THE EARNEST TRAVELER
The Walnut Street Bridge is Chattanooga's signature riverfront landmark — a historic 1890s span turned into one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the country, linking downtown to the North Shore across the Tennessee River.
One of the Country's Longest Walking Bridges
The bridge stretches 2,376 feet across the Tennessee River. Built in the 1890s and once carrying road traffic, it was closed in 1978 and nearly demolished — a community effort saved it and reopened it as a pedestrian bridge, and it's been the heart of the city's riverfront ever since.
What's on Each End
The downtown end drops you near the Bluff View Art District and the aquarium; the North Shore end lands at Coolidge Park, with its lawns, interactive fountain, and restored antique carousel, plus the shops and restaurants of the North Shore. Walking across and back is one of the classic free things to do in Chattanooga.
The Walnut Street Bridge has been closed for a major restoration and is set to reopen in late September 2026. If you're visiting right around then, check the current status before you plan to walk it — the riverfront parks on both ends are open regardless.
Planning the Walk
When open, the bridge is free and always accessible on foot, day or night — it's especially good at sunset and after dark when it's lit. Pair it with the Riverwalk for an easy, scenic loop between downtown and the North Shore.
The bridge and the river light up beautifully near sunset. Walk out from downtown as the light drops, watch it from the middle of the span, and come back to the North Shore for dinner.
Current bridge status and city visitor info.