The longstanding Southern attraction has something for all ages
ROCK CITY, GEORGIA-JULY 2024-Rock City opened its doors almost 100 years ago—it began in 1932—and has been attracting visitors of all ages to its ancient geological wonders atop Georgia’s Lookout Mountain located outside Chattanooga, Tennessee. Visitors come from around the world to enjoy its “See Seven States” panoramic views, dramatic waterfall, seasonal events and the charming underground Fairyland Caverns. Now as Rock City approaches a century milestone, visitors who came as children are bringing their kids and grandkids, making it an ideal intergenerational vacation destination. It’s easy to see why Rock City “Creates Memories Worth Repeating.” It’s truly an attraction for everyone.
Romantic views
Frieda Carter saw the beauty in the massive rock formations at her Lookout Mountain home and set about creating a 700-acre garden highlighted by whimsical German statues of gnomes and fairytale characters. A stroll through Frieda’s “Enchanted Trail” with its year-round blooms and autumnal foliage makes the perfect romantic backdrop. There’s also the beautiful waterfall that cascades down Lookout Mountain and the breathtaking “See Seven States” panoramic views from Lover’s Leap—just don’t take the name seriously!
A visit to Rock City and Lookout Mountain doesn’t have to end at sunset. Chanticleer Inn Bed & Breakfast (1300 Mockingbird Lane, Lookout Mountain, Georgia, 30750; 318-366-2412) consists of a 1927 home adorned with European-style décor surrounded by cottages, all offering charm and comfort. And it’s right across the parking lot from Rock City! The property also includes wonderful amenities such as breakfast, fire pits, a pool (open seasonally) and gift shop.
Family fun
In addition to the gardens and spectacular views, Rock City delights the young and old with children’s activities, the Swing-A-Long Bridge that spans nearly 200 feet and the underground Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village featuring animated fairytales come to life with innovative black lights.
As part of Rock City’s Mountaintop Summers, special events will be ongoing until Sept. 2. Look for the Rock City Raptors show with close-up views of hawks, bald eagles, owls and other birds in a live program hosted by Wings to Soar, a nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates injured birds of prey. The show happens from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays at the park’s Critter Classroom. The Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center offers an animal educational show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays on Legacy Lane next to Critter Classroom.
Seniors and the handicapped
Rock City has worked hard to become handicapped accessible. The rock formations make it difficult in sections but about a half mile of the Enchanted Trail allows guests in wheelchairs or with limited mobility access to enjoy the overlook at Lover’s Leap and the Seven States Flag Court. Look for the entrance at Gardens Gateway that leads to an ADA ramp that takes guests to Legacy Lane. This ADA trail also gives guests access to the animal shows during Mountaintop Summers.
Pet friendly
When we say Rock City is pet friendly, we really mean it. The attraction has seen its share of pets, and not just the four-legged ones that bark. In the past, a rooster, snake, goat and a small horse have walked the Rock City paths. All we ask is that pets be on a lease.
Coming soon
Rock City celebrates the seasons! Following Mountaintop Summers is the Fall Colors celebration Sept. 14 through Nov. 8, where the attraction will be filled with pumpkins, seasonal decorations, hay bales and the music of banjo musician Matt Downer and other Appalachian old-time and bluegrass. After a brief interlude to install two million lights, the mountain will sparkle with the nightly Enchanted Garden of Lights, which celebrates 30 years in 2024 including a secret new location for Santa that guests will be excited to see. But there’s more! HoliDAYS from Nov. 22 through Jan. 4, 2025, will serve as the daytime complement to the Enchanted Garden of Lights with special foods, shopping and holiday decorations. Both make for perfect backdrops for family photos to enjoy for generations.
Family friendly budget
Tickets to Rock City are reasonably priced, allowing families to enjoy a day on Lookout Mountain without crushing their wallet. Visitors may save money by purchasing tickets in advance through Rock City’s website. There’s also special member discounts and perks.