Explore the Magic of Rock City in Chattanooga, TN

This past weekend, I went to Chattanooga to celebrate my friend Brooklyn's upcoming nuptials. If you're asking yourself "Chattanooga for a bachelorette trip?" that's exactly the first thought I had when the destination was announced.

I know a lot of ladies party hardy in Nashville or Vegas or go to somewhere tropical, but our bride's only request for the weekend was to spend time in the great outdoors. Her fabulous matron of honor and whoop it up queen, Heather was in charge and she found the perfect place.

See Rock City

If you've ever driven through Tennessee, you've seen the iconic "See Rock City" painted on barns encouraging travelers to explore the magical trails and caves in the walking garden. I've always wondered what the hype was. If you've ever been, you know it's the mix of breathtaking natural beauty and really cool sculptures and hidden treasures within caves.

Fat Man's Squeeze

Stone pathways wind through the massive rock formations, cliffs and lush green gardens. The trail climbs up and down at times going through really skinny passes between the mountain.

If you are claustrophobic, you may feel a little anxious, but you can duck for more room or just hold your breath like I did and hustle to see the sun again.

The Swinging Bridge

Just don't look down! This bouncing over pass gives you an incredible opportunity to see across the gardens for an epic view.

Of course, it poses a bit of a challenge for someone afraid of heights. Just keep moving, don't look down and you'll be fine! We stopped in the middle to get a picture, but had to hold on because it kept moving even though we were still!

Any Easy Trek For Groups

Even though you basically climb up and down a mountain, the trek really is not difficult at all. It took us about two hours, but I would have piddled a little longer if it had been just me. Just wear some comfy shoes and take a fanny pack for your water or snacks. We had special ones made for the occasion to go with our matching bachelorette party shirts and we all wore cute sunglasses.

Rock City Dining and Drinks

You don't have to pack refreshments unless you just really want to. There is a Starbucks before you begin the trail, snack stops along your ascent and a grill & cafe at the top of Lookout Mountain once you reach Lover's Leap. You can learn about the tragic tale of Nacoochee and her warrior's terrible fate. It's also where you can see seven states at once! A picture perfect view for sure.

Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village

One of my favorite parts of the trail was the Fairyland Caverns towards the end.  Frieda Utermoehlen Carter is the mastermind behind this creative underground display of classic fairy tale stories.

Built in 1947, some of the sculptures are honestly...pretty dang creepy. However, it was nostalgic to see old school animatronics portraying nursery rhymes and classic German folklore that has inspired Disney movies and storybooks. A lot of it glowed in the dark which was really cool!

The gift shop was full of awesome souvenirs including the iconic "See Rock City" birdhouses.  I got a cute little birdhouse Lego kit for my son, Rollins, and a sticker for the bride!

Chattanooga is only 4 hours away which made this trip perfect for a weekend getaway. We explored Rock City Saturday morning and still had time for all kinds of shenanigans the rest of the day. The gardens also offer night time tickets to enjoy the trail with attractions all aglow and beautiful. Visit their website here for tickets and more information about the experience.

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