Chattanooga on the Cheap

It might sound trite, but saving a little here and saving a little there does add up. Therefore, it’s important to take advantage of different deals* (the ones you like) before they vanish.

• On March 24 at Ben & Jerry’s, donate a non-perishable item (one per person) and receive a scoop of ice cream for a $1. It’s the best of both worlds. All donations go to the local community food bank and not only do you feel good about giving, but you also get a scoop of your favorite ice cream as well.
• If you can’t get enough of Mexican food  then you’ll like Cancun Mexican Restaurant’s special. On their website, you can print off a "buy one combination and get the second half off (must be of equal or lesser value)" coupon.
• Mention Angus Cafe & Catering’s website and receive 20 percent off your first purchase. Serving breakfast and lunch, Angus Cafe is budget-friendly. Be sure to check out their Cherry Street Special for $5.99.
• Mudpie Restaurant is currently offering a "buy one, get one entree free" Internet special. Now this is only good on Tuesdays, 5 - 8 p.m., and you must print out the coupon to take advantage of this offer.
• Yum, sushi. Oops, I’m sorry, my mind (and appetite) wandered off for a minute. You know, there are a few benefits to eating early and by doing so at Sushi Nabe, it can save you 25 percent. Their early bird special is available Mondays, 4 - 6 p.m., and Tuesdays - Thursdays, 5 - 6 p.m.

*Disclaimer: As press time, these deals are valid. However, things change and restaurants might change their minds. I report the deals and try my best to be accurate.

photo credit: Penny Guts, flickr, creative commons by .jo.hardell.

Aquatic biologist. Riverboat Captain. Zookeeper.

No, that isn’t a list of what I wanted to be when I grew up (okay, maybe the aquatic biologist), but what can be found at Chattanooga’s Spring Break Safaris. These programs allow children, ages five and up, to experience the inner workings of some of Chattanooga’s best-known and loved attractions.

And parents, not only are these fun and educational, but affordable as well.

Here’s a sampling of some of the safaris happening during March and April.

• One of Tennessee Aquarium’s programs is the Captain’s Morning River Safari that allows children to learn about what it takes to pilot the River Gorge Explorer. During the session, participants do a walk-through with the captain prior to the boat leaving the pier and then once cruising on Tennessee’s Grand Canyon, they can learn more about the area with a naturalist. (March 20 - April 2, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. April 3 - 17, 9:30 a.m. - noon. $36/participant; $31 for members. Morning tours must be reserved by 6 p.m. the night before and prepayment is required. Reservations can be made by calling 800/262-0695.)
• Ruby Falls takes everyone on a behind-the-scenes, partially dark lantern tour that includes a free miner helmet (with batteries) for the kids. The guided tour explores a part of the cave that’s typically not accessible to the public. Participants learn all about the cave, formations and waterfall. (Monday-Wednesday, beginning on March 16, followed by April 1. The two- to three-hour program begins at 9 a.m. $20/participants. Call 423/821-2544, ext. 142, for age minimum requirement and to make reservations.)
• For those who love the outdoors, consider Rock City’s RockQuest Adventure. This safari focuses on the natural scenery found here. The RockQuest Guide introduces everyone to various plants and flowers as well as rock formations and wildlife. Be prepared to walk! (through April 19, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. The self-guided tour takes about two hours. Open to all ages. $13.95/child and $16.95 and includes admission to Rocky City. No reservations are required since it’s a self-guided tour.)

photo credit: Lover’s Leap at Rock City, flickr, creative commons by ss_kriegsberichter