How To Spend Christmas In The Appalachians: Chattanooga And Huntsville

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If you’re planning a vacation over the festive period, then there’s no better to feel the festive cheer than in the Appalachian Mountain region, specifically Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama – two destinations known for their spirit of Christmas whilst only being 1.5 hour’s drive from each other.

We didn’t plan to visit Chattanooga or Huntsville for the holidays, but due to snow storms, we had to make other plans, and we’re so glad we did!

There was so much to see and do and we felt the magic of the holidays oozing out of every attraction – from festive holiday music to holiday lights and holiday events, there were so many ways to get into the festive spirit and keep the whole family entertained.

Here are some things to do in Chattangooga and Huntsville during the holiday season.

Christmas in Chattanooga: Things to Do + Events

We like Chattanooga and always want to come back, but unfortunately it rained the entire time we were there for our holiday festivities – and quite heavy rain too – which limited what we were able to do.

Thankfully there are a lot of indoor activities and we were exploring slowly anyway due to the workload we want to catch up on.

1. Ride the Chattanooga Choo Choo

We’ve visited Chattanooga a few times, and one of the attractions we always remember is the Chattanooga Choo Choo.

The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a former train yard turned into a cool entertainment space.

The terminal station is a lobby to the hotel and the former train carriages have been turned into breweries, restaurants, draft houses, escape rooms, and accommodation.

Much of the 1909 historic features still remain, such as the train tracks and the former steam train used over 100 years ago. It’s one of our favorite attractions in Chattanooga with kids.

2. Visit the Chattanooga Christmas Village Holiday Market

Chattanooga is often a winter wonderland in the Holiday season, covering the town in a blanket of snow and sparkling icicles.

Which is why you might love to warm up a bit with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate at the Chattanooga Christmas Village Holiday Market.

Every year for a weekend only in November, the Christmas Village Holiday Market comes alive at Camp Jordan Arena.

Featuring live entertainment, food stands, and more than 140 vendors, it’s the perfect place…