Holiday Lights in Chattanooga: Rock City’s 30th Enchanted Garden of Lights

What to Expect at Pure Barre Northshore — Chattanooga’s Low-Impact, High-Intensity Workout That Delivers Results

If you’ve ever brushed off barre as just a trendy workout with cute socks, Pure Barre Northshore might completely change your mind. This Northshore studio is a go-to for locals who want a workout that’s deceptively tough, wildly effective, and surprisingly welcoming — whether you’re a lifelong dancer or someone who just finished their first class clinging to the barre for dear life. After just a few sessions, you’ll start to feel stronger, more balanced, and probably a little sore (in the best way). I recently wrapped up their March Challenge and can honestly say I’m seeing big changes in both my strength and confidence.

The Experience:
Walking into Pure Barre Northshore feels like stepping into a boutique workout space that’s both polished and inviting. Tucked along Manufacturers Road, the studio is surrounded by some of Chattanooga’s favorites — and once you’re inside, the energy is equal parts focused and supportive.

Pure Barre offers four different class formats to mix up your workout week:

1. Classic – their signature class that zeroes in on small movements for max muscle burn
2. Empower – cardio-forward and fast-paced, using ankle weights and sometimes bands or a step platform
3. Define – incorporates heavier weights (8-20 lbs) (My favorite of the classes!)
4. Align – a slower-paced, flexibility class that helps you focus! (I still think there are many challenging parts to Align although many call it the easiest!)

Each class is grounded in low-impact, high-intensity movement. Expect to pulse, tuck, and hold in positions that will shake your muscles, and fire up muscles you forgot existed!! The instructors are upbeat, encouraging, and great at offering modifications — so whether you’re new or more experienced, you can adjust the class to your comfort level.

Another standout: the intentional focus on form. Instructors take time to cue alignment and help you get the most out of each move (don’t worry, no one’s judging if you’re taking constant breaks — we’ve all been there and I am still taking breaks constantly).

What to Know Before You Go:

Location:
Pure Barre Northshore  
214 Manufacturers Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37405  
(Located near Whole Foods area of Northshore)

Class Schedule:
Classes are offered throughout the day — early mornings, mid-day, and evenings — so it’s easy to fit one in whether you're squeezing in before work or winding down after.

Hours may vary depending on day and class volume. Check the current schedule and sign up online via the Pure Barre app or their website:  
https://www.purebarre.com/location/chattanooga-north-shore-tn

Drop-In & Membership Options:
Pure Barre offers class packs, monthly unlimited memberships, and intro offers for new clients (first class is free!).


Parking:
Free parking available in the shared lot across the street or nearby around the Whole Foods area. Plan to arrive 15ish minutes before class starts because parking can sometimes be a nightmare during busy hours!

What to Bring:
Grip socks are required for class — you can bring your own or buy a pair at the studio. A water bottle is also a good idea. Everything else (weights, bands, mats) is provided.

Extra Tips or Bonuses:
Looking for a post-workout spot to refuel? Whole Foods is nearby! I often go over after class and pick up a smoothie or snack! 

Holiday and seasonal challenges, like the March Challenge, are a great way to stay motivated. They often involve attending a certain number of classes in a month with fun prizes and community shoutouts at the finish line — perfect if you like that extra accountability.

If you’re not sure about jumping right in, try the "Engage" class — it’s specifically designed for first-timers and walks you through each movement at a slower pace.

Final Thoughts:
Pure Barre Northshore blends a powerful workout with a supportive community that makes you want to come back — even when your thighs are still sore from the last class. The format is structured enough to challenge regulars and flexible enough to welcome total beginners. If you’re looking for a workout that builds strength, improves posture, and gets results without being high-impact on your joints, it’s definitely one to try.

Whether you're a fitness regular, coming back after a break, or just exploring something new, you’ll probably be surprised by how effective and addicting it can feel.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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Chattanooga Family Villa: A Spacious, Secluded Stay for Groups Near the City and the Mountains

If you're planning a group getaway to the Chattanooga area and need a space that comfortably fits everyone — without compromising on style or location — the Chattanooga Family Villa deserves a top spot on your list. Tucked in North Georgia, just 15 miles from downtown Chattanooga and Cloudland Canyon State Park, this newly built vacation rental is designed with large groups in mind.

Whether it's a bachelorette/bachelor weekend, family reunion, friends’ trip, or even a corporate retreat, this private lodge-style home blends convenience with the peacefulness of the mountains. And thanks to thoughtful amenities like a hot tub, game room, and oversized gathering areas, it's more than just a place to sleep — it's a place to stay in and truly enjoy.

The Experience

Driving up to the Chattanooga Family Villa feels like arriving at a private mountainside lodge. The home sits on a secluded wooded lot, creating an instant sense of calm. Inside, the villa is spacious, modern, and filled with natural light. With room for up to 23 guests, the house has seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, offering a mix of king suites, queen setups, and bunk bed nooks that are great for kids or group sharing.

The main floor features a gourmet-style kitchen stocked for cooking meals at home — a big plus for longer group stays. A large dining space and cozy living room give everyone room to eat and hang out together. From the back porch, you'll find a private hot tub under the stars and nature views in every direction.

Upstairs and downstairs are bonus hangout spots, including a separate den and a game area — perfect if you’ve got a wide age range or just want to spread out. The master bedroom on the main floor has its own shower and in-room Jacuzzi tub, which feels like a mini spa moment built right in.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: The Chattanooga Family Villa is located in Rising Fawn, Georgia — about 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, 20 minutes from Cloudland Canyon State Park, and an easy drive to Lookout Mountain attractions. It's secluded, but not isolated.

Booking: You can reserve directly via the iTrip Vacations Chattanooga site or through Airbnb and VRBO listings curated by @chattfamilyvilla. Book early for peak seasons like fall and summer.

Parking: Plenty of on-site parking is available, which is especially helpful for big groups arriving in multiple cars.

Pricing: Rates vary by season and group size.

Check-in/out: Check-in is typically mid-afternoon, with check-out in the morning. Exact times are shared upon booking confirmation.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Cloudland Canyon State Park is only 15 miles away — if you’ve never been, it’s one of North Georgia’s most stunning parks with waterfall hikes, overlooks, and even cave tours. Plan a half day to explore, especially in fall.
- For meals out, check out Lookout Mountain Pizza Company or drive into Chattanooga for casual group-friendly spots like Community Pie or Basecamp Bar & Restaurant.
- Celebrating something? The villa allows decorations and pre-approved small events with notice. Contact @chattfamilyvilla for more info
- Plan ahead with groceries — while the villa is fully equipped for cooking, the closest large grocery stores are in Trenton, GA or Chattanooga proper.

Final Thoughts

The Chattanooga Family Villa hits a sweet spot: far enough from the city to feel like a retreat, but close enough to make day trips easy and accessible. With its space, comfort, and thoughtful layout, it’s ideal for big families, friend groups, or even couples' getaways that need lots of room and privacy. Plus, the surrounding nature puts you right between two of the region’s best highlights — Chattanooga’s unbeatable charm and the outdoorsy magic of Cloudland Canyon.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

StateMint Sale in Chattanooga: Your Guide to Affordable, Stylish & Sustainable Shopping

If you love thrifting and the thrill of scoring designer deals, you’ll want to make room in your calendar for the StateMint Sale in Chattanooga. Held a few times a year and back this August in an even bigger space, this multi-day shopping event is one of the best spots in town to pick up gently-loved (and sometimes brand-new!) clothing, shoes, and accessories—all at a fraction of retail prices.

Why visit? In short: brands you love, prices you’ll like even more, and a setup that makes secondhand shopping feel easy and even enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to support a more circular (and budget-friendly) fashion cycle in our community.

The Experience

StateMint isn’t your typical consignment store—it’s a pop-up consignment event that turns a large venue into a highly organized shopper’s dream. When you walk into Restoration Southside (a venue often used for weddings and events), you’ll find neatly categorized racks of women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and even athletic wear. Expect styles from modern staples like Lululemon, Madewell, Free People, Nike, Anthropologie, and boutique brands, as well as some well-kept designer finds sprinkled in. Sizes for women typically range from XS up to 4XL, with a solid variety for men as well.

Volunteers and staff keep things running smoothly, with dressing rooms, helpful signage, and plenty of space to browse without that cramped, chaotic feeling. You can easily spend an hour (or three) looking through the organized racks of clothing and accessories. If you're shopping early in the day, the coffee truck parked outside makes it an extra pleasant experience—grab a latte before diving in.

What to Know Before You Go

Dates: August 5–9, 2024  

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Location: Restoration Southside, 3146 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37408  

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Hours:  
- Monday through Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM  
- Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM (Half-Off Day — many items marked down!)  

Admission: FREE  
Note: A ticketed charity pre-sale typically happens the evening before the public sale starts. Keep an eye on @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for updates on how to get early access next time.

Parking: Free parking is available at the venue, but it can fill up quickly on busy days. Carpooling or arriving early can help avoid a long walk.

Payments: Most shoppers pay via credit/debit, and while some consignors accept Venmo, not all do—so it’s best to bring a credit card.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Bring a shopping bag or tote to carry your haul—StateMint doesn’t provide bags.
- Half-Off Day (Saturday) is a great chance to scoop up your favorites at an additional discount if they’re still around.
- Follow @statemintchattanooga on Instagram for sneak peeks of standout pieces, seller spotlights, and reminders during sale week.

If you’re coming from out of town or making a day of it, consider grabbing lunch nearby at a Southside favorite like Bluegrass Grill, Taqueria Jalisco, or Heaven & Ale for a post-shopping bite and a local beer.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re updating your wardrobe ahead of the new season, hunting for budget-friendly workout wear, or just love the hunt of a good deal, the StateMint Sale is definitely worth a visit. It’s well-run, community-focused, and way more fun than scrolling sale sections online. Locals and visitors alike will enjoy the curated selection and clean setup—and knowing they’re keeping stylish pieces in use a little longer.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!