Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity
🐻 Welcome to the Historic Bear House Circa 1890! The best of everything!! Refined luxury, detailed amenities, large beautiful property. Walk to local restaurants, shops, grocery stores, hiking and biking trails, tourist attractions. Less than 4 miles from Aquarium, all downtown, mountain and waterfront activities.
Beautifully restored 120 year old house and additional Carriage house with beautiful grounds. A rare opportunity to stay in a special historic property that adds to your trip experience; much more than simply a place to spend the night! Centrally located in Chattanooga in the trendy St Elmo Historic District, at the foot of Lookout Mountain.
Private Sherfey Suite (Carriage House 1st floor), with its own entrance, offers historic charm with modern-day amenities. Wonderful, private apartment including one bedroom and full bath. Open kitchen, living, and dining floor plan.
**High quality, fully equipped small kitchen with electric stove/oven, microwave, refrigerator. Small appliances include toaster, mixer, and crockpot. The hospitality center comes equipped with Keurig and a well-stocked variety of coffee, teas and hot chocolate, and related condiments. The basics are kept stocked for your convenience: paper towels, garbage bags, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, foils and plastic wrap, salt and pepper, spices, olive oil, canola oil, sugar and some breakfast items. Chocolates and fresh fruit are always included! **Beautiful living room with ample seating, dining, games, high speed Wifi, large smart HDTV with Amazon Prime and Netflix - a wonderful gathering space for you to relax and enjoy your visit. **Resource center in living room with office supplies, vacations guides, reading materials. **Queen bed, luxury bedding and linens, iron and ironing board, full length mirror, luggage racks, bedside radio/clock with 2 outlets and 2 ports for charging your devices, Smart TV with Amazon Prime and Netflix. **Spacious full size bathroom with bathtub/shower combination (rain head faucet), hair dryer, and specialty toiletries from nationally known local store Good Fortune (soaps, body wash, bath salts, lotion), luxury towels and numerous amenities. **Separate laundry room with large capacity washer and dryer. Laundry room located in the main house (Bear House). Shared between the Carriage House (Sherfey Suite & Lilly''s Loft) and Stinson Suite in the main house.
Our spacious property offers many opportunities for gathering spaces outdoors. The large old-fashioned front porch, courtyard garden and gazebo are wonderful spots for morning coffee, a special evening meal, or a place to relax in a comfortable chair with a good book. The special garden areas, and larger outdoor seating areas provide additional space for your enjoyment. Be sure to explore the carved bears placed around the property and hear their story! In the spring and summer, help yourself to the blackberries and small vegetable garden. And don’t miss the scavenger hunt; over 40 sculptured animals roam the property for you to find.
Our beautiful large property sits on an entire block, front to back, in the charming St Elmo Historic District. There is the majestic main house called Historic Bear House 1890 (6500sqft) that consists of 3 other private apartments. My husband and I reside on the private first floor in the main house. Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the main house, through the luscious courtyard, is the Carriage House (1600sqft) with 2 private apartments. With over 25 years experience in the rental property business, we specialize in a broad spectrum of lodging needs, from quick getaways, to out of town family and friends, to corporate rentals and short term rentals. With pampered on-site attention you’ll feel taken care of from your first inquiry until the end of your stay, whether it is a short trip or a few months.
Be sure to check out our other private apartments located here at the Historic Bear House 1890 property:
Workman Wing, 2 BR, 1BA, #1021491
Wheland Wing, 2 BR, 1BA, #1021450
Johnson Retreat, 4BR, 2BA, #1021232 (Workman & Wheland Wings combined)
Stinson Suite, 2BR, 1BA, #1076824
Lilly’s Loft, 1BR, 1BA, #1324077
Sherfey Suite, 1BR, 1BA, #1172405 UN
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Inquire owner about event details and attendees
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1172405vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 4
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Chattanooga
Located in Chattanooga, this apartment is in the city centre. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Ruby Falls and Tennessee River, while Lookout Mountain Incline Railway and Tennessee Aquarium are popular area attractions. Travelling with kids? Don't miss Chattanooga Zoo and Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and hiking nearby.
Moccasin Bend Brewing Company - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
Lookout Mountain Incline Railway - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
St. Elmo Park - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
Ruby Falls - 4 min drive - 4.2 km
Getting around
Chattanooga, TN (CHA-Chattanooga Metropolitan) - 27 min drive
Restaurants
Taco Bell - 2 min drive
Little Coyote - 8 min walk
Wendy's - 2 min drive
The Tap House - 10 min walk
Massey’s Kitchen - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity?
As of 20 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity on 30 June 2026 start from NZ$285, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Bear House 1890, Sherfey Suite, Perfect Getaway, Walk to Cafes, Outdoor Activity located?
This family-friendly apartment building is located in the city centre, within 1 mi (2 km) of Lookout Mountain Incline Railway and Tennessee River. Ruby Falls is 1.5 mi (2.4 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
It was a cute little cottage atmosphere. The host were very friendly and on site. We had everything we needed in the bathroom as well in the kitchen. It was well stocked. It had a nice outside picnic area. I was pleased with this location as well as the host.
Colleen E.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2026
Thank you so much for staying with us here at The Bear House!
A short stay for a family get together. The stay was wonderful. Steve gave us a quick tour upon our arrival. The place was clean and quiet. Everything we needed to feel at home.
Gary R.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2026
Thank you for your review. Please come again anytime!
The Bear house is very beautiful and cozy. Close to all the local attractions. Lookout mountain, Ruby Falls and civil war battlefields are within 15 minutes from the Bear House. Kitchen has everything you will need to cook up a home cooked meal. I would highly recommend staying at the Bear House.
Tom M.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2026
We are glad you could stay with us. Please come again anytime!
We had a fantastic stay in the Carriage suite at The Bear House. We were conveniently right down the road from Ruby Falls and Rock City and a 10 minute drive away from downtown Chatanooga.We loved the attention to detail and care, they had snacks, waters, coffees and all the amenities for your stay readily avaliable.One night we had the luxury of being able to sit outside under the swing set in the garden and watch the fireflies and it felt so special, you could tell the property was well taken care of and loved.We also enjoyed all the big foot statues!Thank you for the hospitality!
Benjamin B.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2026
Thank you so much! We are glad you could stay with us here at The Bear House. Please come again anytime! We try to keep all our apartments very well stocked for our guests.
Loved this property for my friend and me. We stayed in the lower level of the carriage house. The accommodations were very nice with numerous amenities, including snacks and water, coffee k-cups and the kitchen was equipped with more than we needed. There were numerous outdoor areas among gardens that were perfect for early morning coffee or evenings to chill and unwind. The host was very accommodating and so knowledgeable about the history of the area. Another plus, we were within a few minutes drive of so many sites and attractions. Would book here again if I get the chance.
Wanda B.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2026
Thank you! We do have a great location that is close to most everything, both driving and walking. Some of Chattanooga’s favorite restaurants are within 2 to 3 blocks. Also close by are grocery stores, drug stores and more.
We enjoyed our stay at the base of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. The apartment is within easy walking distance of St. Elmo, but due to the mountain roads, I wouldn’t consider it super walkable. The apartment was cozy, they’ve done a nice job renovating the old carriage house. The owners provided snacks, water, and coffee as well as many suggestions on what to do in the area. Make sure to stop by Mr. T’s for lunch or dinner, and the Incline Railway is worth it. The location is good, not far from the Tennessee Aquarium and downtown area (5 min drive). The only thing to keep in mind is this is definitely a stay for 1-2 people without children in this particular rental.
Laura M.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2026
Thank you so much for your comments. Yes, we have a maximum of 2 guests for this apartment We are located at the foot of Lookout Mountain with the mountain behind us. It is easy walking distance for those who enjoy hiking on the mountain. For those who enjoy walking and biking, the main St Elmo streets and business district, including our property, are all level. The Chattanooga paved Riverwalk begins less than 2 blocks from us at the Incline and continues for 26 miles through the riverfront and downtown Chattanooga. There are regular bikes and electric bikes for rent. It is level and completely accessible. We are happy you enjoyed your stay. Please come again anytime!
The location was a the foot of Lookout mountain. Wonderful experience. Host..steve was friendly and very knowledgeable.
Tom W.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 April 2026
Thank you for your review! We love providing our guests with info to help ensure they have a great trip. We do have the best location at the foot of Lookout Mountain! Please come again anytime.
The bathtub set-up was dangerous - the shower/tub was on a high platform and a slipping danger getting in and out of the shower was there. The rooms were decorated nicely but there was no extra blanket for one colder night.
judith G.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 April 2026
Thank you for choosing to stay with us here at The Bear House! There is a small step up into the shower/tub combo with rainhead shower. There are grab bars on both sides as well as non slip bath rugs. I’m sorry you felt it was unsafe. It’s never been an issue in the past.
We will make sure to include an extra blanket in the future to go along with the blanket and comforter on the bed. Guests can also set the HVAC to their preference for heat and cooling. Please come again anytime!
This was a cute place, comfortable and well stocked with coffee and snacks.I was only in the Chattanooga area for a couple of days and found so much to do right in the St. Elmo area, so convenient.
This is the second time that my wife and I have stayed on this property and it likely won't be the last! Great location, comfortable accommodations with a lot of character and personal touches and the Sherfey's are great people!
Everything about our stay was great! We appreciated all of the little touches and information provided by the owners. The location was so close to all of the things we did! Would definitely stay there again.
The Bear House is a beautifully restored property with the 6,500 sq ft main house and 2,000 sq ft Carriage house. We have lived here for 25 years, raising our four children and enjoying this small community (St Elmo) within the city. Our long-term plan has been to share this special property as a B&B/Short Term Rental when we retired.
We opened as The Bear House in March of 2017. It has been a truly special adventure and brought great joy sharing The Bear House and meeting so many wonderful guests.
Steve and I live on the 1st floor of the main house, which is completely separate from the 2nd story listings as well as the basement/lower level listing. In addition, we have the Carriage House with 2 listings. We are proud of The Bear House 1890 property and think you will have a wonderful stay!
What makes this property unique
Beautifully restored 120 year old house and additional Carriage house with beautiful grounds. A rare opportunity to stay in a special historic property that adds to your trip experience; much more than simply a place to spend the night! One of the best locations for a trip to Chattanooga.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests