Discover why Chattanooga is one of the South's most celebrated cities! U.S. News named Chattanooga the No. 1 “Best Place to Live in Tennessee in 2024-2025.” Once called “the dirtiest city in America,” Chattanooga now boasts a revitalized Main Street, premier outdoor recreation, and a thriving startup scene. Imagine stand-up paddle boarding on the Tennessee River and hiking in the Appalachian foothills all in one day! That’s why Outdoor magazine ranked Chattanooga No. 2 in its “9 Beautiful Mountain Towns in the Southeast.” The surrounding mountains offer expansive sandstone cliffs and boulders, making it a hotbed for rock climbing and mountain biking.

Foodies will be delighted to know that Chattanooga is ranked No. 3 in Condé Nast Traveler's “The Best Food Cities in the US: 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.” The city’s bustling restaurant scene is quickly becoming one of the most interesting dining destinations in the country. Of course, the Tennessee Aquarium, ranked No. 1 by Newsweek Magazine, will be the site of our conference reception on Friday night, and Condé Nast Traveler readers have named Chattanooga the No. 1 “Friendliest City in the US.” As you kayak in Coolidge Park, hike up Lookout Mountain, or shop in the Bluff View Art District, you’ll be tempted to make a permanent move to this charming city.