Native americans had a thriving civilization here for some 10,000 years, and there are strong efforts to bring this history to the visitor in the future.

Chattanooga also has enormous value for its role in the American Civil War.  In fact, from August 1863, until the war's end in 1865, the city played host to both Confederates and Yankees.  Several very important battles occured here.  Chickamauga (7 miles south of the city), Lookout Mountain, and Missionary Ridge , all fought between September through November of 1863 proved as important, many say, as the Battle of Gettysburg in the eastern theatre of the war.  For a Civil War buff, Chattanooga is a must-visit area. 

For a complete guide about what makes Chattanooga Chattanooga, be sure to check out this link here.