Nacho Libre Taqueria: Tacos, Masks, and Margs

Whitewater Rafting the Full Ocoee River with Outland Expeditions

If you're anywhere near East Tennessee this summer- whether you're local to the Chattanooga area or road-tripping in from Nashville or Atlanta- whitewater rafting the Ocoee River should seriously be on your list. It's high-energy, wildly scenic, and a perfect excuse to get your crew together for the kind of outdoor adventure you’ll all be talking about for years.

We recently rafted the full Ocoee (including the Olympic section!) with Outland Expeditions, and it was easily one of the most fun things we’ve done this season. Adrenaline rushes, mountain views, refreshing swim breaks, and a surprisingly good riverside BBQ lunch—there honestly wasn’t a single part of the day we didn’t enjoy.

The Experience

Outland Expeditions has been family-owned and operating since 1981, which shows in how smoothly everything runs and how friendly the staff is. From the moment you arrive at their Benton outpost, you’re greeted by guides who clearly love what they do.

The full Ocoee River trip is a 10-mile guided run that includes both the Upper and Middle sections of the river. The Upper features the Olympic whitewater course used in the 1996 Atlanta Summer Games- yes, it's the real deal. Expect Class III and IV rapids that keep things thrilling but totally doable for first-timers willing to paddle a bit. It's intense in the best way, with enough breaks for swimming and catching your breath between the splashes.

Our guide, Kyle- who’s been leading trips for 13 years- was a total pro and made sure we felt safe and had a blast the entire time. Every boat gets its own guide, so don’t worry about having to figure it all out on your own.

Midway through the full trip, you break for lunch, and we were honestly impressed. Blue Hole BBQ caters the meal, and it hits the spot after a few hours on the river. Pulled pork, sides, and lemonade/sweet tea helped recharge us for the second leg of the trip.

The atmosphere overall? Laid-back, high-energy, and welcoming, whether you're showing up with a group of teens, your adventurous partner, a bachelorette trip (what we did!) or your college buddy crew reuniting for a weekend.

What to Know Before You Go

Location: Outland Expeditions is located in Benton, TN- about 40 minutes northeast of Chattanooga. It’s a pretty drive along the Ocoee Scenic Byway.

Trip Options:
- Middle Section: 5 miles, $35–$46 (a great place to start if you’re new to rafting)
- Upper Olympic Section: 5 miles, $50–$58
- Full Ocoee Combo Trip (Upper + Middle): 10 miles + BBQ lunch, $81–$95

All trips include a guide and necessary gear (helmet, paddle, and life jacket). You’ll need to bring a swimsuit, secure footwear (no flip-flops), and a dry change of clothes for afterward.

Group Discounts: Extra savings kick in for groups of 11 or more. A great reason to plan that big reunion or team outing.

Booking: Reserve online at www.outlandexpeditions.com and use the code “WEBBCHATTS” for 10% off.

Minimum Age: Participants must be at least 12 years old to raft the Ocoee.

Season: Trips run Memorial Day through mid-October on weekends, with expanded weekday availability in summer.

Parking: Free and available on-site.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Outland has budget-friendly group cabins that sleep up to 150 people. Ideal if you’re planning a big family reunion, youth group trip, or bachelor(ette) weekend.
- Pack a towel and an extra trash bag to store wet clothes post-trip.
- They have super cute hats in their giftshop! My sister and I each got one and love them haha
- Photo packages are available if you want to relive your rafting faces later- they’re taken by a pro setup along the river.
- Plan a weekend trip around rafting with nearby hikes, waterfalls, or a visit to Parksville Lake!

Final Thoughts

Whitewater rafting the Ocoee River with Outland Expeditions is hands-down one of the best ways to get outside and make memories this summer. The Full Ocoee Combo Trip is a full-day adventure that doesn’t just deliver on thrills- it’s also well-run, scenic, and genuinely fun from start to finish. Between the experienced guides, Olympic-level rapids, and that delicious BBQ lunch, it’s the kind of back-to-nature experience that locals and visitors alike will love.

Whether you’ve rafted before or are looking to try it for the first time, this East Tennessee classic is one of those “must-dos” that lives up to the hype. And hey- don’t forget that 10% off code while you're at it!!

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Dog Days of Summer at Rock City: A Wednesday Night Treat for You and Your Pup

Looking for a summer evening activity that both you and your dog can enjoy? Rock City’s “Dog Days of Summer” might be just what you’re after. Held every Wednesday night through August 27, this seasonal event lets you and your pup explore Rock City after-hours—complete with pretty lights, sunset views, and plenty of treats for both species.

If you’ve never taken your dog to Rock City, now’s the time to go. These special Wednesday evenings add a few extra perks that make it feel like a celebration just for our four-legged friends.

The Experience

Rock City’s dramatic cliffs, lush gardens, and famous overlooks are always a draw, but there’s something magical about experiencing it in the soft evening light. During “Dog Days of Summer,” the park stays open after dark, so you can walk the Enchanted Trail under glowing lanterns and catch a golden-hour view from Lover's Leap—one of the best sunset spots in the region.

As part of the event, you’ll find special treats and pop-ups just for dogs and their humans. Good Dog, a local favorite hot dog cart that originated in Chattanooga, returns on Wednesday nights with its signature gourmet dogs. They serve human AND canine-friendly snacks, including Clumpies Ice Cream Co. pup cups for your furry companions. Even better? Every purchase gets your dog an event-exclusive Rock City bandana to wear proudly.

You’ll also see a rotating lineup of local shelters and rescue groups onsite each week (until about 8 p.m.). It’s a great way to meet adoptable dogs, learn more about local pet resources, and support the animal community in Chattanooga.

What to Know Before You Go

Event Name: Dog Days of Summer at Rock City  
When: Every Wednesday evening through August 27  
Hours: 5 p.m. to closing (Rock City typically closes at 9 p.m.)  
Where: Rock City, 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750  
Tickets: Standard admission rates apply—purchase ahead at seerockcity.com  
Parking: Free onsite parking; early arrival recommended during special events  
Pet Policy: Rock City is pet-friendly year-round. Dogs must be leashed.

Note: Dogs are allowed throughout most of the park, but be mindful of narrow walkways and steep areas, especially during busier times.

Extra Tips and Local Bonuses

- Make dinner a part of your visit: Grab a Good Dog hot dog and eat at one of the pretty picnic spots near Lover’s Leap or in the Rock City Café.
- Capture the moment: The night lighting and scenic views make for great photos. Don’t forget your dog’s bandana for the best souvenir shot.
- Extend your stay: If you're visiting from out of town, Lookout Mountain has cozy lodging options nearby. Consider a night at the Chanticleer Inn Bed & Breakfast, just steps from Rock City.
- For locals: Even if you've visited Rock City before, the After Dark lighting and laid-back summer vibes make this feel like a totally new experience.

Final Thoughts

Rock City is a Chattanooga must-see any time of year, but Dog Days of Summer makes it feel especially welcoming for dog lovers. Whether you're a local looking for a midweek outing or a visitor hoping to include your pup in your sightseeing plans, this event is a fun, low-key way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and community spirit.

This one's perfect for families, couples with pups, out-of-town visitors, or just anyone looking to enjoy a cool mountain evening walk with their dog. And bonus—it supports local animal rescues while you're at it.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

New Panda Express in East Ridge: A Fresh Spot for Comfort Food Near Camp Jordan

If you’re a fan of quick, satisfying meals that hit all the right notes every time, the new Panda Express in East Ridge is worth adding to your local favorites. Just opened near the Camp Jordan area, this location is not only super convenient but also family-owned, newly built, and sparkling clean. Whether you’re swinging through the drive-thru between errands or picking up a Family Meal for a low-key night in, this new Panda’s got you covered.

Here’s everything you need to know before you go (and what to order when you do).

The Experience

The East Ridge Panda Express brings a familiar menu to a brand-new space with a few local touches. The building is bright and inviting, with fresh interiors, good-sized seating inside, and a drive-thru that makes it incredibly easy to grab your go-to orders on the move. There’s a friendly, local energy here—it’s family-owned and run, which adds to the welcoming vibe.

If you’ve visited Panda Express before, you know the drill: customizable meals with mix-and-match sides and entrees, ranging from saucy crowd-pleasers to lighter wok-fired options. But the real highlight is the Family Meal deal, where you get two large sides and three entrees starting at $35. It’s a great choice for sharing, whether you’re feeding the family or planning ahead for a couple of lunch leftovers.

Right now, they’ve also rolled out a new limited-time entree: Hot Orange Chicken. Don’t be fooled by the name—it’s not very spicy, but it’s packed with flavor. It joins longtime favorites like Teriyaki Chicken, Fried Rice, and the cult-favorite Honey Walnut Shrimp.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
629 Camp Jordan Parkway, East Ridge, TN 37412  
Just off I-75, right across from Camp Jordan Park.

Hours:
Typically open daily from 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM, but it’s a good idea to double-check current hours on Google Maps or their website.

Drive-thru:
Yes. And it’s fast, which makes it ideal for busy weeknights or workday lunch runs.

Ordering Options:
- Dine-in
- Drive-thru
- Online ordering through the Panda Express app or website
- Catering options available

Parking:
Free parking on-site with plenty of space. Easy in-and-out access from Camp Jordan Parkway.

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Want to grab lunch before a stroll or sports game? Camp Jordan Park is just across the street, with trails, fields, and events throughout the year.
- The Family Meal is one of the best-value options on the menu and makes lunch or dinner easy, especially for groups. Pick different combos each time to try something new.
- Limited-time items like the Hot Orange Chicken come and go, so if you’re curious, now’s the time to try it.
- Keep an eye out for rotating specials and seasonal items- Check for current promos or rewards through the official Panda Express app.

Final Thoughts

The new Panda Express in East Ridge is a solid neighborhood addition—fast, dependable, and perfect when you're craving something warm and flavorful without the hassle. It’s a good stop for local families, folks heading to or from Camp Jordan, or anyone who just wants a no-fuss meal that delivers the comfort-food factor.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!