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Create Memories Worth Repeating At Rock City Gardens

Located atop Lookout Mountain, just 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga, Rock City is a true marvel of nature featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking "See 7 States" panoramic views.

Rock City officially opened as a public attraction on May 21, 1932. It got off to a slow start, because advertising in those days was difficult; especially since the mountain-top attraction was not located in a place that people would just happen to be passing by and take notice. It was at this point a idea of Rock City's founder Garnet Carter was born. He enlisted the help of a young sign painter named Clark Byers, who was hired to travel the nation's highways and offer to paint farmer's barns in exchange for letting them paint three simple words: See Rock City. The distinctive black-and-white signs appeared as far north as Michigan and as far west as Texas. The advertising soon began to produce the desired effect and, by the close of the 1930's, more travelers than ever had seen Rock City Gardens.

Since its beginnings, Rock City Gardens has attracted visitors from all over the world. Each year, more than a half million people See Rock City to enjoy the many natural splendors that abound. Over the years, several features have been added to the original attraction, including the popular Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, the Cornerstone Station, as well as a myriad of shops and restaurants. In addition, annual events such as the Rock City's Enchanted Garden of Lights during the holiday season bring guests in by the droves. And the gardens Frieda so lovingly planted have also grown through the years to include more than 400 different species of native wildflowers, shrubs and trees.

Take an unforgettable journey high atop Lookout Mountain! Enjoy the quiet woodland paths and gardens. Discover ancient rock formations. Explore the 400 species of plants, flowers, and shrubs. Each step is a discovery! Cast your wish upon the 140-foot high falls. Stand mightily upon world-famous Lover's Leap and wrap yourself in the magnificent view. Wind your way through massive rock boulders and caverns that bring you to Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village. Magical adventures await you!

Visit Rock City Historic Timeline

Visit Rock City Official Site