Family-Friendly Adventures in Chattanooga, Tennessee!

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a nostalgic journey through time at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, an ideal destination for families eager to explore the rich history of railroads.

Getting There: Located conveniently at 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN, the museum is easily accessible by car. From downtown Chattanooga, take I-24 E towards Atlanta/Knoxville, then take exit 183A for Germantown Road. The Museum is just a few minutes drive from the exit. Ample parking is available on-site.

Start Your Adventure at the Grand Junction Station

Begin your visit at the Grand Junction depot, where you can explore various exhibits detailing the history and technology of the American railroad. Check out the ticket office as soon as you arrive to plan your day around the train schedule.

Missionary Ridge Local Ride

Don’t miss the Missionary Ridge Local, a 55-minute train ride that departs daily. This ride features a turn on a historic turntable and a brief stop at East Chattanooga, allowing visitors to see the restoration shop where old locomotives and railcars are brought back to life. This engaging experience offers not only a ride but also an educational demonstration of steam and diesel locomotives.

Explore the Display Yard

After the train ride, take a stroll around the display yard. Here, children can climb aboard various static train cars and locomotives, providing a hands-on understanding of the size and mechanics of these massive machines.

Lunch and Souvenirs

Grab a bite at the deli inside the Grand Junction Station and visit the souvenir shop for unique gifts like engineer hats, train whistles, and model trains to remember your day.

Interesting Fact: The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is not just a museum but also a moving exhibit, with many of its trains still operational, offering a dynamic way to experience history firsthand.

This exciting blend of education and entertainment makes the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum a must-visit for families looking to ignite a passion for history and technology in a fun setting.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Tennessee Aquarium

Why Visit?

Embark on an underwater adventure at the Tennessee Aquarium located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. Begin your day early to make the most of your visit, ideally arriving at opening time to beat the crowds.

Getting There

The Tennessee Aquarium is easily accessible by car with ample parking nearby. If you"re staying downtown, a fun option is to take the free electric shuttle that runs along Broad Street, dropping you off right at the Aquarium"s doorstep.

Morning Exploration - River Journey

Start your tour at the River Journey building, which holds the title as the world"s largest freshwater aquarium. Dive into the ecosystems of the Amazon and the Mississippi. Don"t miss the mesmerizing antics of the playful river otters and take a moment to marvel at the alligators. A not-to-be-missed exhibit is the Seahorse Gallery, where you can learn about the unique breeding habits of these mystical creatures.

Lunch Break

Grab a bite at one of the local eateries near the Aquarium. The Big River Grille & Brewing Works offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a diverse menu that catiles to all ages.

Afternoon Dive - Ocean Journey

Post-lunch, head to the Ocean Journey building. This part of the Aquarium features a spectacular butterfly garden and the mesmerizing Secret Reef exhibit, home to large sharks and vibrant coral formations. Be sure to catch the interactive dive show to see scuba divers feeding the fish, offering an engaging learning experience about marine life conservation.

End of Day

Wrap up your visit by exploring the gift shop for unique souvenirs, ensuring your family takes a piece of the aquatic world home. Don"t forget to take advantage of the picturesque views of the Tennessee River for a family photo to commemorate your visit.

Fun Fact

Did you know? The Tennessee Aquarium"s conservation efforts have led to the successful breeding of endangered Lake Sturgeon, helping to restore this ancient fish species to its native waters.

Enjoy a day full of learning, fun, and awe-inspiring aquatic life at the Tennessee Aquarium!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.