Celebrating Local Fare Magazine’s 20 Year Journey
Local Fare Marketing Group recently celebrated the 20th Anniversary of Local Fare Magazine. To commemorate their 20-year journey, Joann and Juan Bustamante, President and VP of Sales/Creative Director of Local Fare Marketing Group, hosted a celebration at Frazier Five and Dime, a venue symbolizing their commitment to investing in good quality small businesses. Surrounded by good food, a beautiful atmosphere and clients which have become more like friends, the evening was a tribute to both hard work and gratitude. The event also served as an opportunity to honor their loyal clients, with 16 of them being recognized for their unwavering support for over 15 years. Each honored client received a hand-blown sculpture crafted by renowned local artist Chris Mosey of Ignis Glass Studio.
Embarking on this incredible journey two decades ago, Local Fare Magazine has defied the odds in the challenging world of small businesses, including weathering three recessions and a global pandemic. However, Local Fare’s ability to adapt and evolve has been key in overcoming these hurdles. Juan and Joann, credit sheer grit, will, and determination for their success as well as building deep roots in an ever changing economy. They recognize the growing changes in digital technology and embrace the shift while still staying true to their roots in traditional print media.
While digital marketing has experienced tremendous growth, there has been some digital fatigue of late and traditional print media is back on the rise. “People still want to feel that paper in their hands, a welcomed break from staring at screens all day” states Juan. Joann and Juan recognize this trend as well as continue to embrace the evolving digital landscape.
The journey of starting Local Fare Magazine 20 years ago is a testament to the power of determination, adaptability, and uncompromising values. Through the ups and downs, Juan and Joann have remained committed to providing quality customer service while also adapting in an ever changing industry. Their celebration not only marked a milestone for Local Fare Magazine but also highlighted the importance of fostering strong relationships with clients. Juan adds “ Investing in people who represent our character and provide the type of service our clients expect is just as important as having clients that provide quality products and stand behind their services.” Over the course of twenty years in business, Juan and Joann have come to understand their connection with clients extends beyond business transactions, instead these relationships are built on mutual respect and trusted friendship and a strong desire to help each client reach their highest potential of success! As you look toward strategic budget planning for 2024, our team of marketing experts would love the opportunity to utilize our proven experience in the marketplace and help you build a strong marketing strategy to include a balance of both traditional print, social media and digital marketing efforts which make sense for your business. Contact us today to set up a consultation!
25 Ways to Practice Gratitude
Acts of gratitude have a profound impact on our communities.
They foster connection, positivity, and empathy among individuals. When we show appreciation or support a cause, we value others and their efforts, creating a ripple effect of joy and encouragement. Even the smallest gestures have the power to make a difference!
- Express your gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals for their tireless efforts in keeping our community healthy.
- Make a positive impact on food insecurity by donating canned food items to the Chattanooga Area Food Bank, ensuring those in need have access to nutritious meals, especially during the upcoming holidays. chattfoodbank.org
- Help beautify Coolidge Park by joining the Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Department's community garden initiative, planting flowers and nurturing green spaces. chattanooga.gov/parks
- Be a good neighbor and offer your assistance with yard work or home repairs, fostering a sense of unity and support in the community you live in.
- Donate gently used clothing and household items to the Salvation Army in Chattanooga, helping families in need within our local community. www.csarmy.org/
- Send care packages to Chattanooga-based soldiers serving overseas through the Operation Gratitude program, showing appreciation for their service. operationgratitude.com/
- Shop Local this holiday season and support our small businesses. There are many local shopping events including Dashing Down the Blvd, Holiday Hoopla and Northshore Northpole Open House. Check out Facebook Events for more information. facebook.com/events/explore/chattanooga-tn
- Volunteer at the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, serving meals and providing support to individuals experiencing homelessness. chattfoundation.org/
- Support Gift a Bike by providing a monetary donation toward the purchase of bikes for in need children and help spread joy at the holidays.
- Offer your expertise as a tutor or mentor at the Chambliss Center for Children, helping young learners thrive academically. chamblisscenter.org/
- Prepare or pick up a meal to go for someone you know that is overwhelmed, grieving or struggling as an act of kindness. southernstarrestaurant.com
- Volunteer at the McKamey Animal Center, caring for animals and assisting with adoption events. mckameyanimalcenter.org
- Support local arts organizations like Area 61 by supporting local artist or attending their exhibitions and events. area61gallery.com/
- Adopt A Waterway and commit to ongoing stewardship in local streams throughout the Tennessee Valley Watershed. Mywaterways.org
- Demonstrate community pride by organizing a neighborhood cleanup day to keep Chattanooga clean and beautiful.
- Save lives by donating blood at local blood drives or encouraging others in Chattanooga to do the same. redcrossblood.org
- Support single parents by offering to babysit, giving them a much-needed break.
- Help support women and children experiencing homelessness by donating clothing and essentials needed to help move toward a more sustainable future. chattanoogaroomintheinn.com/
- Spread positivity by leaving uplifting sticky notes in public spaces for strangers to find and enjoy.
- Bring comfort to patients by volunteering at the Ronald MacDonald House, caring for and serving individuals and families that have loved ones in the hospital. Rmhchattanooga.com
- Assist elderly neighbors by offering to drive them to appointments or running errands on their behalf.
- Make a difference by organizing a fundraising event such as a bake sale or garage sale to support a local charitable organization of your choice in Chattanooga.
- Practice gratitude and kindness by expressing your appreciation with a simple "thank you" to those you encounter throughout the day, reminding them that their efforts are valued.
- Invest in the future of at risk kids. Become a mentor through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program.Bbbschatt.org
- Support musicians and local music venues by attending concerts held locally. thesignaltn.com/
25 Ways to Grow your Love
Valentine's Day is more than a cheesy greeting card holiday. It's a reminder that romance should be celebrated. Let these 25 ways to Grow your Love inspire you to make a real gesture for your loved one on the 14th, and all year round!
- Feed your love The fastest way to the heart is through the stomach. Prepare or order their favorite meal.
- Tune-in Conversations are an invitation, when you listen and participate it shows you care. Put the phone down, acknowledge your partner when they are sharing, and show interest in what they say.
- Love what they love Make an effort to adopt one of their favorite hobbies. You might inadvertently find your own hidden talent, or simply have fun learning.
- Ignore TLC, chase waterfalls All around the Scenic City there are innumerable trails, waterfalls, nature preserves, and lakes to be explored. Get out and explore together.
- Use your words Notice and compliment their individual beauty, talents, intelligence, ingenuity, and style. Let them know what you like about them.
- Be sneaky Leave love notes hidden for them to find. Stick them into their books, wallet, lunch box or under their pillow.
- Decorate with your love Print out and frame your favorite photos together and scatter them around your home to remind you of your best times.
- Yes, we can! Offer a “yes day” where you enthusiastically do anything they want.
- Give ‘em a break Take over all the household responsibilities and let them punch out guilt-free.
- Be playful Ask them about their favorite toy, movie, game or food from childhood and surprise them with an “inner child” night.
- Get in touch Did you know that holding hands can increase empathy, reduce pain, and create synchronized brain waves? Holding hands is a powerful way to stay connected.
- Mix it up Go old school and create a mixtape or playlist of songs that tell your unique love story.
- Book-it Share an experience by reading a book together.
- Chill out Help them relax by creating a spa experience at home. Lower the lights, draw a bubble bath with candles and snacks. Top it off with a foot or scalp massage.
- Go hunting Set up a scavenger hunt around your home with a fun surprise at the end.
- Written in the stars Bundle up and go star-gazing. Do some research ahead of time on constellations and share what you learn.
- Nip it in the bud Skip the grocery store flowers and create a unique bouquet with a local florist.
- Take a break together Surprise them by turning your work lunch break into a day date.
- Bust a move Go dancing! Don’t know how? Don’t let that stop you. Take a dance class together.
- Ditch the wait No one wants to go out on a date just to sit and wait for a table. Make a reservation ahead of time.
- Adventure awaits! Chattanooga is an adventurous city with zip lines, indoor rock climbing, escape rooms, ghost tours, and more. Do something memorable!
- Get in the closet Plan a “you pick” dress-up night where you each wear an outfit handpicked head to toe by your partner.
- Spoiler alert So often we deny ourselves simple things we want simply because we can’t justify spending the money. Get your partner that thing they’ve been talking about but haven’t purchased.
- Save the date Create a monthly date night and take turns planning fun activities.
- Have you tried asking? Who would better know what your partner wants to show them love than them? Pay attention and give them what they’re asking for!
25 Ways to Survive the Holidays
- Take a breath- Did you know that deep breathing activates the vagus nerve which impacts mood, digestion, heart rate, and oxygenation to your brain? A few deep breaths can help you focus in stressful situations.
- Say thank you- Take a dozen donuts or cookies to your local fire stations, hospital break rooms, faculty lounges, post office, or police station as a thank you to local civil servants.
- Make small things big events- Make a gingerbread house, have a Christmas tree lighting ceremony or bake and deliver treats to neighbors. The small moments together are what you’ll remember long-term.
- Live and let that to-do list die- Be ok with not being productive, the house might get messy, and the dishes and laundry might be backed up. Be kind to yourself and let go of the to-dos.
- Find quiet in the chaos- Take a few minutes every day to be still, and give your body a chance to rest.
- Turn predictable family drama into a game- Start a bingo card of things that your relatives say that make you crazy. When you get a bingo treat yourself to something fun like a sweet treat or a cup of coffee
- Outsource wrapping- Don’t get stuck with last-minute wrapping! Ask your local girl scout or the store you purchase from to wrap gifts for you.
- Skip the wrapping altogether- Get reusable gift bags and boxes for an easier, more sustainable Christmas option.
- Be choosey with your yes- The holiday FOMO is fo’ real. You can’t be everywhere at once, choose activities that will bring joy, and don’t be afraid to say no.
- Find support- Whether you are grieving a loss, recovering from an addiction, or just trying to survive the season, having support is crucial. Find a support group, lean on friends, talk to professionals, and take care of yourself emotionally.
- Make an escape plan- Have a “safe word” to let your partner know when you need a break or to escape from challenging social situations.
- Prioritize connection over perfection- In a world that glorifies curation, it can be hard to be in the moment. Remember, the moments together are more important than a picture-perfect Instagram post.
- Set reminders- Save yourself the middle of the night panic attack by setting a post-bedtime timer to move the Elf on a Shelf.
- Move your body- Over the holidays we tend to take in extra stress and sugar. Take a daily walk to keep yourself healthy physically and emotionally.
- Change the subject- Bringing together generations and distant relatives can bring with it differing perspectives. Rather than joining the debate, try to find common ground.
- Embrace the healing powers of cheese - Science has proven what we’ve known all along, cheese is a wonder drug. Cheese contains mild opiate-like compounds called casomorphins, which release dopamine, leading to a sense of reward and pleasure.
- Choose Quality over quantity- The number of boxes under the tree is not an automatic equation for showing love. Less can be more if the gifts are thoughtful.
- Have you tried drinking? Don’t go overboard, but a glass of wine can certainly take an edge off a stressful evening.
- Start a holiday movie tradition- Screen a holiday classic movie paired with themed snacks. For example, hot chocolate and The Polar Express.
- Remember to have fun- With kids out on winter break, there’s a lot more time to create fun. Have everyone contribute one idea to a “Family Fun List.” Not sure where to start? Add ice skating, seeing the EPB lights, or sledding (with cardboard if there’s no snow).
- Be a friend- Spend time with those who may be lonely this time of year. Try Christmas caroling at a nursing home or providing meals to the Ronald McDonald house.
- Look for joy- Take time to write down moments of gratitude so they don’t get lost in the shuffle.
- Ask for help- Everyone could use help this time of year. Don’t become a holiday martyr, ask your friends and family for help when you feel overwhelmed.
- Make a playlist- Put together your favorite holiday music on a playlist and blast it while you’re wrapping, cooking, or running a thousand errands.
- Remember the true meaning of the holiday season. Beyond the gifts, the sparkle, and the business, this is a season of giving and love.
25 Ways to Give Back in Chattanooga
November is a season of gratitude and giving. If you’re looking for ways to support local nonprofits but feeling financially strained, donating money isn’t the only way to get involved. Here are 25 ways to give back in Chattanooga.
- Gift-A-Bike- For the past 11 years the generous donations of Local Fare Magazine readers have provided brand-new bikes for Christmas to our most vulnerable population. Scan the QR Code to donate today!
- Clean up Chattanooga- Join Green Steps Chattanooga for a community cleanup picking up litter around trails, parks, open spaces, neighborhoods, and city limits.
- Join the Family- Welcome Home of Chattanooga offers a loving home environment for end-of-life care. Donate home care items, prepare a meal, or simply provide friendship by listening to their stories.
- For the Animal Lovers- Work at McKamey Animal Center to help socialize cats, walk dogs, volunteer in the office, or, for a longer commitment, become a foster family until pets can find their forever homes.
- Clean out your Closet- Donate professional clothing to Dress for Success and empower women to achieve economic independence.
- Shop for Necessities- While you’re shopping for your family, grab an extra set of diapers, baby wipes, body wash, hair products, toothbrushes and paste, and more to donate to the Chattanooga Free Store for community members in need.
- Pay it Forward- While getting your caffeine fix at Cadence Coffee, buy a cup for a stranger and leave an encouraging note with their Pay it Forward program.
- Be a Safe Haven- Help refugees fleeing from war and poverty find a new home and a new hope in Chattanooga.
- Give Formalware a New Life- Dust off gently loved gowns and help local teens get outfitted for prom or homecoming. Check out The Closet of Blessings on Facebook.
- Get your Steps In- Find a nearby 5k race fundraiser to support local non-profits and give back while earning bragging rights.
- Take 15 Minutes to Save a Life- Everybody is somebody’s type. Donating blood is an easy and quick way to make a huge community contribution.
- Calm in Chaos- Due to a foster parent shortage, children entering state custody have ended up sleeping in offices. Isaiah 117 house provides a warm bed while children transition into care. Check out their wishlist.
- Play Santa- The Angel Tree’s goal is to make sure every kid in our community has a Christmas to remember.
- Invest in the Future- Become a mentor through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program.
- Shop for Good- Project Free to Fly provides job skills, mentoring, and support to women in recovery. Shop their high-end goods, and do some good.
- Change the Course of Generations- MOMentum believes higher education can transform a generation. Use your resources, talent, and experiences to support single moms who are working hard to make a difference for their families by graduating college.
- Provide Comfort and Joy- Crochet blankets, donate new toys, or pick something from the wishlist for children staying at Erlanger Hospital.
- The Power of Art- The Hart Gallery believes that art has the power to heal and help those in mental, emotional, and economical distress. Purchase their beautiful work to support the artist's recovery and healing.
- Be a Shelter in the Storm- Provide household goods to families transitioning from homelessness to Chattanooga Room at the Inn.
- Lend a Lift- Provide autonomy and dignity to the elderly or disabled members of our community by offering free rides to appointments or errands.
- Get Wild- Volunteer at the Chattanooga Zoo and get a behind-the-scenes understanding of how to care for these exotic residents.
- Book it!- Did you know volunteers ages 10 and up can work at the Chattanooga Public Library?
- Be a Bridge- The Chambliss Center provides transitional living for teens who have aged out of the foster care system. Become a mentor, provide a home-cooked meal, or simply check things off their wishlist to help these kids navigate adulthood.
- Work the Poll- The midterm elections are upon us! Volunteer at your local polling station and become a part of democracy in action!
- Not sure exactly where you fit? Peruse this list of available volunteer opportunities in Chattanooga.
25 Fascinating Histories of Chattanooga
Chattanooga is renowned for its battlegrounds, and famed Choo Choo, but there’s more to the Scenic City! Here are 25 of our favorite historical facts about Chattanooga.
- The Big Nine- Blues legend Bessie Smith began her career busking on the streets in the 9th Street District. Learn about this vibrant chapter of Chattanooga’s musical history at The Bessie Smith Cultural Center.
- The Trail of Tears- Have you ever noticed the artwork along the side of The Tennesee Aquarium? Known as The Passage, it marks the beginning of the Trail of Tears. Learn more about this tragic journey at the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park 6615 Blythe Ferry Ln, Birchwood, TN 37308.
- Go on an Adventure- What do the Cherokee, civil war munitions, prohibition, America's largest underground lake, and a curious preteen have in common? Learn the full story at The Lost Sea Adventure.
- Ghosts Galore- Murder, mysteries, and all things morbid are explored at the most haunted spots in Chattanooga with Ghost City Tours.
- Trash to Treasure- Howard Finster was a celebrated pop-folk artist who turned his Summerville, GA backyard into a sprawling roadside attraction crafted from garbage. Visit Paradise Garden.
- Walnut Street Bridge’s Darker History- A monument honors Ed Johnson, lynched after the supreme court stayed his execution. His final words: “God bless you all. I am a innocent man.” Learn more about Ed Johnson's life through The Ed Johnson Project.
- A Jolly Trolly Tour- Take a guided tour highlighting the history, landscape, art, and culture over Chattanooga’s 200-year history with Scenic City Tours.
- The Birthplace of Moonpie- Invented here over 100 years ago, moon pies have become a cultural staple and southern tradition. Check out the Moonpie General Store, at 29 Broad St.
- Trial of Jimmy Hoffa- After being accused of bribing jurors in Nashville, Hoffa’s trial was moved to Chattanooga. To learn more, read “Hoffa in Tennessee: The Chattanooga Trial that Brought Down an Icon” by local Maury Nicely.
- The Roots of NASCAR- During prohibition Wauhatchie Pike was known as the “Moonshine Motorway.” Bootleggers souped up their cars to outpace the highway patrol, then began racing each other on makeshift dirt tracks. These stock car races led to the formation of NASCAR, in 1947.
- The Invention of Mini-Golf- In 1924 Garret Carter created the first mini-golf course in what would eventually become known as Rock City Gardens.
- Coolidge Park Carousel- Made in 1894 the antique carousel features 52 whimsical hand-carved animals lovingly restored by master craftsman Bud Ellis.
- Fountain Square Fireman- Erected in 1887 to honor fallen firefighters, the fountain once featured alligators who occasionally escaped their enclosures and roamed free.
- The Great Locomotive Chase- The first Medal of Honor recipients are honored for their part in a 120-mile high-speed train robbery during the Civil War.
- The Invention of the Tow Truck- Did you know that the very first tow truck was invented by local mechanic Ernest Holmes in 1916? Learn more at the International Tow Truck Museum.
- Ride the Rails- For over 100 years Chattanooga was a railway hub. Visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum to learn their history and ride a restored vintage train.
- Who is John Ross?- Chief Ross railed against President Jackson's cruel and illegal eviction of the Cherokee from their land. Read his protest letter to congress here.
- American Art- With a collection that spans from the 1700s to today, as well as rotating exhibits The Hunter Museum features the best of American Art.
- A Coke and a Smile- Did you know that Chattanooga had the world’s first coca-cola bottling plant? This small idea led to the iconic brand becoming a worldwide sensation.
- Maclellan Island- Nestled under the Veterans Bridge in the heart of the Tennessee River this nature preserve hosts a variety of plants, birds, wildlife, and a shadow desert.
- From Pollution Mess to Pedestrian Mecca- Chattanooga went from “America’s Dirtiest City” to a pedestrian mecca by revamping the downtown, creating beautiful free green spaces, and displaying public art.
- Ride the Rapids- As the only natural river course to be used in the Olympics, the Ocoee boasts the best whitewater in the south, with class III, IV, & V rapids.
- Vote Whiskey- In 2013 distilleries became legal in Hamilton County for the first time since before the prohibition. Tour the Chattanooga Whiskey distillery and learn its history.
- The Scopes Trial- This landmark trial has been recreated on stage, screen, and live annually at the Dayton Scopes Festival.
- And, of course, the Battlefields- From Lookout Mountain to Chickamauga you can’t throw a rock around Chattanooga without hitting a Civil War site.
25 Ways to Find Your Next Hobby
Feature image courtesy of Metal Makers
Looking for ways to get creative, get active, or just plain get out of your house? A new hobby is a great way to start. Let us direct you to your next obsession with our list of 25 ways to find your next hobby.
A novel idea- Connect with book lovers at The Book and Cover, hosting monthly book clubs for every genre in a space designed to snuggle up with a good book.
Start two-stepping- Throw on your boots, and get ready to scoot at The 107. Every Friday is Country Night with line dancing classes, live music, and drink specials.
Go all in- Every night of the week the No Limit Pub Poker Tour plays free games around town with no drink minimums or cover charges.
Stretch and breathe- Start the search for inner calm with a free yoga class with La Luna Alchemy Yoga at River Market.
Keep on rolling- Join an adults-only late skate party with Moonlight Rollers.
Get outdoorsy- Beginner and family-friendly classes by Outdoor Chattanooga activities include biking, kayaking, skateboarding, and hiking.
Photos Courtesy of Metal Makers, The Book & Cover, and The Chattanooga Public Library
Strike a chord- Grab an instrument from the Chattanooga Public Library Noise Closet and start shredding. Guitars, keyboards, bass, and electric drums are available to borrow.
Birds of a feather club together- The Chattanooga Birding Club provides an interactive map of bird sightings, ways to support conservation efforts, and monthly meetings to connect with fellow birders.
Put those useless facts to work- Experts in sports, pop culture, history and random factoids can flex their skills at a local live trivia game.
Step back in time- Chattanooga Vintage Dancers fully immerse in dance styles ranging from waltz to swing with dance classes, costuming, and social events.
Open up- Learn how to structure and share your personal experiences with StoryCorps whose mission is to preserve stories, start conversations, and bring communities together.
Let the sparks fly- Learn the art of welding and create a one-of-a-kind piece of art at Metal Makers.
Photos Courtesy of Joli Jardin and Crabtree Farms
Pick a team- Whether you’re a pro or a newbie Chattanooga Sports League has a team for you. Sports include pickle ball, basketball, ultimate frisbee and so much more.
Spin a yarn- The Chattanooga Yarncrafters are a crafting group offering classes and meet-ups for every skill level.
Get your kicks- Learn self defense, get a good workout, and relieve stress at Premier Martial Arts.
Don’t get it twisted- Explore the circus arts in silks, acrobatic arts, and Cyr wheel at Chattanooga Ariels.
Written in the stars- Want to learn more about the cosmos? The Barnard Astronomical Society hosts monthly star parties at Cloudland canyon.
Capture the moment- Join professional photographer Nicole Manning of Show me a Smile Photography to learn camera basics, composition, and how to capture natural light.
X marks the spot- Go hiking to hunt for geocaches and leave treasures for others to discover.
Photos Courtesy of Crabtree Farms, Chattanooga School of Language, and Chattanooga Vintage Dancers
Whip it real good- Brush up on cooking skills, or try a whole new culinary experience in The Sweet & Savory Classroom.
Drop a verse- For more than 20 years Rhyme N Chatt has provided writing workshops, open mic nights, and a safe space to share poetry.
Can you dig it?- Flex that green thumb! Learn how to identify and prepare edible herbs and flowers, care for pollinators, and so much more at Crabtree Farms.
Get dramatic- Take acting classes or audition for a local theater production at Chattanooga Theatre Centre.
Arrange something beautiful- Learn how to create beautiful fresh flower bouquets at Joli Jardin Flower Shop.
Change the conversation- Take a class or join a free immersive language social to practice judgment-free with native speakers and other newbies at the Chattanooga School of Language.
25 Chattanooga Dates to Remember
Banner Photo courtesy of ChattaBrew Tours by Tausha Dickinson
Are you stuck in a date night rut? It can be hard to break the Netflix and take-out habit, but new shared experiences are essential to keeping a relationship thriving. Let Local Fare do the heavy lifting of planning your next romantic outing with this list of 25 Unforgettable Dates!
Photo courtesy of Rock City
- Lover’s Leap Rock City- Take a romantic stroll through Rock City to lovers leap, where two star crossed lovers met their fate.
- Classic Arcade Pinball Museum- Leave the quarters at home, get a pass at the Classic Arcade Pinball Museum and play the day away. Wanna make it interesting? High score gets the next round!
- Southside Social- Release your competitive spirit at Southside Social with bowling, darts, lawn games, giant jenga and more.
- Ruby Falls Zip-Line- Feel the rush of adrenaline as you zip-line at Ruby Falls, surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains.
- The Lookouts- Root root root for the home team! Lookouts games are always fun, especially on promotional nights like drink discounts on Thursdays, fireworks on Fridays and the wildly popular used car giveaway!
- Pedego Tours- Take a self guided tour of the city on an electric bike from Pedego Tours. Explore downtown and cruise the riverfront without getting winded on the hills.
Photo courtesy of Chattanooga Vintage Dancers, Lookout Mountain Park by Audray Luck, and Pinspiration
- Lookout Mountain Flight Park- Pack a picnic lunch and watch Hang Gliders launch from Lookout Mountain Flight Park. Feeling extra brave? Take a tandem trip and get a birds eye view of Chattanooga.
- Unknown Caller- Wet your whistle at Unknown Caller, a speakeasy bar with a secret entrance. Just look for the redlight on Cherry Street, and figure out the password.
- Chatt Taste Food Tour- Sick of arguing about where to go for dinner? Take a Chattanooga food tour, featuring restaurants in downtown, southside, or MLK.
- Chattanooga Red Wolves Soccer Club- Get caught up in the action of professional Soccer! Check the schedule for specials like $2 beer night.
- Chattanooga Vintage Dancers- Get out together and dance cheek to cheek at a Chattanooga Vintage Dancers class, featuring classes on waltz and swing and every era in between.
- Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery- Take a tour of the Chattanooga Whiskey distillery, sample a flight, pick a favorite, and buy a bottle to try your own concoctions.
Photos courtesy of Nightfall, The Lookouts by Hannah Grigsby, and Ruby Falls Zip Line
- The Tivoli Theater- Whether you enjoy live music, comedians, or touring broadway shows, you can find tickets for whatever you’re into at the Tivoli Theater.
- The Chattery- Learn a new skill together at the Chattery. Take a class on home bartending, soap making, gardening, photography and more!
- Comedy Catch- Nothing better than getting belly laughs together. Pick shows from touring comedians, local favorites, and Improv Chattanooga. thecomedycatch.com
- Nooga Splash- The couple that plays together stays together. Explore the inflatable obstacle course in Chester Frost Park.
- Lover’s Leap Rock City- Take a romantic stroll through Rock City to lovers leap, where two star crossed lovers met their fate.
- Show me a Smile- Move beyond the simple selfie. Capture your love with a professional photo shoot.
Photos courtesy of Show Me a Smile Photography, Unknown Caller Bar by Kelsey Hassell, and The Chattery
- Hike to Craven House from Sunset Rock- Take a three mile hike together to one of Chattanooga’s best lookouts.
- Splatter room at Pinspiration - Get some of that pent up tension out by throwing in your partner’s face and simultaneously creating a one of a kind piece of art.
- Chattanooga Market- Spend Sunday morning perusing stalls with local produce and handmade goods, grab lunch from one of the dozen food trucks, and enjoy live music.
- Nightfall- Head to Miller Plaza, grab a slice from Community Pie and enjoy a free concert at Nightfall by local musicians.
- L2 Outside- Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard from L2 Outside and take a sunset cruise along the Tennessee River.
- The Wilderness Theater Watch a movie under the stars at The Wilderness Theater drive-in. Bring a football or frisbee to toss while you wait for the sun to set, fill up on snacks from the concession stand, and snuggle up for a one of a kind movie watching experience.
- ChattaBrew Tour- Take a 4 hour walking tour of local breweries, sample their goods, and meet the brewmasters behind Chattanooga’s most popular local labels.
- The Bluff View Art District- Take a self guided tour of the Bluff View Art District. Start at the Hunter Museum of American Arts. Grab dinner at Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria. If you managed to save room for dessert, head next door to Rembrandt’s Coffee House. End the evening with a stroll through the free outdoor River Gallery Sculpture Garden.
25 Most Instagrammable Spots in Chattanooga
With a nickname like The Scenic City, it’s no surprise that Chattanooga is the perfect backdrop for your carefully curated Instagram. Natural wonders, vibrant art installations, murals in every color pallet, interesting architecture and beautifully designed interiors are around every corner. Here are a few of our favorites.
One of a kind Backdrops
Photo by Nicole Blanchard of Show Me A Smile Photography
- Coolidge Park- 150 River St. Splash in fountains, stroll along the river, ride the carousel, pose with a rhino. 150 River St.
- Umbrella Alley- A whimsical art installation in West Village, uses umbrellas for a pop of color. West Village 298-200 W Block of 8th St.
- Bluff View Art District- Charming cafes and cobblestone streets bring a touch of European flair to the heart of downtown. 411 E 2nd St.
- High Point Climbing Gym- Find someone to belay and don’t delay! Scale the outside of High Point Climbing Gym for a one of a 180 view of downtown. 219 Broad St.
- Flying Donut Mural- It's a bird, it's a plane…. It's flying donuts! 1900 Broad Street
- Polka Dot Wall- Pastel polka dots make for a sweet and simple backdrop. 1400 Williams Street Block
- Cooper’s Alley- The urban art installation snakes through the alleyway creating a fun, funky, neon pallet.10 East 7th St.
- Outdoor Art- Modern, historical, surrealist, large, small, Chattanooga’s outdoor art collection has it all.
- Tennessee Aquarium-The perfect balance of natural beauty and interesting architecture design. 1 Broad St.
Natural Wonders
Photo by Nicole Blanchard of Show Me A Smile Photography
- Lula Lake Falls- Pack a picnic lunch and take the Classic Loop hike to Lula Lake Falls. 5000 Lula Lake Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA
- North Chickamauga Blue Hole- Plunge into the crystal blue pool from a beautifully cascading waterfall. Montlake Rd., Soddy Daisy, TN
- Rock City Gardens- Where else can you take a selfie in 7 states at once? 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA
- Point Park- Pose with cannons while you explore the trails to the “Battle Above the Clouds.” 110 Point Park Rd., Lookout Mountain, TN
- Rent a Kayak from L2- Paddle under the downtown bridges for an up close look at moss covered cliff walls and Audubon Island wildlife. 131 River St.
- Reflection Riding Arboretum- Hike trails, forge streams, explore a treehouse, capture wildlife, and get a selfie in the bamboo forest. 400 Garden Rd.
- Racoon Mountain Caverns- Take an otherworldly hike through the Crystal Palace, or if you’re feeling brave take a sunset kayak tour of the bat caves. 319 W Hills Dr.
- Snooper’s Rock- Take the five minute walk from the parking lot for unparalleled views of Horseshoe Bend. Reserve Rd.
Sensational Selfies
Photo by Nicole Blanchard of Show Me A Smile Photography
- Walnut Street Bridge- Chattanooga’s most recognizable landmark is great from every angle, whether you’re on it, under it, or looking over it. 1 Walnut St.
- Chattanooga Choo Choo- Iconic Chattanooga signage, vintage trains, even the bathroom is beautiful! 1400 Market St.
- Selfie Museum- A whole host of curated scenes to create a picture perfect selfie. 735 Broad St. Ste. 104
- The Hunter Museum of American Art- An amazing lookout over the river and Walnut Street Bridge outside, stunning pieces of American art inside. 10 Bluff View Ave.
- Sleepyhead Coffee- Release your inner goddess in the indoor plant paradise. 735 Broad St. Ste. 104
- The Dwell Hotel- Step into a Midcentury fever dream with bold wallpaper, gorgeous furniture, and beautifully crafted cocktails. 120 E 10th St.
- Whistle Stop Cafe- The milkshake is elevated to a delicious work of art. 5503 Main St. Ooltewah, TN
- Market South Wings Mural- We don’t care if it’s basic, wings are cute! Strike a pose and caption it with your most inspirational quote. 1400 Market St.