Whether you were born in Scenic City or a relative newcomer, there are just some things every Chattanoogan understands to be true.
We asked our readers to share Chattanooga’s unwritten rules, from common city knowledge to relatable trends and local lingo. You won’t find these rules in a handbook, but they are undoubtedly absorbed by the community — and if you’re not from Chattanooga, these might be a little difficult to explain.
The unspoken rule everyone knows
“Rule #1: Chatt-a-noo-ga has *four* syllables. Not three… four.” — WTVC NewsChannel 9
We’ve learned a thing or two from commuting
“Be like the I-24/I-75 and never stop working on yourself.” — Amy M.
“It’s required to go at least 10+ mph over the speed limit on Riverside.” — Cole G.
“If you drive too slow on Amnicola, we WILL be giving you the death stare and there’s no arguing this.” — John R.
“If you don’t need to be on the W Road, don’t take the W Road.” — Katie R.
“Honking in tunnels for fun and friendly back-n-forth.” — Kristin S.
“The ridge cut isn’t about your hair.” — Christine C.
“It’s not a big deal to drive to Atlanta, but don’t expect someone from Hixson to willingly drive to Ooltewah.” — Adrienne R.
“Know where the free parking is and if you give yourself enough time to circle the block you’ll find a spot. Haven’t paid for parking in YEARS.” — @shopsugardaddy
“Get @bikechattanooga‘s early pass for $50 instead of buying individual rides.” — @waltbfilmin
Need more driving tips? Lots of our followers seem to recommend the zipper merge method.
Photo by @emily_k_lester
Sometimes you just have to laugh
“Breathe through your mouth in Southside.” — @whatkaitmakes
Chattanoogan pro tips
“Must own at least one pair of Chacos and drive a Subaru if at all possible.” — Ronald B.
“Two dogs minimum.” — Steven M.
“If it’s made locally, we like it better.” — Jennifer K.
“Rule — Either be a trail runner or rock climber, or know someone who does.” — Caroline O.
“The best neon sign in town says “Hot Doughnuts Now.” And going through the drive-thru in your pjs is totally acceptable.” — Jennifer K.
“Going to the farmers markets and getting awesome food products. They taste better, they are healthier, you get to shop outside, chat with interesting people and support local businesses.” — @theluckycajun
“Don’t miss the FREE 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival… always the first weekend in October at Ross’s Landing.” — @lizzergraham
“Mmmm...probably dropping the corporate bank account and joining a local credit union that invests back into the community!” — @tvfcu
“LIVE LOCAL MUSIC!!!” — @_fawley
We remember when...
“Ol’ Johnny or Ol’ Jottie is the Olgiati Bridge.” — Tricia H.
“When someone asks you where you went to school, he or she means high school.” — Joe W.
“Unspoken rule was that even if you didn’t buy a flower from Sandy, he’d give it to you for free.” — Wendy F.
“The Town and Country Restaurant!!! Wow...now that was a blast from the past. Who remembers eating there?” — Donna W.
