Eagles' Nest: Lookout Mountain's Overlooked Gem
Discover Eagles' Nest on Lookout Mountain: a serene historical site with natural beauty and a glimpse into Chattanooga's past.
Tucked away on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Eagles' Nest is a lesser-known historical site with natural beauty and intrigue. Once a limestone quarry, it was envisioned as part of the grand "Hanging Gardens of Lookout" in the early 20th century. Today, its crumbling steps and stone amphitheater offer a glimpse into a vision that never fully materialized.
A brief summary to Eagles' Nest(Lookout Mountain) AKA Memory Place
- Unnamed Road, Chattanooga, TN, 37409, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and exploring the quarry.
- Visit during the spring to see the perennial flowers in bloom, adding color to the landscape.
- Combine your visit with other Lookout Mountain attractions like Ruby Falls or Point Park for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Chattanooga, take Broad Street south towards Lookout Mountain. Continue onto TN-58 S/GA-157 N. Turn left onto E 48th Street, then right onto St. Elmo Avenue. Continue onto Scenic Highway/Lookout Mountain Scenic Hwy. Eagles' Nest will be on your left, a short distance past the Ruby Falls parking area. Limited roadside parking is available; be cautious when pulling over.
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Public Transport
Take CARTA route 18 to the St. Elmo neighborhood at the base of Lookout Mountain. From there, a taxi or ride-share is needed to complete the journey up Scenic Highway to Eagles' Nest, costing approximately $15-$20 USD. Alternatively, the Incline Railway ascends Lookout Mountain from St. Elmo; from the top station, it's still a 10-15 minute taxi/ride-share to Eagles' Nest. A one-way ticket on the Incline Railway is $15 for adults and $8.95 for children.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from downtown Chattanooga to Eagles' Nest will cost approximately $20-$30 USD, depending on traffic and demand. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Be sure to specify 'Eagles' Nest on Lookout Mountain, near Ruby Falls' as your destination to avoid confusion with other locations.
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Walking
An alternative and more accommodating option involves parking at Ruby Falls. Visitors can utilize the upper Ruby Falls parking lot, which offers ample space. From there, a short walk along Scenic Highway leads to the trailhead descending into Eagle's Nest. This route not only provides convenient parking but also allows for the exploration of multiple attractions in a single visit.
Discover more about Eagles' Nest(Lookout Mountain) AKA Memory Place
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eagles' Nest(Lookout Mountain) AKA "Memory Place"
0.0 km
Discover Eagles' Nest on Lookout Mountain: a serene historical site with natural beauty and a glimpse into Chattanooga's past.
Subterranean waterfall
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Discover the breathtaking Subterranean Waterfall in Chattanooga, a hidden gem of natural beauty and geological wonder waiting to be explored.
Cummings Highway Ravine Bridge
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Explore the Cummings Highway Ravine Bridge in Chattanooga, a historical landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city’s rich engineering heritage.
Camp Ross Historical Site And Placard
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Explore the rich history of Camp Ross Historical Site in Lookout Valley, Chattanooga, and connect with the past amidst stunning landscapes.
Iowa memorial
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Explore the Iowa Memorial in Chattanooga, Tennessee – a historical landmark honoring the valor and sacrifices of U.S. service members in a serene setting.
Grose's Brigade and Regimental monuments - Lookout Mountain
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Honor the brave Union soldiers of Grose's Brigade at these historical monuments on Lookout Mountain, a key site in the Civil War's Battle Above the Clouds.
Confederate Tablets and Howell's Georgia Battery - Lookout Mountain
0.8 km
Explore Civil War history at the Confederate Tablets and Howell's Georgia Battery site on Lookout Mountain, offering a glimpse into the 1863 Chattanooga Campaign.
Whitaker's Brigade Monument - Lookout Mountain
0.8 km
Honoring the brave Union soldiers of Whitaker's Brigade who fought in the historic Battle of Lookout Mountain during the Civil War.
Candy's Brigade and Regimental Monuments - Lookout Mountain
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Honor the brave Union soldiers at Candy's Brigade Monuments on Lookout Mountain, a site of pivotal Civil War history and stunning views.
New York Peace Memorial
1.1 km
Visit the iconic New York Peace Memorial in Point Park, Lookout Mountain, a symbol of post-Civil War reconciliation offering stunning views and a journey into American history.
A History in Steel
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Explore Chattanooga's industrial heritage at A History in Steel, a historical landmark showcasing the city's pivotal role in steel production.
Dread Hollow
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Experience spine-tingling thrills at Dread Hollow, Chattanooga's premier haunted house and escape room center, perfect for horror enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
The Big Rock
2.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical significance of The Big Rock, a breathtaking landmark in Chattanooga, TN, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers.
St. Elmo Historic District
2.6 km
Explore the historical allure of St. Elmo Historic District in Chattanooga, Tennessee – a treasure trove of architecture, nature, and local charm.
The University Of The South Historical Marker
2.9 km
Discover the historical significance of The University Of The South Historical Marker on Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Colorblind Viewfinder: Ruby Falls-Lookout Mountain-Blue Heron Overlook
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Discover the stunning Ruby Falls Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where breathtaking views and nature's beauty await every traveler.
Cravens House
0.8 km
Explore the historical significance and natural beauty of Cravens House, a must-visit landmark in Lookout Mountain, Tennessee.
Roper's Rock
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Explore Roper's Rock, a historical landmark in Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
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Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, where Civil War battles shaped the nation.
John C. Wilson Memorial Park
1.2 km
Explore the natural beauty of John C. Wilson Memorial Park in Chattanooga, a perfect blend of tranquility, outdoor activities, and scenic views.
Lookout Mountain Civil War Battlefield
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Discover the Lookout Mountain Civil War Battlefield, where history and breathtaking views collide in Tennessee’s natural beauty.
Point Park
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Explore the breathtaking views and rich history at Point Park, a scenic gem on Lookout Mountain, Tennessee.
Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center
1.2 km
Explore the rich history and stunning views at the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center, a key site of the Civil War and a nature lover's paradise.
Battles For Chattanooga
1.3 km
Explore the pivotal Battle of Chattanooga at this captivating museum on Lookout Mountain, where history and breathtaking views unite.
Battles For Chattanooga Museum
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Uncover the history of the Civil War at the Battles For Chattanooga Museum, featuring engaging exhibits and stunning views.
Lookout Mountain
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Lookout Mountain, a scenic gem in Tennessee with a historic inclined railway.
Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
1.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, a must-visit attraction in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
International Towing & Recovery Museum
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Explore the International Towing & Recovery Museum in Chattanooga, TN, a unique destination showcasing the history of the towing industry and its heroes.
Riverwalk Parkway
1.9 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Riverwalk Parkway in Chattanooga, where nature meets adventure along the Tennessee River.
Guild-Hardy Trailhead, Lookout Mountain Trails
2.1 km
Discover the beauty of Guild-Hardy Trailhead on Lookout Mountain, a top hiking destination with stunning views and diverse trails for all levels.
Essential places to dine
1885 Grill
1.7 km
Experience Southern hospitality and fresh seafood at 1885 Grill in Chattanooga – your go-to destination for brunch and dinner.
Common Table
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Mr. T's Pizza & Ice Cream
1.8 km
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Little Coyote
1.8 km
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The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe
1.9 km
Discover delicious barbecue and Southern charm at The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe in Chattanooga's enchanting St. Elmo neighborhood.
Sawasdee | Thai Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Sawasdee Restaurant in Chattanooga - where every dish tells a story!
Hello Monty
3.4 km
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HiFi Clyde's Chattanooga
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Feed Table and Tavern
3.5 km
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Massey's Kitchen
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Experience exquisite Southern cuisine with breathtaking views at Massey's Kitchen on Lookout Mountain.
Blue Orleans Seafood Restaurant - Cajun & Creole Cuisine
3.6 km
Discover the essence of Cajun & Creole cuisine at Blue Orleans Seafood Restaurant in Chattanooga - where every bite tells a story.
Waffle House
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Experience Southern hospitality at Waffle House in Chattanooga - where delicious breakfast and classic American diner fare await you 24/7.
Conga Latin Food
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Discover authentic Pan-Latin flavors at Conga Latin Food in Chattanooga – where every dish tells a story!
Alleia
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Alleia in Chattanooga's historic district, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
STIR
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Discover STIR in Chattanooga: where innovative cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SOUTHWEST STORE
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Explore exquisite jewelry at Southwest Store, a gem in Lookout Mountain offering unique pieces reflecting local artistry and timeless elegance.
Civil War Gifts from Battles for Chattanooga
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Explore Civil War memorabilia and unique novelties in the heart of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, at Civil War Gifts from Battles for Chattanooga.
Mountain Memories
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Explore Mountain Memories, a unique souvenir store in Chattanooga featuring local crafts, antiques, and handcrafted gifts that capture the spirit of the region.
Incline Gifts
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Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Incline Gifts, your go-to gift shop on Lookout Mountain, Tennessee.
Qualex Kodak
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Discover the perfect spot for photography enthusiasts at Qualex Kodak, where your travel memories come to life through high-quality prints and expert advice.
Studio Eleven
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Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Studio Eleven, Chattanooga's beloved gift shop specializing in ceramics and handcrafted jewelry.
Sun & Shade Garden Center and Western Store
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CC's Antiques
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Unearth unique vintage treasures at CC's Antiques, the go-to antique store in Chattanooga for collectors and casual shoppers alike.
thread & ink
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Explore thread & ink, your one-stop shop for bespoke gifts, personalized monogramming, and stunning wedding invitations in Lookout Mountain.
Southside Antiques LLC
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Vinterest Southside
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Walmart Supercenter
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Lookout Liquor and Wine
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Market on the Mountain
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Canopy Coffee and Wine Bar
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lucky's 777
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The Tap House & Empyreal Brewing Co.
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Mad Knight Brewing Company
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Whiskey Cowgirl
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Southside Social
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Logan's Roadhouse
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High Rail Rooftop Bar + Space
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at High Rail Rooftop Bar + Space, where cocktails meet breathtaking views of Chattanooga's skyline.
Company Chattanooga
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Fountainhead Taproom
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Reagan's Retro Bar
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Chattanooga at Reagan's Retro Bar, where nostalgic decor meets live music and creative cocktails.
Westbound Honky-Tonk
3.7 km
Discover the heart of Chattanooga's nightlife at Westbound Honky-Tonk, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable experiences.
Backstage Bar
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Chattanooga at Backstage Bar, where exquisite wines and whiskeys await in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
The Comedy Catch at The Choo Choo
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Experience unforgettable nights filled with laughter, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere at The Comedy Catch in Chattanooga.
The Boneyard
3.8 km
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Exile
3.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and vibrant music at Exile, a must-visit bar in Chattanooga's Southside Historic District.
