Visit Local Bars and Restaurants that Foster Environments of Inclusivity:
Sleepyhead Coffee
Sleepyhead Coffee started in September 2018 as a coffee cart by owners Brandon and Christian and has now developed into two brick and mortar locations that provide a “sober, safe space for people of all sexualities, religions, races, genders.” The menu at Sleepyhead boasts a wide range of coffee drinks and the food menu includes freshly baked Vegan pastries and some more substantial breakfast items. Sleepyhead Coffee is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub. Swing by to do some remote work in their muted, highly aesthetic atmosphere and nibble a vegan coffee cake muffin (exceptional!) or show up for a friendly, inclusive event.
GOOD TO KNOW: There is a downtown location and a location at Main + Dodds Avenue, need a gift? they sell lots of great merch and several coffee blends.
ATTEND: Enjoy a Silent Disco for Pride on the 23rd at the Main + Dodds location!
Broad’s Lounge
This newly opened, highly intentional, female-forward bar downtown has incredible drinks, soft lighting, comfortable spaces, and amazing intentions. Owners Kristiana Mallo & Bailey Cole worked collaboratively with their all-female staff to envision, “a place with zero exclusivity, a place that exuded safety, and a place that allowed people from all backgrounds to feel at home.”
GOOD TO KNOW: Lots of low abv and mocktail options, DJ Nights, vegan and gluten-free snacking options
The Big Chill and Grill
The Big Chill offers a laid-back, welcoming environment perfect for hanging out with friends or enjoying a casual night out. The Big Grill and Chill frequently organizes themed nights, trivia contests, and grilling competitions, creating a dynamic and fun environment for patrons. You should definitely grab one of their delicious frozen cocktails when you visit or help yourself to some $3 bellinis at their famous Saturday & Sunday Brunches!
GOOD TO KNOW: Great Patio, Lots of events, Live music at Brunch!
ATTEND: Monday Night Drag Bingo at 7p.m. Hosted by Veronica Day (18+, Free to Play)
Wooden City
Wooden City offers beer, cocktails, woodfired American cuisine, and sincere hospitality in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. We appreciate that they have made it scrumptiously easy to support Chattanooga-based LGBTQ+ organizations! Through June, a percentage of their sales will be donated to Seed Theatre. This local organization supports “marginalized communities (particularly LGBTQ+, BIPOC and their families) in Chattanooga, TN by providing resources, education, support, and community.”
GOOD TO KNOW: Plan ahead to park at one of the nearby metered spots or parking garages, the pizza is worth it! Happy Hour is 4pm - 5:30pm, daily
No Hard Feelings
This spot has a curated selection of neon craft cocktails and an inviting, dimly lit interior filled with velvet booths that leave plenty of space for the inevitable late-night dance parties. They host amazing events like drag bashes, dog shindigs, and Christmas-themed takeovers, and the staff there is not only welcoming and friendly but as skilled at playing party hosts as they are at whipping up classic cocktails.
GOOD TO KNOW: 21+ only, dog friendly, LGBTQ Friendly, Industry Sundays
Gate 11 Distillery
Gate 11 is a distillery in the Chattanooga Choo Choo Complex known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique charm. Live music performances and themed events like “Distillery Divas and Drag Bingo” are regular highlights, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a lively night out. Gate 11 stands out as a go-to destination for high-quality spirits, great music, and fun company.
GOOD TO KNOW: 21+ only, LGBTQ Friendly, Huge Patio, Outdoor Bar
Support Community and Explore New Experiences:
The Chattery
The Chattery is a local community hub that offers a never-ending slew of intriguing classes that help locals and visitors develop new skillsets. From cooking to physical fitness, to financial literacy, to terrarium building, there is truly something for everyone here. This year, they are proud to be celebrating, “10 Years of Women-Founded, Black Led education.”
ATTEND: a flower-crown making class later this month, in preparation for the Pride Bar Crawl! Or do some soul searching with Atlanta artist Shanequa Gay in a collage class called Hey, What’s Under Your Mask? designed to “unveil the hidden facets of your true self through the power of art.”
High Point Climbing
This immersive climbing gym regularly hosts meetups for the Chatt Queer Climbers, a group that “welcomes all from the LGBTQIA+ community with the intention of fostering a supportive, encouraging, and inclusive space for folks to climb together.”
ATTEND: The Chatt Queer Climbers Pride Party at High Point Climbing’s Riverside location on June 29th!
Enjoy an Event:
June 14: Girls, Gays, and Theys Pride Hike – 6-9 p.m.
Sweat and socialize at a supportive, colorful hike to Rainbow Lake.
June 22: Joli Jardin Pride Garden Party
A do-not-miss Pride event from a sustainable, women-owned flower farm on Walden’s Ridge on Signal Mountain. Enjoy cocktails, face painting, shopping, and socializing in the Joli Jardin shop and neighboring alley.
June 26: The Boneyard • SORBA Chattanooga Presents: Pride Ride, Pint Night, and Karaoke
Meet at 6 p.m. & Wheels Down at 6:15 p.m.
These local favorites are co-hosting a special group ride to celebrate LGBTQIA+ folks and allies, and a portion of sales will be donated to The Seed Theatre! This ride is open to ALL humans on bikes. Two route options are available: one easy and one intermediate. A helmet and signed waiver (provided day of) are required to participate.
June 29: Chattanooga Pride Bar Crawl - 5 p.m.
The first stop is at Gate 11 Distillery!
June 30: Learn About Leather! - 2 - 8 p.m.
Soft Animal, a local org known for their “safe, accessible, inclusive, fun events,” will host PRIDE: Leather History and Leather Care at Barking Legs Theatre.
Looking for more?
Need more information on Pride Events? Stop by the Information Center at Aquarium Plaza and talk to our amazing Chattanooga Concierges to get connected with even more events and things to see and do around Chattanooga during your visit
