The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, it’s not raining every day, and we’re excited about taking more day trips to neighboring cities.
Chattanooga is one of our favorites, if not our FAVORITE nearby city, to visit for the day.
The walkability is one of the key reasons we feel this way, and the ability to easily explore each of the major districts by foot makes it ideal for this type of trip.
If you’re looking to spend the day in Chattanooga, we highly recommend these five spots.
5 Highly Recommended Chattanooga Spots
Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey has a few locations throughout Tennessee, but their Chattanooga location has impressed us the most so far. Connected to the popular Chattanooga Choo Choo, this coffee shop/cafe is huge.
Frothy Monkey serves coffee, beer, and wine (they’re open until 10 pm during the week and 12 am Friday and Saturday).
They also offer breakfast (served until 5 pm), sandwiches, and dinner entrees.
Mean Mug – Northshore
We love when a restaurant or coffee shop completely exceeds our expectations, and Mean Mug did exactly that. Located in Signal Mill, a redeveloped historic knitting mill in the heart of Chattanooga’s Northshore District, this spot has an authentic feel.
We love the mid-century decor and the innovative menu with items such as veggie grit bowls, beet root and matcha lattes, and an array of milk alternatives. Also check out their first location not too far away in Southside.
Speed Deluxe
We’d like to dub this Chattanooga’s hidden gem when it comes to coffee shops. Motorcycle store/repair shop with a coffee bar inside. The cool factor here is off the charts, and the coffee is darn good. Added points for amazing decor and ambiance.
It’s legit you guys; they don’t just have a love for motorcycles because it’s hip and cool. This is the type of stop that’s worth the drive all by itself, especially if you’re familiar with the term “cafe racer”.
Julie Darling Donuts
It’s hard to write about this sweet spot without instantly craving one of Julie Darling’s donuts. Our first time inside this place had us pleasantly surprised by the variety of donuts available. I mean, they have every kind of donut you could possibly want.
Also, don’t miss the huge pink wall on the side of the shop. You will probably find a line of people waiting to get a photo in front of it.
Taconooga
You should know by now our love for tacos is REAL, so when we came across a taco joint serving up handmade tortillas, grilled cactus, and Mexican street corn, we knew it would make our favorites list.
We usually opt for the classic “authentic” tacos.
You know, the ones with onions and cilantro. Perfection!
What are your favorite Chattanooga spots?
If you’re passing on the weekend in Chattanooga, check our calendar to see what’s going on in the Rocket City! 🗓

Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.