Broad. (423) 265-2565 glass.com Hours: Fri. 10am - 4pm Sat. 11am - 7pm Sun. 12pm - 5pm Closed Mon. - Thurs.

Holiday Guide 2023

Your Perfect Basecamp for A Winter Adventure!

Holiday Christmas Lights Train Wrap up your holiday season with an adventure with our newest trip, the Holiday Lights Train! From December 26th – January 1st, and January 6 & 7 take a magical journey on one of our festive light trains and experience the wonderment that comes from traveling through time. It’s a great post-Christmas activity to share with family, out-of-town guests or groups to keep the warm holiday feelings glowing. Tickets are available at tvrail.com Night Cap with St. Nick Celebrate the holidays while enjoying a nightcap with St. Nick! Begin your holiday festivities on a one-hour train ride with all the bright trimmings of the season. This experience includes two drinks, a delicious sweet and savory treat box, a souvenir bell, keepsake boarding pass, and a visit from Santa. This service will be offered on board our newest dome coach to roll out of Soule Shops – Chesapeake and Ohio Dome Lounge-Observation car #1877. Comfortable seating, festive decorations and a relaxing ride will create holiday memories to last a lifetime. Beverage options: Baileys Irish cream Coffee, Eggnog Brandy Alexander, Peppermint Schnapps Hot Chocolate. *All options are also offered alcohol free Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in

423-821-8619 2159 Old Wauhatchie Pike Chattanooga, TN 37409

Book Direct and Save!

StayAtRiverViewInn.com

December. Ages 21 & over. Tickets available at tvrail.com

homemade pastas • Italian wines authentic dishes • rustic tradition

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

bluffviewartdistrict.com

423.321.0235

@bluffviewartdistrict

explore chattanooga | 15

Spotlight | WHAT TO DO

HOLIDAY UNDER THE PEAKS AT THE TENNESSEE AQUARIUM

T he Tennessee Aquarium continues its wonderful holiday programming, Holidays Under the Peaks . The special programs and features take you through a fun-filled underwater wonderland. Festively festooned galleries full of twinkling lights and other decorations, as well as seasonal music, set the ideal welcoming tone

exhibits. Dives will take place at 2 p.m. on weekends during December (except Christmas Eve). Be sure and catch the regularly occurring seasonal programming hosted by Education staff featuring appearances by various furry, scaled and boneless Ambassador Animals. Learn how different species weather the cold and enjoy their favorite holiday treats. The Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater will host the return of the beloved holiday classic,

to visitors during the holidays. Miguel Wattson, the Aquarium’s world-famous tweeting Electric Eel, will once again shock and awe guests with lights on a tree near his exhibit that glow in response to his electrical discharges The return of the jolliest of all guest divers, SCUBA Claus, who will put in the Tennessee River Gallery and the River Giants

The Polar Express 3D , the heart-warming tale of a young boy’s thrilling Christmas Eve journey to the North Pole, where he learns about the power of belief and friendship. www.tnaqua.org

Photo Credits: All Aquarium images: Tennessee Aquarium Polar Express image: Warner Bros.

Holiday Guide 2023

Explore | WHAT TO BUY

History Comes Alive at the International Towing Museum!

RING IN 2024 CHATTANOOGA STYLE

Discover over 100 years of towing history — where it all began. Over 24 fully restored antique to contemporary wreckers and equipment on display, including a 1916 Holmes wrecker.

Party at the Moxy Hotel in downtown Chattanooga, serving up drinks, food, and live entertainment. A NYE party with fun GALORE - a ticketed event. Ring in the new year at the Read House Hotel at their New Year’s Eve Roaring 20s Party 2023! Experience an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at The Edwin Hotel ! Ring in the new year with style and excitement at Whiskey Thief , their trendy rooftop terrace with stunning views. The classy Westin Hotel is throwing a ticketed New Year’s Eve Gala - a New York style celebration. Live Bands - Dinner - Cocktails - Laser Light Show - Midnight ball drop under the stars. Tickets are limited. Ice on the Landing at the First Horizon Pavilion is hosting a special Late Skate New Year’s Eve Party. It’s New Years at Noon at the Creative Discovery Museum . Festive crafts, dance party, balloon drop. Fun for the entire family. 12-4pm. *Check websites for event details.

Open Daily: Mon.-Sun. 9am-5pm

Features a wonderful selection of gifts, memorabilia, collectibles and toys

3315 Broad St., Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-267-3132 www.internationaltowingmuseum.org

Custom Blended Ice Cream • Gourmet Coffee • Yogurt Sugar-Free & Dairy-Free Ice Cream Seasonal hours may vary. Check Facebook. On the Hunter Museum side of Walnut Street Bridge 129 Walnut St. 423-702-5173

explore chattanooga | 17

Spotlight | WHAT TO SEE

Bluff View Art District 30 YEARS OF HOLIDAY WARMTH

F or 30 years, Bluff View Art District has specialized in visual, culinary, and horticultural arts. Reminiscent of a European Village, Bluff View Art District creates the perfect destination during the Holiday season. With whimsical nooks and crannies adorned with Holiday cheer, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. Swing by Rembrandt’s Coffee House to shop for seasonal gift options, signature hot drinks, and specialty desserts from Rembrandt’s Pastry Kitchen. This season, Rembrandt’s Roasting Company will feature a special anniversary roast celebrating 30 years of the Bluff View Art District. Available this year are seasonal sweet breads from the expert bakers of Bluff View Bakery. Enjoy German Stöllen bread and traditional Panettone, in addition to decorative table breads and other culinary creations. This Holiday season, give the gift of Tony’s Pasta Shop by purchasing a gift card. Tony’s

Pasta Shop catering offers a large menu of pasta favorites to be served at any gathering. River Gallery offers fine art exhibits from local, regional, and nationally recognized artists. This Holiday season, River Gallery will be hosting working artists in addition to the wide selection of unique gift options. Bluff View Inn creates the ultimate “Home for the Holidays” feel. A warm and cozy bed and breakfast, coupled with the historic charm and captivating views, makes Bluff View Inn a wonderful option for guests visiting from out of town. Bluff View Events is now booking for Holiday parties and other private events. Experience all that Bluff View has to offer as the Bluff View Events Department piece together the perfect gathering. For seasonal hours of operation and more information on Bluff View Art District: www.bluffviewartdistrictchattanooga.com.

Holiday Guide 2023

Spotlight | WHAT TO SEE

THE CHATTANOOGA ELF Spreading Holiday Cheer

Rock City may hold claim to the gnomes, but around Christmas season elves roam the streets of Chattanooga. Well, at least one elf—the Chattanooga Elf! If “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear,” then Robby Steen, the man beneath the Buddy the Elf costume, is spreading more cheer than most. But Steen is no “cotton-headed ninny-muggins;” the Chattanooga Christian School teacher discovered his talent for impersonating Will Ferrel’s beloved character in 2017 when he attended the local Mainx24 festival downtown. “One of my neighbors had an elf costume and it’s been one of my favorite movies for a long time,” Steen explained. “I put it on and was like, ‘hey this is kind of fun. I’ve got the costume, let me try the character,’ so I did and it worked so

hire primarily at corporate parties and other holiday festivities, but you may also see him on a street corner or welcoming customers at a storefront, and his resemblance to the real Buddy the Elf is uncanny. Steen says that the shock of a passerby’s double-take is what he most loves about elfin’ around: “My favorite part is probably all the people I get to meet and not just meet them but kind of surprise them, catch them off guard, make them smile.” And for the Colorado-born Chattanooga native, Chattanooga is the perfect place for such an endeavor. “I love that Chattanooga is a bigger city but it still has a community kind of feel where I can do events like Mainx24 and have it really feel like a grassroots kind of event, and I think the people and the size really make this city what it is,” Steen explains. All this to say, keep your eyes peeled this Christmas season, because you may just be approached by an elf who asks, “Does somebody need a hug?”

well that I was kind of sent ahead of the group of students I was at the festival with to do my own thing and work the crowd. I had so much fun, my face was killing me by the end from smiling so much.” Steen—or should I say the Chattanooga Elf—works for

Photo credits: Elizabeth Burns Photography and Heath Austin Photography

explore chattanooga | 19

EXPERIENCE ENDLESS ADVENTURES

PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY AT TNAQUA.ORG Chattanooga Riverfront • 800-262-0695

Holiday Guide 2023