Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga can be found in the southeast corner of Tennessee. There is scientific proof that there has been inhabitation in this area sense 900AD. According to archologists, the Cherokee Indians moved into the Chattanooga area around 1776. In 1838 the US government forced all the Native American inhabitants to move to Oklahoma, in the most devastating move known in history. This mass movement of Indians is known as "the Trail of Tears".

The civil war was fought in and around this area. After the war was over, Chattanooga became a major railroad town. The town became known as the "Dynamo of Dixie" and inspired its very own song. In 1941, the "Chattanooga Choo Choo" was recorded by Glenn Miller. Though the trains no longer pass through this area, the town still celebrates its train history.

There are many things to do in Chattanooga; most of them is within 10 minutes of downtown. One of Chattanooga attractions is the Tennessee Aquarium with its six peaked roof. The aquarium can be seen from another of the cities big attractions, the Walnut Street Bridge. This bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the southeastern United States. At one time it was a train bridge connecting the city to the shoreline, but now it has been modified as the longest foot bridge at a half mile in length. You can find the city zoo in Warner park. In Coolige Park there is a hand carved carousel. Centrally located is a large fountain that sprays water on the cities young residents, to help them beat the heat of summer. Chattanooga even supports the arts with its very own art district sitting on a bluff right on the rivers edge.

You have to check out the song inspiring restored train station that is now a hotel and museum. You can sleep in an actual train car. Consider this on your next vacation to Tennessee.