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Experience Chattanooga’s newest attraction, The National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. Our permanent exhibits take our visitors from the actions that prompted the First Medals during the Civil War to the War on Terror conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Heritage Center offers an immersive experience that puts our visitors in the boots of Medal of Honor recipients and brings their heroic stories to life. Imagine yourself in the church where Dr. Mary Walker treated wounded soldiers, or inside a trench manning a machine gun during WWI or fighting in the forest with Charles Coolidge as he single-handedly took on a German Pazer tank.
Your experience begins in our orientation theater, where you will see a short introductory video exploring the history of the Medal of Honor. When the doors to the theater open, you will be transported to the Civil War era and learn about the Andrew’s Raiders and the Great Locomotive Chase.
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center is dedicated to connecting people with the meaning and history of the Medal of Honor. The Heritage Center serves as an engaging storyteller and shares the real-life experiences of Medal of Honor recipients on their infamous day when they demonstrated extraordinary heroism under the most difficult circumstances. Each of these amazing, inspiring and, all too often, heart-breaking stories define the meaning of valor and the virtue of putting service over self. Every recipient has a narrative that is relevant to what we do – whether it be on a battlefield, in the classroom or board room and in everyday life. The National Heritage Center takes care of over 6,000 objects that tell the story of Medal of Honor recipients and fellow veterans from the Civil War forward. These objects are tangible reminders of the sacrifice of our men and women in arms.
Experience an immersive experience that puts our visitors in the boots of Medal of Honor recipients
Access to the Orientation Theater to see a short video exploring the history of the Medal of Honor
Admission to the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center in Chattanooga
National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
2 W Aquarium Way, Suite 104 Chattanooga United States
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
72 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
chadwickew,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
My wife and I thought it was a wonderful exhibit and very informative. My only “complaint” is that I wish the video on the main wall would loop quicker because I didn’t get to see all of them before we had to leave. Many heart wrenching stories or heroism and at times the ultimate sacrifice. Well worth the visit!
U2110CAericb,,Oct 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is a deceptively small space for so much history and information. The exhibits are expertly done, and the stories are told with precision and clarity. A gem, hidden is plain sight in the shadow of the Tennessee Aquarium.

Romas2101,,Oct 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We seriously enjoyed this smaller than expected museum, but the quality was outstanding. The history of the medal from its inception was illuminating and well documented. As one very interested in military history, I had no idea how many MOH recipients there were. This museum focused more than expected on recipients from Tennessee but there were others from elsewhere. Some were well known but many others were not. I especially liked the video interviews with recipients who spoke with humility about the character instilled in them from childhood that helped make them the people they became. It was interesting that some of those who were taught about character and patriotism learned such from teachers and mentors rather than parents who often were working 12-14 hours a day with no time to instill this. It was inspiring to this old-timer that the character and values which inspired these men stands the test of time and reminds us of what it really is to be a patriot. Such Americans and their values still exist but are sorely needed in today's severely divided politics. Such division did not make America great nor was it a factor in these men's courageous actions. Interviews with some surviving recipients reaffirms that it takes courage to do the right thing and that the right thing usually isn't the easy thing. I learned some fascinating MOH stories on this tour and would highly recommended. This was an unexpectedly good experience that increased my appetite to do more research once back home. We found plentiful parking a block away. The area was safe, pleasant and very inviting.
Donna S,,Sep 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Wonderful museum, honoring those from Tennessee who have received the Medal of Honor. We enjoyed speaking to the volunteers and seeing the collection that the museum has acquired.
David H,,Sep 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
We are both retired military and enjoy visiting military associated events/facilities. This visit was a fun one with Clint giving us a great introduction to the museum upon our arrival. We were able to spend a couple of hours going through the museum and learning about heroes from Tennessee. We had walked the Veterans Bridge earlier in the week. Visited the Chickamauga Battlefield and the Trail of Tears sites the day prior which really helped to put all of the history into perspective. Not sure Chattanooga government markets their history in a manner that would bring additional tourism. Highly recommend this museum to all visitors.
Renee S,,Aug 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very nice displays, excellent history lessons. Doesn't take long to explore, probably better for adults rather than younger kids. Thank you to all our veterans!



ambajamba16,,Aug 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great little museum! If you are a military buff then you will really enjoy it, the volunteers are very nice, took us about an hour to walk thru, definitely recommend.

H8659CPtimk,,Aug 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The information is presented honestly and done well. If you or your family has military history, you'll definitely enjoy it.
U729BJcathyh,,Jun 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was one of the highlights of our trip. It made a great impressions on our granddaughters. Their dads are guardians for Honor Flight so they are already well aware of the service veterans give. It was well presented and done very respectively. I wish we had had more time to enjoy, maybe next time.
K6154HUjohng,,Jun 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This museum very respectfully honors those men and one woman who have been awarded our nation's highest medal for military valor. If you are interested in US military history, this place is a must see.
Operated by National Medal of Honor Heritage Center