Chattanooga Pride: LGBTQ+ Locals Share What They Love About the City
In honor of Pride Month, we interviewed members of Chattanooga’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community to learn what makes this city special. Discover their favorite spots to eat, activities to enjoy, and hidden gems worth exploring.
Mark your calendars for October, when Chattanooga hosts its annual Pride festival on the riverfront!
What do you love most about Chattanooga?
Kimberly Appeldorn, EPB: I love so many aspects of Chattanooga, but above all, the profound sense of community that permeates our city.
Austin Corcoran, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce: Chattanooga is built on love—from its friendly, outgoing community and support for local small businesses to opportunities with nonprofits. It’s a warm, welcoming city.
Rose Cox, Rose Management Enterprises: Chattanooga runs on volunteer power and community support. I’ve been involved in numerous organizations and nonprofits here, and the community always unites to make things happen.
Miles Huff, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce: Chattanooga buzzes with life. Our thriving arts, outdoor scene, food, and drink offer endless experiences. You can brunch, paddleboard, visit a museum, rock climb, and catch free live music—all in one day. Plus, the people make it unforgettable.
James McKissic, ArtsBuild: Chattanooga offers beautiful natural surroundings, rich history, vibrant culture, an amazing arts sector, and the best people. Since returning in 2003, I’ve built inspiring friendships and love contributing through ArtsBuild.
Antonia Poland and Cynthia Wood, Davis Wayne’s: We love experiencing all four seasons here, but never too much of any one.
What’s your favorite local eatery?
KA: Alleia stands out for its exceptional food and atmosphere.
AC: Lil Mama’s for delicious Chicago-style hoagies and its nostalgic '90s Fresh Prince of Bel-Air vibe.
RC: Mindy B’s Deli for sandwiches, Taqueria Jalisco Miller Plaza for authentic Mexican, and Pickle Barrel for bar food.
MH: Taqueria Jalisco Avia—the authentic food, drinks, welcoming staff, and vibrant décor make it feel like South Beach.
JK: It’s tough with so many options: Public House, Davis Wayne’s, Stir. But Saks Wing Shack’s fried whiting on Brainerd Road is unbeatable, plus Bruster’s cheesecake ice cream and my mom’s greens.
AP & CW: Davis Wayne’s, Alleia’s, The Meeting Place, and Tony’s.
What’s your favorite Chattanooga hidden gem?
KA: Nightfall concerts kick off summer weekends perfectly.
AC: Sculpture Fields at Montague Park—great for dog walks, viewing art, and self-guided tours.
RC: 3rd Deck Burger Bar—strong drinks on a boat deck are always a win.
MH: Stringer’s Ridge: quick hikes with easy trails and downtown views. It’s a local gem many overlook.
JK: The stunning rooftop deck at ArtsBuild, offering sweeping views of downtown murals and Lookout Mountain—ideal for events or reflection.
AP & CW: Cambridge Square in Ooltewah for family-friendly dining and live music.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Chattanooga?
KA: Outdoor adventures—running, cycling, hiking, kayaking—with mountains nearby. Try the Guild-Hardy trail near Lookout Mountain.
AC: Sundays at Chattanooga Market for local goods, brunch at State of Confusion or The Daily Ration, Ice Cream Show, bridge walk, and scenic views.
RC: Arts, outdoors, live music, comedy at JJ’s, karaoke at Ziggy’s—eager for their full return post-COVID.
MH: Stroll Southside: brunch at State of Confusion, drinks at Pax Breu Ruim, street art, Local Juicery, shops, Station Street music, Choo Choo people-watching, Chattanooga Whiskey, and Clumpie’s ice cream. MainX24 is a highlight!
JK: Visual arts: Hunter Museum, Sculpture Fields, public murals, and cultural institutions. Our landscapes and arts scene are a feast for the eyes.
AP & CW: Live music at Chattanooga’s many venues.
What makes Chattanooga different from other cities?
KA: The perfect blend of small-town charm and city life, plus local culture and natural beauty.
AC: Something for everyone: outdoor rec, top internet, music, dog-friendly vibe, proximity to other cities.
RC: A "small town" city—deeply community-oriented and loving.
MH: The people: doers, change-makers, collaborators. Visitors always note the friendliness and smiles.
JK: Full of starters who take initiative—from diversifying music and arts to addressing community needs. Their creativity inspires daily.
AP & CW: A place where hard work and craft mastery let you shine.
