Best Restaurants and Retail in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, Tennessee is known for its unparalleled views and breathtaking scenery. This top-rated tourist attraction is home to a variety of native plants, ancient rock formations, and historical stories dating back to the Civil War.
It is hard to believe that most of these marvels, including the famous Rock City and Ruby Falls, are just minutes away from downtown Chattanooga. How can this outdoor oasis also be the place that used the house the largest shopping mall in the state of Tennessee?
“There’s no place like Hamilton Place!”
Hamilton Place, located in the heart of Chattanooga, is a city lover’s paradise with more than 200 specialty stores and restaurants. Though it has the typical department stores inside, there are also a variety of independent food and retail vendors to choose from. There is also a diverse food court nearby when all that shopping works up your appetite.
Though this mall is two-stories and packed with well-known brands, the shopping choices don’t stop there. There are also several stores and restaurants surrounding Hamilton Place if the mall environment isn’t your type of scene. Whether you’re in the mood to fill up your stomach or shopping bags, you’re guaranteed to find bargains while you’re out on the town.
Local Gems in Chattanooga
If this massive mall sounds a bit too much like what you’re trying to escape from, Chattanooga offers plenty of local alternatives to shake things up. This city is home to a variety of boutiques, galleries, and world-class museums that draw in shoppers and collectors alike.
On Sundays from April to December, head over to the Chattanooga Market to experience the very best produce and arts and crafts in the region. The market is supported by local business and has hundreds of local vendors, which means you’ll get a great product and feel great knowing you supported Chattanooga’s economy.
Restaurants in Chattanooga come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from fine-dining atmospheres to holes-in-the-wall that are hidden away. If you want to have your cake and eat it to, try choosing a venue that offers entertainment and live music like The Foundry, HiFi Clyde’s Chattanooga, or The FEED Co. Table and Tavern. Dive in to the all-encompassing city of Chattanooga while enjoying its breathtaking scenery.
The All-in-One Chattanooga Experience
What makes Chattanooga stand out from other tourist locations is the fact that you don’t have to go far to experience it all. Many of the well-known, outdoor attractions are accompanied by local food and restaurants, meaning you don’t have to compromise between having fun, shopping, and refueling during your trip.
One of the most popular attractions in Chattanooga – Rock City – is home to a several retail and dining options. After you’ve spent the day hiking, rock climbing, or sightseeing, you can treat yourself to fresh fudge or authentic southern cuisine. Best of all, you don’t need to sacrifice the view, which makes for an invaluable dining experience.
Whether you want the comfort of home or to step outside your comfort zone, downtown Chattanooga will accommodate all of your needs. Make sure you get the full Chattanooga experience by planning ahead and researching seasonal hours and events.