Have You Ever Thought About Staying in a Hostel?

As I write this blog, I’m smiling from ear to ear because I get to talk about one of my favorite travel experiences in one of my favorite cities in the United States: Chattanooga, Tennessee, also known as the Scenic City.

When you hear the word hostel, you might picture cramped sleeping quarters where travelers are packed shoulder-to-shoulder like hikers in a European mountain hut. If that’s your idea of a hostel, you’re missing out on one of the best values in travel.

Over the years, I’ve led group tours in the Alps where we spent each night in mountain huts—known as refugios, refuges, auberges, or hostels depending on the country. While the names differ, the concept is the same: affordable accommodations that bring travelers together.

Chattanooga is home to a very special hostel called The Crash Pad. Named after the portable mats used by rock climbers and boulderers, The Crash Pad reflects Chattanooga’s reputation as one of the premier bouldering destinations in the world. Climbers travel from around the globe to tackle the area’s sandstone cliffs and boulder fields, and yes—you can even rent a crash pad for your adventure.

Whenever I travel to Chattanooga, I prefer not to pay traditional hotel rates. As a small business owner, I appreciate finding ways to stretch my travel budget, and The Crash Pad allows me to do exactly that.

What I love most about hostels isn’t the savings—it’s the sense of community. Many people have become so accustomed to having their own private space that they miss one of the greatest joys of travel: meeting like-minded adventurers from around the world.

At 57 years old, I’m relatively new to the hostel experience, and I only wish I had discovered it sooner.

The Crash Pad Uncommon Hostel outdoor space.

One of my favorite memories at The Crash Pad happened during a stay when several travelers in their early twenties were there. Two of them brought guitars, and although I initially felt a little out of place—old enough to be their parent—they welcomed me into the conversation without hesitation.

There is a wonderful common area for guests to gather.

Common Area

On my last evening, I bought pizzas for everyone, and we spent hours sharing stories about where we were from, our hobbies, and what had brought us to Chattanooga. By the end of the night, strangers had become friends.

That’s what hostel life is all about.

They have a selection of private rooms as well as a dormitory.

Who Should Stay at a Hostel?

Hostels are a great option for solo travelers, couples, friend groups, and families with older children. They offer affordable accommodations and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from around the world.

While small children are certainly welcome, hostels may not be the ideal choice for every family. Shared spaces tend to work best when everyone is able to respect quiet hours and communal areas. As the favorite auntie of several nieces and nephews, I can say with love that even the sweetest toddlers can have their cranky moments!

If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers, however, a hostel can be a fantastic experience. It provides a unique opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds, learn about other cultures, and enjoy a more social style of travel than a traditional hotel.

Food City has a great selection of healthy food

Travel Tip: Save Money by Cooking Your Own Meals

One of the easiest ways to reduce travel expenses is by preparing some of your own meals.

Food City is just a short walk from The Crash Pad and offers an excellent selection of groceries. The hostel’s communal kitchen is fully stocked with utensils, pots, pans, cooking oil, and basic spices. During many of my visits, I’ve cooked nearly all of my meals there and saved a significant amount of money.

If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll be happy to know the hostel provides complimentary coffee that’s surprisingly good. You can certainly visit one of Chattanooga’s excellent local coffee shops, but you don’t have to spend $5 every morning if you’re trying to travel on a budget.

The hostel also provides refrigerator space and shelving for dry goods. Just remember to label your food before storing it.

Location, Location, Location

The Crash Pad is located in Chattanooga’s vibrant Southside district and backs up to the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo complex. Its location puts guests within walking distance of some of the city’s best restaurants, entertainment venues, and nightlife.

Chattanooga Choo Choo on a Rydable

Travel Tip: Explore the Chattanooga Choo Choo

Make time to explore every corner of the Chattanooga Choo Choo property. The architecture is stunning and reflects the grand Beaux-Arts style popular during the early 20th century.

Today, the complex serves as one of Chattanooga’s most vibrant entertainment districts. You’ll find restaurants, bars, comedy clubs, music venues, a 24-hour arcade, and even a small roller-skating rink.

It’s also located within Chattanooga’s social district, where visitors can purchase beverages from participating establishments and enjoy them while strolling through designated outdoor areas.

Whether you’re looking for dinner, live music, or simply a place to people-watch, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Transportation

While you can certainly walk to the riverfront from The Crash Pad, Chattanooga summers can be hot and winters can be chilly. Fortunately, visitors have several transportation options.

One of Chattanooga’s best-kept secrets is its free downtown shuttle service. The shuttle picks up at the bus depot next to the Chattanooga Choo Choo on Market Street, just a short walk from The Crash Pad, and travels to destinations throughout downtown, including stops near the Tennessee Aquarium and the North Shore.

Many visitors enjoy walking across one of Chattanooga’s pedestrian-friendly bridges, but not everyone has the mobility or desire to make the trek. The shuttle provides a convenient alternative.

Before your visit, be sure to verify current routes and schedules through the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) at https://www.gocarta.org/using-carta/services/downtown-shuttle/.

Don’t forget to take a tour with Chattanooga Rydables.  Avoid additional fees by calling 866-752-7130 to book your tour.

Dianna Ward