Coolidge Park in Chattanooga – Activities and Dining Guide
Are you looking for things to do at Coolidge Park in Chattanooga, TN? Both locals and tourists love to spend time at Coolidge Park because it offers so many fun activities, and it’s (mostly) FREE!
This spacious park offers a pavilion for party and wedding rentals, a carousel for families, a super fun splash pad for kids, year round events for celebrating holidays and special occasions, and so much more! Continue reading below for all the reasons why you should definitely add Coolidge Park to your list of things to do in Chattanooga!
Things to Do at Coolidge Park
Coolidge Park sits right on the Tennessee River near downtown Chattanooga. If you are in the downtown area near the Tennessee Aquarium, you can easily walk across the Walnut Street Bridge to cross the river into Coolidge Park. This pedestrian bridge is a must do activity for those visiting the scenic city as it offers amazing views of the downtown area, Tennessee River, and surrounding mountains.
Since Coolidge Park sits on the other side of the river from downtown, you can easily stroll over the walking bridge to enjoy activities in the park before walking back to the downtown area attractions. If you would rather drive to Coolidge Park, parking is super easy and convenient. There is a small lot and some parallel parking options near the restaurants and shops.
In addition, you will find a large public parking lot right at the edge of the park near the Chattanooga theater. If you choose to park in the public lot, note that you will see vestibules to purchase parking tickets for a few dollars.
1. Host an Event
You can enter the park from any side, but if you walk through the cobblestone entrance, you will see the Walker Pavilion. This building houses restrooms and event space for those looking to rent a room for weddings or birthday parties. You can find more information about the Walker Pavilion here.
2. Ride the Carousel
The building directly across from the Walker Pavilion houses the antique carousel. This is a huge hit for kids when traveling to Chattanooga and Coolidge Park. The Chattanooga Zoo also has a carousel that my kids love to ride!
3. Ride Bikes
You can rent bikes in the park, or you’re welcome to bring your own. There are plenty of pathways with beautiful views of the river and bridge.
4. Cool Off in the Water Fountains
Along with riding bikes through the park, my kids rave about the “water park” in the middle of Coolidge Park. This splash pad area is in the shape of a large circle with a huge fountain spraying up from the middle. Surrounding the main fountain are lots of medium and small sized fountains that are perfect for even small kids.
Along the outside of the splash pad circle, you will see large concrete animal statues that also spray water. If you are visiting Chattanooga during a cooler time of year when the fountains are not on, these animals are really fun climbing features for kids. Parents can easily sit and watch the kiddos play in the splash pad area as there are shaded benches and steps nearby.
5. Play Sports or Games on the Lawn
If you visit Coolidge Park on a nice day, you’ll notice visitors playing all sorts of games on the vast lawn space. Some popular options include football, soccer, corn hole, frisbee, and more!
6. Enjoy a Picnic
Bring a blanket or use one of the available picnic tables to enjoy lunch or snacks right in the park. You could even grab takeout from one of the nearby restaurants for additional food options.
Restaurants Near Coolidge Park
Coolidge Park is near the North Shore side of Chattanooga, which is home to lots of really great restaurants. Visitors looking for a place with awesome views of the Walnut Street Bridge should try Brewhaus where the elevated patio provides spectacular scenery. If you are looking for sushi, Toto Sushi and Grill is a family favorite, and it’s an easy stroll from the park.
When you head down to the far end of the park near the other bridge and Manufacturer’s Blvd, you will find more dining options, including Whole Foods Market. I recommend trying Food Works (especially for brunch) or Edley’s BBQ if you are in this area. They are a bit farther than the other restaurants mentioned above, but they are still really easy to access.
If you are looking for some sweet treats after you dine near Coolidge Park, I recommend several different options. Whole Foods Market provides all types of desserts including cake pops, cupcakes, ice cream, and so much more.
In the public parking lot at Coolidge Park, you will also find a shaved ice stand. This is always a huge hit. Clumpies Ice Cream is my family’s favorite option for treats in Coolidge Park. This is a super popular ice cream shop with a great selection of flavors. I highly recommend trying it!
Final Review of Coolidge Park in Chattanooga
Coolidge Park offers so many fun things to do for families with kids of all ages. If you are visiting during warmer months, take advantage of the fountains in the splash pad before grabbing ice cream. If you are visiting Chattanooga during the winter, you can enjoy a leisurely bike ride and carousel ride.
Regardless of when you visit Coolidge Park, the beautiful views of the Walnut Street Bridge. downtown attractions, and Tennessee River make this a picture-perfect stop on your Tennessee family vacation. What is your favorite thing to do at Coolidge Park in Chattanooga? Comment below and share it with us!
