Chattanooga’s Must-See Wonder Is 260 Feet Underground

If you are looking for a good long weekend trip within driving distance of the tri-state area, Chattanooga, Tennessee, is the place to be. Whether you're going with family, kids, or even on a bachelorette trip, there is SO much to do and see. There is a great variety for those who like to explore the outdoors, stay indoors, or somewhere in between.

260 Miles Away & 260 Feet Below

When I first saw a picture of Ruby Falls, I couldn't believe it was real. This stunning natural wonder is located a hop and a skip down to Chattanooga, Tennessee. That's definitely doable. Only 260ish miles away and 260 feet below the ground is the tallest underground waterfall in the United States, and it's open to visitors.

Wonderliv Travel Youtube

According to RubyFalls.com,

Breathtaking Ruby Falls was accidentally discovered by Leo Lambert in 1928 deep within Lookout Mountain in Chattanoooga, Tennessee. Leo named the waterfall and cave after his wife, Ruby, and opened the iconic Chattanooga attraction to the public in 1929. Today, Ruby Falls welcomes guests to Lookout Mountain from around the world to enjoy underground cave adventures, spectacular views of the Cumberland Plateau, soaring zip lines and award-winning special events!

The cave is open daily (minus Christmas Day), no matter the weather, and they say the temperature stays at a comfortable 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Ruby Falls offers various guided tours, whether you want the in-depth history of the cave or just want to marvel in the beauty of the falls for a while and head back up the glass elevator to enjoy the other amenities of the area.

Like the Treetop Hideaways, which offer a luxurious stay in the picturesque scenery surrounding Lookout Mountain.

Treetop at Ruby Falls

Here is a sneak peek tour I found:

When I was in Chattanooga last year, I was amazed at how much it had grown. Of course, I hadn't been there since I was a kid to visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the aquarium. Rock City is another great adventure, and there is an excellent nightlife scene in various parts of town. Highly recommend for your next weekend trip!

Get our free mobile app

LOOK: Stunning vintage photos capture the beauty of America's national parks

Today these parks are located throughout the country in 25 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The land encompassing them was either purchased or donated, though much of it had been inhabited by native people for thousands of years before the founding of the United States. These areas are protected and revered as educational resources about the natural world, and as spaces for exploration.

Keep scrolling for 50 vintage photos that show the beauty of America's national parks.

Gallery Credit: Alexander Raeburn