Westbound Honky Tonk- Party with Southern Flair

Why The Farmstead by GreenTech Homes Is One of Chattanooga’s Most Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

If you’re looking around Chattanooga for the kind of neighborhood that feels like one big front porch—where kids ride bikes in the street, neighbors actually know each other’s names, and the homes look plucked from a small-town dream—you’ll want to take a drive through The Farmstead by GreenTech Homes in Hixson.

Whether you’re house-hunting or just a scenic-neighborhood-appreciator, this community stands out for its thoughtful planning, strong local roots, and future-forward amenities. Even better? It’s built by a Chattanooga-based company that’s focused on quality craftsmanship and community building—not just breaking ground and moving on.

The Experience

Located off Dallas Hollow Road in Hixson, The Farmstead feels like the kind of place where time slows down just a bit. Even during a short visit, you’ll likely spot neighbors chatting across yards, kids walking to play with friends, and house exteriors that look like something out of Magnolia Journal meets Americana.

GreenTech Homes, the local builder behind the project, brings a fresh take on neighborhood design. The architecture leans modern farmhouse, with lots of board-and-batten details, large porches, and cozy curb appeal. And while it looks timeless, the guts of these homes are very much up to today’s standards—energy efficient, smart layouts, and customizable depending on your lifestyle.

The community’s vision isn’t just about homes—it’s about what surrounds them. Some of the amenities still in progress (as of this writing) include:

- Neighborhood pool and pickleball courts
- Clubhouse with a dedicated yoga lawn
- Bicycle pump track for the kids (and sporty adults)
- A disc golf course
- Community garden
- Tree-lined walking trails

The vibe is welcoming and intentional, with an emphasis on creating real connections between families, not just building houses next to each other. And since the model homes are open for tours, you don’t have to guess what kind of quality and features GreenTech offers—you can see it for yourself.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
The Farmstead is located in Hixson, TN, just a 15–20 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga. You can find the entrance near Dallas Hollow Road.

Tours:
Model homes are open for scheduled tours. You can visit GreenTech Homes’ website to book a time and get an idea of available floor plans, pricing, and current homesites.

Website: https://www.greentechhomes.com/
Phone: (423) 954-7561

Hours:
Model home tours and sales appointments are available most days of the week, but it’s best to call or schedule online to make sure someone is available.

Pricing:
GreenTech works with a range of budgets depending on home size and customization. See website above.

Parking:
On-street parking is available during visits, and there are small designated spots near the model homes for prospective buyers. Shayna: Add your own tip about parking and ease of access for tours

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- Can’t make it to Hixson? GreenTech has neighborhood developments across Chattanooga, including Northshore, East Brainerd, Southside, Ooltewah, and more—each with its own atmosphere and amenities.
- If you’re just driving through, nearby favorites in Hixson for a casual lunch or coffee include Nash Burgers, The Coffee Craze, and Little Tokyo Express.
- Considering a move but not ready to build? GreenTech sometimes has move-in ready homes available, or you can tour a few to get inspired for your next chapter.
- Interested in design? Pay attention to the interior finishes on the model homes. They really have an eye for details like natural light, high-quality flooring, and well-planned kitchens.

Final Thoughts

At a time when many new developments feel a bit generic or overly planned, The Farmstead has the charm of a neighborhood built with real intention. It’s the kind of place where families grow, dogs have room to roam, and neighbors actually chat over the fence.

Perfect for young families looking to settle down, couples hoping to stay within a strong community feel, or even locals ready to build their dream home in a familiar place—The Farmstead checks a lot of boxes.


For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

My Go-To Walking/Running Spot: The Tennessee Riverwalk!

If you're looking for a simple way to reset your brain, get your steps in, or enjoy the fresh air without leaving town, the Tennessee Riverwalk is one of the best places in Chattanooga to do it. Whether you're logging miles on a morning run, going for a weekend stroll with your dog, or just needing a break from screen time, this 13-mile greenway offers some of the prettiest and most peaceful river views in the city. It’s one of those spots locals return to again and again — not just for the beauty, but for how easy and accessible it is. Especially right now with the Walnut Street Bridge closed, the Riverwalk is a great place to walk for Chattanooga views!

The Experience

The Tennessee Riverwalk is a paved, multi-use trail that stretches roughly 13 miles along the Tennessee River, connecting downtown Chattanooga to the Chickamauga Dam. As you move along the path, you’ll pass through a mix of parks, boardwalks over the water, marshy wildlife viewing areas, quiet neighborhoods, and bustling parts of town like the Bluff View Art District and the Riverfront.

You’ll see joggers and cyclists, people walking their dogs, families riding bikes together, and folks just quietly enjoying a walk by the water. The trail is very well maintained, with restrooms, water fountains, and signage throughout — each half mile is marked so you can keep track of your distance.

One of our favorite stretches is the section near 2101 Amnicola Hwy. This part of the trail includes wide, open views of the river, plenty of shade from the trees, and close proximity to spots like the Chattanooga Area Food Bank and the Tennessee Riverpark, which has picnic areas and parking. It’s a good entry point if you're driving in, and usually less crowded than the downtown sections.

What to Know Before You Go

Trail Length: About 13 miles one way
Accessible From: Chickamauga Dam (north end) to Ross’s Landing downtown (south end)
Trail Type: Paved, flat, mostly shaded in parts
Parking: Dozens of access points with parking lots. Popular spots include:
- 2101 Amnicola Hwy (my go-to spot! Though it is a little hard to turn left out of if you're going during peak traffic hours)
- TN Riverpark (4301 Amnicola Hwy)
- Ross’s Landing (201 Riverfront Pkwy)
- Battery Place near Bluff View Art District
Pet Friendly: Yes — there are dog waste stations and trash cans throughout
Restrooms: Available at various trailheads and park areas
Accessibility: The trail is accessible for wheelchairs, bikes, and strollers
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Admission: Free

Extra Tips or Bonuses

- If you want to pair your walk with a bite to eat, stop at the nearby Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar (just off Amnicola Highway) for riverfront dining. Or, head downtown for coffee from Rembrandt’s and stroll the art-lined part of the trail near the Bluff View Art District.
- Into biking? You can rent bikes or e-bikes downtown via Bike Chattanooga stations and hop right onto the trail.
- This is a great place for a beginner-friendly run or training walk — the wide, flat path makes it a favorite for local running groups.
- Looking for a pretty spot for photos? The boardwalks over the water (especially near the Walnut Street Bridge and at Blue Goose Hollow) are especially scenic.
- During spring and early fall, this trail is perfect for a sun-soaked walk without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re local or just visiting for the weekend, the Tennessee Riverwalk is one of those places that makes you appreciate how much green space Chattanooga offers without needing to drive out of town. It’s peaceful, well-kept, and flexible for however you want to enjoy it — a long solo run, a quiet morning walk, a bike ride with friends, or a sunset view with your dog.

If you’re from out of town, it’s an easy way to explore some of Chattanooga’s most scenic neighborhoods and riverfront areas. And if you’re local, you probably already know it’s a go-to spot for decompressing at the end of the day.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

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Kai Bistro in Chattanooga: Pan-Asian Flavors on East Main Street

If you’re always on the lookout for a new casual spot to grab a flavorful lunch or dinner in Chattanooga, Kai Bistro ought to be on your radar. This newer addition to the Southside dining scene has been steadily serving up bold, comforting Asian-inspired dishes with a modern twist. Whether you’re popping in for a midweek lunch break or winding down with dinner and friends, Kai has created a space that’s welcoming, fast-casual, and full of flavor.


The Experience

Located on East Main Street near the heart of Chattanooga’s vibrant Southside, Kai Bistro blends the warm hospitality of a neighborhood hangout with the dynamic, rotating creativity of a chef-driven menu. The space is casual and modern, with sleek décor, comfy seating, and a counter-service setup that makes it easy to order quickly and settle in.

The menu pulls inspiration from a variety of Asian cuisines—expect to see rice and noodle bowls, soups, small plates, and creative daily specials that change frequently. The team behind Kai keeps it fresh by rotating in specials that reflect seasonal ingredients, trending flavors, or just the chef’s latest inspiration. There’s often something a little unexpected, which keeps regulars coming back.

Customer favorites include hearty ramen bowls, classic pork or chicken dumplings, and signature rice bowls customizable with proteins like Korean BBQ beef or crispy chicken. The portion sizes are just right for a satisfying meal without feeling overloaded—and they keep it well-balanced with fresh veggies and house-made sauces.

What to Know Before You Go

Location:
Kai Bistro is located at 625 East Main Street, Chattanooga, TN 37408. It’s right in that walkable strip near The Hot Chocolatier, Main Street Meats, and only a few blocks from the Choo Choo complex.

Parking:
Street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood. It’s free, though it can get a little tight during lunch rush hours, so arrive with a few extra minutes to spare if you’re on a schedule.

Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Friday–Saturday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Sunday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Note: They close between lunch and dinner, so plan accordingly.

Specials:
Kai runs daily specials, which are usually announced on their Instagram (@kaibistrochatt). Keep an eye there for the latest limited-time dishes and combo meals. Shayna: Check for sample specials or photos to highlight here!

Extra Tips or Bonuses

If you're planning on grabbing dinner before a show or heading to one of the nearby breweries or bars, Kai makes a great quick stop. It’s also a solid option for post-work coworking sessions—pick up lunch here before heading up the street to Common House, where you’ll often find creatives and entrepreneurs catching up or collaborating.

Looking for a dessert afterward? The Hot Chocolatier, just a few doors down, makes an excellent follow-up treat—especially if you’re eyeing a mochi truffle or something a little indulgent.

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Final Thoughts

Kai Bistro is one of those places that does the basics really well, while still encouraging a little culinary exploration. Whether you’re stopping in solo, meeting a friend, or feeding the family, it's easy to find something craveable and feel at home in the process. With its casual setup, evolving menus, and friendly service, it’s a perfect blend of comfort and creativity—ideal for locals looking for dependable eats or visitors wanting to explore Chattanooga’s increasingly diverse food scene.

For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!