Walk the Walnut Street Bridge

The Walnut Street Bridge has connected downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore since 1891, and it’s one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. These days it’s the city’s front porch.

The walk

It’s about a half-mile across, all pedestrian and bikes, with the Tennessee River running underneath and the downtown skyline behind you. The bridge itself is worth the walk — the old steel truss work is beautiful — but the real payoff is what it connects: downtown and the Aquarium on one side, Coolidge Park, the carousel, and the North Shore shops and restaurants on the other.

How to do it right

It’s free and always open. Go at sunset — the light on the river with the bridges lit up is the classic Chattanooga photo. Then get dinner on the North Shore; Frazier Avenue has the best concentration of local restaurants in the city.

Local tips

• Combine it with the Riverwalk and Coolidge Park for a perfect free afternoon.
• The bridge hosts events through the year — check the city calendar for festivals and the light displays.
• It’s the best fireworks viewing spot on July 4th. Get there early.