A Whimsical and Romantic Date Weekend in Chattanooga Before Christmas
Chattanooga, Tennessee, the weekend before Christmas, unfolds like a quiet love letter to the season. With fewer crowds and a slower pace, the city becomes a haven for romance—a place where time slows and magic lingers in the air. Here’s how we spent our dreamy, pre-Christmas weekend in this enchanting town.
Saturday Morning: Brunch at STIR
We arrived in Chattanooga on a crisp Saturday morning and made our way to STIR for brunch. Nestled in the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo train station, STIR’s setting was nothing short of captivating. Sunlight poured through the towering, old windows, casting a warm glow over the bustling dining room. We savored mimosas, explored the brunch snack bar buffet, and indulged in perfectly prepared entrées. The blend of delicious food and timeless ambiance set a romantic tone for the day ahead.
Checking In: The Chattanoogan Hotel
After brunch, we checked into The Chattanoogan Hotel. Thanks to a Hilton friends-and-family discount from a dear friend, we had a cozy home base for our stay. Though the hotel was comfortable and inviting, its lack of a pool or hot tub left us dreaming of other options for future visits. Nevertheless, its warmth and charm served us well for our weekend escape.
Saturday Afternoon: Nostalgia at the Coker Museum
Our next adventure took us to the Coker Museum, where history and nostalgia danced hand in hand. Surrounded by antique cars and motorcycles, we wandered through a festive wonderland adorned with twinkling Christmas decorations. The gentle glow of the holiday lights reflected off the polished chrome and made every corner feel like a memory come to life. It was a magical way to spend the afternoon, wrapped in the glow of simpler times.
Saturday Evening: A Luxurious Dinner at Bridgeman’s Chophouse
As the evening approached, we found ourselves at Bridgeman’s Chophouse, tucked inside the historic Read House Hotel. From the moment we entered, the atmosphere wrapped us in its moody, romantic embrace. Dim lighting, luxurious wallpaper, and opulent draperies whispered of old-world glamour.
Our evening began with perfectly crafted cocktails and a decadent stuffed portobello mushroom appetizer. The crab chowder and apple sweet potato salad were divine preludes to the main course. Both my husband and I chose the 8oz filet mignon, cooked to a flawless medium-rare and crowned with truffle butter. We shared the indulgent truffle mac and cheese, a dish so rich and comforting it felt like a warm embrace. The restaurant’s attentive service of warm, freshly baked bread added an extra touch of perfection.
After dinner, we wandered through the Read House Hotel, where antique phone booths, a vintage shoe-shining station, and opulent Christmas decorations beckoned us to explore. The elegance of the space transported us to a time of whispered secrets and timeless romance.
Saturday Night: Enchantment at the Asian Lantern Festival
To close the evening, we ventured to the Chattanooga Zoo for the Asian Lantern Festival. Under a canopy of stars, we meandered through the glowing lantern displays, their vibrant colors casting a spell of wonder. Booking the last self-guided tour of the night meant we had the festival nearly to ourselves, making it a truly magical and intimate experience.
Sunday Morning: A Relaxing Start and Homemade Bagels
Sunday morning greeted us gently, and we indulged in a leisurely sleep-in before heading to Honey Seed for breakfast. Their homemade bagels, warm and fresh, were a delightful start to the day. The cozy atmosphere made it feel like time stood still, giving us a moment to savor each other’s company.
Sunday Afternoon: Exploring the Aquarium
Our afternoon was spent at the Tennessee Aquarium, where we marveled at the beauty and mystery of marine life. The thoughtfully designed exhibits drew us into an underwater world, each display more captivating than the last.
Sunday Lunch: Scenic Views at Top of the Rock
On our journey home, we paused at Top of the Rock Restaurant and Brewery in Kimball. Perched amid breathtaking mountain views, the restaurant was a feast for the senses. We lingered over a delicious lunch, savoring every bite of the creamy spinach and artichoke dip served in a warm bread bowl. The panoramic scenery provided the perfect backdrop to reflect on a weekend well spent.
A Weekend to Remember
Our weekend in Chattanooga before Christmas was a love story in itself—a tapestry of quiet moments, festive magic, and timeless romance. From historic charm and nostalgic experiences to intimate dinners and shimmering lights, the city offered us an unforgettable escape. If you’re seeking a dreamy and romantic getaway during the holiday season, Chattanooga will capture your heart.
