Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Chattanooga, TN to Ringgold, GA
Travelers seeking a scenic and cultural driving experience are sure to find it on a road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Ringgold, Georgia. Along the way, there are unique destinations that offer an interesting mix of history, natural beauty, and Southern charm.
Did you know that Ringgold, Georgia was a significant Civil War site and was fought over four times during the Civil War? The town was also home to a legend of a story about a great locomotive chase.
As the halfway point of this road trip, Chattanooga is home to a variety of interesting destinations, including the Tennessee Aquarium, the Creative Discovery Museum, and the Hunter Museum of American Art. Visitors can also take a stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk or explore the acres of green space at the famous Point Park.
From Chattanooga, the drive to Ringgold is a 20-minute journey covering a distance of 20 miles. While it may be a short drive, plenty of must-see attractions are waiting to be discovered. Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:
1. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, which preserves the sites of two Civil War battles: Chickamauga and Chattanooga. The park covers 8,000 acres and includes hiking trails, battlefields, and historic landmarks. Visitors can also take a ranger-led tour to learn more about the park's storied past.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Be sure to check out the Bragg Reservation, which offers stunning views of the Chickamauga Battlefield.
2. Rock City Gardens
Located atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City Gardens is a unique natural attraction that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore winding paths through unique rock formations and gardens filled with vibrant flowers. One of the highlights of Rock City Gardens is the 410-foot-long suspension bridge known as the "Swinging Bridge."
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a walk to Fairyland Caverns, where a series of dioramas inspired by fairy tales come to life.
3. Incline Railway
The Incline Railway is a unique tourist attraction that takes visitors on a scenic ride up Lookout Mountain. The mile-long funicular railway has been in operation since 1895 and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. At the top of the Incline, visitors can explore the observation deck and take in the views of the Tennessee River Valley.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the Battles for Chattanooga Museum, which showcases the significant Civil War battles that took place in and around the city.
4. Cabela's
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Cabela's, which is known for its extensive selection of outdoor gear and accessories. The store also features impressive displays of wildlife, including a 30,000-gallon aquarium filled with fish from the nearby Tennessee River.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Grab a bite to eat at the store's restaurant, which features wild game dishes and Southern-inspired favorites.
5. Ringgold Depot
Built in 1849, the Ringgold Depot is a historic train station that played a significant role in the Civil War. The depot was used as a hospital during the war and was the site of a Confederate victory in 1862. Today, visitors can explore the station and learn more about its fascinating history.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit the Battle of Ringgold Gap Museum, which features exhibits and artifacts from the Civil War battle fought in the area.
In conclusion, this road trip may be short, but it offers a diverse range of attractions that are sure to appeal to travelers of all interests. From the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain to the rich history of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, there is something for everyone on this route. The journey takes around 20 minutes, but the memories made along the way will last a lifetime.