Hotel Chalet Chattanooga, TN: Vintage Train Car Vibes in the Heart of Downtown
Welcome to my local review of The Hotel Chalet at the Chattanooga Choo Choo—where authentic travel vibes meet vintage charm. As a Chattanooga-based travel blogger (formerly at FindingKathyBrown.com, now blogging at EasyUSATrips.com), I can now say this spot is 100% worth booking.
Table of Contents
Image Credits: Christian Michelle Photography
Chattanooga Hotel Chalet: A Little Backstory
Once upon a time, the Choo Choo accommodations were… let’s just say, not this glamorous. But after a $19 million renovation, this spot got a serious glow-up. Now, The Hotel Chalet is the star of the show with beautifully restored train carriages and boutique charm.
Steve and I were lucky enough to stay in one of the vintage train cars—and yes, we totally geeked out over it.
Room Types
- Sleeper Deluxe (our room—perfect for couples)
- The Granddaddy (yep, it’s a real thing)
- The MacArthur Suite (for a little extra flair)
- Traditional Inn Rooms with that same vintage Chattanooga style
Whether you’re after romance or just something different, they’ve got options.
A+ Location in Chattanooga’s Southside
The Hotel Chalet sits right in the heart of the Southside—one of Chattanooga’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
You’ll be steps from:
- Station Street nightlife
- Elsie’s Daughter (the on-site restaurant)
- The Signal concert venue
- Shops, bars, and more
Short walk or quick drive to:
- Tennessee Aquarium
- Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge
- Coolidge Park
- High Point Climbing
- And other local favorites
We loved how easy it was to explore downtown without ever needing to move our car.
Staying in a Restored Vintage Train Car: Our Experience
We were placed in Train Car #28, and from the outside, the green paint, string lights, and landscaping already gave off fairytale vibes.
Opening the door felt like stepping back in time—but with modern comfort. Honestly, the room (and bathroom!) was way more spacious than we expected. And yes, there’s a private bathroom in every car—this was the #1 question from our friends and family.
Highlights from the Sleeper Deluxe:
- King-size bed
- Sitting area
- Coffee station
- Beautiful natural light
- Quiet despite the downtown location
Perfect for couples or a romantic getaway. If you’re traveling with family, go for one of the larger railway suites.
Budget-Friendly + Pet-Friendly Options
Not into sleeping on the rails? No worries—the inn-style rooms are beautifully renovated and have that same vintage-meets-modern charm.
Bringing your pup? Good news—The Hotel Chalet is dog-friendly.
Travel Tip: Check out nearby Play Wash Pint, an off-leash dog park and beer garden combo. Mr. Jax gives it two paws up.
Hotel Chalet Amenities That Make a Difference
We stayed in early spring and didn’t plan to swim… until we saw kids in the pool and realized—it’s heated!
Top amenities we loved:
- Heated outdoor pool with cushioned loungers + umbrellas
- Poolside caboose bar (adorable!)
- Fitness center
- Daily room cleaning
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Courtside breakfast delivered
- Event space + wedding venue options
- Seasonal events in Elsie Garden (live music, fireside sessions, wine tastings)
Where to Eat: Elsie’s Daughter
Elsie’s Daughter is a brand-new restaurant located right on the Hotel Chalet property, and it’s a must-try.
Steve and I loved:
- The roasted half chicken
- Curried sweet potatoes
- Cocktails that hit the spot
The menu is à la carte and the portions are generous—next time we’re sharing dishes so we can try more. The food is Appalachian-inspired and full of flavor.
You’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating, and brunch is apparently legendary (adding that to our next visit).
Chattanooga Choo Choo Vibes
The Hotel Chalet is tucked right behind the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo, which now houses:
- More restaurants
- Comedy shows
- Escape rooms
- Bars and nightlife
This whole block is buzzing with energy, especially Station Street—where open container laws let you stroll from place to place drink in hand. It’s a fun spot for adults looking for a lively night out.
Final Thoughts: Is the Hotel Chalet Worth Booking?
Honestly, I wasn’t sure if sleeping in a vintage train car would be fun or just a gimmick. But now? I’m all in.
From the cozy-chic room to the beautiful pool, delicious food, and unbeatable location—The Hotel Chalet is absolutely worth the stay.
It’s one of the most unique places to stay in Chattanooga and a perfect pick for couples, train lovers, or anyone craving a memorable getaway.
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