If you plan to make a visit to Chattanooga, Tennessee, here are a few travel tips to help you discover this popular southern tourist attraction.

Park the car
Not only does Chattanooga have an affordable (starting at $8 for a daily pass) bike-share system (with 38 stations spread throughout the downtown area and North Shore district), but the city offers a free shuttle that transports passengers throughout downtown where some of Chattanooga’s biggest attractions are located, including the Chattanooga Choo-Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium. If you prefer to explore the city on foot, Chattanooga’s downtown riverwalk winds 13 miles along the Tennessee River and boasts numerous shops and restaurants, as well as popular attractions including the Bluff View Art District, the Passage (which marks the beginning of the Trail of Tears) and The Market Street Bridge (which is the longest pedestrian bridge in the world). However, if you’re looking to explore the famous natural attractions such as Lookout Mountain or the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park, you’ll need a car to access them.

Look for a hotel package deal
Many Chattanooga hotels offer package deals that include tickets to top attractions and other amenities not covered in standard room rates, such as free breakfast or parking. Check Groupon Getaways to see what hotels are currently offering deals & specials.

Check the tourism website
Chattanooga’s tourism site offers free coupons to attractions, restaurants, tours and entertainment venues throughout the city.

Bring the family
Many of the city’s top attractions cater to children or offer kid-friendly events and programs. In addition to the Tennessee Aquarium, try taking the kids to the Chattanooga Zoo, Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park / SoakYa Water Park and the Creative Discovery Museum (made exclusively for children).

Plan a fall visit
Chattanooga’s (and Tennessee’s) fall foliage is some of the most picturesque in the country. If possible, take a drive through the mountains and capture some breathtaking fall foliage pictures!