Beyond the Classroom Challenge

Instructions​

This extension of the Beyond the Classroom Challenge was created in hopes of encouraging students to get out and explore Chattanooga and surrounding areas. Whenever you have a chance, grab your friends or roommates, and pick one of these local adventures to get a feel for the amazing city you live in! ​

​Each event counts just like any other event, two points toward the 20 points/10 event total for the semester award. In addition to submitting a reflection on what you learned within a week of the date you get out and go!, please email [email protected] a picture of you on your “Choose Your Own BTC Adventure.” Students can receive credit for up to 4 “Get Out and Go” events a semester.   ​

​We always want to encourage students to follow safety guidelines. This includes but is not limited to wearing a mask, social distancing when needed or possible, washing hands/using hand sanitizer regularly, traveling with others when possible, and being aware of surroundings, especially at night.​

Adventures​

Learn about Chattanooga’s jazz and blues “Big 9 Legends”

Listen to these podcast episodes about the Big 9 (about 30 minutes) while taking ​ a walk from campus to the Big 9 Legends Mural. (763 E. MLK Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37403).  ​

Take a stroll with Chattanooga’s baseball history ​

Located adjacent to Engel Stadium and UTC’s intramural sports complex is a paved walking path with 5 permanent markers detailing Chattanooga’s rich baseball history. The path is accessible via the sports complex’s O’Neal Street entrance (499 O Neal St, Chattanooga, TN 37404).  ​

Walk the Walnut Street Walking Bridge and Explore Coolidge Park ​

The Walnut Street Bridge, built in 1891, is one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridge, and connects downtown Chattanooga to the north shore. Take in some of the prettiest views of Chattanooga and the river. On the downtown side is a memorial dedicated to the tragic but heroic story of Ed Johnson. This new Memorial is meant to be a welcoming, contemplative space where people of all background's cultures can learn, reflect, mourn and find inspiration. Below the iconic Walnut Street bridge on the Northshore is Coolidge Park where there are fountains, statues, cool attractions, and fun paths. From there, you can meander on the pathways by the river toward Renaissance Park. Its grassy knolls make it an artistic installment in and of itself. (1 Walnut Street)

​Learn more about the bridge and memorial here. ​

Bonus: Follow the numbered steps on Frazier Avenue and learn a new dance! ​

 ​

Check out different sections of the Chattanooga Riverwalk ​

Pick a stretch of Chattanooga’s 16.1-mile Riverwalk to walk or bike. There are dozens of places to hop onto the Riverwalk throughout Chattanooga and each stretch of path will let you immerse yourself in nature, culture, and people watching. Learn more about getting to the riverwalk here.  ​

​Bonus: On the stretch of riverwalk close to campus is the UTC barge and waterfront, where you can rent water equipment (very cheaply) for time on the river. Another section of the riverwalk leads to the Chickamauga dam!  ​

Step into another world at the Bluff View Arts District and immerse yourself at Ross’s Landing​

Just a short walk from UTC’s campus, is Bluff View Arts District. Explore the many nooks and crannies of this family-owned historic neighborhood. Check out the gardens, plazas, views, and courtyards, including the “River Gallery Sculpture Garden” and art installments outside of the Hunter Museum of  ​

Art. From there, take a 10-minute walk to Ross’s Landing. Tucked between the Tennessee Aquarium and the Tennessee River, Ross’s Landing marks the starting point of the Trail of Tears. In 1838 over 1000 Cherokee were forced to march or be shipped west of their homeland due to the Indian Removal Act. The Passage, connecting downtown to Ross’s Landing, is a memorial walkway featuring a weeping wall and ceramic discs that tell stories of the displaced Cherokee.  ​

Bluff View Arts District: (411 E 2nd St, Chattanooga, TN 37403) ​

Ross’s Landing: (201 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402) ​

Bonus: The Hunter Museum of Art offers local college students $18 year-long ​memberships (less than the price of a normal day ticket) OR free admission to their permanent collection on the first Thursday of every month from 4 – 8 pm (“Throwback Thursday”). Learn more here. ​

Feel tiny in the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park ​

This 100% outdoor, free art museum is a park that showcases over 40 large-format sculptures. With a stunning view of Lookout Mountain, this park is a great place to spend time hanging out and checking out art. ​

View a park map and learn more here. (1800 Polk St, Chattanooga, TN 37408) ​

Reflect on breathtaking views and Civil War history at Craven’s House​

Located on Lookout Mountain as part of the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, Craven’s house was a major focal point in the Civil War  ​

“Battle Above the Clouds,” and the house’s history tells an interesting story. Check out the views from the house, explore the monuments and surrounding buildings, and even consider taking one of the hikes accessible from this area.​

Bonus: ​

Craven’s House and Point Park Loop Hike: https://www.hikethesouth.com/hikes/cravens-house-and-point-park-loop​

Craven’s House to Sunset Rock Hike: https://www.hikethesouth.com/hikes/sunset-rock-via-cravens-house​

(Cravens House, Point Park Visitor Ctr, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350). ​

Take a hike around Stringer’s Ridge​

This 92 acre park is located just minutes from downtown Chattanooga. With plenty of trails for bikers, hikers, and pets, this is a great way to quickly enjoy nature. Start at the Spear’s Avenue entrance and take a short hike to the beautiful overlook of Chattanooga. Make sure to check the weather, pack water, wear good shoes, take a friend or tell them where you are going, and have a fully charged phone with you. Follow the trail signs and enjoy the outdoors! ​
Bonus: Try to find the lookout! It's one of the best views in town!​

Learn more about stringer’s ridge and getting to the overlook here​

(1312 Spears Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37405)​

Attend any UTC Athletics event-especially one you have never attended before!

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