The Scenic City has reached a new milestone that’s capturing national attention and positioning Chattanooga as a premier destination for homebuyers who value quality of life. In April 2025, Chattanooga officially became the first National Park City in North America, joining an exclusive global network that includes only London and Adelaide, Australia.
Unlike traditional parks or state designations, National Park Cities are long-term grassroots movements where people, places and nature are better connected. The National Park City Foundation is the longterm grassroots movement supporting cities around the world to be greener, healthier and wilder.
This isn’t about turning Chattanooga into a park – it’s about recognizing our city’s commitment to integrating nature into urban life. The National Park City movement is a long-term, grassroots and grasstops effort that invites everyone—residents, leaders, and organizations—to work together to make their cities greener, healthier, and wilder.
For families considering a move to Chattanooga, this designation represents more than just a title. It’s a commitment to maintaining the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle that makes our city special. The National Park City status recognizes what we’ve always known: Chattanooga offers an unparalleled combination of urban amenities and natural recreation opportunities.
Our city already boasts the Tennessee Riverpark, a 13-mile paved greenway connecting downtown to Chickamauga Dam, numerous hiking trails, and the historic Walnut Street Bridge. This designation ensures these assets will continue to be developed and protected for future generations.
Cities with strong environmental commitments and recreational amenities consistently show higher property values and more stable markets. The National Park City designation puts Chattanooga on the map alongside world-class cities, potentially attracting new residents and businesses who value sustainability and outdoor living.
McKnight believes this designation could help put Chattanooga on the map for federal and state funding, which could mean continued investment in infrastructure, parks, and community amenities that enhance property values.
The only way to make Chattanooga a National Park City is through partnerships, and this collaborative approach is already strengthening our community. The designation creates new opportunities for grant funding, tourism development, and environmental initiatives that will benefit residents for decades to come.
As Chattanooga continues to grow and develop, the National Park City status ensures that growth happens thoughtfully, with nature and community at the center of planning decisions.
At Century 21 Prime South, we’re proud to serve a community that leads the nation in environmental stewardship and quality of life. Whether you’re relocating to Chattanooga or looking to upgrade within our National Park City, we’re here to help you find the perfect home in America’s most forward-thinking community.
Contact us today to explore available properties in Chattanooga’s diverse neighborhoods, from downtown condos with river views to family homes near our abundant parks and trails.
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