Things To Do
in Collegedale
Collegedale is a quiet, university-adjacent city in Hamilton County, Tennessee, just east of Chattanooga. It centers around Southern Adventist University and a family-friendly community with tree-lined streets and scenic greenways. Visitors come for campus tours, outdoor trails, and a relaxed Southern atmosphere.
The city blends small-town charm with quick access to Chattanooga's dining, music, and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Rise early to the soft light filtering through the trees as you lace up your boots for a guided hike along the South Chickamauga Creek Wildlife Management Area. The cool air carries the scent of pine and wet earth, and the sound of rushing water guides you deeper into the gorge. Pause at scenic overlooks to watch sunlight dance on mossy rocks and capture photos of the cascading waterfalls.
Refuel at a riverside picnic spot with fresh sandwiches and fruit while listening to birdsong echo off the canyon walls. Continue your trek on the rugged trails, encountering hidden pools perfect for a quick dip or meditation break. End the afternoon with a brief rock-scramble to admire sweeping panoramas of the surrounding ridges.
Return to town for homemade wood-fired pizza and locally brewed craft beer at a cozy bistro. As twilight falls, stroll through brightly lit Main Street, stopping at a coffee shop for a rich espresso or decadent dessert. Settle in on a bench near the fountain to watch the stars emerge against the night sky.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the university cafeteria, savoring fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee. Join a student-guided campus tour to admire the Gothic-style architecture, lush arboretum, and the impressive Hagood and Chan Shun libraries. Learn about the school’s history and its role in the community from enthusiastic ambassadors.
Attend a hands-on art workshop in the campus studio where you can try painting, pottery, or fused glass under the guidance of student artists. Wander through the on-site greenhouse to discover rare plant species and learn about sustainable horticulture programs. Grab a casual lunch at the campus food court, sampling international dishes prepared by culinary students.
Catch an evening concert or theatrical performance in the university’s state-of-the-art auditorium. Mingle with students and faculty during a post-show reception, enjoying light bites and live acoustic music. End the night with a leisurely walk along the landscaped walking paths, illuminated by soft garden lighting.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for one person | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline (regular) | Around $3-4 per gallon |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, safe community close to Chattanooga
- University-town vibe with green spaces
- Family-friendly activities and parks
- Accessible driving routes to major highways
- Limited nightlife within Collegedale itself
- Smaller dining scene locally; may require a trip to Chattanooga
- Seasonal heat and humidity in summer
- Can be pricey for some housing options in nearby areas
Places to Visit in Collegedale
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush lawns, campus architecture, and seasonal trees provide classic campus photography.
High vantage points over rolling hills and forest landscapes; best at golden hour.
Short drive to Lookout Mountain offers dramatic cityscape shots at sunrise or sunset.
Water reflections and boardwalks for tranquil photography.
Food in Collegedale
Collegedale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried chicken served with fluffy biscuits and creamy gravy; common at casual diners and Southern eateries.
Must-Try!
A hearty breakfast staple featuring flaky biscuits and savory gravy, widely available at local cafes.
Smoky, slow-cooked ribs with tangy sauces; often served with coleslaw and cornbread at local BBQ spots.
A traditional Southern side that pairs well with many meals and is friendly for vegetarian diets when prepared without meat stocks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal outdoor market with local produce, prepared foods, and artisans; a good place to sample regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Collegedale has a strong Adventist community; dress modestly in certain settings and respect quiet hours on campus and in homes.
Be polite, punctual, and courteous in residential areas; avoid loud partying on weeknights.
Safety
Tipping in Collegedale
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip most service workers 15-20% for dine-in; some places may add a service charge for large parties.
Most places accept cards (Visa/MC/AmEx/Discover) and mobile pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay); cash is widely accepted in local shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temps, blooming trees; great for outdoor trails and university events.
Hot and humid; plan water breaks and shade; occasional afternoon storms.
Pleasant temps and colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor photography and hikes.
Milder winters by Tennessee standards; some days chilly, occasional frost; indoor activities available.
Collegedale at Night
Hiking in Collegedale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails with scenic overlooks and natural features within a short drive.
Forested paths and ridge lines offering skyline views; a short trip to nearby Lookout Mountain.
Airports
How to reach Collegedale by plane.
Accessible within roughly 20-25 minutes by car; flights to major hubs and regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Students from Southern Adventist University contributing to the town’s energy and events.
Residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
Quiet, community-focused neighborhoods appealing to retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball, volleyball, and cross-country; home games on campus.
Nearby clubs and facilities for recreational play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Collegedale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on vegetables, legumes, grains; many places offer vegetarian meals and can accommodate dairy-free options.