Where to Stay in Chattanooga, Tennessee: The Best Hotels & Areas

Loaded with historic landmarks and natural beauty, Chattanooga is one of Tennessee’s coolest urban travel destinations. And whether you’re traveling with kids, solo, or for a romantic getaway, there’s a perfect choice for where to stay in Chattanooga, TN.

Although it’s only a medium-sized city, Chattanooga teems with interesting areas and neighborhoods for travelers. Many of the best hotels in Chattanooga lie in around its historic downtown, putting many of the city’s top attractions within walking distance. If you get a bit further outside the city center, though, you’ll put Chattanooga’s famed natural charms at your fingertips.

Ready to find the perfect accommodations? Launch your trip plans with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Chattanooga, Tennessee!

Best places to stay in Chattanooga, TN

Set along the Tennessee River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is chock-loaded with superb lodgings options for every style of traveler. Whether you’re after a cheap hotel, charming breakfast inns, or 4-star hotels with a full-service spa, the top-rated Chattanooga hotels will fit the bill.

Chattanooga

History buffs will find plenty to love around Downtown Chattanooga, the Riverfront, and Southside Historic District. These city center neighborhoods are home to many of the top Chattanooga tourist attractions. Accommodations are plentiful here, too. The top options include many of the city’s most popular hotels, apartments, and unique places to stay, like Chattanooga Choo Choo.

Outdoor adventurers, on the other hand, should set their compass to Lookout Mountain. Home to the famed Ruby Falls, the area teems with hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and craft breweries. If you want to take your adventures to the next level, you can even ditch the usual modern hotels for unique treetop hideaways!

The best areas to stay in Chattanooga, TN, are:

Downtown Chattanooga

✓ Best area to stay in Chattanooga for first-time visitors

Visiting Chattanooga for the first time? Narrow down your lodgings search to Downtown Chattanooga. The city center area has everything you need for a perfect, from excellent dining options to luxury hotels.

Downtown Chattanooga

Central Chattanooga provides travelers with access to many of the top tourist attractions in Chattanooga, including the Tennessee Aquarium, Miller Park, and the Tivoli Theatre.

While staying Downtown, be sure to check out the nearby West Village, home to unique shops, hip restaurants, and laid-back coffee shops.

As it’s the heart of the city, expect higher average prices for hotels here.

Hotel Indigo Chattanooga - Downtown

Hotel Indigo Chattanooga – Downtown

Looking for a relaxing modern hotel in the city center? The Hotel Indigo Chattanooga – Downtown is the perfect spot! This 4-star hotel offers guests a fantastic location, close to many of the city’s main points of interest. The rooms feature a striking modern design, with cloud-like beds for the ultimate in relaxation. If you want to combine work and play, the Hotel Indigo also offers a business center, complete with free Wi-Fi, for a perfect workcation. 

Bode Chattanooga

Bode Chattanooga

Searing for all the comforts of home in a superb location? Book yourself into one of the comfortable apartments at Bode Chattanooga. Each unit at this condo hotel features air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. When you’re not resting in your room, you’ll be a quick walk or drive from top attractions like the Tennesse Aquarium and the Chattanooga Zoo.

The Read House

The Read House

Want to bring your holiday experience to a whole new level? The Read House is a historic hotel that’ll take your breath away. Located less than a mile from Tennessee Aquarium, it’s one of the city’s top places to stay. Enjoy the exceptional design of your room and cherish a complimentary breakfast in the beautiful dining area.

The Westin Chattanooga

The Westin Chattanooga

If you’re not into historic sites but rather love luxurious, modern hotels, book yourself into The Westin Chattanooga. The 4-star hotel offers well-equipped, comfortable rooms and an outdoor heated pool you can enjoy any time of the year. With spa & wellness packages and three on-site restaurants, The Westin is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.

Riverfront

✓ Best neighborhood to stay in Chattanooga for families

Wedged between West 4th Street and the Tennessee River, Riverfront is one of Chattanooga’s coolest areas for locals and travelers alike. The redeveloped district is home to several of the city’s most important attractions, along with a barrage of excellent restaurants and parks.

Riverfront

If you’re traveling with kids, Riverfront is packed with fun, family-friendly activities. Slot the kid-centric Creative Discovery Museum and the expansive Tennessee Aquarium into your Chattanooga itinerary. Or bring the whole family to AT&T Field to watch the city’s minor league baseball team in action.

Art lovers will find plenty to love around Riverfront, too. Walk along the Tennessee Riverwalk to the Bluff View Art District to browse art galleries & museums like the Hunter Museum of American Art and the River Gallery.

After you’ve had your culture fill, walk across the Walnut Street Bridge into the NorthShore neighborhood. The trendy district teems with cool boutique shops, hip cafes, bistros, and restaurants. NorthShore is also home to a couple of the city’s top green spaces, particularly the riverside Renaissance Park and family-friendly Coolidge Park.

The Riverfront district offers a great selection of accommodations, including everything from family- and budget-friendly hotels to luxury boutique hotels.

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Chattanooga

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Chattanooga

Located in the center of Riverfront, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites is a hotspot for families—and for foodies! At the hotel’s Rodizio Brazilian Steakhouse, you can enjoy grilled meat at any time of the day. (And if you prefer greens, you can visit the salad bar to accompany your Brazilian-style meals.) When you’re not feasting, get your sweat on at the fitness center or cool off in the indoor pool.

Courtyard by Marriott Chattanooga Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Chattanooga Downtown

Whether you’re on a workcation, romantic getaway, or friends’ weekend, the Courtyard by Marriott Chattanooga Downtown is a perfect choice. If you’re visiting Tennessee with your significant other, upgrade to one of the rooms with a private whirlpool tub or a private river-view balcony. Burn off all the southern BBQ at the on-site fitness center or relax with a dip in the indoor swimming pool.

The Edwin Hotel, Autograph Collection

The Edwin Hotel, Autograph Collection

One of the city’s top boutique hotels, The Edwin Hotel is chock-loaded with creature comforts and luxurious amenities. Sink into the soft, comforting linen bedding with opulent decor as your backdrop while you drift off to sleep. Enjoy a drink at the hotel’s rooftop bar, the Whiskey Thief, recently crowned as one of the South’s Best New Bars. Or delight in delicious Appalachian cuisine at the on-site restaurant Whitebird.

Southside Historic District

✓ Top place to stay in Chattanooga for foodies & nightlife

Once the industrial center of Chattanooga, the Southside Historic District is now one of the city’s hippest quarters. During the 20th century, the neighborhood was known for its old, dilapidated buildings and abandoned warehouses. After some hefty revitalization, it’s got a new lease of life. Today, the Southside Historic District is a Chattanooga hotspot for arts & culture.

Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel

The Southside Historic District teems with trendy restaurants, coffee shops, wine bars, craft breweries, and distilleries. Slip into the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery for a guided tour and tasting. Or imbibe a craft beer or two with a side of Southern comfort food at the popular Naked River Brewing and BBQ.

If you’re in the mood for history and culture, the Southside Historic District has that, too. Spend your Sunday afternoon plying through food & craft vendors at the Chattanooga Market. Or stroll up Market Street to browse the high-end boutiques at Warehouse Row, an upscale shopping mall built upon a former Civil War site.

Or dig into the various attractions at Chattanooga Choo Choo. The former railway terminal has been transformed into one of Chattanooga’s top cultural destinations, featuring everything from comedy shows and live music to a boutique hotel.

Traveling with kids? The Southside Historic District is also a quick drive to family-friendly hotspots like the Chattanooga Zoo and the Creative Discovery Museum.

Keep in mind that the Southside Historic District has limited accommodation options. If you want to stay here in the tourist high season, be sure to book your hotel well ahead of time.

The Crash Pad

The Crash Pad

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, there’s no better option in Southside than The Crash Pad. And this isn’t your typical backpacker hostel. The Crash Pad ups the games with unusual extras, including a garden, in-room computers, and a concierge service. Some rooms even include their own kitchen!

Kinley Chattanooga Southside, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Kinley Chattanooga Southside, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Love bold design? The Kinley Chattanooga Southside is bound to impress. The rooms feature a striking minimalist design, peppered with stylish modern furniture. The common areas, on the other hand, charm with a rich palette of woodsy tones and contemporary flair. Retire to the hotel’s elegant speakeasy, Company, to enjoy an evening of fine cocktails and mouthwatering dishes.

Moxy Chattanooga Downtown

Moxy Chattanooga Downtown

For a stylish and chic accommodation option in Southside, sink your teeth into the Moxy Chattanooga Downtown. The hotel’s youthful energy is palpable from the moment you check in. Before you even unpack your bag, you can enjoy a complimentary cocktail at the vibrant Bar Moxy. After an epic rest on the cushy beds, start your morning with a craft coffee at the on-site Up/Down Coffee Bar. If you’re visiting between April and October, celebrate the day’s end outdoors at the hotel’s seasonal Railyard Bar.

Chattanooga Marriott Downtown

Chattanooga Marriott Downtown

Located just outside Southside, the centrally-located Chattanooga Marriott Downtown is a fantastic choice for couples and business travelers alike. Chill out in the spacious modern rooms featuring flat-screen TVs, a comfy workspace, and speedy Wi-Fi. After a day of sightseeing, retire to the Table South Kitchen & Bar to fill up on Southern cuisine washed down with craft cocktails. The hotel is also attached to the Chattanooga Convention Center, adding to the convenience if you’re in town for a conference.

Lookout Mountain

✓ Top area in Chattanooga for outdoor adventurers & military history buffs

If you’re a nature lover, no area around Chattanooga will charm you more than Lookout Mountain. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, the upscale mountain town features a wealth of outdoor attractions, including hiking trails and scenic overlooks with dramatic countryside city views.

Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain is the perfect jumping-off point for your Tennessee outdoor adventures. One of the most popular day trips from Chattanooga is to hike to Sunset Rock to admire incredible views over the Lookout Valley and the Battle of Wauhatchie battlefield. Or check out nature at its finest at Ruby Falls, a 145-foot-tall waterfall crashing within a limestone cavern under Lookout Mountain.

Cross over the border to the state of Georgia to check out Rock City Gardens, one of the area’s most compelling sites. Stroll through its quirky gardens, ending your journey with a spectacular view over seven different states.

There’s plenty for history buffs at Lookout Mountain, too. Relive the Civil War at the Battles for Chattanooga Museum, featuring exciting multimedia exhibits. Or visit Point Park to dazzle at spectacular views over the Lookout Mountain Battlefield and the city from its scenic overlook.

La Quinta by Wyndham Chattanooga Lookout Mountain

La Quinta by Wyndham Chattanooga Lookout Mountain

For a no-frills stay in Lookout Mountain, look no further than the La Quinta by Wyndham. Besides the simple and comfortable rooms, take advantage of amenities like an outdoor swimming pool and gym. The location is great, too. Ruby Falls is just 2.6 miles away.

Hampton Inn Chattanooga West Lookout Mountain

Hampton Inn Chattanooga West Lookout Mountain

With a wide array of room types, the Hampton Inn is one of the most versatile accommodation picks around Lookout Mountain. Each room offers a flat-screen TV and coffee machines, as well as access to a seasonal outdoor pool and fitness center. Planning a day of outdoor adventure? Hit the ground running with the Hampton Inn’s hearty continental breakfast.

Fairfield Inn & Suites I-24 Lookout Mountain

Fairfield Inn & Suites I-24 Lookout Mountain

Looking for a hotel with stunning views? Surrounded by nature and overlooking the mountains, Fairfield Inn & Suites I-24 Lookout Mountain is a spectacular choice for nature lovers. Enjoy a daily continental breakfast to set up your day in the mountains. Cool off after a day of adventuring with a dip in the indoor pool.

East Ridge

✓ Recommended district for budget travelers

One of Chattanooga’s suburbs, East Ridge offers travelers a calmer vibe than staying in the city center. As East Ridge is less central, budget travelers will find their dollars stretch further here on their accommodation search.

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Too tired to make the 15-minute drive to downtown? East Ridge has plenty of charms of its own. Meander around Audubon Acres to soak up the sun along its relaxing wooded paths. Or rent a canoe or tube to float lazily along its central creek. The city is also a short 15-minute drive to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, a hit with train enthusiasts.

If you’re flying in or out, East Ridge is well-placed to access Chattanooga Airport. It’s just 15 minutes to the airport by car from the suburb.

La Quinta by Wyndham Chattanooga - East Ridge

La Quinta by Wyndham Chattanooga East Ridge

Looking for a budget-friendly alternative? Book yourself a room at the La Quinta by Wyndham East Ridge. Besides the clean and comfortable rooms, guests will enjoy extra amenities like an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site market/snack bar. With its location on I-75, the property is the perfect home base for Tennessee road-trippin’.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Chattanooga South East Ridge

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Chattanooga South East Ridge

For another simple option around East Ridge, curl up at the Fairfield Inn & Suites. Featuring comfortable and spacious rooms, the property offers everything you need to enjoy a superb Tennessee holiday. Fuel up for your morning adventures with the complimentary daily breakfast and free coffee. Unwind after a day of hiking in the saltwater indoor pool.

Hampton Inn East Ridge

Hampton Inn East Ridge

Located steps from Camp Jordan, the Hampton Inn East Ridge is one of the area’s most charming chain hotels. The 3-star hotel offers surprisingly chic styling, with soothing color palettes and colorful artwork. Amenities are great here, too. Highlights include a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and lovely outdoor lounge area that’s perfect for kicking back and relaxing.

Treksplorer

Ryan O'Rourke is a seasoned traveler and the founder & editor of Treksplorer, a fiercely independent guide to mid-range luxury travel for busy people. With over 20 years of extensive travel experience, Ryan has journeyed through over 50 countries, uncovering hidden gems and sharing firsthand, unsponsored insights on what to see & do and where to eat, drink & stay. Backed by his travel experience and in-depth research, Ryan’s travel advice and writing has been featured in publications like the Huffington Post and Matador Network. You can connect with Ryan on Twitter/X at @rtorourke.

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