The epicenter of outdoor events in Chattanooga is the expansive Riverfront area with plenty of green space, local eateries and peaceful views of the Tennessee River. Looking for a stroll? The area surrounding Ross’s Landing offers paved trails — even a zig-zag one — and nearby access to the Bluff View Art District, Walnut Street Bridge and everything downtown has to offer.
Start your riverfront adventure with a visit to the Chattanooga Visitors Information Center for itineraries and tips for visiting the Scenic City, then head nextdoor to the Tennessee Aquarium, the largest freshwater aquarium in the world. With two buildings — River Journey and Ocean Journey —you could spend hours exploring. Follow that with a visit to the IMAX theater for a mind-blowing cinematic experience, and then head over to the new Charles H. Coolidge Medal of Honor Heritage Center for a lesson in courage, hope and altruism from the nation’s Medal of Honor recipients. Need some exercise? Check out High Point Climbing gym and literally climb a building like Spiderman.
When you’re hungry — and you will be hungry — the Riverfront area has some great restaurants with a view. Check out Scottie’s on the River for a laid-back vibe with great seafood. Just up the parkway is the aptly named Parkway Pourhouse with great local and regional beers on tap. At the 4th Street end of the Riverfront District, Hair of the Dog is the city’s only traditional English pub (which also makes it “the best.”) And you could do a whole lot worse than a dessert from The Ice Cream Show or Ben and Jerry’s while you continue your adventure on foot.
The Riverfront is not only naturally beautiful, but it’s also the center for much of Chattanooga’s public art. You can find information about every piece and directions with the Visit Chattanooga’s Experience Art Map.
