5 day itinerary for Chattenooga And Smokie Mountains

Itinerary

Chattanooga and the Great Smoky Mountains are a fantastic combination for a 5-day adventure filled with history, scenic beauty, and some delightful train excursions. Let’s dive into your itinerary!

## Day 1: Arrival in Chattanooga

Morning:

• Arrive in Chattanooga and check into your hotel. The downtown area has some lovely options with great views of the Tennessee River.
• Grab breakfast at Bluegrass Grill, known for its hearty Southern fare.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Tennessee Aquarium. It’s one of the top aquariums in the country and offers a fascinating look at both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems.
• Afterward, take a stroll along the Riverwalk. It’s a beautiful path that runs along the Tennessee River, perfect for a leisurely walk.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at The Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar for some delicious seafood with a view.
• If you’re up for it, take a sunset ride on the Chattanooga Riverboat for a relaxing evening on the water.

## Day 2: Chattanooga History and Train Excursion

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at The Pancake Pantry. Their pancakes are legendary!
• Visit the Chattanooga History Center to learn about the city’s rich history, including its role in the Civil War.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, embark on the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum for a scenic train excursion. The Hiwassee River Rail Adventure is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Evening:

• Return to Chattanooga and have dinner at Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria in the Bluff View Art District. The atmosphere is charming, and the food is delightful.
• If you’re up for it, check out a local music venue for some live music to wrap up your day.

## Day 3: Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (about 2 hours from Chattanooga).
• Stop at the Sugarlands Visitor Center to get maps and information about the park.

Afternoon:

• Spend the day hiking! A great option is the Alum Cave Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount LeConte. It’s a moderate hike with breathtaking views.
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.

Evening:

• Head to Gatlinburg for dinner. Try The Peddler Steakhouse for a classic steak dinner.
• Explore the town a bit, maybe check out some local shops or attractions like the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park for stunning views of the Smokies at night.

## Day 4: More Smoky Mountains and Train Excursion

Morning:

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café in Gatlinburg.
• Visit Cades Cove, a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. You can drive the loop and stop at historic cabins and churches along the way.

Afternoon:

• After exploring Cades Cove, head to Bryson City (about an hour away) for another train excursion. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers scenic rides through the mountains, with options for lunch on the train.

Evening:

• Return to Gatlinburg for dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery for some local brews and pub fare.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a ghost tour in Gatlinburg to learn about the area’s spooky history!

## Day 5: Return to Chattanooga and Departure

Morning:

• Have a leisurely breakfast at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp in Gatlinburg, known for its hearty portions.
• Before heading back to Chattanooga, take a quick stop at Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies, for panoramic views.

Afternoon:

• Drive back to Chattanooga and visit the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. It’s a significant Civil War site with plenty of history to explore.
• Grab a light lunch at The Terminal Brewhouse, a local favorite.

Evening:

• Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance to visit the Lookout Mountain area. Don’t miss the Incline Railway for a unique ride up the mountain.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at St. John’s Restaurant, known for its fine dining and seasonal menu.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the train schedules in advance and book your tickets early, especially for the scenic excursions.
• Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.
• Don’t forget your camera; the views in both Chattanooga and the Smoky Mountains are breathtaking!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable trip filled with adventure, history, and beautiful scenery! Enjoy your travels!