Best Museums and Galleries in Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga, TN, is a beautiful city in the Tennessee Valley with galleries and museums where visitors can learn about the area, enjoy art, and more. Students of history and art, we hope you arrive curious and leave satisfied. As you plan your visit, consider how Storelocal Chattanooga can provide convenient self-storage solutions for any treasures you might find along the way.
Hunter Museum of American Art
The Hunter Museum of American Art contains a huge amount of American art from the Colonial period to the present day. Here, you’ll get to explore works by artists like as Thomas Cole, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O'Keeffe. The museum itself is in a historic mansion, but includes a modern addition.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a fun place to visit for anyone who loves trains and railroad history. Take a train ride, learn all about historic locomotives, and learn about how important railroad development was in the early days of Chattanooga and the surrounding area.
Creative Discovery Museum
Perfect for families, the Creative Discovery Museum will inspire you and your children, especially if you’re feeling curious and creative. You’ll find art, music, science, and technology exhibits, like the RiverPlay area, where kids can learn about the Tennessee River’s ecosystem, and the Inventors’ Clubhouse, which encourages innovation and problem-solving.
Chattanooga African American Museum & Bessie Smith Cultural Center
Learn about the contributions of African Americans to Chattanooga at The Chattanooga African American Museum and Bessie Smith Cultural Center. This is a great place to learn about the Civil Rights Movement, study African American art, and to familiarize yourself with local history. The Cultural Center, named after the famous blues singer Bessie Smith, hosts various events and performances throughout the year.
Bluff View Art District
The Bluff View Art District features several galleries you’ll want to check out. These include the River Gallery, showcasing fine art from local and international artists, the Bluff View Sculpture Garden, and views of the Tennessee River. Have a drink or a bite to eat at one of the local artisan cafés or purchase gifts in a nearby shop. Overall, this is a lovely spot for a leisurely afternoon.
International Towing & Recovery Museum
The International Towing & Recovery Museum highlights the history of towing and recovery in Chattanooga. Have you ever seen an antique wrecker? Well, here’s the place to do it. If you’re interested in the history of the automotive industry and the development of emergency services, you’ll learn a lot here.
Songbirds Guitar Museum
Who doesn’t love a beautiful guitar? The Songbirds Guitar Museum should be considered a must-see spot for anyone who loves music. It includes an extensive collection of vintage guitars, music memorabilia, and more, including rare and iconic instruments from famous musicians. You’ll also get to learn about the history of the guitar and its impact on various music genres.
Houston Museum of Decorative Arts
The Victorian era brought newfound elegance to the western world, and that includes in its unique style of architecture. The Houston Museum of Decorative Arts is housed in a Victorian home, and it offers a view of the 18th through 19th centuries with its impressive collection of antique glass, ceramics, and furniture. Named after Anna Safley Houston, the collection related to her forms the core of the exhibits.
Association for Visual Arts (AVA)
The Association for Visual Arts (AVA) in Chattanooga promotes and supports local artists by hosting exhibits that feature their work. Art students will love this place, too, for its workshops, where they can create art themselves.
Coker Museum
Within the Coker Tire headquarters, the Coker Museum showcases vintage cars, motorcycles, and automotive memorabilia. Here, you’ll get to explore the history of transportation and tire manufacturing, check out beautifully restored vehicles, and learn about the evolution of the automobile industry.
Whether you're exploring the historic artifacts at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum or marveling at contemporary art in the Bluff View Art District, there's something for everyone in Chattanooga. And as you explore, remember that Storelocal Chattanooga is here to help with all your storage needs, providing a safe and convenient place for your belongings while you enjoy everything Chattanooga offers.
