Best City in Tennessee? Chattanooga was ranked #1, let's see if locals agree

Published on
11 August 2024

Chatting with Chattanoogans: Is Chattanooga is the #1 City in Tennessee?

Is Chattanooga truly the best city in Tennessee? If you ask the residents, you'll likely get a resounding "yes!" Recently voted (in May 2024) the #1 city in Tennessee by U.S. News and World Report, Chattanooga boasts more than stunning views and historical landmarks. It's a vibrant city energetically blending outdoor adventure, culture, and community spirit, which I recently had the chance to explore in detail.

The Experience: A Day in the Life of Chattanooga

When visiting Chattanooga, it's impossible not to feel the sense of community and pride that radiates throughout the city. In this video, I stopped by the Chattanooga Chamber Leadership Graduation and mingled with and interviewed some of the local leaders who are shaping the city's future. Their passion and commitment reflected precisely why Chattanooga holds such a high regard.

While it was a unique day full of insightful conversations, the connections I witnessed paint a clear picture of why locals cherish this city. You don't just visit Chattanooga; you become a part of its community.

Chattanooga is often buzzing with activities, whether it’s events by the river or engaging community gatherings. The atmosphere here is lively and inviting, perfect for both solo travelers and families looking to explore.

What to Know Before You Go

If you're planning a visit, a few practical details will make your trip more enjoyable:

- Getting Around: Parking is often plentiful with several city lots, and the electric shuttle helps you navigate the downtown area easily.
- Visiting: Businesses and community events vary, but weekends bring out a bustle everywhere from the Chattanooga Market (Sundays) to bustling coffee shops.
- Always check specific venues for their hours and available events to maximize your time in the city.

Extra Tips

For a well-rounded trip, be sure to check out the Tennessee Aquarium or a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge for breathtaking views. Consider staying nearby at the Edwin Hotel for a luxurious touch, and don’t miss grabbing a savory delight from Niedlov's or Main St Meats for a true taste of the local cuisine.

Every corner of Chattanooga has a story to tell, and there’s always something going on to dive into—like the Riverfront Nights concert series in the summer or a cozy café in the cooler months.

Final Thoughts

Chattanooga’s charm is infectious. It’s the type of place that appeals to everyone—from outdoor enthusiasts to culture buffs to friendly families. It’s no wonder that it’s top-rated in Tennessee. Whether you’re coming for the stunning scenery or the community-focused events, Chattanooga ensures you never leave without a smile.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Suggested Blogs

Niedlov’s Is Always on My List for Brunch, Coffee, and Pizza in ChattanoogaNiedlov’s Is Always on My List for Brunch, Coffee, and Pizza in Chattanooga
Chatt Things

Niedlov’s Is Always on My List for Brunch, Coffee, and Pizza in Chattanooga

If you're visiting Chattanooga or just looking to mix up your regular brunch or dinner plans, Niedlov’s on Main Street is a local go-to that's always a solid choice. Known for their artisan bread and cozy cafe vibes, it's a great spot to grab a coffee, settle in with a pastry, or enjoy a relaxed pizza dinner on the weekends. The space has that perfect mix of casual and quality, making it a favorite for locals and a great recommendation for out-of-towners. Whether you’re craving a breakfast sandwich, a fresh salad, or a wood-fired Margherita pizza, there’s always something worth coming back for at Niedlov’s.
Jul 24, 2025
1 min read

Where to Brunch in Chattanooga: Niedlov’s on Main

If you're looking for a go-to spot in Chattanooga for brunch, coffee, or a laid-back bite with friends, Niedlov’s Breadworks is a name that comes up time and time again—and for good reason. Known for its artisan bread, cozy atmosphere, and fresh, thoughtfully-prepared menu, Niedlov’s strikes that perfect balance between casual and quality. Whether you're a visiting foodie or a local who hasn't explored much beyond the basics, this Main Street staple is well worth a visit.

The Experience


Niedlov’s is located in Chattanooga’s Southside historic district, right on E Main Street, and brings a warm community feel with an always-buzzing vibe. This isn’t a grab-and-go coffee shop (though you can do that too)—you’ll want to stay awhile. With natural light pouring through large windows, exposed brick, and the comforting smell of fresh-baked bread, it’s a place designed for lingering over a pastry or catching up with a friend over brunch.

Known primarily for their bread—baked daily using traditional European methods—Niedlov’s has also built a reputation for seasonal specials and solid breakfast + lunch offerings. Their Avocado Toast is a long-time favorite, served with a soft-boiled egg on rye and topped with pickled onions and a house-made seed mix. Other standouts include their breakfast sandwich featuring house focaccia and the roasted chicken salad sandwich.

And don’t skip over the pizza. If you’ve only been in the morning, Niedlov’s has extended hours on Fridays for their Pizza Night menu, which features naturally fermented crusts and creative toppings. It’s a relaxed, BYOB kind of vibe—perfect for ending the week with a low-key dinner on the Southside.

What to Know Before You Go


Address:
215 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 7 AM–6 PM
Friday: 7 AM–9 PM (Pizza Night starts in the evening)
Saturday: 7 AM–4 PM
Sunday: Closed

Parking:
There’s limited street parking along E Main, plus additional spots behind the building and in nearby public lots. It’s also walkable from other Southside spots, so it pairs easily with a market visit or stroll through Sculpture Fields.

Website:

https://www.niedlovs.com/

Menu and Ordering:
They do take online orders, which is great if you’re in a hurry. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, but Saturdays usually fill up fast—expect a short wait during brunch hours.

Extra Tips or Bonuses


- Pizza Fridays are BYOB and run until 9 PM. Grab a bottle of wine or some local beer to enjoy with your meal!
- Interested in sourdough baking? Niedlov’s occasionally offers workshops and classes—sign up for their email list to stay in the loop.
- The pastries rotate often, so keep an eye out for limited-run favorites like the Kouign-Amann or cardamom buns.
- Nearby stroll: After brunch, walk a few blocks to the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park or swing over to Velo Coffee for a bag of beans to take home.

Final Thoughts

Niedlov’s is the kind of place you end up recommending to people again and again. It’s consistent, welcoming, and local to its core—just one of those spots that makes Chattanooga feel like home. Great for travelers starting their Southside exploration with a hearty breakfast, or locals catching up over coffee and toast. If you haven’t been yet, now’s the time to see what all the quiet hype is about.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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

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

If you’ve got kids in sports, a garage full of gear, or just a few too many dumbbells gathering dust, you’ll want to know about Play It Again Sports opening soon in East Ridge. Right now, they’re focused on buying used sports and fitness equipment—everything from cleats and gloves to treadmills and yoga mats—for cash. Once the store officially opens later this summer, they’ll also offer store credit (which stretches your value a bit more). It’s a locally owned spot that’s part of a familiar secondhand concept, and they’re asking the community to help stock the shelves before their grand opening. If you’re looking to declutter and support a small business at the same time, this is the play.
Jul 29, 2025
1 min read

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!

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Together Cafe: One of Chattanooga’s Best Kept Coffee Shop SecretsTogether Cafe: One of Chattanooga’s Best Kept Coffee Shop Secrets
Chatt Things

Together Cafe: One of Chattanooga’s Best Kept Coffee Shop Secrets

If you've never been to The Together Cafe in Highland Park, consider this your nudge. It’s one of those low-key spots that locals keep coming back to—and I’ve personally been a regular for years. Between the cozy, colorful upstairs lounge (perfect for working or meeting up with a friend), the family-friendly vibe (yes, there’s a kids’ nook!), and the creative seasonal drinks—this place really covers all the bases. My go-to latte is usually the cereal milk, but their current Summer in Dubai flavor with espresso, Nutella, pistachio syrup, and strawberry cold foam? Game changer. They're also doing these fruity popping boba refreshers that are extra refreshing during the warmer months. What makes it even better: they’re mission-driven, playing calm Christian music and supporting nonprofits that assist survivors of human trafficking. Warm-hearted people, excellent coffee, free parking—this spot really feels like a community.
Aug 6, 2025
1 min read

The Together Cafe: A Cozy Chattanooga Coffee Shop With Heart

Tucked into the Highland Park neighborhood, The Together Cafe is one of those rare spots that’s equally cozy, community-focused, and genuinely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to work, meet a friend, or sip on something creative, this locally loved coffee shop delivers in all the right ways — and it’s doing good behind the scenes, too.

This one’s a true hidden gem, just east of downtown Chattanooga, and it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself returning to again and again (especially once you try the cereal milk latte). Here’s everything you need to know if you’re thinking about stopping by.

The Experience

From the outside, The Together Cafe looks humble, but inside you'll find a warm, inviting space that clearly prioritizes comfort and connection. There’s a mix of seating — cozy couches upstairs, window perches downstairs, and a separate side room that adds extra space, complete with a small kids’ play area. It’s clear they’ve thought about families, remote workers, and anyone who just wants a peaceful break in their day.

The menu is creative and fun, with espresso drinks that go well beyond the usual. A longtime favorite is the cereal milk latte (yes, it tastes like the end of a bowl of your favorite childhood cereal), but don’t miss their seasonal creations. This summer, it’s the “Summer in Dubai” latte — a unique blend of Nutella and pistachio syrup with strawberry cold foam and flaky kataifi on top. It’s indulgent, refreshing, and unlike anything you’ll find at a chain coffee shop.

For non-coffee drinkers or hotter days, The Together Cafe also serves up bubble tea-style refreshers with rotating popping boba flavors. Watermelon seems to be a standout right now if you want something fruity and fresh.

What to Know Before You Go

Address:

801 S. Orchard Knob Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404  
Located in the Highland Park neighborhood, just a short drive from downtown

Hours:
Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM  
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM  
Sunday: Closed

Parking:
They offer free parking (a definite plus in this area), so you shouldn't have to circle the block.

Atmosphere:
The cafe plays soft, uplifting Christian music, and there’s a prayer wall where visitors can leave thoughts or read the reflections of others. It’s a genuinely peaceful setting that welcomes everyone.


Community Support:
This isn’t just a coffee shop that serves good drinks; it’s also one that supports a great cause. A portion of the cafe’s proceeds goes toward nonprofits that support survivors of human trafficking, so your coffee here goes a little further.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- the upstairs nook is the best place for working or studying.
- The separate room to the side of the shop is often quieter and has kid-friendly space, making it a good pick for parents with little ones in tow.
- Check in regularly for seasonal drinks and limited-time specials — their barista team clearly has fun coming up with unexpected combos.


Nearby:
If you’re making a morning of it, Highland Park has been steadily growing its list of cool spots — consider swinging by Mad Priest Coffee just a few blocks away if you’re up for a little coffee-hopping. For lunch nearby, Main Street is close enough to reach in just a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

The Together Cafe is a spot that feels thoughtful, from its welcoming layout to its unique menu and mission. Whether you’re a Chattanooga local looking for a new regular coffee shop, or a traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path stop with purpose, this place is absolutely worth a visit.

Families, students, remote workers, and anyone who appreciates a little personality in their coffee — you’ll feel right at home here.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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