Urban parks offer a fun way to get outside and enjoy some green space in an otherwise crowded and busy city. Our cities in Tennessee typically have plenty of places to get beyond the borders of the skyscraper-laden landscape, offering a quiet retreat in nature. We have so many beautiful parks, it can be hard to nail down the best one, but there is one place with two neighboring parks in Chattanooga, Tennessee, that offer so many ways to have fun it is almost overwhelming. So get ready for a day in the sun and enjoy these amazing city parks.

With urban green spaces, the intention is to give residences and guests alike a place to get outside for a bit.

Coolidge Park does a great job with jam-packing lots to do in a beautiful scenic area. Located right on the Tennessee River you can enjoy the river walk or meander your way through all the various paths leading throughout the park. A favorite in the park is the interactive fountain complete with large animal statues in a colorful display.

During the heat of the day, the water will spray high and give kids and those who are kids at heart both a place to play.

If you aren't in the mood to get wet then just sit back and watch the spectacular show as streams of water shoot high into the air. You won’t have to search very hard to find it because the affirming squeals of jubilant children will tell you exactly where all of the fun is happening.

Look for the round building and inside you will be amazed to see a 100-year-old restored carousel.

This addition to the park gives families yet another opportunity to play together. Ride round and round on house cats, tigers, and many more lovably creatures which are sure to delight anyone who sets foot inside.

Coolidge Park also is a popular spot in the city for events.

Throughout the year you may find artists showing off their latest creations or farmers selling their hard-earned crops. These little local shops are always a great place to find unique items and meet amazing people. This park also hosts live music and dog competitions so make sure you check online (link below) to find the next incredible event you can attend.

Sitting on the banks of the Tennessee River can be a relaxing experience but it is wholly different to be able to walk across it.

The Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge offers a great opportunity to stroll across the river on a stunningly beautiful bridge. With iconic bright blue colors, this is a lovely place to walk along and enjoy all the views of this amazing river. One of my favorite things to do with bridges like this one is to make it about halfway and just look out over the water and see it shimmer and shine like a flowing blanket of diamonds. There are very few things as peaceful as these glistening bodies of water.

As promised, we wanted to bring you not just one park... but two! Right across the street, you'll find Renaissance Park.

Today you will find a 23-acre land teeming with a variety of plant life, but that wasn’t always the case. This area use to be filled with industrial plants, and the rejuvenation of the land and repurposing of this location gives it a whole new dynamic. Take a walk through the park's wetlands and enjoy a trip through Chattanooga’s history and heritage. The many sculptures and interesting points of interest bring life and excitement around every corner. These parks go above and beyond the call to allow those in Chattanooga to have a plethora of options to get outside and adventure.

These two parks in Chattanooga, Tennessee, are loaded with fun activities from concerts to carousels. You can visit any time and just walk the trails and take in the fantastic views, but if you want to catch an event please visit the Coolridge Park and Renaissance Park websites.

Looking for more great experiences in Chattanooga? Check out Maclellan Island where you can camp for the night and have the whole place to yourself.