National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
Discover the profound stories of America's bravest at this interactive center, honoring extraordinary courage and sacrifice.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the profound stories of America's bravest at this interactive center, honoring extraordinary courage and sacrifice.
"An unexpected and must-see highlight of Chattanooga!! Wonderfully friendly staff and kind volunteers."
Allocate Enough Time
Don't rush! Allow at least 90 minutes to truly absorb the impactful stories. :clock1:
Book Tickets Easily
Viator offers a simple booking process for tickets, with accessibility info noted. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Gallery
Vibrant, engaging exhibits tell the stories of extraordinary bravery and sacrifice. Prepare to be moved.

Introductory Film
A captivating short film sets the stage, providing context for the Medal of Honor's significance.

Stories of Recipients
Learn about ordinary people who performed extraordinary acts of courage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit
Accessibility & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Enough Time
Don't rush! Allow at least 90 minutes to truly absorb the impactful stories.
:clock1:Book Tickets Easily
Viator offers a simple booking process for tickets, with accessibility info noted.
:ticket:Free for Veterans
Active duty and veterans receive free admission on Veterans Day weekend!
:military_medal:Interactive Exhibits
Experience advanced touchscreens and engaging movies that bring history to life.
:iphone:Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Enough Time
Don't rush! Allow at least 90 minutes to truly absorb the impactful stories.
:clock1:Book Tickets Easily
Viator offers a simple booking process for tickets, with accessibility info noted.
:ticket:Free for Veterans
Active duty and veterans receive free admission on Veterans Day weekend!
:military_medal:Interactive Exhibits
Experience advanced touchscreens and engaging movies that bring history to life.
:iphone:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center as an unexpected gem, offering a deeply moving and educational experience about American heroism. The interactive exhibits and compelling stories leave a lasting impact, fostering profound appreciation for the sacrifices made. While some may not expect to be so emotionally moved, the center is highly recommended for its impactful storytelling and accessible presentation.
"A GEM hiding in plain sight! DO NOT MISS THIS!
We went in for the coffee bar and spent the next 90-minutes enthralled with the Heritage Center. It's not a "museum" so much as it's an interactive education, appropriate for all ages, with a focus on these men (and one woman) for their actions.
The gallery space is outstanding and can be perused at your own pace, but once you view the short movie and enter the main gallery you'll be captivated. The exhibits are vibrant and engaging. The stories make you both proud and emotional as you learn about self-sacrifices made in moments of extreme danger to save lives.
The Heritage Center brilliantly lays the foundation for understanding how the Medal of Honor came about, what it stands for, and that ordinary people - with a deep love of country and a desire to do what is right - can do extraordinary things with bravery, courage, sacrifice, and integrity.
(And the coffee was top-notch!)"
Shelly Kelly
"An unexpected and must-see highlight of Chattanooga!! Wonderfully friendly staff and kind volunteers. Great exhibit and information/videos about how the Medal of Honor came to be and many individuals are highlighted here. It was moving! Highly recommend this! We owe our service men and women a great debt. There's a documentary on Netflix that highlight many honored with this award, too. A must-watch after this exhibit!"
Julie Smith
"This place is amazing. It is much larger than it looks. It is very affordable and a must see for thos interested in military and history. We became members and I highly recommend it."
Daniel Wantulok
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Medal of Honor Heritage Center is conveniently located next to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation routes also serve the downtown area.Yes, there are parking facilities available near the Tennessee Aquarium, which is adjacent to the Heritage Center.
It's advisable to check for any specific parking fees or restrictions in advance.Absolutely! The center is designed with accessibility in mind, and wheelchair accessibility is a noted feature.
This ensures all visitors can comfortably experience the exhibits.Operating hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official website or booking platforms for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, its prime location next to the Tennessee Aquarium makes it easy to combine visits.
Many visitors find it a perfect addition to a day exploring Chattanooga's waterfront attractions.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, often cited as half the price of the aquarium.
Special promotions, like free admission for veterans on Veterans Day weekend, are also available.Tickets can be purchased directly at the center or through online travel platforms like Viator, which offers an easy booking experience.
Yes, active duty military and veterans often receive free admission, especially around Veterans Day.
It's always a good idea to check for any ongoing promotions or group rates.While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Refund policies can vary depending on where you purchase your tickets. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the ticketing provider directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find interactive exhibits, engaging films, and powerful stories of Medal of Honor recipients, highlighting their bravery and sacrifice.
It's an educational and emotional journey.Most visitors spend around 90 minutes to two hours exploring the exhibits and watching the films.
You can go at your own pace, but allow ample time for reflection.Yes, the center is designed to be an interactive education for all ages.
The engaging exhibits and films can captivate younger visitors while providing a profound learning experience.While not explicitly mentioned as formal guided tours, the staff and volunteers, like Mr. Bob, are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, often providing detailed insights and storytelling.
Engaging with them can enhance your visit.Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage upon arrival or ask a staff member.
Some exhibits may have restrictions to protect the displays or enhance the visitor experience.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the center has a coffee bar that has been praised for its quality.
It's a great spot to grab a refreshment before or after exploring the exhibits.The coffee bar offers refreshments, and visitors have specifically mentioned the coffee being top-notch.
It's a convenient place for a quick bite or a beverage.Being located next to the Tennessee Aquarium, there are numerous dining options in the immediate vicinity, ranging from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
Generally, most museums and heritage centers discourage outside food and beverages to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the exhibits. It's best to consume any personal food items before entering or utilize the onsite coffee bar.
It's advisable to confirm the operating hours of the coffee bar, as they may differ slightly from the main exhibit hours.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While some areas might allow personal photography, it's crucial to look for signage or ask staff for clarification to ensure you're respecting any restrictions.
The vibrant and engaging exhibits themselves are visually compelling.
Capturing the essence of the displays and the emotional impact of the stories can make for powerful photographs.Professional photography or videography for commercial purposes typically requires special permission. For personal visits, focus on capturing memories without disrupting other visitors or the exhibits.
Visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, can provide a less crowded environment, allowing for more unobstructed photo opportunities.
Flash photography is often prohibited in museums and heritage centers to protect delicate artifacts and displays. Always check for signs or ask staff if flash is permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the center's commitment to accessibility, ensuring that all family members can comfortably navigate the space. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to allow children more freedom to explore and engage with the exhibits without feeling rushed. The stories of heroism can spark important conversations about values and character, making it a meaningful outing for the whole family.
🎖️ Military Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Engaging with the knowledgeable staff and volunteers can offer unique insights and deeper understanding. The center's commitment to honoring recipients, including future exhibits, ensures a continuously evolving and enriching experience for repeat visitors. Consider becoming a member to support the center and gain ongoing access to its valuable historical resources.
🚶 Day-Trippers & Chattanooga Visitors
Allow at least 90 minutes for your visit to fully appreciate the exhibits. The affordable admission price makes it an excellent value, offering an experience that many describe as life-changing. It's a chance to discover a 'gem hiding in plain sight' and gain a profound appreciation for the nation's bravest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Medal of Honor
Visitors often express a newfound appreciation for the medal's significance after their visit, realizing that recipients are not just heroes for doing their job, but for going far beyond what was expected. The center brilliantly lays the foundation for understanding how the Medal of Honor came about, what it stands for, and the profound impact these individuals have had.
The exhibits are designed to be both educational and emotional, allowing visitors to connect with the personal sacrifices made by these brave men and women. The interactive touchscreens and engaging movies bring these historical accounts to life, making the experience deeply impactful and memorable for all ages.
Experiencing the Heritage Center
Many visitors are surprised by how profoundly they are affected by the exhibits, gaining a deeper appreciation for the freedoms they enjoy. The center excels at highlighting that ordinary people, driven by a deep love of country and a desire to do what is right, can achieve extraordinary things through bravery, courage, sacrifice, and integrity. This message resonates strongly with visitors, making the experience both inspiring and humbling.
Special mention is often made of the knowledgeable staff and volunteers, who play a vital role in bringing the stories to life. Their passion and detailed storytelling can make the experience incredibly impactful, transforming a museum visit into a deeply personal connection with history. The center is considered a must-see highlight of Chattanooga, offering an experience that might just change your perspective.
Honoring Recipients: Past and Future
This forward-looking approach ensures that the legacy of courage and sacrifice continues to be recognized and celebrated. The center's exhibits are designed to be a living testament to the values embodied by the Medal of Honor, inspiring future generations to uphold these principles.
Beyond specific exhibits, the overall atmosphere of the center fosters a deep respect for military service and the profound sacrifices made by individuals. It serves as a powerful reminder of the debt owed to service members and the enduring importance of recognizing their extraordinary contributions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit