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Tues, 4.8.2025. My husband and I were traveling from Georgia to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, and decided to check out the Chattanooga Riverwalk for a few hours. The Riverwalk is a 16.1 mile paved path that goes along the Tennessee River. We accessed the Riverfront near the Southern Belle Riverboat from the Riverfront Parkway, where we found plentiful and relatively inexpensive parking. We walked along the path, taking in views of the river, bridges, the aquarium, and a commemorative sign for the Trail of Tears. Perhaps we were there at too quiet of a time (a Tuesday morning), or perhaps we didn't walk far enough along the path, but our experience was underwhelming. We only saw a few other people, and were distracted by heavy truck traffic on the Riverfront Parkway that runs next to the trail. In retrospect, we also hadn't done enough research about things to do in the area, and there weren't informational signs to direct us. Other reviewers on Yelp who were better informed seemed to have a mare enjoyable experience.
The riverfront area has been splendidly developed, with walking paths, water features, a pier and balcony, and various connections to attractions. The views of the mountains, while not always without obstruction, can be quite impressive. The downsides are that parking can be a bit hard to find and there are some noisy drivers on the accompanying bridges. But if you're at the waterfront, you're probably happy to be there.
Visited Chattanooga Riverfront in June as one of our stops during a day trip. It was a nice sunny day, and it was nice to see nice green space at the edge of the Chattanooga River. People were fishing, running, walking and bicycling on the edges of the river, with others kayaking and boating on the it. There are some benches facing the river so people can take a break from life and just sit and watch the river and everything near and on it. There are also tiered concrete and grass areas facing the river and what looks like a stage, and these areas look like they're set up for enjoying concerts or shows. Nice views!
Gorgeous! What a beautiful space to walk, bike ride, run, take your dogs for a walk and more. The view is beautiful. My family and I enjoyed it for hours. It's directly behind the Tennessee aquarium and there are plenty of spaces for parking. Many nearby restaurants, ice cream shops, art installations, and a cute playground. Short walk to the walnut street pedestrian bridge where they have vendor markets and events.
I was told to make sure we check out the riverfront. I guess I was thinking that there would be something like the San Antonio Riverwalk with things to do, food, activities etc. We went behind the Aquarium and it wasn't anything special. Was just looking out into the Chickamauga River and bridge. Parking was awful in that area. When we walked down they have water steps for kids to play on a super hot day. Wish I would have known, we would have brought our flip flops.
Sometime you find yourself in that perfect place on a perfect morning, the blue skies seem more brilliant than the day before and the world seems more tranquil than it did when you closed your eyes just a few hours earlier. These are the days you should remember the most and these are the moments you cling to when life becomes a blur. If you've experienced this place you know the peace it brings just as the sun starts her daily climb. With coffee in hand I crossed the street midweek when most of the world was tasked with work and I had nothing to manage but time and on this beautiful morning I owned it all so I chose to be near this magnificent river that reflects all that's beside her. As the city awakened the only sounds I hear are the birds calling out and the deafening silence of the water slowly winding it's way past me. They say mediation is good for the soul and that finding a balance with nature will keep you sane but there are no promises or instructions to guide you, it's your responsibility to figure it out and if you can't then you'll miss out. I wondered how a place so beautiful can be void of any souls this morning in a city filled with tens of thousands. This unplanned stop proves fate has no boundaries being I'm hundreds of miles from my normal life and somehow it's disrupted for a moment to allow me be in a place so foreign to me - there's nothing more rewarding than experiencing the energy that draw us in without revealing a single secret as we pander through life sifting through the insignificant minutia that surrounds us, we all need a place to replenish this is just one of those places...
Water attracts us. It feeds us. It calms us. It rejuvenates us. It revives our souls. Parking is Garage or Street Parking. The Chattanooga Riverfront is a safe respite for individuals and families alike. It also is home to so much beauty and culture to tempt and enlighten your imagination. Here are a few things that take place on the Chattanooga Riverfront which may be of interest. These activities encompass 18 miles of sheer, unspoiled beauty. Some are listed individually on Yelp, some I saw while there, and you may find others as well in your search: Annual "Riverbend" Festival Sculpture Gardens Concerts Festivals July 4th Fireworks Wildflower Gardens Saturday Farmers Market Walnut Street (Pedestrian) Bridge Bike Rentals In-Line Skating On-Leash Dog Friendly River Tours Ferry Paddleboat Rides Countless Restaurants Coffee Shops Galleries Tennessee Aquarium Hunter Museum of American Art Chattanooga, Tennessee is a wonderland of so much unspoiled land for miles. Driving through Tennessee is breathtaking, and provides so much nature to awaken the soul. I hope it always stays this way. 61/100
A great place to just adventure out - it starts all the way up toward the walking bridge and heads down towards Springhill Suites and to the newly developed park. You can actually ride on the bike path all the way to the start of St. Elmo. Bike passes are $8 for a day pass. Rita's and Ice Cream show are two good stops to get your cool fix and walk around. The dam area has lots of pretty views, and the hill facing the water is where concerts show up during the summer months, and other events are set up. It's a great space to have for events, or just go hang out when needed.
It's things like the Chattanooga Riverfront that make trips like this worth every second. Having absolutely no concept of Chattanooga or the river walk, we were in for a great treat. We were actually looking for an uber because we found great parking and didn't want to lose a good, free spot near the River gallery sculpture garden. On a chilly, wet day, we decided to take a stroll to the Tennessee aquarium via the river front. Starting from Bluff View, and seeing the blue bridge come into view is a site to behold! Getting off of the bridge and seeing the large dog statue with its extended paw for you to shake made us smile. This is a part of town that i'm completely aware that it's filled with people during warm days because you just find a way to smile here. If I lived here, i'd be at the riverfront portion of Chattanooga on a regular basis. Take some time out and pay this part of town a visit when/if you head your way to Chattanooga, have some ice cream, take some pics, and let life slow you down here. It's worth it!
The unseasonably warm sunny day, surrounding hills and Fall foliage were the real stars of the show. After reading so many great reviews, I was underwhelmed by the Chattanooga riverwalk experience. In fact, a large part of the river was 'curtained off' rendering no view at all. I was disappointed too that visitors aren't allowed to take photographs of the Sculpture Park. While I would describe the time we spent there as pleasant, my general impression was much ado about nothing.
We walked down to the Chattanooga Riverfront on a sunny but cool day in May. About half the playground is shaded giving the parents a cooler vantage point to keep an eye on the little ones while they burn up some energy. The park designers designed this park for 5-12 year old but my 3 1/2 year old had lots of fun running up and down most of the obstacles without a problem. The rest of the Prato has an abundance of sitting areas to enjoy the views of the Tennessee River and the bridges that connect north and south Chattanooga. Lots of restaurants and small shops make this a great picnic option.
The city has done a terrific job of creating a go-to location for a ton of outdoor and indoor activities. From the Tennessee Aquarium, to the activities on the pedestrian only Walnut Street Bridge and music and entertainment along the waterfront, there is always something going on. The IMAX theater is also one block away. They host an annual (fall) wine and food extravaganza on the bridge, where you pay to get a wristband and enjoy unlimited time among the many food and wind vendors on the bridge. See more at: http://www.wineoverwater.org/ We have attended the riverfront Bluegrass Festival here, watched the stand-up paddleboard River Rocks competition on the Tennessee River and just spent time walking around. Restaurants abound! Take a cruise on a paddleboat: http://chattanoogariverboat.com/ You can stay on the highly rated Delta Queen riverboat hotel: http://www.deltaqueenhotel.net/ or at many of the national hotel chains located within a few blocks. Parking is accessible in the municipal garage and a free trolley runs around town.
Riverfront is simply amazing.... the paths and walks along the Tennessee R. would make any West Coaster (ahem.. yours truly) pine for the peace and ease of this area. Walnut Street Bridge and Market easily get one from this side over to Northshore. The area is quickly developing, one is near the Aquarium, all the good eats, and the public art all around... unbeatable!
10 months ago
Tues, 4.8.2025. My husband and I were traveling from Georgia to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, and decided to check out the Chattanooga Riverwalk for a few hours. The Riverwalk is a 16.1 mile paved path that goes along the Tennessee River. We accessed the Riverfront near the Southern Belle Riverboat from the Riverfront Parkway, where we found plentiful and relatively inexpensive parking. We walked along the path, taking in views of the river, bridges, the aquarium, and a commemorative sign for the Trail of Tears. Perhaps we were there at too quiet of a time (a Tuesday morning), or perhaps we didn't walk far enough along the path, but our experience was underwhelming. We only saw a few other people, and were distracted by heavy truck traffic on the Riverfront Parkway that runs next to the trail. In retrospect, we also hadn't done enough research about things to do in the area, and there weren't informational signs to direct us. Other reviewers on Yelp who were better informed seemed to have a mare enjoyable experience. read more
The riverfront area has been splendidly developed, with walking paths, water features, a pier and balcony, and various connections to attractions. The views of the mountains, while not always without obstruction, can be quite impressive. The downsides are that parking can be a bit hard to find and there are some noisy drivers on the accompanying bridges. But if you're at the waterfront, you're probably happy to be there. read more
1 year ago
Visited Chattanooga Riverfront in June as one of our stops during a day trip. It was a nice sunny day, and it was nice to see nice green space at the edge of the Chattanooga River. People were fishing, running, walking and bicycling on the edges of the river, with others kayaking and boating on the it. There are some benches facing the river so people can take a break from life and just sit and watch the river and everything near and on it. There are also tiered concrete and grass areas facing the river and what looks like a stage, and these areas look like they're set up for enjoying concerts or shows. Nice views! read more
4 years ago
Gorgeous! What a beautiful space to walk, bike ride, run, take your dogs for a walk and more. The view is beautiful. My family and I enjoyed it for hours. It's directly behind the Tennessee aquarium and there are plenty of spaces for parking. Many nearby restaurants, ice cream shops, art installations, and a cute playground. Short walk to the walnut street pedestrian bridge where they have vendor markets and events. read more
I was told to make sure we check out the riverfront. I guess I was thinking that there would be something like the San Antonio Riverwalk with things to do, food, activities etc. We went behind the Aquarium and it wasn't anything special. Was just looking out into the Chickamauga River and bridge. Parking was awful in that area. When we walked down they have water steps for kids to play on a super hot day. Wish I would have known, we would have brought our flip flops. read more
Sometime you find yourself in that perfect place on a perfect morning, the blue skies seem more brilliant than the day before and the world seems more tranquil than it did when you closed your eyes just a few hours earlier. These are the days you should remember the most and these are the moments you cling to when life becomes a blur. If you've experienced this place you know the peace it brings just as the sun starts her daily climb. With coffee in hand I crossed the street midweek when most of the world was tasked with work and I had nothing to manage but time and on this beautiful morning I owned it all so I chose to be near this magnificent river that reflects all that's beside her. As the city awakened the only sounds I hear are the birds calling out and the deafening silence of the water slowly winding it's way past me. They say mediation is good for the soul and that finding a balance with nature will keep you sane but there are no promises or instructions to guide you, it's your responsibility to figure it out and if you can't then you'll miss out. I wondered how a place so beautiful can be void of any souls this morning in a city filled with tens of thousands. This unplanned stop proves fate has no boundaries being I'm hundreds of miles from my normal life and somehow it's disrupted for a moment to allow me be in a place so foreign to me - there's nothing more rewarding than experiencing the energy that draw us in without revealing a single secret as we pander through life sifting through the insignificant minutia that surrounds us, we all need a place to replenish this is just one of those places... read more
Water attracts us. It feeds us. It calms us. It rejuvenates us. It revives our souls. Parking is Garage or Street Parking. The Chattanooga Riverfront is a safe respite for individuals and families alike. It also is home to so much beauty and culture to tempt and enlighten your imagination. Here are a few things that take place on the Chattanooga Riverfront which may be of interest. These activities encompass 18 miles of sheer, unspoiled beauty. Some are listed individually on Yelp, some I saw while there, and you may find others as well in your search: Annual "Riverbend" Festival Sculpture Gardens Concerts Festivals July 4th Fireworks Wildflower Gardens Saturday Farmers Market Walnut Street (Pedestrian) Bridge Bike Rentals In-Line Skating On-Leash Dog Friendly River Tours Ferry Paddleboat Rides Countless Restaurants Coffee Shops Galleries Tennessee Aquarium Hunter Museum of American Art Chattanooga, Tennessee is a wonderland of so much unspoiled land for miles. Driving through Tennessee is breathtaking, and provides so much nature to awaken the soul. I hope it always stays this way. 61/100 read more
A great place to just adventure out - it starts all the way up toward the walking bridge and heads down towards Springhill Suites and to the newly developed park. You can actually ride on the bike path all the way to the start of St. Elmo. Bike passes are $8 for a day pass. Rita's and Ice Cream show are two good stops to get your cool fix and walk around. The dam area has lots of pretty views, and the hill facing the water is where concerts show up during the summer months, and other events are set up. It's a great space to have for events, or just go hang out when needed. read more
7 years ago
It's things like the Chattanooga Riverfront that make trips like this worth every second. Having absolutely no concept of Chattanooga or the river walk, we were in for a great treat. We were actually looking for an uber because we found great parking and didn't want to lose a good, free spot near the River gallery sculpture garden. On a chilly, wet day, we decided to take a stroll to the Tennessee aquarium via the river front. Starting from Bluff View, and seeing the blue bridge come into view is a site to behold! Getting off of the bridge and seeing the large dog statue with its extended paw for you to shake made us smile. This is a part of town that i'm completely aware that it's filled with people during warm days because you just find a way to smile here. If I lived here, i'd be at the riverfront portion of Chattanooga on a regular basis. Take some time out and pay this part of town a visit when/if you head your way to Chattanooga, have some ice cream, take some pics, and let life slow you down here. It's worth it! read more
5 years ago
The unseasonably warm sunny day, surrounding hills and Fall foliage were the real stars of the show. After reading so many great reviews, I was underwhelmed by the Chattanooga riverwalk experience. In fact, a large part of the river was 'curtained off' rendering no view at all. I was disappointed too that visitors aren't allowed to take photographs of the Sculpture Park. While I would describe the time we spent there as pleasant, my general impression was much ado about nothing. read more
5 years ago
We walked down to the Chattanooga Riverfront on a sunny but cool day in May. About half the playground is shaded giving the parents a cooler vantage point to keep an eye on the little ones while they burn up some energy. The park designers designed this park for 5-12 year old but my 3 1/2 year old had lots of fun running up and down most of the obstacles without a problem. The rest of the Prato has an abundance of sitting areas to enjoy the views of the Tennessee River and the bridges that connect north and south Chattanooga. Lots of restaurants and small shops make this a great picnic option. read more
The city has done a terrific job of creating a go-to location for a ton of outdoor and indoor activities. From the Tennessee Aquarium, to the activities on the pedestrian only Walnut Street Bridge and music and entertainment along the waterfront, there is always something going on. The IMAX theater is also one block away. They host an annual (fall) wine and food extravaganza on the bridge, where you pay to get a wristband and enjoy unlimited time among the many food and wind vendors on the bridge. See more at: http://www.wineoverwater.org/ We have attended the riverfront Bluegrass Festival here, watched the stand-up paddleboard River Rocks competition on the Tennessee River and just spent time walking around. Restaurants abound! Take a cruise on a paddleboat: http://chattanoogariverboat.com/ You can stay on the highly rated Delta Queen riverboat hotel: http://www.deltaqueenhotel.net/ or at many of the national hotel chains located within a few blocks. Parking is accessible in the municipal garage and a free trolley runs around town. read more
Riverfront is simply amazing.... the paths and walks along the Tennessee R. would make any West Coaster (ahem.. yours truly) pine for the peace and ease of this area. Walnut Street Bridge and Market easily get one from this side over to Northshore. The area is quickly developing, one is near the Aquarium, all the good eats, and the public art all around... unbeatable! read more
Chattanooga's riverfront is beautiful. We took a nice walk on a Sunday morning along the river. There weren't a ton of people out which was nice since we are always stopping to take pictures. If you're coming to visit and don't want crazy crowds, avoid this area when Riverbend is going on. I've been in town for that before and it is busy busy! Highly recommend this area! read more
Riverbend 2012, on the river here in Chattanooga is one of the best week long festivals anywhere. Food, bands and wonderful view of the river. Plus beautiful girls with beer tents and drinks. hard to go wrong as long as crowds don't scare you off. read more
13 years ago
Saturday Feb 23rd, Tony and I enjoyed the gorgeous 65 degree weather and cloudless sky.. We parked for $1.50 for two hrs at a riverfront meter parking and just strolled around the waterfront with tons of others enjoying the beautiful day. There were parents with baby strollers and dogs on leashes, older children playing and swinging. Some were even sliding down the grass embankments of folded out cardboard like make shift sleighs...it was fun to watch their enjoyment of the beautiful day. I really enjoyed this part of my day!!!! read more
4 years ago
Rode 18 miles today and this is a great bike path! Recommend for anyone who either likes to hike,run or bike. read more
12 years ago
It is worth your time to find this place and spend significant moments of your life appreciating being alive. It's beauty and culture is beyond description. This place will connect with your soul, the part of your soul that longs for simplicity and quite beauty. A revitalized bridge, a ride on a riverboat, a lively festival, the smell of fresh cut grass, the bloom of a flower and the cool outdoor vibe only a mighty flowing river can bring. Its beauty might not be immediately apparent to you... but as you walk around and discover one thing, then another, and then another, it will start to come to life. Visually appealing, architecturally stunning, and culturally significant, you deserve to treat yourself better. Start by coming here. read more
The riverfront is not hard to get to... just go towards the river. One way, the riverfront is about 8 miles long. So plan for how long you want to be out. The path is on the south side, and you pass by a lot of things to do and see. You could be out all day. Its also good for a run. There is a lot of shade, but it is hilly, so can be challenging. There re usually a lot of people out, so its usually very safe out. read more
I love to come here as it is always very pleasant and fun to just sit and relax. You can ride your bike down here too. They have entertainment down here sometimes and even have concerts. I highly recommend going to riverbend down here as I have been 5 different years. read more
While it was hot when I walked, should be expected in the south, this is a great place to go if you want to walk or run. I did the bridge and many other things. I got my workout enough that I didn't fee guilty eating pizza for the night. Very well laid out and many cities should take note of Chattanooga's success with their river walk. read more
15 years ago
11 years ago
TAKE IT ALL IN! The Chattanooga Riverfront is absolutely beautiful. On my previous visit I explored it up close while taking the Duck tour and walking along it's shore where there is a large Native American mural and an exhibit detailing the exodus of the Cherokee Indians known as the Trail of Tears. The Tennessee museum is a major attraction that sits on the banks and provides some of the best views of the river, (from the second floor landing). It is a great opportunity to take photos and take it all in. I also recommend the Walnut pedestrian bridge which also has excellent views and great photo opportunities. There are also beautiful parks that provide an opportunity to run, walk, hike, play or just relax. In addition, they serve as a backdrop to many of the charity events that are held. Regardless of your personal interests, there is always something you can find to pique your interest at the riverfront. Enjoy! read more
The last time I visited Chattanooga was years ago (count 'em - 9+ probably), so imagine my surprise when my wife and took a spontaneous trip to the city to do something different, and found this very quaint, very clean, very inviting location only two+ hours away from the (questionably) Magic City. Yeah yeah, you could consider the Riverfront area a huge tourist trap, what with the multitudes of chain restaurants and of course the Tennessee Aquarium right smack dab in the center. But ya gotta give it up, Chattanooga has made their downtown area work in a way Birmingham could only dream of. The opportunity to walk alongside the river and enjoy the serenity, and also the opportunity to grab a bite to eat after 9pm on a weekend without worrying about everything closing down, is just plain awesome. And from what I understand, when events happen along the Riverfront, the city goes all out. For someone who enjoys being outdoors despite the "southern heat and humidity", that's just win-win... As I intimated before, I was nothing short of impressed with Chattanooga and the Riverfront, and am looking forward to getting back there very soon. If you're looking for a nice place to visit with the family, or with a sweetheart, I doubt you'll be disappointed. read more
11 years ago
The Riverfront is an incredible spot in Chattanooga. They have put a lot of work into this area to make it a great jogging, walking or bike riding spot. There are sculptures along the river, nice trails and a great pedestrian-only bridge. It's incredibly scenic and worth your time. read more
7 years ago
The riverfront is absolutely beautiful, stunning and breathtaking. It's a must visit if you're in town or even a local. Great for relaxing or watching the kids play. There is also a floating stage docked at the riverfront, I would have loved to experienced a concert/live show there, while relaxing on the lawn. The proximity of shops, restaurants and other attractions such as the aquarium make it a great place for a day outdoors with the family. read more
12 years ago
Great place for the family with various activities from walking down the waterfall stairs, various restaurants, and other forms of entertainment (Aquarium, Duck Tours, and sight seeing) read more
10 years ago
Great walking, and the views speak for themselves! I never get tired of this and there is always something going on here. read more
12 years ago
12 years ago
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More info about The Chattanooga Riverfront
101 Riverfront Pkwy
Chattanooga, TN 37402
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