Why many visitors prefer to travel coach to Chattanooga

With high gas prices making trips out of town more expensive, taking an in-town vacation may start to look more appealing.

Chattanooga is a city with a wealth of tourist attractions, and many hotels offer packages that combine an overnight stay with tickets to local attractions. Nothing says locals can’t take advantage of the deals.

Here are some sample packages (call the venue for more information):

* Chattanooga Choo-Choo (1400 Market St., 863-4780) — Children’s Fantasy package for two adults and two children includes two night accommodations and tickets to both aquarium buildings, the Imax 3D Theater, the Creative Discovery Museum, the Chattanooga Zoo and the Model Railroad Museum. Prices start at $399 for standard rooms or $499 for a Victorian train car.

* Bluff View Inn (411 E. 2nd St., 265-5033) — Adventure package for two adults includes two nights accommodations in selected room category, gourmet breakfast, a five-mile white-water rafting adventure down the Ocoee River and a tour on the Blue Moon Cruise Ship to view native wildlife. A $75 gift certificate valid at any Bluff View Art District restaurant is also included. Prices start at $455, depending on room selection and length of stay.

* The Chattanoogan (1201 Broad St., 756-3400) — Girls Just Want to Have Fun Getaway package includes two nights accommodations, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, daily breakfast at The Broad Street Grille, a spa lunch, spa services including a massage, facial, wrap, manicure, and pedicure and a departing gift. Package price starts at $1,000.

* Stone Fort Inn (120 E. 10th St., 267-7866) — Lookout Mountain Lover’s package for two adults includes complimentary breakfast and accommodations in a queen-suite with in-room Jacuzzi and fireplace. Tickets to Rock City, Ruby Falls and the Incline Railroad are also included. Weekend packages include wine and cheese hour. Package price varies depending for weeknight and weekend room rates, but single nights start at $222 (Sunday-Thursday) and $281 (Friday and Saturday). Additional nights available at a reduced rate.