By Enjoy Unique Stays

The Ultimate Guide to a Chattanooga Weekend Getaway

Planning a Chattanooga weekend getaway? You’ve come to the right place! From our team at Enjoy Unique Stays, we know this vibrant Tennessee city offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, and Southern charm. Whether you’re looking to explore stunning waterfalls, ride the famous Incline Railway, or simply relax in nature, Chattanooga delivers unforgettable experiences just waiting to be discovered.

Nestled alongside the Tennessee River and surrounded by the breathtaking Lookout Mountain, this scenic destination provides endless opportunities for couples, families, and groups seeking their ideal weekend escape.

Table of Contents

Why Choose Chattanooga for Your Weekend Getaway

Chattanooga stands out as one of the South’s most exciting weekend destinations. This beautiful city combines natural wonder with urban sophistication, making it perfect for any type of traveler.

What makes Chattanooga special is how easy it is to experience both adventure and relaxation in just two days. You can start your morning hiking to a waterfall, spend your afternoon exploring world-class attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, and end your evening enjoying craft cocktails with river views.

From our Chattanooga vacation rentals, you’re never more than 30 minutes from any major attraction.

Family enjoying an aquarium experience during a weekend getaway

Top Attractions for Your Chattanooga Weekend

Rock City and Ruby Falls

No Chattanooga weekend getaway is complete without visiting these iconic Lookout Mountain attractions. Rock City offers incredible rock formations and the famous “See Seven States” view, while Ruby Falls features America’s deepest underground waterfall.

Staying at our Treetop Escapes puts you just a few minutes away from both attractions, making it easy to beat the crowds with early morning visits. After a day of exploring, you can return to your private treehouse hot tub and relax among the trees.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the world’s largest freshwater aquariums. With over 12,000 animals and interactive exhibits, it’s perfect for families and couples alike.

Plan to spend at least half a day here, and combine your visit with a walk along the Tennessee Riverwalk for stunning river views.

child sitting on aquarium

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway

Ride the historic Incline Railway up Lookout Mountain, a century-old marvel offering breathtaking views and easy access to several iconic mountaintop attractions.

The railway is easily accessible from all our Chattanooga-area properties, making it a must-do activity during your weekend stay.

railway during sunset

Outdoor Adventures Near Your Stay

Hiking and Waterfall Chasing

Chattanooga offers some of the Southeast’s best hiking, with trails suitable for all skill levels. Popular spots include:

  • Sunset Rock: Easy hike with incredible sunset views over the Tennessee Valley

  • Cloudland Canyon State Park: Features stunning waterfalls and dramatic canyon views

  • Lula Lake Land Trust: Beautiful hiking trails leading to pristine waterfalls

Our blog about Chattanooga hiking trails provides detailed information about the best trails for your fitness level.

waterfall in Chattanooga

Rock Climbing and Hang Gliding

Lookout Mountain offers world-class rock climbing and hang gliding opportunities. Several outfitters provide equipment rentals and guided experiences for beginners.

Staying at our mountain properties means you’re right in the heart of the action, with easy access to climbing areas and launch sites.

Hang gliding launch at Laragne-Montéglin with stunning alpine views and enthusiastic spectators.

Water Activities on the Tennessee River

The Tennessee River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

After a day on the river, you can easily return to your comfortable accommodations to clean up and prepare for evening activities.

kayaking on the river

Where to Stay: Enjoy Unique Stays Properties

Treetop Escapes: Your Mountain Retreat

Our Treetop Escapes community offers the most unique Chattanooga weekend getaway experience. These luxury treehouses are built high up, reaching 25 feet in the trees, and come with special features like:

  • Private hot tubs with mountain views

  • Steam showers and luxury amenities

  • Fire pits and outdoor grilling areas

  • Complete privacy surrounded by nature

Each treehouse has its own character and design, from the romantic Blooming Redbud with sweeping valley views to the family-friendly Dreams of Spring with multiple sleeping areas.

Dreams of Spring vacation rentalDreams of Spring Hot Tub

Additional Unique Properties

We also offer several other distinctive stays in the greater Chattanooga area. Each property is carefully selected to provide authentic experiences that connect you with the local culture and natural beauty.

Stone Ledge Refuge Vacation Rental in Chattanooga Area

Stone Ledge Refuge with Hot Tub

Planning Your Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Friday: Arrival and Settling In

  • Arrive at your Enjoy Unique Stays property in the afternoon and take time to settle in. Most of our properties offer stunning views and unique amenities, so spend some time exploring your accommodation.

  • For dinner, consider driving into Chattanooga for farm-to-table dining or staying local and cooking using your fully equipped kitchen while enjoying mountain or lake views.

Saturday: Adventure Day

  • Start early with breakfast at your accommodation, then head out for your chosen adventure. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, exploring Ruby Falls, or visiting the Tennessee Aquarium, Saturday is your day for the main attractions.

  • Pack a lunch or plan to eat in downtown Chattanooga. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with river views, perfect for a weekend getaway meal.

  • Return to your property in the evening to enjoy amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, or game rooms. This is the perfect time to relax and reflect on your day’s adventures.

Sunday: Relaxation and Exploration

  • Enjoy a leisurely morning at your property. Many guests tell us their favorite memories come from quiet morning coffee on private decks overlooking mountains or lakes.

  • Spend your final day exploring local attractions you missed or revisiting favorites. Consider visiting local farmers markets, antique shops, or scenic drives through the mountains.

  • Check out by your designated time, but remember that your Chattanooga weekend getaway memories will last much longer.

Local Dining and Entertainment

Chattanooga’s food scene has exploded in recent years, offering everything from upscale Southern cuisine to international flavors. Downtown provides the most variety, while local mountain communities offer authentic regional specialties.

Many of our properties include fully equipped kitchens, perfect for preparing meals with local ingredients. Farmers markets and specialty food stores provide fresh, local produce that enhances your stay experience.

For entertainment, Chattanooga offers live music venues, craft breweries, and seasonal festivals. Check local event calendars when planning your visit to see what special events coincide with your stay.

a man playing a guitar in front of a microphone

Making the Most of Your Stay

Pack for All Seasons

Chattanooga weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Pack layers and comfortable hiking shoes regardless of the season. Our properties provide many amenities, but bringing personal items like favorite snacks or special toiletries enhances your comfort.

Take Advantage of Unique Amenities

Each property offers distinctive features you won’t find elsewhere. Whether it’s a private hot tub overlooking the valley, a steam shower after hiking, or tree nets for family fun, make sure to experience what makes your accommodation special.

Connect with Nature

One of the biggest advantages of staying with us is our locations’ connection to nature. Take time to sit quietly and listen to forest sounds, watch for wildlife, or simply enjoy being away from city noise and distractions.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring: Wildflowers and Waterfalls

Spring brings wildflowers and full waterfalls to the Chattanooga area. Temperatures are perfect for hiking, and our properties’ outdoor amenities become especially enjoyable.

Summer: Peak Adventure Season

Summer offers the warmest weather for water activities and camping. Our air-conditioned properties provide comfortable retreats after hot days of exploring.

Fall: Spectacular Foliage

Fall colors in the Tennessee mountains are spectacular. This is our busiest season, so book early to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.

Winter: Cozy Retreat Time

Winter transforms our properties into cozy retreats. Hot tubs become even more enjoyable, and fireplaces create perfect atmospheres for romantic getaways.

Wrapping Up Your Perfect Chattanooga Weekend Getaway

A Chattanooga weekend getaway offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, natural beauty and urban sophistication.

Our unique properties provide the perfect base for exploring everything Chattanooga offers while enjoying luxury amenities and personalized hospitality. Whether you’re soaking in a private hot tub after hiking to waterfalls, cooking dinner in a fully equipped kitchen with mountain views, or simply relaxing by a fire pit under the stars, every moment enhances your weekend getaway experience.

Are you ready for a fun getaway? Check out our Chattanooga vacation rentals and begin your adventure today!

Row of blue chairs facing a scenic mountain forest view

FAQ

What is the best time of year for a Chattanooga weekend getaway?
Each season offers unique advantages for your Chattanooga weekend getaway. Spring brings wildflowers and full waterfalls, summer offers perfect weather for water activities, fall provides spectacular foliage, and winter creates cozy retreat atmospheres. From our experience hosting guests at Treetop Escapes and other properties, fall is most popular for mountain views, while summer is ideal for families wanting to enjoy outdoor amenities like hot tubs and hiking.

What makes staying at Treetop Escapes special for a Chattanooga weekend?
Treetop Escapes offers elevated treehouses up to 25 feet in the forest canopy, with unique amenities like private hot tubs, steam showers, and mountain views. Unlike traditional hotels, you’ll have complete privacy surrounded by nature while still being close to all major attractions.

Are Enjoy Unique Stays properties suitable for families on weekend getaways?
Absolutely! We offer family-friendly accommodations ranging from spacious treehouses with multiple sleeping areas to lakefront properties. Many properties feature game rooms, outdoor play areas, and amenities like tree nets that children especially enjoy.

What outdoor activities are available near your Chattanooga properties?
The Chattanooga area offers incredible outdoor opportunities right from our properties. You can hike to waterfalls at Cloudland Canyon, explore caves at Raccoon Mountain, enjoy water sports on the Tennessee River, or try rock climbing and hang gliding on Lookout Mountain.

Plan your next Vacation Escape Adventure
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