During a recent solocation to Chattanooga, TN, I finally checked a long-standing item off my travel bucket list: a stay at The Hotel Chalet. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Chattanooga, this boutique gem at Chattanooga Choo Choo offers a lodging experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Part of the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo campus, The Hotel Chalet blends rich railroad history with chic design. Perhaps the most buzzed-about feature? The refurbished train carriage rooms, which offer guests the chance to sleep in a luxe railcar. While I didn’t book a train room this time, my Chalet King room didn’t disappoint. Styled with jewel-toned mid-century modern decor, the space felt instantly calming, perfect for a solo retreat.
Whenever I take a solo trip, I look forward to cozy nights of writing and reading. This nook was the perfect spot to plant myself! Image: Kate Feinberg
On site is Elsie’s Daughter, a moody, elegant restaurant where I was lucky to snag a seat at the bar on a busy Saturday night (SB Tip: Be sure to make your reservations in advance!). The restaurant’s name is a charming nod to history: Donn Barber (the architect behind Terminal Station) and his wife Elsie had a daughter named Elsie, who later named her daughter Elsie. Hence, Elsie’s Daughter.
The restaurant leans into Barber’s Beaux Arts aesthetic while serving up French-Belgian fare with an Appalachian twist. It felt more like dining in a well-appointed living room than a bustling eatery — warm lighting, layered textures, and rich flavors made for an unforgettable meal.
I happened to visit during an unseasonably warm March weekend and loved seeing guests take advantage of the Alpine pool. Surrounded by lush greenery and tucked away from the hum of downtown, it’s a chic little oasis that adds a touch of European resort energy to the Southern setting.
Whether you’re in town for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, The Hotel Chalet manages to make even a quick getaway feel intentional and elevated. This charming spot is well worth the hype — and a return visit.
For another boutique stay, check out The Horse Shoe Farm in Hendersonville, NC!
Cheers to your next solocation!
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