Chattanooga is known for many wonderful things, but did you know it is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the South? If you’re looking for something to do on a pretty day, look no further! You can park-hop your way across the Scenic City!
Chattanooga Area Parks
Downtown River Parks
Coolidge Park: Located beside the Tennessee River, this park is one of the most popular on the list. It has its own parking, tons of space to play, picnic tables, a pavilion with restrooms, splash pad, and its famous carousel…you can’t go wrong bringing your children here! It’s also conveniently located at the north end of the Walnut Street Bridge, so it ties in perfectly with a leisurely stroll! Many events are held here throughout the year, so if you catch it at the right time, food trucks and entertainment will be there as well.
Walnut Street Bridge: This historic Chattanooga landmark is one of the city’s public parks. This is a pedestrian only bridge, so you don’t have to worry about traffic with your little ones. On the south side of the bridge, you have the historic Bluffview Art District. You can visit the Edwin Hotel, Ice Cream Show, and many other popular spots before walking to the north side that houses the famous North Shore and Coolidge Park. It’s pet friendly as well, so your pups will be able to enjoy the magnificent view!
Renaissance Park: Located a short distance from Coolidge Park on the North Shore is Renaissance Park. It sits alongside the Tennessee River and has picnic areas, a pavilion, nature trails, and public art showcased throughout the park. This is a great spot to see nature in the heart of downtown.
Ross’s Landing: This is a very popular spot on the south side of the Tennessee River. Located beside the Tennessee Aquarium, this spot offers a handicapped accessible playground, amphitheater, marina, walkways along the river, river pier, water covered steps, and open spaces for your children to run and play on the water.
Tennessee Riverwalk: This 13-mile stretch of land is home to a beautiful riverwalk that runs parallel to the Tennessee River. You can ride, skate, walk, run, and stroll along this paved path and see all the breathtaking sites Chattanooga has to offer. There are playgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms all along the way, so it’s great for children. It also has several kayak launching spots if you’re looking to get into the water.
Chattanooga also has a vast collection of community parks for locals to enjoy right outside of their doors! Here are a few of the most well-known parks. Be sure to check the city’s list to find a local park close to you!
Chattanooga Community Parks
Chattown SkatePark: This is a great spot for skateboarding, hockey, and skating. Located beside Finley Stadium, this is a skateboarder’s paradise.
Greenway Farms: Located in Hixson, this park is home to open green space, hiking trails, an old quarry, and a dog park.
Jack Benson Heritage Park: Located in East Brainerd, this park has a creek running through it, a great playground, picnic areas, and a dog park. This is a great spot to take the whole family!
Miller Park: Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, this is a green space that’s enjoyable for the whole family. You can often find food trucks here, and during the holiday season, they have beautiful light displays to enjoy.
Montague Park: This is another downtown space that is a world of its own. The sculpture fields here are famous, and it’s free for families to enjoy.
St. Elmo Park: Located just inside the state line is St. Elmo Park. It’s very recently been renovated and completely updated. There is a great playground, greenspace, pavilion, and restrooms, so it’s perfect for burning some energy.
Warner Park: This famous spot holds the Chattanooga Zoo, Warner Park Spray and Play, Chattanooga Miracle League playground and ballfields, and the Warner Park softball complex.
Point Park: Located atop Lookout Mountain, Point Park is full of Civil War history and has one of the best views Chattanooga has to offer.
Little Debbie Park: Chattanooga’s favorite snack cake opened a beautiful park in the town of Collegedale, TN. Little Debbie Park is located just off of I-75 and has something to offer for everyone! Located just down the road from Cambridge Square, you can make a day of your visit.
Chickamauga Battlefield National Military Park: The Chickamauga Battlefield is a historic landmark not only in the South, but in the United States. With its 5,300 acres, the national park provides more recreational opportunities than most places in the area. While some of the park areas are restricted from recreational use, there are four designated picnic areas to bring food, play games, and enjoy the beauty of the park.
