Did you know that Chattanooga is the birthplace of our nation’s highest honor and all it started right here?  In 1863 Private Jacob Parrott was awarded this high military honor for bravery, courage, and sacrifice.

In today’s post, I’ll be writing about the 5 reasons to visit the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. Be sure to add this to your must-see Chattanooga museum list. 

Steve and I are completely different regarding taking in stories and information.  While he is one to read every sign, poster, and informational pamphlet, I like visuals.

What I liked about the Medal of Honor Center (MOHHC) was how both were well-represented throughout the tour.  I found the movies to be compelling.  I loved how I could use the interactive displays to learn about recipients in Tennessee and throughout The United States of America.

Steve spent his time carefully reading the posters and listening to the audio recordings.  Though our time spent inside the museum was a little over an hour, I can see some could visit for hours reading all the compelling stories of bravery.

Chattanooga, TN is a Southern City filled with history and love of country.  That is why it is  fitting that the Medal of Honor Museum calls this scenic city home.

Tourists and locals will walk amongst these hero’s stories with a true sense of pride and gratitude.   I think about the true bravery of the stories that I read and can’t help but be a proud American.  My guess is most guests will feel the same.

Take for instance the stories of Kyle Carpenter or Mitchell Stout, who lunged on to live grenades to save their fellow soldiers.  It’s these stories and those like it of true bravery that make MOHHC a best place to visit for all patriotic Americans.

When I am traveling, location is important.  The Medal of Honor Heritage Center is located right next to all the most popular downtown Chattanooga Attractions.  Visitors can easily see the top places all in one area.  After touring the Aquarium, enjoying the riverfront, or even rock climbing at High Point, the Medal of Honor Museum is right there. 

For those traveling to downtown Chattanooga, MOHHC is a educational and interesting attraction. 

As a local travel blogger in Chattanooga, I’m often asked what to do if it rains or during the hot summer days.   The Coolidge National Medal Of Honor Center is one of the best things to do indoors for history buffs.

The Medal of Honor Center is complete indoors and perfect for all weather. 

The Medal of Honor Museum is cost-effective ranging from $16.95 down to $9.95.   I consider the heritage center to be relatively inexpensive in comparison to other top attractions downtown.  I believe that all ages will find inspiration and a sense of gratitude for all the heroes highlighted in the exhibits.

The exhibits are walkable and an elevator is available for those in need.  The actual space inside was a lot larger than I anticipated and you should plan at least an hour for the tour.

The Medal of Honor is popular with military veterans.  If needed a helpful staff member can turn off any exhibits that may be triggering for those experiencing PTSD.  They will not ask but are very accustomed to these requests.

Save some time for the gift shop after the tour.  It was brought to my attention that online sales of merchandise will be available soon.   Also coming soon is a connected coffee shop. 

PRO-TIP:  The tour is self-guided, but the workers at the Medal Of Honor Heritage Center are always available for extra insight into the exhibits and stories.

Here are some common questions visitors have about the Medal of Honor Museum.