Weekend Wandering: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Despite the fact that many international borders are closed and flight restrictions are abundant, I’ve been trying to keep travel and exploration alive during COVID-19 quarantine. I’ve looked at photos from my past adventures (honestly, I never realized just how many photos I took), cooked ethnic recipes from around the globe, and watched just about every food documentary housed on Netflix. While all these are great ways to pass the time, it doesn’t satiate my appetite for travel. Travel allows us to broaden our perspective and shapes our minds in ways we didn’t even know were possible and I am missing that more than ever right now.
I’ve spent several weekends exploring gardens, parks, and various Nashville attractions, but something was missing. A change of scenery was exactly what this girl needed. I packed my bags, grabbed my two best friends, and headed east for a little weekend in Chattanooga.
I know, a weekend road trip to Chattanooga is not the same as jet-setting to Tulum or exploring Ischia, but it was a city that I visited several times during my childhood and I was excited to see how the city had evolved.
Whether you’re becoming reacquainted with this East Tennessee gem or exploring Chattanooga for the first time, I’ve got all the best bites and brews across the area.
Travel Basics
Where is Chattanooga?
For those of you who are not familiar with Tennessee, Chattanooga is located approximately two hours east of Nashville. Fun fact, when you travel to Chattanooga from Nashville, you briefly pop into the state of Georiga during your drive and don’t forget they are on Eastern standard time.
What is Chattanooga known for?
Chattanooga is definitely one of those cities that flies under the radar. Chattanooga is home to Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Tennessee Aquarium, all of which are family-friendly excursions. And I can’t forget about the Chattanooga Choo-Choo. All aboard!
Bites and Brews
Charlie's BBQ & Bakery
2309 E Main Street
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404
Website and Instagram
After we checked into the hotel, our first stop was Charlie’s BBQ and Bakery. Wes and Elizabeth Agee have done a remarkable job transforming this local convenience store into one of Chattanooga’s most popular barbecue joints. Maybe you are in the mood for a loaded potato or perhaps nachos are speaking to your soul, Charlie’s has it all and it’s topped with chicken, pork or brisket. During my visit, I ordered the two meat sampler platter and tried both the pork and the brisket. OMG. Not only was that pork delicious, but those burnt ends are the only way to go. In an effort to send us into an official food coma, Elizabeth sent out a sampler platter of her desserts, which isn’t on the menu by the way. If you know, you know. I’d say that these are some of the best desserts in Tennessee. Elizabeth’s chess pie is almost identical to the one my grandma used to make. If I would have sat there much longer, I could have devoured an entire pie.
Charlie’s is taking all the necessary precautions during COVID-19 and there’s ample seating on their patio or in the backyard. If you go, order all the desserts, by far the highlight of the meal.
State of Confusion
301 E Main Street
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37408
Website and Instagram
Brunch: a meal where the bloody marys are strong and the bacon is crisp. Thank goodness Chattanooga has a booming brunch scene. While the bottomless mimosa options are endless in this great city, there should be no confusion as to where you should brunch. State of Confusion is the only option. Located on the southside of Chattanooga, State of Confusion has a strong brunch game with even stronger cocktails. They have everything you need for a perfect brunch: fantastic service, great food, and wonderful cocktails. For my bloody mary enthusiasts, give it a try and make sure you ask them to bring the spice!
OddStory Brewing Company
336 E M L King Boulevard
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403
Website and Instagram
We visited a few breweries while we were in Chattanooga, but nothing compared to the brews that we had at Oddstory Brewing Company. First, let’s talk atmosphere. Oddstory Brewing has such a relaxing and chill atmosphere. The area is filled with lush plants, couches, and ample table seating, despite the COVID-19 restrictions. If you’re lucky, Oddstory will have the windows open and you can grab a seat there and watch the people mill about the city. Operating under the philosophy, “ live a life worth telling” they are certainly creating beer that’s worth talking about. Even though they weren’t serving samplers (damn COVID-19), we had a chance to try several of their beers and were we ever impressed. The beer I enjoyed most was the Belgian Field Beer which is a Belgian Saison brewed with spruce trips, thyme, juniper, lavender, and other seasonal spices. To say this beer is complex and full of flavor is an understatement. I can only hope you have a chance to experience it for yourself!
Oddstory Brewing: One Of My Favorite Spots In The Brewery
Stir
1444 Market Street
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402
Website and Instagram
Known for their fresh oysters and craft cocktails, Stir Chattanooga is the perfect place to pop into for an afternoon pick me up. After wandering around the city for hours, we stopped by Stir for one of my favorite cocktails, a dirty martini. While this may seem like a simple cocktail to some, it’s all about the perfect combination of vodka and olive juice, not to mention the bleu cheese stuffed olives. Stir nailed it. While I can’t speak to their food, every dish coming out from the kitchen seemed absolutely delicious. Stir was quite the popular place as the bar and restaurant were packed early in the afternoon. If you’re considering more than just a cocktail, I’d recommend reservations.
Chattanooga Choo Choo
1400 Market Street
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402
Website and Instagram
While we wandered over for a quick photo-op, we ended up staying at the Chattanooga Choo Choo much longer than expected. We grabbed a cocktail from Gate 11 Distillery and ended up spending the remainder of the afternoon wandering around the Glenn Miller Gardens. Whether you want to take a load off and relax in one of the many rocking chairs or play a game of bocce ball, Glenn Miller Gardens is a perfect place for respite after a day of exploring the bustling city.
Photo Ops and Murals
Nashville may have the “ I Believe In Nashville” mural and let’s face it, those bachelorettes can’t get enough of the “ What Lifts You” wings, but Chattanooga has its fair share of street art and art installations. I had a chance to visit a few before we had to say goodbye.
Umbrella Alley ( West Village)
Located at Chestnut & Pine Street
Koch’s Bakery Doughnut Mural
1900 Broad Street
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37408
Chattanooga Southside
Located off E. Main Street
Rise and Shine
Located Across From State of Confusion
Whether you’re looking for a little outdoor adventure, a family-friendly day trip or you simply need a change of scenery, Chattanooga is the place for you. We had the best time exploring all the bites and booze the city had to offer. Visit Chattanooga, you won’t be disappointed!
Until Next Time!