Erected in 1890, the Walnut Street Bridge was the first to connect Chattanooga's downtown with the North Shore. Structural modifications have been made to turn the bridge into what is now a pedestrian walkway. The 1/2-mile span is the longest pedestrian bridge in the world and very popular among local residents. Providing spectacular views of Coolidge Park, the Tennessee Aquarium and the Riverfront, the bridge is available for weddings and special events.
Start at the top of a raging river and then delve beneath the surface to discover all the life that teems within. It is all a part of the experience of the world's largest freshwater aquarium. Within the 12-story structure, you will see birds, snakes, river otters and turtles in their natural habitats, as well as fish indigenous to the Tennessee River.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a non-profit organization that came into being with the goal of bringing back the steam engines and locomotives which have become a thing of the past. Today everyone can actually experience the nostalgic feeling by walking past the working repair shops. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a great venue for holding a birthday party or picnics for your kid. It offers great variety like the Christmas Special, the Autumn Leaf Special, the Valentine Dinner Train and the Halloween Eerie Express. Also, it has been one of the prime locations for shooting movies, including October Sky, Heaven's Sky and Fool's Parade.
Just west of Chattanooga is a high ridge known as Raccoon Mountain and Raccoon Mountain Cave. For adventurous people this area offers camping, but there is a lot more to do than simply pitch a tent. Drive like the Andrettis on the go-kart course or go exploring in the caverns in and around the area you can pan for gold and gemstones in the creeks that run along the base of the mountains.
Once an abandoned shipping yard, Coolidge Park has carried the spirit of revitalization from downtown to the North Shore. The park features a century-old, hand-carved carousel. A large fountain with stone horses, lions, and sea turtles sprays water to cool youngsters on hot summer afternoons. A large common area along the riverfront allows for games, picnics and relaxing afternoons. Two stages and a pavilion area offer space for weddings and other special events.
Take a half-mile walk into the center of Lookout Mountain to the largest underground waterfall in the United States. This 145-foot fall funnels 300 gallons of water per minute into a subterranean river. The gorgeous falls are highlighted with colored lights and a reflecting pool. There is a 10-story observation tower, Ruby Falls Fun Forest for kids, and walking tour through the caverns, which lasts one and one-half hours.
Sail along the Lake Chickamauga by hiring a yacht at the Blue Heaven River Tours. Specializing in organising private water tours on their boats and ships that can comfortably accommodate 2-6 people. Set sail with that special someone on a private sunset cruise or spend the evening swimming, snorkeling and fishing. You can also bring in your own food to enjoy while you sail or stop at one of the many restaurants by the water to eat to your heart’s content. Party boats are also available for group sizer larger than 6. If you are looking for a memorable day on the water, then Blue Heaven River Tours certainly won’t disappoint. Also, since all tours are private, you are free to share this unforgettable experience with no one other than family and friends.
Just south of Chattanooga is the site of the area's longest and bloodiest battle of the United States Civil War. The U.S. War Department (now the Department of the Interior) declared this battlefield a National Military Park in the 1890s. It has attracted millions of visitors over the years. Chickamauga Battlefield, Lookout Mountain Battlefield and Point Park, Missionary Ridge and Moccasin Bend are the highlights of this attraction. A visitor's center provides detailed information about the history of the battlefield and the battles fought here. The self-guided tour takes you through several battle sites, the Wilder Tower Monument, and a common area for picnics and recreation.
Part of the sprawling Cleveland Greenway, this park is frequented by locals looking for a breath of fresh air. Greenway Park is a great place to simply stretch your legs and relish an invigorating walk along the creek that flows through. There's also a well-equipped playground for children, an outdoor stage, and a stacked-stone pavilion with a fireplace, available for private events. The Cleveland Bacon Festival and other fun events are often hosted here as well. The Cleveland Greenway parking lot is located by the entrance of this park.
The historic Lookout Mountain in Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is home to many hiking trails, some of which lead to the beautiful Sunset Rock. Located on the mighty mountain's western bluff, this panoramic overlook offers stunning views of Tennessee's pristine landscape. Visitors can begin at the Cravens House trailhead and hike along the path that weaves through lush environs to arrive at the overlook. Other available routes are the Bluff Trail, with its rocky outcroppings, or the slightly more strenuous Garden Road trailhead.
Erected in 1890, the Walnut Street Bridge was the first to connect Chattanooga's downtown with the North Shore. Structural modifications have been made to turn the bridge into what is now a pedestrian walkway. The 1/2-mile span is the longest pedestrian bridge in the world and very popular among local residents. Providing spectacular views of Coolidge Park, the Tennessee Aquarium and the Riverfront, the bridge is available for weddings and special events.
Take a break from your regular city life and enjoy some time surrounded by lush greenery as you visit the Tennessee River Park. This spacious park is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular outing spot for the locals as well as the tourists. Situated by the riverside, the park features a water front trail which is just ideal for a romantic walk with someone special. Besides, the park has picnic facilities, drinking fountains and public art throughout and is a great spot for spending some quality time with your loved ones. You can also fish or enjoy boating when here.