**Chattanooga National Cemetery: A Must-Visit Tribute to Honor and Reflection**
When it comes to exploring the unique and profound spots that Chattanooga has to offer, the Chattanooga National Cemetery emerges as a beacon of history and reflection. This hallowed ground is more than just a place of rest for our nation’s heroes; it's a window into the past, echoing stories of bravery and sacrifice. Whether you're a local resident or a visiting tourist, the cemetery provides a poignant reminder of the freedoms we often take for granted. It's particularly moving to visit during Memorial Day, a time when the sacrifices of the many brave men and women who served our country are vividly remembered.
**The Experience**
Stepping into the Chattanooga National Cemetery is like entering a serene sanctuary filled with history. Spanning over 120 acres, this peaceful expanse is meticulously maintained, offering a tranquil environment for reflection and remembrance. The cemetery’s beautifully manicured lawns, aligned with rows upon rows of gravestones, create a humbling and peaceful atmosphere.
The site features nice monuments, including the distinctive Andrews Raiders Monument, dedicated to the men awarded the first Medals of Honor following the Andrews' Raid during the Civil War. The view of Missionary Ridge provides a scenic backdrop that adds to the cemetery’s solemn beauty. As you walk through the paths, there are historical plaques and informative markers that tell the stories of some of the many individuals laid to rest here.
**What to Know Before You Go**
- **Location:** The cemetery is located at 1200 Bailey Ave, with another entrance on Holtzclaw Ave, conveniently next to the Chattanooga Zoo.
- **Hours:** Open daily from dawn to dusk, allowing ample time to explore at your own pace.
- **Parking:** Free parking is available all along the roads inside the cemetery, so you won't have to worry about finding a spot.
- **Cost:** Admission is free, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all.
**Extra Tips or Bonuses**
Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Chattanooga Zoo, which is just a stone's throw away. The zoo offers a diverse collection of animals and is a great spot for families looking to expand their day’s itinerary. For lunch, head over to Adelle’s Creperie nearby for a delightful treat after your reflective morning. Also, if you’re visiting on Memorial Day, keep an eye out for special ceremonies and events that honor the services of veterans.
Photography enthusiasts will find the cemetery to be a deeply moving photographic subject, especially when capturing the vast landscape marked against the horizon. Remember to be respectful, as the primary purpose of your visit is to honor those who served.
**Final Thoughts**
A visit to Chattanooga National Cemetery is much more than a walk through history; it's an opportunity to reflect on the freedoms and rights we enjoy and the sacrifices that have secured them. Whether you’re a history buff, a veteran, or someone simply looking to pay your respects, this place resonates deeply. It serves as a gentle reminder of the past and is fitting for those who appreciate quieter moments of reflection.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Chattanooga's Heartfelt Tribute: Visit the Inspiring National Cemetery
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Genesis House of Tea: The Perfect Girls’ Day Out in Chattanooga
Looking for a charming spot that combines tea, tasty treats, and a meaningful mission? The Genesis House of Tea, located in the historic Dent House off Bonny Oaks, is one of Chattanooga's most BEAUTIFUL places for a girls' day out, bridal shower, baby shower, or engagement party in chattanooga. This tea house offers a Bridgerton-inspired experience with a side of Kentucky Derby flair, complete with fancy hats you can borrow for your visit!
When you arrive, you'll be greeted by a selection of hats to channel your inner duchess while enjoying the house’s cozy atmosphere. Start your tea experience with my favorite- their “Royal Wedding” tea- or one of their seasonal flavors (like Spiced Peach Apricot with popping boba, Pumpkin Chai, or Caramel Apple Crumble in the fall)! The tea menu is thoughtfully curated, with free refills so you can sip as much as you like!
The food is just as cute as the tea. Indulge in a tiered platter featuring sweet and savory items like buttery scones, delicate sandwiches, and flavorful quiches. These dishes are perfect for sharing and add an elegant touch to your outing. I LOVE THE SCONES! And I never thought I would be a scones girl… but these are GOOD!
Also worth noting, the Genesis House of Tea is more than just a beautiful brunch spot—it’s a place with purpose. Every purchase supports their mission to restore beauty, dignity, and identity to women in crisis through nonprofit partnerships. Upstairs, you’ll find a boutique where proceeds further these initiatives, making your visit not just a treat but an opportunity to give back.
📍 Location: 6178 Adamson Cir., Chattanooga, TN 37416
🕐 Hours: Open 11 AM - 4 PM, closed Wednesday and Sunday
Whether you’re sipping tea with your best friends or celebrating a special occasion, the Genesis House of Tea guarantees a memorable and meaningful experience.
For more Chattanooga recommendations, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Vetopia Animal Health Opens in Chattanooga: A Family-Owned Veterinary “Utopia” for Pets and Their People
Chattanooga has a brand new kind of veterinary clinic, and it’s one that’s rethinking the entire experience for both pets and their parents. Vetopia Animal Health, located in Hixson, was designed with a clear vision: to create a true “utopia” for animals, owners, and the veterinary staff who care for them.
“Vetopia is this idea of a utopia for pets, people, and the people that work in the veterinary industry,” explains Dr. Bello, who co-founded the clinic with her husband Jerren.
From the beginning, the goal wasn’t just to build another vet office.
“It was always my dream to have a place where people could bring their pets and we could give them the care they deserve," said Bello. And what better city than Chattanooga to do it?”
A New Approach to Veterinary Care
One of the biggest ways Vetopia sets itself apart is by focusing on collaboration and transparency.
“Our biggest differentiator is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible,” says Dr. Bello. “I talk them through what I’m seeing step by step, so they’re a part of it.”
This approach extends beyond the exam table.
“We wanted to create a space where it was calming. Animals felt secure. People felt like they had the space to feel whatever emotions they wanted to feel.”
Better Pet Care Through Better People Care
The clinic’s motto, “better pet care through better people care,” speaks to the heart of its mission.
“Better pet care through better people care means we can’t forget pets come with people- and if we don’t care for those people, we’re not doing them a service.”
That focus on people extends to Vetopia’s staff as well.
“I really wanted to create a place where people came to work and they absolutely loved what they did and they left feeling like they accomplished something great every day.”
When I visited the vet for the first time with Mailbox (my dog), I truly saw this mission played out. The employees love their job, I as a pet parent felt very cared for, and Mailbox honestly loves his visits to the vet!
The Experience for Pet Parents
From the moment Mailbox and I walked through Vetopia’s doors, I could tell this wasn’t going to feel like a typical vet visit (and I've been to many vets in Chattanooga!) I was greeted, offered complimentary coffee (and it was actually FIRE coffee- I really liked it as someone who's not in to a lot of coffee!), and was taken back to a themed waiting room.
Each exam room has its own unique destination-inspired theme, which immediately gave us a sense of calm. During Mailbox’s check-up, I noticed how different the process felt compared to other clinics. I was actually taken to the back and got a behind-the-scenes look at what Vets do!
"I think our biggest differentiators is we try to involve the pet owner as much as possible," Dr. Bello told me. "So I know a lot of people are like, 'oh, they took my dog to the back...' and nothing bad happens to your pet in the back, I promise, but I understand like as I've gotten older, and I have a kid, that there is this kind of 'mysteriousness' about what's going on back there, and why is it taking so long. And so the idea with Vetopia was, why don't we just have the owner be present for the appointment as much as possible? Not only so that they feel more comfortable and their pets feel more comfortable, but I think it's really important for people to see what we do behind the scenes, because I think that it gives more value to what we as an industry provide."
It was neat seeing firsthand the team caring for my sweet fur baby. And rather than rushing through, Dr. Bello carefully walked me through everything she was seeing. That level of transparency made me feel empowered and connected- like I was truly part of Mailbox’s care.
Vetopia has also invested in technology to make that collaboration seamless. Screens and tablets in the exam rooms allow pet parents to see diagnostics in real time.
And honestly? The vibe is just different. With cozy touches, a coffee machine, and music playing softly in the background, it feels nothing like a sterile, intimidating clinic.
“We want it to feel like you’re not at a hospital, but you’re just hanging out in your living room… It’s a really relaxed, upbeat vibe. Most of the time we have good tunes going on, so it’s just like a fun feel.”
Mailbox certainly picked up on that- instead of being anxious like he has been at other clinics, he wagged his way through the visit. It truly felt like a place designed for both pets and their people to feel comfortable.
Family-Owned, Not Corporate
At a time when many veterinary clinics are being bought by large corporations, Vetopia is proudly family-owned.
“Family owned was really important to us… a lot of hospitals are being bought by corporate entities, and people feel like they’re losing that family feel. We wanted this to be the opposite.”
Dr. Bello says building Vetopia with her husband has made the journey even more meaningful.
“At the end of it, being able to step back and the two of us know that we did this together- it just makes it that much sweeter.”
A Vision for the Future
Vetopia isn’t just focused on one clinic- it’s about becoming part of the community.
“My bigger vision for Vetopia is to be super involved in the community- community outreach, helping the pets of Chattanooga. One day maybe opening another location, but the goal is to support Chattanooga and the pets as much as we can.”
Vetopia Info:
address: 1043 Executive Drive, Suite 104, Hixson, TN 37343
Contact: (423) 644-2125, info@vetopia.vet
Website: https://www.vetopia.vet/
Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: Closed
TLDR?
Dr. Bello sums it up best:
“The one thing I’d want Chattanooga to know about Vetopia is that we care as much about them as we do their pets. We want this to be a collaborative experience.”
With its people-first philosophy, calming environment, and family-owned approach, Vetopia is ready to become a true second home for Chattanooga’s pets and their parents.
To watch some of my interview with Dr. Bello and hear more about Mailbox's and my experience, check out my Instagram reel on @webbchatts!
Locals Only Gifts and Goods: Chattanooga’s One-Stop Shop for Local Treasures
If you’re looking for the perfect gift that supports Chattanooga’s small business community, look no further than Locals Only Gifts and Goods. Nestled in the heart of NorthShore at the corner of Frazier and Market (by the big blue Chattanooga bridge you drive across), this family-owned shop is dedicated to showcasing the best of Tennessee’s makers, artists, and small businesses. Whether you’re a local searching for a unique birthday gift or a tourist hunting for a Chattanooga souvenir, Locals Only Gifts & Goods has something for everyone.
What sets this shop apart is its curated selection of high-quality, locally made products. You’ll find well-known favorites like Little Debbies, MoonPies, and Lodge Cast Iron, alongside smaller local businesses like Divine Purity, Adrienne Powell’s art, and handcrafted jewelry. Locals Only makes gift-giving easy with pre-made gift boxes or the option to create your own. Personalizing a box is a breeze, as the store is packed with Chattanooga swag, artisanal food items, and unique gifts for any occasion.
During my last visit (and seen in this video!), I put together a gift box for my sister’s birthday. I included a Book Lovers candle from Strange Wicks (perfect since she’s dating an author), some Alchemy Spice blends (since she loves to cook!), and a bar of Good Fortune Soap (all natural!). She loved it! The thoughtfulness behind every item makes this shop a standout.
More than just a store, Locals Only is a community hub that champions small businesses. By shopping here, you’re directly supporting local entrepreneurs and helping to keep Chattanooga’s creative spirit alive.
📍 Location: 10 Frazier Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37405 (across from Walgreens)
🕐 Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM, Sunday 12 PM - 6 PM
So whether you’re searching for a gift, a treat for yourself, or a way to support local, stop by Locals Only Gifts and Goods.
For more Chattanooga recommendations, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!