MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour

The MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour in Chattanooga combines the city’s vibrant culinary scene with its rich cultural heritage. Participants embark on a delightful journey, sampling delectable dishes from three Black-owned restaurants and admiring stunning murals and architectural landmarks. Along the way, travelers learn about the significant contributions of the local Black community to the city’s food and art landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, or simply curious about Chattanooga’s history, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience. Discover the hidden gems that make this city truly unique.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Walking Tours In Chattanooga.

Key Points

• Explore Chattanooga’s vibrant Black-owned food scene with a guided tour of 3 local eateries featuring southern cuisine and rich cultural histories.
• Discover inspiring stories and contributions of the Black community to the city’s culinary landscape.
• Enjoy a walkable journey through Chattanooga’s neighborhoods, admiring murals, public art, and architectural landmarks.
• Experience an intimate small-group tour with maximum 8 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access, ensure comfort for all participants.

Tour Overview

The MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour in Chattanooga, USA is a small-group southern cuisine food tour that features three Black-owned restaurants, with a maximum of 8 travelers.

The tour takes participants on a journey to discover the stories behind these establishments, allowing them to sample the best bites at each location. Highlights include exploring Chattanooga on foot and learning about the rich history and art that the city has to offer.

The tour starts at Uncle Larry’s Restaurant and ends at Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., just a short 6-minute walk away.

With wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and live music options, this tour caters to a diverse range of travelers.

Tour Highlights

Highlights of the MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour include discovering the stories behind Black-owned restaurants, sampling the best bites at three different establishments, and exploring Chattanooga on foot.

Participants will:

• Learn the inspiring histories of the tour’s participating restaurants, including Uncle Larry’s Restaurant and Chatt Smoke House.

• Indulge in a selection of the most delectable dishes from these local eateries.

• Stroll through the city’s streets, taking in the vibrant art and culture that make Chattanooga a unique southern destination.

• Gain a deeper appreciation for the contributions of the Black community to the local food scene.

• Experience Chattanooga’s walkable neighborhoods and discover hidden gems along the way.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour begins at Uncle Larry’s Restaurant, located at 4850 TN-58 Suite 180 in Chattanooga, and ends approximately 0.3 miles away at Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., 431 E M L King Blvd #120, which is a 6-minute walk from the starting point. This convenient location allows participants to easily transition between the tour’s three Black-owned restaurants and the final brewery stop.

Meeting Point	Ending Point
Uncle Larry’s Restaurant	Hutton & Smith Brewing Co.
4850 TN-58 Suite 180	431 E M L King Blvd #120
Chattanooga, TN 37416	Chattanooga, TN 37403
0.3 miles, 6-minute walk	–

Tour Details

The tour starts at 5:00 PM, allowing participants ample time to explore the three Black-owned restaurants and the final brewery stop before the evening.

The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts provides flexibility for participants. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, ensuring a seamless planning process.

The tour highlights include:

• Discovering the stories behind the Black-owned restaurants

• Sampling the best bites at three different establishments

• Exploring Chattanooga on foot

• Enjoying the live music available on the patio at Hutton & Smith (when available)

• Accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access, and service animals allowed.

Accessibility and Additional Information

The tour offers excellent accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access as well as the allowance of service animals. It’s located near public transportation, and the surfaces are wheelchair accessible, ensuring most travelers can participate comfortably.

Plus, live music may be available on the patio at Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. when the experience is in session.

This small-group southern cuisine food tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to discover the stories behind Black-owned restaurants and sample the best bites at three different establishments.

The tour’s focus on exploring Chattanooga on foot adds to the overall cultural and culinary adventure, making it an accessible and inclusive experience for a wide range of travelers.

Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews from both Viator and Tripadvisor showcase the tour’s exceptional quality, with a perfect 5.0-star rating across 7 reviews.

Travelers consistently praise the engaging storytelling, delicious cuisine, and immersive exploration of Chattanooga’s Black-owned culinary scene.

Reviewers highlight the tour guide’s deep knowledge and passion for sharing the history and significance of the featured restaurants.

They also appreciate the opportunity to sample a variety of mouthwatering dishes that capture the essence of southern comfort food.

Plus, the tour provides a chance to discover hidden gems and support local Black-owned businesses, while maintaining the perfect balance of walking, eating, and learning about Chattanooga’s vibrant culture.

Explore Black-Owned Restaurants

This walking tour offers participants the unique opportunity to explore a trio of Black-owned restaurants, each with its own captivating story and mouthwatering culinary specialties.

First up is Uncle Larry’s Restaurant, where the founder’s passion for southern classics shines through in every bite.

Next, the group will visit Chatt Smoke House, known for its mouth-watering barbecue and vibrant atmosphere.

The final stop is a true gem – a restaurant that showcases the diverse flavors of the region with a modern twist.

Throughout the tour, guests will learn about the rich history and cultural significance of these establishments, gaining a deeper appreciation for the local Black-owned food scene.

Discover Chattanooga on Foot

Beyond exploring the captivating narratives of Black-owned restaurants, the MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour invites participants to discover Chattanooga on foot.

Guests embark on an immersive journey, traversing the city’s vibrant streets and uncovering its rich history and cultural tapestry as they move from one hotel to the next.

The tour allows visitors to:

• Soak in the city’s unique architectural landmarks

• Admire the vibrant murals and public art installations

• Observe the bustling local life and interactions

• Breathe in the lively atmosphere of Chattanooga’s downtown

• Appreciate the scenic views and natural beauty that surround the city

This walking experience offers a holistic understanding of Chattanooga, blending its culinary delights with a deeper exploration of its cultural richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour accommodates various dietary needs. Participants with dietary restrictions can notify the operator in advance, who will work to ensure the selected restaurants can provide appropriate meal options during the tour.

How Long Does the Tour Last?

The tour typically lasts approximately 2-3 hours. It starts at 5:00 PM and ends at the Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., located just a 6-minute walk from the starting point, providing a convenient ending to the experience.

Is There Any Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs?

The tour does not explicitly mention opportunities to purchase souvenirs. However, participants can likely explore the local area after the tour and visit any shops or establishments that may offer souvenirs related to the tour’s themes or Chattanooga’s local culture.

Are Tips for the Tour Guides Included in the Tour Price?

Tips are typically not included in the tour price. Guests are generally expected to provide a gratuity to the tour guide at the end of the experience to show their appreciation for the guide’s services and knowledge.

Can We Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, guests are typically allowed to take photographs during the tour. Many food tours encourage photo-taking to capture the dishes and experiences, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the tour. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator first.

Recap

The MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour offers an immersive experience, blending Chattanooga’s vibrant culinary scene with its rich cultural history.

Participants can savor delectable dishes from Black-owned restaurants, admire stunning murals, and learn about the significant contributions of the Black community.

This tour provides an opportunity to discover the city’s walkable neighborhoods and appreciate the diversity of its art and food scenes.