Ruby Falls is home to the nation’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. The Chattanooga attraction recently unveiled its new PGAV Destinations designed expansion.
The multimillion-dollar Ruby Falls project, nearly a decade in the making, has created fresh venues and enhanced guest amenities. It now offers astounding views of the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain and Chattanooga. The work also builds upon the 88-year legacy of superior guest experiences with a new entrance and ticket atrium, retail venue, and pedestrian plaza.
“The rich history and legacy of Ruby Falls is the guiding concept for this project,” said Hugh Morrow, president of Ruby Falls. “The addition creates opportunities for guests to exhale, relax, and connect with friends and family.”
Visitors to the Falls are welcomed through a new entrance and ticket atrium where they can purchase timed-entry tickets. This new system shortens wait-times. As a result it allows guests to enjoy all that Ruby Falls has to offer prior to their cave adventure. A grand Village Plaza then invites guests to rest and socialize before exploring the other iconic and new attractions. These include the Blue Heron Overlook with breathtaking views of the valley, seasonal food carts and the Village Gift Shop. With typical summer temperatures reaching the high 80s, guests will especially enjoy shaded open-air dining while appreciating all of the nearby natural wonders.
Ruby Falls aiming for LEED Certification
Nearing its second century of operation, the destination attracts over half a million visitors a year. It recently undertook more than 40 LEED initiatives to complement its Green Globe Certification.
Soon Ruby Falls will receive its official LEED Certification for numerous environmentally sound innovations. These include energy-efficient lighting and solar panels, low-flow plumbing and rainwater recycling. Further innovations include native plant landscaping and efficient construction recycling.
Diane Lochner, is PGAV Destinations vice president and project lead. She said, “The Ruby Falls project was a special combination of strategy, setting, and a vision to strengthen the connection to the next generation of visitors. The endeavor has been a team effort to create a place of community, inspired by the powerful stories of Ruby Falls.”
Tennessee gest over 110m annual visitors. In the last decade alone, state and local tax revenue exceeded $1b. Tourism is the state’s second largest industry. A key to Tennessee’s tourism value is the state’s authenticity and natural beauty. Ruby Falls guarantees that promise with these new amenities and guest experiences. The team is currently exploring opportunities to further enhance the site with additional dining, vistas, and ways to celebrate the Chattanooga and the Ruby Falls story.
