Chattanooga, a city surrounded by natural beauty and known for its bluegrass music festivals, has always been a hub for people and commerce. The Tennessee River and its surrounding mountains have drawn diverse groups to the region for centuries. Today, various destinations in Chattanooga highlight this spirit of convergence and communal gathering. The historic Chattanooga Choo Choo, once a bustling train terminal, is now a vibrant center for hotels, dining, and entertainment. The New Mountain Opry continues a long tradition of live bluegrass music on Signal Mountain. The majestic Tennessee River Gorge, an ancient travel corridor, is now protected and offers outdoor recreation and conservation initiatives. Ross's Landing, with its rich Cherokee history and role in the Trail of Tears, has been transformed into a lively riverfront park hosting public events and concerts. The Read House Hotel, Chattanooga's oldest, offers classic hospitality and tales of its famous haunted room. The Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery played a role in changing state law to allow distilling, and now offers tours and tastings. The Bluff View Art District provides a charming interconnected experience of art, dining, and scenic river views. Finally, Chickamauga Battlefield, a site of a major Civil War battle, also preserves local legends and hosts an annual festival celebrating a mysterious apparition.