Locals Only Gifts and Goods: Chattanooga’s One-Stop Shop for Local Treasures

Looking for holiday magic in Chattanooga? Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights is a must-see event happening now (November 15) through January 4th (closed December 24th). This year marks the 30th anniversary of this award-winning light display, and it’s bigger and better than ever!

For the first time in history, you can step inside the Rock City founder’s house, Carter Cliffs, to meet Santa and see a live action toy soldier. Another exciting addition this year is the chance to walk the famous swinging bridge at night, surrounded by breathtaking lights. As you explore, unique snow globes will guide you through the park’s different themed trail loops, making the experience even more magical.

Of course, all the Rock City classics are still part of the fun. Stroll through the enchanting Fairyland Caverns, challenge yourself at Fat Man Squeeze, marvel at the colorful Rainbow Hall, and take in the stunning views of Lover’s Leap and the waterfall. Each path offers its own unique charm, so there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

📍 Location: 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 (just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga)
🎟️ Tickets: Available on Rock City’s website: https://www.seerockcity.com/enchanted-garden-of-lights/ 

💡 Pro Tip: Need a cozy place to stay? Check out the Chanticleer Inn, located right across the street. They’re offering a special package right now that includes tickets to the Enchanted Garden of Lights, a gourmet hot cocoa bar, and extra holiday goodies.

Make this holiday season unforgettable by visiting Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights. Grab your tickets, bring your loved ones, and see why this event has been a Chattanooga favorite for 30 years.

For more magical Chattanooga experiences, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Watch my videos about Rock City here: 

A Feast for the Senses

The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a towering two-story dry-aged meat locker, a full bar, modern décor, and even a live plant wall. It’s an impressive setting that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. Upstairs, there’s a private event space that’s ideal for celebrations like birthdays, engagement parties, or Friendsgiving gatherings.

Zaya is open for both lunch and dinner on weekends and dinner during the week, making it a versatile option whether you’re planning a fancy date night or a group celebration. They’re even open on Thanksgiving, offering a special feast that’s perfect for the holiday season.

The Steak That Melts in Your Mouth

Zaya specializes in premium Korean steakhouse-style dining, and their attention to detail is second to none. Their Butcher’s Feast is a must-try, featuring a variety of hand-selected meats cooked tableside by expert servers. Every bite of steak is so tender you won’t even need a knife.

Standout dishes include:

1. The Zaya Steak: Bursting with flavor.
2. Dry-Aged Tomahawk Steak: Exceptionally rich and tender.
3. Delmonico Steak: A fan-favorite that’s absolutely mind-blowing.
4. A5 Japanese Miyazaki Wagyu: The star of the show. This world-class Wagyu literally melts in your mouth and is a must-try for any steak lover. (It is expensive…but WORTH IT atleast once in your life!)

More Than Just Steak

The meal is served family-style, creating a fun and communal dining experience. In addition to their premium steaks, Zaya offers a wide selection of appetizers and sides that pair perfectly with the main dishes. (The glazed sweet potatoes are SOOO GOOOD!)

‍Plan Your Visit

• Location: 300 Cherokee Blvd, Unit 125, Chattanooga, TN 37405
• Hours:
  • Tuesday–Thursday: 5 PM–10 PM
  • Friday–Sunday: Lunch (11:30 AM–2:30 PM), Dinner (5 PM–10 PM)
  • Closed Mondays.
• Special Events: Zaya is open on Thanksgiving with an exclusive feast menu, perfect for celebrating the holiday in style.

Zaya Korean Steakhouse delivers on every level. With an award-winning reputation and unforgettable flavors, this is the place to impress anyone.

For more Chattanooga dining recommendations, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Watch my videos about Zaya Steakhouse here: 

Looking for a dining experience that combines authentic, homemade Mexican food with a fun and vibrant atmosphere? Corazón de Mexico in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, has become a viral sensation—and for good reason. Only a 15-minute drive from Chattanooga, this restaurant offers not just incredible meals but an experience worth talking about.

The first thing you’ll notice when you step inside is the beautiful decor, including a well-stocked bar and an eye-catching shelf filled with unique art and treasures brought directly from Mexico. These details set the tone for an authentic and welcoming dining experience.

When it comes to the food, come HUNGRY(!!!) There are many different amazing things you will want to try here. Start with their complimentary homemade chips and salsa—they’re perfectly crunchy and delicious. If you’re a queso lover, you have to try either the chorizo dip or the queso fundido; both are game-changers! For your main course, you can’t go wrong with the fan-favorite Birria Tacos. Each bite is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. I also like their Exclusive Mix Tacos, Birria Ramen, and the Alpastor Exclusive tacos.

While you wait for your food, enjoy a game of lotería, a Mexican game similar to bingo, already at your table. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted drinks, like the Strawberry Horchata Mojito or the vodka punch served in a whimsical fish-shaped glass (it’s discounted on Fridays!). With one of the largest tequila collections in the Chattanooga area, the cocktails here are as beautiful as they are delicious!

Corazón de Mexico has even been voted the "Best of the Best" in Georgia, a well-deserved accolade for a spot that puts so much heart into every detail. Pro tip: Check out their Instagram (@corazoncuisine) for updates on specials (and actually funny reels!).

📍 Location: 2681 Battlefield Parkway, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

Hungry yet? Make the short trip to Corazón de Mexico for your next meal out.

For more Chattanooga recommendations, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!

Watch my videos about Corazón de Mexico here: