The "West" in the Civil War: Chattanooga and Chickamauga

On our second family trip to Chattanooga, we reserved the equivalent of a day to explore the civil war battlefields and memorial monuments at Chattanooga and Chickamauga.  Both are characterized as far "western" battlefields for the time, and Justin, our Mr. History, recommends visiting both to help understand the course of the war.  Both sites help us understand what happened in our past--and the ways in which we have reflected on these events over the years.

On Lookout Mountain, Point Park, a commemoration of Chattanooga's "Battle Above the Clouds," is one of the first National Park Service sites.  It includes gorgeous views, including some even a casual student of history will recognize in civil war photographs.  Ochs Memorial Observatory includes a small gallery-style museum of civil war photography.  It's not part of the National Park Service, but the Battles for Chattanooga dioramas nearby add interesting information--and provide a way for you to support independent history attractions in addition to the National Park Service.  In fact, some of the best parking for this area is right behind their building.

Justin describes Chickamauga as a very well-preserved battlefield that can occupy several hours of driving/walking/hiking.  Like Gettysburg, there are many, many monuments and markers.  With a sense of adventure in mind, you can climb Wilder's Brigade Tower, an 85-foot stone monument with an interesting story itself.  There's a spiral staircase inside and outstanding views at the top.  Hang on to little ones, as the windows are open air--G tried to make an escape out of a high window, and she could have if we hadn't been paying attention.

If you go, Chattanooga's Point Park can easily be enjoyed as part of a trip to Lookout Mountain--and especially to the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.  If you are feeling thrifty, Point Park can serve as a lower-priced and kitsch-free alternative to Rock City--although we'd still suggest visiting both. Chickamauga is easy to reach on a travel day--we stopped as we drove back "up" to Roanoke--and is, again, a spacious place.  Both are best enjoyed on pleasant-weather days when you feel comfortable outside.