Tips for Weekend Getaways

Sometimes, just taking a break from the regular, daily routine gives people the ability to return to their normal lives with enthusiasm. When it comes to great weekend getaways, the gorgeous rolling hills of Tennessee offer several amazing options for relaxation and recreation. Chattanooga and Gatlinburg are just two examples.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountain Range, Chattanooga, Tennessee, is often referred to as the "Scenic City of the South." Lookout Mountain, one of the most famous area landmarks defines the southwest edge of the city. This mountain, known for its Civil War history, has several fascinating attractions and spectacular views. Affordable hotels downtown and in various locations about the area provide rooms and suites for any budget. Travellers can find many luxurious accommodations right downtown along with many local attractions, restaurants and shops. Downtown includes numerous sites such as the following:

• Hunter Museum of American Art presents a wide-range of art styles by American artists and has a gift shop.

• Tennessee Aquarium has two beautiful buildings, one displaying freshwater creatures and the other exploring saltwater creatures. Each has a gift shop.

• Tennessee Riverwalk follows along the river in Chattanooga's downtown area. The exquisitely landscaped walkway is a great way to get exercise and see the city from a different perspective. One of the highlights of the walk is the dramatic memorial to the Cherokee Nation's Trail of Tears history with sculptures, a waterfall and fountain.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

In picturesque surroundings of the Great Smoky Mountains, this romantic mountain resort town has local culture and history, attractions, restaurants and shopping. Accommodations in the town and area fit any price range from upscale luxury to self-contained mountain cabins. Trails lead from Gatlinburg right into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park with its miles of hiking/backpacking paths, areas for camping, biking, picnicking and more. Nearby Cades Cove, Pigeon Forge and Dollywood offer more activities. In the town of Gatlinburg, some of the many sites to see are as follows:

Arial Tram, connecting Ober Gatlinburg with the downtown area, is a graceful ride up to several mountain attractions like an ice skating rink, chairlift up Mount Harrison, ski slopes and an alpine slide.

The Smoky Mountain Wildlife Adventure located at Ober Gatlinburg is a habitat for many of the animal’s native to the area such as black bears, opossums and river otters.

Space Needle is a great way to see the town and surrounding mountains. An observation tower, over four hundred feet high, made of steel, the Space Needle has two glass elevators so people can watch the climb. Open every day, the tower includes an Italian Bistro, arcade and playground.