Discovering Chattanooga: Sunday Market Adventures and Local Finds at the First Horizon Pavilion

**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!

Play It Again Sports East Ridge: A New Spot for Buying & Selling Used Sports Gear

If you’ve ever tripped over a pair of old cleats in the garage or wondered what on earth to do with that treadmill gathering dust in the basement, there’s a new local solution that might be just what you need. Play It Again Sports is opening soon in East Ridge, and whether you’re an athlete, parent of athletes, fitness enthusiast, or just trying out a new activity, this locally-owned store is worth putting on your radar.

Set to officially open in August, this shop is already making moves by buying gently used sports and fitness gear—from hockey sticks to home gyms—and paying sellers in cash. Once the doors open, they’ll offer store credit, too (which will stretch further than cash deals). Keep reading to find out everything you need to know before stopping by.

The Experience

Play It Again Sports follows the same model as well-known resale chains like Plato’s Closet or Once Upon a Child—but for all things athletic. That means if you’ve got gently-used equipment, they’ll take a look at it and offer you cash or credit on the spot. It’s especially handy for parents whose kids are outgrowing gear season after season, or anyone getting into a new sport who doesn’t want to overspend from day one.

Right now, the East Ridge store is focused on buying inventory to prepare for their late summer launch. Whether it’s baseball gloves, soccer cleats, yoga mats, weights, lacrosse sticks, bikes, or a lightly-used treadmill, chances are they’ll be interested—if it’s in good shape and has some life left in it.

When the store opens, it’ll be a go-to destination for affordable gear and equipment across dozens of sports and fitness categories. The setup will be clean and organized, and the atmosphere is welcoming and helpful—especially since it’s owned by a local couple who are clearly excited about serving the Chattanooga sports community.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
1467 N Mack Smith Rd, East Ridge, TN 37412

Grand Opening:
Planned for August. Follow @playitagainsportseastridgetn for the exact date, or check back with @webbchatts for updates.

Hours:
Not officially posted yet

Parking:
Free lot available on-site with easy access off Mack Smith Rd

Selling Gear:  
Right now, they’re focused on buying so the store is stocked before opening. Bring in clean, gently-used gear to be evaluated for cash payment. After opening, you’ll also be able to choose store credit if you prefer.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Going Beyond the Obvious: While most people think of gear like bats and helmets, don’t overlook things like weights, benches, resistance bands, punching bags, and camping equipment—these items are often accepted, too.

- Great for Growing Kids: With kids cycling through sports or outgrowing gear quickly, this will be a budget-friendly spot to swap out essentials each season.

- Keep an Eye Out for Events: Many Play It Again Sports locations around the country host trade-in events, clearance sales, and themed weekends. Once the East Ridge store is up and running, it might offer similar events.

- Near Other Errands: The location near Exit 1 in East Ridge makes it convenient to swing by after grocery shopping or a trip to Bass Pro Shops or Camp Jordan Park. You can make a full afternoon of it.

Final Thoughts

Play It Again Sports in East Ridge is shaping up to be a seriously useful addition to the Chattanooga area—especially for anyone involved in sports or fitness. Whether you’re decluttering the garage, replacing your child's outgrown cleats, or looking for a cost-effective way to pick up a new hobby, this locally-owned franchise will be a smart first stop. Plus, it’s always nice to support local entrepreneurs who are investing back into the community.

Families, recreational athletes, high school sports teams, and weekend warriors—this one’s for you.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Goat Yoga with Wild Roots Collective at Hixson Farms: A Relaxing and Laugh-Filled Day in the Country

If you're looking for something lighthearted, outdoorsy, and genuinely fun around Chattanooga, goat yoga at Hixson Farms with Wild Roots Collective checks every box. Whether you’re planning a girls’ day out, a bachelorette weekend, or just want a unique way to rewind (and maybe giggle a little), this yoga experience is equal parts wholesome and hilarious.

You’ll stretch, laugh, and maybe get a little goat cuddle—all in the middle of the scenic farmland just outside the city. Add in friendly animals, handmade natural products, and a great local instructor, and you’ve got one of the more memorable ways to spend a Saturday.

The Experience

Goat yoga with Wild Roots Collective isn’t just a yoga class—it’s an experience. It’s held at Hixson Farms, a peaceful location in north Georgia that offers private farm tours and family-friendly animal encounters. The class itself combines restorative yoga poses with the occasional goat clambering onto your back, nuzzling your arm, or lounging nearby. Baby goats wander through the session, and they’re the perfect mix of unpredictable and adorable.

The classes are led by Meg with Wild Roots Collective TN, a certified yoga instructor who brings a warm and laid-back energy to the session. She does a great job creating a calming flow while also embracing the lightness that having goats around naturally brings. So whether you're experienced or brand new to yoga, you'll feel welcomed and comfortable.

Beyond the yoga, Hixson Farms gives you time afterward to meet their other animals. On our visit, we got to feed and pet cows and goats—not something you do every day. The whole day felt relaxed and low-key, but also had that “this is something I’ll talk about for a while” feeling.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
Hixson Farms is located in Flintstone, Georgia—about 20 minutes south of downtown Chattanooga. It’s an easy and scenic drive.

Booking:
Goat yoga sessions are organized by Wild Roots Collective TN and offered seasonally or by private request. Follow @wildrootscollective_tn on Instagram to see upcoming classes or DM for private bookings. They offer group options for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, team events, and more.

Meg also teaches regular yoga classes around the Chattanooga area, both in-person and online. She’s responsive via Instagram if you’re interested in setting something up.

Pricing:
Prices vary by session and group size.

Parking:
Free parking is available on-site at Hixson Farms. It’s a farm setting, so wear shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dusty.

What to Bring:
A yoga mat, water bottle, sunscreen, and maybe a towel or wipes for afterward. You’ll be outside, so dress for the weather.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- After your goat yoga class, make time to explore Hixson Farms a bit more. They offer private farm tours with other animals, and it’s a hit with both kids and animal-loving adults.

- Meg with Wild Roots also creates her own line of small-batch natural products. Her bug spray and beef tallow balm are local favorites. She ships nationwide and sometimes holds local meetups to shop in person.

- Want to turn it into a full outing? Hixson Farms is near Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon, and Rock City—perfect for pairing yoga with a scenic hike or picnic.

Final Thoughts

Goat yoga at Hixson Farms is one of those things you might not think to do—until you do it and wonder why you waited. It’s light and fun but also grounding, and a good reminder that wellness doesn’t have to feel serious. It’s great for small groups, birthday plans, or anyone who wants to enjoy nature while doing something truly different.

If goofy goats, fresh air, and genuine joy sound like your kind of escape, this is a local experience you’ll want to try.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!