The Crash Pad: An Uncommon Hostel. What makes it so uncommon, we hear you ask?
Well, it’s the world’s first LEED platinum hostel.
Or in English: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. More about that later.
The ultimate mission here is…
“…to further establish Chattanooga as an ultimate outdoor destination by providing a base camp and community hub for adventurous travelers.”
A wide range of rooms make this is a top choice for solo travellers, adults, couples, and families alike.
There are rocks to climb, waters to paddle and trails to explore, making this a perfect location for outdoor and sport enthusiasts.
Guess what? There are two more beautiful 5 star hostels called:
- Freehand New York in NYC
- The Bivvi Hostel in Breckenridge, Colorado
It’s just one of many 45 stunning hostels in the USA.
For every destination, there is only one stunning 5 Star Hostel. This makes us your shortcut to find the best hostel in your upcoming destination(s).
You can find all official 5 Star Hostels right here.
There are so many great USA guides worth checking out:
- best hostels in New York City
- best hostels in Chicago
- best hostels in Los Angeles
- best hostels in Washington DC
Find ALL of our Best Hostels in USA guides here – handy map included.
The Crash Pad: An Uncommon Hostel in Review
The Crash Pad is owned and run by a small team of enthusiastic climbers that moved to Chattanooga especially for the outdoor fun.
They’ve put together a wonderful video which explains the essence of this beautiful community.
Have a watch before scrolling down for all of the hostel highlights.
1. LEED Sustainability efforts
Just quickly again: LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
The Crash Pad: An Uncommon Hostel happens to be just one in four buildings in Chattanooga which holds this title, and the only hostel in the world!
After deciding the 100 year old house onsite was beyond repair, these guys demolished it and used 99% of the materials for the new build.
The new roof is green and a solar array above the entrance is tied to the city’s power grid.
And their eco-efforts extend even further to…
- Gas powered tankless water heaters
- Low flow showers & toilets
- LED lighting
- Re-usable cloth hand towels
- Energy efficient washers & dryers
- Re-cycling
You’ll notice a lot of wood has been used as furniture and for the bed frames.
That means long lasting as less creaking!
2. Handcrafted Design
As outdoor adventurers, the team at The Crash Pad pursued construction and operation techniques built on reclaimed and renewable resources.
They care about minimising the impact on Mother Earth!
And quite frankly, it’s amazing what can come from conscious design efforts. Just look at the beauty of the place!
We’re most excited for the bunkbeds (a term used lightly here).
In actual fact, these guys have created their own name for them: Super Bunks!
These handcrafted beds offer sturdy and quiet wrap-around wooden enclosures with privacy curtains.
Each person is treated to a lamp, fan, two outlets and ample lockable storage.
For those looking for even more privacy, there are twin, double, queen and deluxe family rooms available.
Wander around and feel at home in all of the spaces you find.
From a snazzy kitchen (with oven!), to a useful Mac computer area and huge garden with fire pit.
It’s designed with community in mind remember, so get sociable and share your adventurous stories.
3. Unique Factor
Seeing as The Crash Pad: An Uncommon Hostel was built by adventurers, for adventurers, it’s no surprise we’re going to focus on this.
It’s unique because if you stay here, you’ll be treated to first-hand, honest knowledge about the area.
Anything from mountain biking and climbing, to kayaking and dining – the team here know their stuff. Seriously!
Even if you’re not set on joining in adrenaline fuelled activities, don’t worry.
There’s plenty of information regarding Tennessee tourism and downtown sights, too.
All you need to do is approach a member of staff and ask. You will be provided with detailed information and tons of enthusiasm.
Super cool: there is a ‘discount map’ for local food & drink joints available for all guests.
4. Community Vibes
It sure is a wonderful mix of community and privacy at this 5 Star Hostel.
Whilst the rooms offer a cosy corner to rejuvenate, the communal spaces bring everyone together nicely.
Let’s be honest; it’s all about making the most of the natural surrounds and downtown whilst you’re here.
However!
When you’re chilling in the hostel, you’ll certainly enjoy the huge garden area with fire pit and plenty of space to relax, put up a slack line or do some yoga.
The full kitchen slash living room areas are designed to foster a communal spirit.
Grab a free breakfast and sit down next to someone new to share stories and make new friends.
5. Adventurous Staff
Every member of the The Crash Pad team love the outdoors, love the hostel.
They live and breathe both of them!
So with that in mind, you can’t expect anything less than amazing hospitality.
Instead of staff showing up for the pay cheque, these guys show up because they want to share their passion and love for Chattanooga with you.
And because the team is small, you’ll quickly get to know them.
