Coolidge Park

The delightful downtown park on Chattanooga's Northshore waterfront, Coolidge Park features a beautifully restored 100-year-old carousel, a pavilion, an interactive play fountain, the Outdoor Chattanooga Center and lots of open space. It is a popular destination for concerts, movies in the park, festivals and special events. Chattanooga's Coolidge Park is named after Charles Coolidge, World War II Army veteran and Chattanooga native. In July 1945, Charles Coolidge was awarded the United States military's highest decoration--the Medal of Honor for his meritorious service and actions in World War II. On September 15, 2006, in Coolidge Park, he was belatedly awarded the National Order of the Legion of Honor by French consulate officials, a French order established by Napoleon Bonaparte and the highest decoration in France. The 1894 Dentzel carousel is a central feature in Coolidge Park. The antique carousel was restored by local master wood carver Bud Ellis and a devoted team of craftspeople and volunteers at his studio, "Horsing Around," located near Chattanooga. The carousel provides a delightful old-fashioned experience with 52 whimsical hand-carved animals, a calliope band organ and ornate gold-leaf benches. The carousel is also available for birthday parties and family reunions. (For reservations and more information, call the City's Call Center at 311; for cell phones, call 425-6311.) No pets are allowed at this park.