Red Bank blends mountain serenity with urban convenience
Atop Stringer's Ridge is a breathtaking overlook of Chattanooga, and it's a welcome introduction to Red Bank. Sitting just above Northshore and backdropped by Signal Mountain, Red Bank is technically its own city and has the whole package. It's minutes from city entertainment and serene mountain trails – just pick a direction. "You can be in downtown Chattanooga or Hixson in about 10 minutes," says Robert C. Baker, a Realtor with United Real Estate Experts. Red Bank straddles the space between lively, artistic North Chattanooga and the quiet mountain communities at its west, and what that brings is a fascinating blend of both worlds.
Mix of vintage homes and new builds on Red Bank’s hills
"There are plenty of bungalows built in the early 20th century and mid-century," Baker says. "But it's got quite a bit of new construction going on." It's a neighborhood known for its vintage architecture; alongside the bungalows sit brick Tudor-style cottages, renovated ranch homes and split-levels that elevate on the hilly terrain. Newer construction follows the trend of contemporary farmhouses and Craftsman influence – homages to styles that already exist in the area – emphasizing bright interiors and rustic-charming exteriors that still look sleek. While there are plenty of single-family homes to go around, town houses and duplexes are also common in pockets throughout Red Bank. Town houses typically start around $200,000, while single-family homes start at $300,000 and can spike to $600,000. Keep in mind that many properties in Red Bank were built starting in the 1950s, so prices of vintage homes reflect how much renovation they've undergone. Properties don't stay on the market long -- less than a month before receiving multiple offers.
Public schools show progress and offer STEM opportunities
Schools of Red Bank fall under the Hamilton County District, and students begin their educational journey at Red Bank Elementary. It receives an A grade for equity on Niche and is noted to have improving test scores as compared to the last school year, according to GreatSchools. Students move on to Red Bank Middle and finish primary education at Red Bank High. GreatSchools recognizes Red Bank High as above average in student progress, and the school has an affiliated engineering and computer science institute to give them a head-start for college. If considering private education, the Baylor School is one of Tennessee's best private middle-high schools, acclaimed by several educational resources for its top-notch academics, extensive extracurricular list and college prep.
White Oak Park and Stringer's Ridge are local favorites
Red Bank has several maintained green spaces scattered around the city. Head to White Oak Park and let the kids enjoy the large playground, use the wide open spaces for kicking around a soccer ball or picnicking and go jogging along the paved trails. White Oak also has a separate area for dogs, so your four-legged friend can join in. One of Red Bank's busiest areas is found right at the southern crest of the city, a 92-acre natural area known as Stringer's Ridge. With over five miles of walking and biking trails, it sits on the edge of downtown Chattanooga and provides impressive city views at the outlook post.
Dayton Boulevard has groceries, banks and local businesses
The main thoroughfare of Dayton Boulevard is where you'll be able to find most of your everyday needs, from picking up the weekly groceries or popping into the bank. For as many big-name commercial stops as Red Bank has, it's tempered with the unique personality of locally owned businesses, from salons to antique and home décor shops. "People are taking a fresh look at Red Bank when it comes to business – there's a lot of new restaurants and hip spots opening up," Baker says. You'll find locals enjoying craft cocktails and brightly seasoned tacos at Clever Alehouse or chatting over coffee in the warm space of The Meeting House.
Long-running festivals and parades bring neighbors together
"I think the long-standing community events make Red Bank a popular destination, even from other neighborhoods," Baker points out. "The Red Bank Parade and Jubilee has been held for over 40 years at the city park. They've got vendors, great food, live music – just a really good time." Red Bank also hosts an annual holiday festival and parade on the first Friday in December. Between block parties and organized marathons, there's always something going on in the community.
Photography Contributed By
Morgan Nowland
