I am looking to maje an overnight stop on my way home from Savannah. I will only have a half of a day there, and am looking for someplace with maybe something to see in a short time and/or a few shopping and restaurant options. considering that I will only be there a part of the day, would I do better with a smaller city like Chattanooga

Yes, Chattanooga is a good option. Easier and safer to negotiate, the riverfront area is especially nice.

Chattanooga, you'll not want to naviagate through, or around Atlanta, anymore than necessary.

We were in Chattanooga a couple of years ago and were very pleasantly surprised. Nice downtown area and riverfront, with its musuem, acquarium etc. Free shuttle. Very walkable. Interesting RR Museum. Nice shops and restaurants. With only half a day, would definitely make my choice.

We drive through Chattanooga at least twice a year on our way to Atlanta, and I'll agree with the other posters that it might suit you better. The setting of the city with its mountains and river is just beautiful.

You should see the Chattanooga choochoo! There's the locomotive of course but there are also shops and restaurants. If I'm not mistaken the website is www.choochoo.com.