Chattanooga National Cemetery
A serene military cemetery offering stunning city views and honoring heroes like Desmond Doss and the Andrew's Raiders.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Chattanooga National Cemetery
Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene military cemetery offering stunning city views and honoring heroes like Desmond Doss and the Andrew's Raiders.
"A humbling experience with stunning views and a powerful reminder of sacrifice."
Respectful Attire
Dress respectfully as this is an active cemetery. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior. :pray:
Plan Your Route
The cemetery is large. Grab a map or use GPS to find specific graves like Desmond Doss. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Desmond Doss's Grave
Top of the hill, across the road on the left
Visit the final resting place of the Medal of Honor recipient, hero of 'Hacksaw Ridge'.
Andrew's Raiders Monument
Near the hill
See the monument commemorating the Union spies from 'The Great Locomotive Chase'.
Scenic Vistas
Various points throughout the cemetery
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Chattanooga and the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Place of Reflection
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Attire
Dress respectfully as this is an active cemetery. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior. :pray:
Plan Your Route
The cemetery is large. Grab a map or use GPS to find specific graves like Desmond Doss. :world_map:
Wreaths Across America
Participate in or observe the annual Wreaths Across America event in December. :evergreen_tree:
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos. Focus on the memorials and landscapes, not intrusive shots of mourners. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Attire
Dress respectfully as this is an active cemetery. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior. :pray:
Plan Your Route
The cemetery is large. Grab a map or use GPS to find specific graves like Desmond Doss. :world_map:
Wreaths Across America
Participate in or observe the annual Wreaths Across America event in December. :evergreen_tree:
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos. Focus on the memorials and landscapes, not intrusive shots of mourners. :camerawithflash:
Scenic Drive
Take a quiet drive through the grounds to contemplate the history and sacrifices made. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Chattanooga National Cemetery as a humbling and breathtaking experience, praising its immaculate maintenance and stunning scenic views. Many are moved by the opportunity to pay respects to veterans, particularly noting the graves of Desmond Doss and the Andrew's Raiders. While the beauty is undeniable, the solemnity of the site is a powerful reminder of sacrifice.
"What a humbling experience with stunning views. We were in town for a funeral held at this cemetery. The grounds and views of the city from this cemetery are breathtaking! We are huge military history buffs and knew this was one grave we must visit to pay our respects. Desmond Doss. P3399 TOP OF THE HILL ACROSS THE ROAD ON LEFT"
K Rhodes
"Stop by to pay honor to all these people who fought for our country. Some of the ones that most people will recognize are the men of Andrews Raiders who Disney made a move about "The Great Locomotive Chase" and Desmond Doss whos story was told in the move "Hacksaw Ridge." To bad everyone story could not be told in some form like this."
Jason Armstrong
"What a beautiful well maintained Cemetery. I stopped in to finish up my tour of the The Great Locomotive Chase."
Tony Kelley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located at 1200 Bailey Avenue, Chattanooga, TN. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, especially if exploring other Lookout Mountain attractions. Public transportation options might be limited, so check local bus routes if needed.
Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds. It's generally sufficient for most visitors, though it can fill up during special events like Wreaths Across America.
While possible, it's a significant walk from downtown Chattanooga. Driving or using a ride-sharing service is recommended for most visitors to save time and energy.
From I-24 East, take exit 178 for US-41/Broad Street. Turn right onto Broad Street, then left onto Holtzclaw Avenue. The cemetery will be on your right.
Public transport options to the cemetery can be limited. It's best to check with the local Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Chattanooga National Cemetery is free. It is a national cemetery maintained by the Department of Veterans Affairs, open to the public for respectful visitation.
The cemetery is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Specific hours for administrative offices may vary, but the grounds are generally accessible throughout daylight hours.
Yes, you can visit the graves of specific veterans. If you are looking for a particular individual, you can often find their burial location through online databases or by inquiring at the cemetery office if available.
Formal guided tours are not typically offered by the cemetery staff. However, many visitors explore independently, often using historical information or personal research to guide their visit. Some local historical groups may offer specialized tours.
While attending Wreaths Across America is free, if you wish to volunteer to place wreaths, it's advisable to check the official Wreaths Across America website for registration details and specific instructions for the Chattanooga event.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see thousands of headstones, monuments, and memorials honoring fallen soldiers. Highlights include the grave of Medal of Honor recipient Desmond Doss and the monument to the Andrew's Raiders. The cemetery also offers stunning scenic views of Chattanooga.
Absolutely! It's a significant historical site, especially for Civil War and WWII history. You can learn about the sacrifices of soldiers and visit graves of notable figures like Desmond Doss and the Andrew's Raiders.
Don't miss the monument dedicated to the Andrew's Raiders, famous for their role in 'The Great Locomotive Chase.' Also, seek out the grave of Desmond Doss, the conscientious objector who saved many lives in WWII.
Yes, photography is generally permitted, but it's crucial to be respectful. Focus on the memorials and landscapes, and avoid photographing mourners or intrusive shots.
The cemetery is situated on a hill, so there are some inclines. The grounds are well-maintained, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended if you plan to explore extensively.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic vistas overlooking Chattanooga offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset. The rows of headstones create powerful, symmetrical compositions. Look for the Andrew's Raiders monument and the general grandeur of the landscape.
It is generally acceptable to photograph headstones and memorials, but always do so respectfully. Avoid intrusive close-ups of personal items left at gravesites and never photograph mourners without their explicit consent.
Visitors often capture wide-angle shots of the landscape, detailed photos of monuments, and the iconic rows of white headstones. Many also photograph specific graves of historical figures they've come to honor. 
Regulations regarding drone usage in national cemeteries can be strict. It's highly recommended to check with the National Cemetery Administration or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance with all rules and regulations.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the symmetry of the headstones still makes for compelling shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to be quiet and respectful. The scenic views can also be a point of interest, offering a break from the solemnity. Consider bringing a small notebook for them to draw or write about what they see. Ensure they wear comfortable shoes, as there are inclines throughout the cemetery.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Take time to read the inscriptions on the headstones and absorb the atmosphere. The cemetery itself is a historical artifact, established in 1863. Consider researching specific battles or units associated with the cemetery before your visit to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made.
🙏 Those Seeking Quiet Reflection
The expansive grounds and the ordered rows of headstones create a powerful sense of peace. The breathtaking scenic vistas also contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, providing a beautiful setting for personal reflection and remembrance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Honoring Heroes: Notable Burials
+1Another significant figure is associated with the Andrew's Raiders, a Union group known for their daring attempt to sabotage Confederate railroads during the Civil War in an event dramatized as 'The Great Locomotive Chase.' Their monument stands as a testament to their courage and sacrifice.
Beyond these well-known figures, the cemetery honors thousands of veterans from various conflicts, each with a story of service and sacrifice. A quiet drive or walk through the meticulously maintained grounds provides a somber yet inspiring experience, encouraging reflection on the cost of freedom.
The Significance of Wreaths Across America
This event is a powerful community gathering, drawing together families, veterans, and citizens who wish to pay their respects. The sight of thousands of wreaths blanketing the cemetery is a deeply moving spectacle.
For those planning a visit around this time, it's important to be aware that the cemetery will be busier than usual. However, the shared sense of purpose and the collective act of honoring veterans create a unique and memorable atmosphere. Checking the official Wreaths Across America website for specific dates and volunteer opportunities is recommended.
Scenic Beauty and Historical Context
The cemetery's establishment dates back to the Civil War, making it a place steeped in history. The rolling hills and meticulously arranged headstones create a landscape that is both beautiful and deeply evocative. Visitors often comment on the breathtaking vistas, finding a sense of peace and contemplation in the expansive views.
This combination of natural beauty and historical weight makes Chattanooga National Cemetery a compelling destination. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made while also offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst a picturesque setting. The well-maintained grounds and the thoughtful layout contribute to an atmosphere of respect and serenity.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit