Chattanooga is well known for being the “Scenic City” and these parks in the middle of downtown really showcase Chattanooga’s unique balance for the urban cityscape mixed with outdoor recreation.
If you’re looking for a nice park area downtown to enjoy nature, the Tennessee River, and the city all at the same time, then you need to visit Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park. These two parks sit side by side and have everything you need to enjoy a day outside while also being conveniently close to other downtown restaurants, shops, and attractions.
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Renaissance Park
Renaissance Park opened in 2008 after overhauling the 23 acres that used to be used by Roper Manufacturing. In this park you’ll find paved, dirt, and gravel walking trails along the river and through the woods.
There’s historic displays such as this block house, built to resemble that which was used in the civil war for defense. Throughout the park you’ll find other plaques that show old photos and drawings as well as explaining what this area was like during the Civil War. Chattanooga was a key location for the Civil War due to its railroad hub and close vicinity to Atlanta. The Confederates made, stored, and imported their supplies in Atlanta. If they lost Chattanooga, they lost their security fence around their stronghold of Atlanta. Because of this, Chattanooga was called “The Gateway to the South.”
Renaissance Park is best known for quiet strolls. In fact, some of the paths are so secluded, you’ll forget that you’re even in downtown Chattanooga! There’s paved paths in the sun or shade as well as dirt or gravel trails through the woods. You never know what you’ll find down these paths from historical plaques to sculptures and even an artsy tunnel you can walk through. Just remember that one of the wooden platforms is a long, dead-end over the marsh. (Just watch my video to see what I mean.)
At the front of the park are restrooms and the “Cardboard Hill.” This packed mound covered in grass is a favorite amongst the locals. Bring your own piece of cardboard, climb to the top, and slide down on the cardboard. I have yet to try this thrill, but it looks very fun for kids and adults alike. Also from the top of the hill you can get a good view of the rest of downtown.
Coolidge Park
Coolidge Park has paved paths around large, open fields that are perfect for sports and games. Often you’ll see college kids playing a game of ultimate frisbee or families throwing parties here. There’s even a small stage in the southwest corner near the road. Special events and festivals are also held on the grounds.
The paths also go along the riverside for beautiful views of downtown and the Tennessee River. Along the paths are a few permanent games as well. Try a game of Potsy or Escargot, both of which resemble hop-scotch in how they’re played.
Coolidge Park also has a few places to launch kayaks. You can even drive right up to the ramp area underneath Market Street Bridge. Here there’s a small area to park temporarily and unload before finding a permanent parking spot. This is the best place to get in and out of the water in downtown Chattanooga. If you’re curious to try paddling here, use my discount code ExploringChatt15 for a 2 hour rental at L2 Outside. Learn more about this experience in my L2 Outside blog post.
During the summer months the fountain park is a great place to cool off. These fountains can be found running every year between Memorial and Labor Day weekend. They recently did an update on this Coolidge Park favorite. Now the water shoots higher, dances, and mists. With the recent upgrades a more efficient pump and chlorination system were also installed. So get ready to enjoy the Coolidge fountain park at its peak performance.
Lastly, there’s the antique carousel that’s over a hundred years old. This carousel boasts all sorts of moving animals, including not one, but two of my favorite…tigers! There’s also stationary benches onboard for those who wish to not go up and down. Each piece is unique and handmade by multiple artists. Underneath the animals you’ll find plaques giving the name of the artist and even the name of the animal. And the best part is it only costs $1 to ride! This is a fun way to live like a kid again.
Park Amenities
Both parks have their own restrooms. There’s restrooms in the Walker Pavilion in Coolidge Park right across from the carousel. Renaissance Park has restrooms at the front of the park next to the parking lot and entrance.
The parks also have plenty of benches for resting too. I highly recommend bringing lunch or dinner and sitting by the river to enjoy the view. Or pack a picnic and enjoy the grassy fields. There’s plenty of local shops and restaurants beside the parks as well if you’d rather buy some great food on site.
And both parks have their own paid parking lots. River Street weaves through both parks and has street parking as well. Although you can also walk to these parks from other areas downtown.
Another Way to Enjoy These Parks
I recently updated my FREE Downtown Chattanooga Bingo game! Sign up to get your free copy of the game to enjoy with family and friends. It’s a great way to enjoy downtown Chattanooga as well as exploring and finding something new. The game comes with 4 different cards in both a digital, color version and printable, black & white version. And when you sign up, you’ll receive instant access to even more free goodies to help you have fun and enjoy exploring Chatt!
Closing Thoughts
Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park are both great nature escapes from the city, in the heart of the city. There’s plenty of space to walk around, play games, eat a meal with a scenic view, or just simply relax. Have you been to either of these parks? Let me know your thoughts about them in the comments below. And be sure to watch my short video tour of these parks. Until next time, enjoy exploring Chatt!
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