A road trip from Nashville, TN, to Chattanooga, TN, is ideal for a quick weekend getaway. Scenic City is a great choice if you're looking for beautiful scenery and things to do. In this guide, we'll show you how to take the best trip from Nashville to Chattanooga so that you can eliminate some of the planning time and just have fun.

1. How to Get There

Nashville is 132 miles from Chattanooga, TN. On average, you can get to Chattanooga from Nashville in about 2 hours and 5 minutes.

It’s always good to be aware of the roads you’ll be traveling on before you embark on your road trip. We recommend using a GPS that will inform you of traffic and any backroads you can take to avoid it when the interstate backs up. Aside from that, it's fairly simple to get to Chattanooga: get on Interstate-40 East and merge onto Interstate 24 East. Then, it’s a straight shot to the Scenic City. Take exit 174 off the interstate to arrive in the heart of Chattanooga.

Fun fact: During this Nashville to Chattanooga road trip, you’ll also cross into the state of Georgia! Interstate 24 happens to dip under the Tennessee/Georgia line about 20 minutes before arriving in the city.

2. What You’ll See

On your way to Chattanooga, one of the first cities you’ll pass is Murfreesboro, TN. This area played a significant role in the Civil War and has many historical sites, such as battlegrounds, graveyards, and plantations you can tour. Spend a couple of hours here to take a trip back in time and learn more about the state's history.

When you get back on the road, you'll eventually pass the Tennessee River. At this point, you’re only 20 miles from Chattanooga, TN. This is one of the most scenic parts of the ride, as the glistening water seems to appear out of nowhere. Pull off at the rest stop to take in the beauty of the area.

3. Discover Things to do in Chattanooga, TN

Once you arrive, you should know what there is to do in the city. One of the best attractions in Chattanooga, TN, is Lookout Mountain. On top of it, you'll find the famous Rock City, Incline Railway, and Ruby Falls.

Rock City

On your drive into Chattanooga, you'll see plenty of signs mentioning Rock City,  a breathtaking natural attraction featuring massive boulders, lush gardens, and panoramic views where visitors can famously "See Seven States." This site is a natural wonder with a long walking trail that winds through narrow rock passages, across a suspension bridge, and to some shops and places to grab a bite to eat.

Incline Railway

Another great wonder atop Lookout Mountain is the Incline Railway, a historic funicular railway that climbs the mountain. Operating since 1895, this historic attraction offers beautiful views of the Tennessee Valley for an approximate one-mile journey. At the top station, visitors can enjoy the observation deck or take a walk to Point Park.

Ruby Falls

The third major attraction you'll find on Lookout Mountain is Ruby Falls, the tallest underground cave waterfall open to the public in the United States. Visitors can access the waterfall by doing a tour and following a guide through the cave.

Hiking Trails

What better way to stretch your legs after a 2-hour road trip than a hike on Lookout Mountain? Park up at the top and visit the lovely Sunset Rock for amazing views or Craven's House for some Civil War history. We also suggest adding on Cloudland Canyon State Park for one of the most spectacular views you can find on Lookout Mountain. Learn more about everything you can expect to see in Chattanooga inside our complimentary Vacation Guide. If you’re the passenger on your road trip, you can use it to plan your vacation on the ride over.

Extend Your Trip and Stay at Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast

If you’re driving from Nashville, TN, to Chattanooga, TN, for a weekend getaway, Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast is a great lodging option for your relaxing escape. We’re just minutes from the heart of Chattanooga and all of the wonderful attractions in the area. View our accommodation options here.