The Read House Historic Inn
Step into the Roaring Twenties at this elegant 1872 historic inn, blending jazz-age glamour with a touch of the supernatural.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
The Read House Historic Inn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the Roaring Twenties at this elegant 1872 historic inn, blending jazz-age glamour with a touch of the supernatural.
"The ambiance and details of this hotel are absolutely breathtaking."
👻 Book Room 311 in Advance
This infamous haunted room is highly sought after. Book well in advance if you want to experience its spectral tales!
🎩 Dress the Part
Embrace the 1920s vibe! The hotel's staff and decor are themed, so feel free to add to the ambiance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Room 311: The Haunted Suite
Third Floor
Experience the chilling legend of Annalisa in this famously haunted room, decorated to reflect its dark past.
1920s Jazz-Era Ambiance
Lobby and common areas
Immerse yourself in the exquisite decor, period music, and staff attire that transport you to the Roaring Twenties.
Bridgemans Chophouse
Ground Floor
Indulge in an upscale dining experience at this renowned steakhouse, perfect for a sophisticated evening.
Indoor Heated Pool
Lower Level
Enjoy a relaxing swim year-round in the hotel's comfortable indoor heated pool.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elegance (and the Eerie)
Book Ahead for Peak Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👻 Book Room 311 in Advance
This infamous haunted room is highly sought after. Book well in advance if you want to experience its spectral tales!
🎩 Dress the Part
Embrace the 1920s vibe! The hotel's staff and decor are themed, so feel free to add to the ambiance.
Advice on Hotels
🚗 Parking Options
Valet parking is available for $28/day, or use the garage across the street for $20/24 hours.
🍸 Enjoy the Bar
The hotel bars offer great signature drinks and bartenders who 'dress the part.'
The Read House: What A Beautiful Historic Hotel...Supposedly Haunted As Well
Tips
from all over the internet
👻 Book Room 311 in Advance
This infamous haunted room is highly sought after. Book well in advance if you want to experience its spectral tales!
🎩 Dress the Part
Embrace the 1920s vibe! The hotel's staff and decor are themed, so feel free to add to the ambiance.
🚗 Parking Options
Valet parking is available for $28/day, or use the garage across the street for $20/24 hours.
🍸 Enjoy the Bar
The hotel bars offer great signature drinks and bartenders who 'dress the part.'
🚶♀️ Central Location
The Read House is perfectly situated for exploring Chattanooga's attractions on foot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise The Read House Historic Inn for its stunning, immersive 1920s ambiance, exceptional service, and central Chattanooga location. The elegant decor, themed staff, and quality dining at Bridgemans Chophouse are frequently highlighted as major draws. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some minor issues like occasional billing errors or the presence of ants have been noted.
"One of the best hotels I have ever been to in my life. A 5 star experience, and centrally located to all the great attractions. All the staff were so kind and helpful. The exquisite decor is themed to the 1920s and earlier, and the music, staff attire, and valet men look the part. You don't need to be a movie star to stay there, yet it can make you feel like one with the way they cater to you."
Amy James
"The instant that you walk in, it feels like you are transformed back in time. The ambiance and details of this hotel are absolutely breathtaking. The staff were all extremely friendly and accommodating. The bar had some of the best signature drinks and bartenders and we loved that they were all “dressed the part”. Our room ( 503 ) was stunning. If you are into the history of room 311, our bathroom window looked into the windows of that room- pretty interesting. We also took the complimentary tour of room 311 which was very interesting and the room was beautiful.
I highly recommend a stay at this establishment at least once to experience the magic."
Kimberly Spence
"Spent 4 nights at RH + I absolutely loved my stay. We stayed in a premier King + it was very spacious + clean. We also did a tour of room 311 with John Kirby + he did a PHENOMENAL job, he needs a raise + maybe even train others to give the tour with as much enthusiasm + excitement as he does! We learned a lot about the history of the hotel + the story of Annalisa. The bar by the billiards room was great also. The bartender Barry was friendly, attentive + made every visit to the bar fun! I recommend staying at RH if you’re ever in Chatt, it’s a hotel that’s one of its kind, full of personality + fun."
Cristi Val
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Read House Historic Inn is located in downtown Chattanooga, making it easily accessible. If driving, valet parking is available for $28 per day, or you can use the parking garage across the street for $20 for 24 hours. Public transportation options are also available within the city, and ride-sharing services are plentiful.
Yes, the hotel boasts a central downtown location, putting you within walking distance of many key Chattanooga attractions like the Walnut Street Bridge and the riverfront.
Given its central location, walking is a great option for nearby attractions. For further destinations, consider ride-sharing services or the local public transit system. Many visitors also enjoy biking along the riverfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can see Room 311 from your own room's bathroom window, taking a guided tour is highly recommended to learn about its history and the legend of Annalisa. Tours are often complimentary and can be booked through the hotel staff.
Standard check-in times are typically in the afternoon (e.g., 3 PM or 4 PM), and check-out is usually in the morning (e.g., 11 AM). It's always best to confirm the exact times with the hotel directly when making your reservation.
The Read House Historic Inn occasionally offers packages that might include dining credits, spa services, or tickets to local attractions. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for current promotions.
Typically, guests must be at least 18 or 21 years old to book a hotel room, depending on the hotel's policy. You'll need a valid ID and a credit card for check-in.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hotel features an upscale steakhouse (Bridgemans Chophouse), a cozy bar, an indoor heated pool, and a fitness center.
Policies regarding pets can vary. It's best to contact The Read House Historic Inn directly to inquire about their pet policy, any associated fees, or restrictions.
The atmosphere is often described as elegant, historic, and transporting, reminiscent of the 1920s. The staff's attire and the period music contribute to this immersive experience.
While Room 311 is the most famous, the hotel itself is steeped in history. Inquire at the front desk about any available historical tours or information that can deepen your understanding of the inn's past.
While ants can be a challenge in older buildings, if you encounter them, it's best to report it to the hotel staff immediately. They can address the issue and ensure your stay remains comfortable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel boasts Bridgemans Chophouse, an upscale steakhouse, and also features a bar with signature drinks. Bartenders are known for their themed attire, adding to the experience.
While specific breakfast offerings can change, many historic hotels offer breakfast services, either through a restaurant or room service. It's recommended to check with the hotel directly for current breakfast availability and options.
Upscale steakhouses typically offer a variety of sides and appetizers that can accommodate vegetarian diets. For vegan options, it's best to inquire with the restaurant directly when making a reservation or upon arrival.
Generally, hotel bars are open to the public, especially those with a notable ambiance like The Read House. You can likely enjoy a drink even if you're not staying at the hotel.
📸 📸 Photography
The lobby, with its stunning 1920s decor and chandeliers, is a prime photo spot.
Photography rules can vary, especially in guest rooms. If you are staying in Room 311 or taking a tour, it's best to ask for permission before taking extensive photos to respect the privacy of other guests and the hotel's policies.
Many of the common areas and guest rooms in historic hotels are designed with large windows, which can provide excellent natural light for photography. The lobby, in particular, often has grand windows.
Professional photoshoots or commercial filming usually require prior permission from the hotel management. For personal vacation photos, casual photography is generally permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical ambiance is a draw, parents might want to gauge their children's sensitivity to the stories surrounding Room 311. However, the hotel is generally clean and welcoming, with friendly staff ready to assist. Consider booking a room in the 'Manor' section for a potentially quieter experience, as mentioned by some guests.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Even if you don't book Room 311, the hotel's general atmosphere, with its historical depth and reported occurrences, can be intriguing. Some guests have noted their rooms offering views into Room 311, adding an extra layer of spectral curiosity.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take advantage of any available historical tours to learn about the inn's evolution and notable guests. The attention to detail in the common areas, from the furnishings to the staff's attire, provides a tangible connection to different historical periods. It's an opportunity to not just stay in a hotel, but to experience a living piece of Chattanooga's history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Room 311
Visitors can opt to stay in Room 311 for a unique, albeit potentially spooky, experience. The cost is often cited as $666, adding to its mystique.
Immersing Yourself in the Jazz Age
This immersive experience makes The Read House more than just a place to stay; it's a journey back in time. Whether you're enjoying a cocktail at the bar, where bartenders are known to 'dress the part',
Dining and Drinks with Flair
It's the perfect spot for a special occasion or a memorable dinner during your stay.Complementing the dining is the hotel's bar, which is celebrated for its creative signature drinks and its charismatic bartenders. These mixologists often embrace the hotel's 1920s theme, adding a theatrical flair to their service.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit