Romantic Getaway
A Laid-Back Romantic Getaway in Marion County, Tennessee
If your idea of romance looks less like a fancy restaurant and more like waterfalls, cozy cabins, and stargazing by the lake, Marion County, Tennessee, is about to steal your heart. Just outside Chattanooga, this underrated spot is packed with natural beauty, quiet adventures, and all the space you need to reconnect without distractions.
Here is how to plan the perfect low-key romantic weekend:
Day 1: Waterfalls, Wine, and Sunset Magic
Start your weekend with a morning hike to Foster Falls, one of Tennessee’s most stunning waterfalls. The trail to the base is short and sweet, which means you can get there even if you want to sleep in a little. Sit on the rocks together, dip your toes in the cool water, and soak it all in without rushing. If you are feeling more adventurous, there are longer trails around the falls, too, but sometimes less is more.
Pro Tip: Pack a thermos of coffee and bring it with you. There is something extra romantic about sharing a cup of coffee with the sound of a waterfall in the background.
Pack a thermos of coffee and bring it with you. There is something extra romantic about sharing a cup of coffee with the sound of a waterfall in the background.
After your hike, swing by one of the local markets or coffee shops in nearby Jasper or South Pittsburg to grab snacks and sandwiches for a lakeside picnic. Spend the afternoon at Nickajack Lake, renting kayaks, taking a slow paddle together, or just chilling on the shoreline.
As the sun sets, head to Nickajack Cave for one of the most unique experiences you will ever share. Every evening around dusk, thousands of gray bats spiral out of the cave and across the sky. Watching it together feels surreal and unforgettable.
Pro Tip: Bring a blanket and some simple snacks to turn it into an impromptu sunset date.
Day 2: Small-Town Wandering and Floating Cabin Vibes
After a slow morning, drive to South Pittsburg and wander through the cute shops and cafés downtown. If you happen to be visiting during the spring, the National Cornbread Festival is an absolute must. Even outside festival season, the small-town vibe is strong, and it is the perfect place to grab brunch and do a little window shopping. For the ultimate romantic experience, book a night in one of the floating cabins at Hales Bar Marina. These cozy cabins sit on the Tennessee River and are made for couples looking to unplug and unwind. Picture yourself sitting out on the deck with a bottle of wine, watching the water roll by as the stars come out. There is nothing quite like it.
Pro Tip: Bring a small Bluetooth speaker and assemble a playlist beforehand. It sets the perfect mood for a night on the river.
If you are up for adventure, rent a boat and explore the river during the day or check out the historic Hales Bar Dam for some ghost story fun.
Marion County is not about luxury or flash. It is about slowing down, soaking up nature, and finding simple moments that stick with you long after the weekend ends. Whether you are hiking to waterfalls, sharing a sunset by the lake, or waking up over the water, it is the kind of place that makes you fall a little more in love with each other and with the world around you.
Next time you need a break from everything, Marion County is ready and waiting.