In this increasingly cookie-cutter world we inhabit it’s getting harder to find anything legitimately authentic, really unique. This can be especially true when it comes to lodging. Sure there are a slew of good, predictable chain hotels that serve up the same experience each time you check in. But what really sets them apart?
If you’re in search of something different, head to Chattanooga. The city harbors a pair of hotels that once-upon-a-time traversed the country. One’s a steamboat, the other a collection of railroad cars.
The Delta Queen Hotel is moored at 100 River Street, a gilded-age throwback that defined a gentler era. The last of this country’s traditional steamboats carrying overnight guests, Delta Queen is now a posh boutique hotel. 88 nicely-appointed staterooms and cabins are arrayed on three decks. All of them sport premium pillow-top mattresses, deluxe duvets, luxurious bathrobes and fragrant bath amenities. Very Victorian.
Cabins on the main deck open inside to the Betty Blake Lounge, those on the upper decks offer drop-dead vistas of the Tennessee River and the bluffs that overlook her – or views of the North Shore.
Teak handrails, burnished brass and crystal chandeliers bespeak a time past, one that you’ll want to enter. Gourmet breakfast is served daily.
From river to rail, Chattanooga’s accommodations take you back. The Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel was a favorite of this reporter’s family when the kids were young. Bed down in one of 48 Victorian rail cars. These are the real deal. The only thing missing (sadly) is the clickty-clack of the rails. These train cars don’t move. They’re surrounded by formal gardens, gardens that are just in their prime this time of year. Dine in The Station House. Visit the Model Railroad Museum and behold one of the planet’s premier miniature train layouts. The tiny topography is that of Chattanooga and the surrounding countryside.
The Choo Choo is a resort destination in the heart of one of America’s most fascinating small cities.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: Frank Kehren)
