Howdy readers. City Editor Haley here. Thursday, Oct. 31 just so happens to be my 26th birthday (and also one of my favorite days since it’s also Halloween), so I thought I would celebrate by sharing my top 26 favorite things in and about the city.
These are in no particular order.
26.
Joli Jardin Flower Shop | This European-style flower market is the perfect stop to build your own bouquet — I love when they have dahlias.
25.
Peaches from Dickey Farms | You can find this vendor at the Chattanooga Market + they just so happen to have my favorite selection of Georgia peaches.
24.
Watching Premier League matches at Shady’s Corner | You can find me on any given weekend enjoying an ice-cold Guinness at this deli + bar.
23.
Oyster hour at Easy Bistro & Bar | In case you didn’t know, every day from 4 to 5 p.m., you can get BOGO on the rotating oyster list.
22.
Staycations | Every now and then you simply need a change of scenery + sometimes you don’t want the travel — I recently enjoyed a few tiny cabin stays at Timberroot Rustic Retreats’ Wauhatchie Woodlands.
21.
The annual 127 Yard Sale | Every August, the world’s longest yard sale makes a stop over in Signal Mountain, bringing in hundreds of vendors.
20.
The butterfly sanctuary at the Tennessee Aquarium | This room in the Ocean Journey building has been a staple in my life since before I even lived in Chattanooga.
19.
2 A.M. Bagel from Honey Seed | Hashbrowns, sausage, bacon, egg, and cheese on a Montréal-style everything bagel — need I say more? Pro tip: Sub out the white cheddar for Tillamook cheddar.
18.
Chattanooga Whiskey’s experimental batches | From a tequila barrel finish to a coffee-infused bourbon, this distillery is constantly offering small batches of some of my favorite whiskeys.
17.
Taco Tuesday at La Altena | My go-to order? Three Mexico City tacos, two steak + one chicken with a side of cheese dip.
16.
Dirty Jane’s Antiques | I can almost solely thank this Red Bank spot and its vendors for furnishing + decorating my apartment.
15.
Pizza night at Niedlov’s Bakery & Café | I would have to say the Scenic City has some of the greatest slices around + this particular spot just takes the sauce for me, and don’t get me started on the crust.
14.
Going to a live show | Chattanooga’s music scene has only continued to grow since my time living here + I love looking into who is playing at The Signal or Barrelhouse Ballroom.
13.
Wilderness Outdoor Theater | When this drive-in is in season (typically spring through early fall), you can catch new releases or some of your old favorites — and the low prices make it a good family outing option.
12.
Lookout Winery | Pizza and wine is always a great combo, but this spot might just be a triple threat when you count the views. Pro tip: Get there a little early to get a good seat for the sunset.
11.
Naughty Cat Cafe | If you’re ever feeling down + just need some cuddles (and aren’t allergic), I recommend stopping into this St. Elmo spot to spend time with the 35+ cats that live there.
10.
Juices from Southern Squeeze | This vegan-friendly eatery makes its juices in-house from fresh produce daily — if you’re a beet lover, try the Rhinestone Cowboy.
9.
Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City | One time a year, I allow myself to play tourist a bit and see this annual light display.
8.
The Book and Cover | Since this local book shop opened, I have been in love — the homey vibes reminds me of a used bookstore from my hometown.
7.
Big Soddy Creek Gulf | Whether you’re in the mood for a hike or want to just sit by the creek, this 285-acre wilderness area offers easy walking trails + access to the water that is friendly to those of all abilities.
6.
Tulip season | One of my favorite springtime activities is going to a local farm and snagging these buds — you can also find u-picks at places like Creekside Flower Farm.
5.
Local coffee | I can’t just pick one as I can thank most of the spots in our guide for giving me the fuel I need to write your favorite daily newsletter — but I will say that the shaken-iced lattes at Velo Coffee Roasters are high on my list.
4.
The Caesar salad at Alleia | Order this staple menu item with your entree + thank me later — the white truffle oil really makes this salad.
3.
Tea from Asheville Dispensary | Try a variety of loose leaf teas from this NorthShore spot’s elixir bar — the Relax Gently herbal tea is one of my favorites with chamomile, lavender, mugwort, damiana + lemon balm.
2.
The red pandas at the Chattanooga Zoo | While my love expands to all the animals and creatures of the zoo, the red pandas have my heart — especially Pilatus.
1.
MAINx24 | Okay, I know I said these were in no particular order, but this annual day is definitely one of my favorite days in the Scenic City as the Southside comes to life for a full day — and it’s coming up fast.
