Outer Red Bank - Chattanooga, TN

Red Bank traces its heritage to before the Civil War. Previously known as Dry Valley and then Pleasant Hill, the name Red Bank was chosen after the first postmaster and his wife looked out their window and admired the red bank of a nearby hill after a recent rainfall. Throughout Red Bank's history, residents have fought for independence in recognition and governance from Chattanooga, though enjoying the amenities the nearby city provides.

Residents can enjoy reminiscing the past with a visit to the Hunter Museum of Art, located west of downtown on the Tennessee River. This beautifully situated museum displays artwork from the colonial period to the present and allows free admission on the first Sunday of every month. For fans of the railroad, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum holds a moving railroad that provides the interactive experience of riding the rails while learning about its past.

When living in North Chattanooga, residents needn't worry about lack of good food. Whether in search for a breakfast as good as your Grandma's or a casual neighborhood bar where you can let the stress of the day melt away, relax knowing that either proves possible close to home.

Known for fried green tomatoes, homemade buttermilk biscuits and strong coffee, the Maple Street Biscuit Company, located on Broad Street, keeps the locals happy and the tourists jealous. This unique breakfast and lunch spot serves a tempting variety of biscuit sandwiches and original sides, such as Smokey Mountain Mac n' Cheese and the "David" hashups: homefries with chopped smoked ham, red and green peppers, grilled onions and mushrooms, melted cheese and smothered with homemade sausage gravy. It really exists.

When looking to diversify your menu, visit the Formosa Restaurant, voted Chattanooga's Best Chinese Restaurant for 12 years. This family owned Chinese restaurant has been pleasing the North Chattanooga residents for decades. Best known for their Mongolian Beef and Sizzling Rice Soup, they also show southern roots by serving the popular Frog Legs with Plum Sauce.

After a long day at work, locals head over to Rob's Restaurant and Lounge. Located on Dayton Blvd., at the heart of the Red Bank neighborhood, this local bar provides good cheeseburgers and cheap beers. Patrons enjoy the casual ambiance, nightly karaoke and competitive pool tournaments.

Moderate temperatures and scenic surroundings contribute to Chattanooga's large percentage of urban bikers and walkers. Red Banks, although 5 miles north of downtown Chattanooga, remains easily accessible to those who prefer the bike-to-work method due to well paved roads and bike lanes.

If you prefer public transportation, CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) runs several routes linking the outer suburbs and the downtown area. The Northgate and Amicola Higway lines service the North Chattanooga suburbs and run routes downtown. For UTC attendees, enjoy free shuttles operating throughout the campus. If you want to spend a day downtown, CARTA runs a free, downtown electric-shuttle service.

Situated between TN-27 and 153, Red Bank encompasses a convenient location for accessing Chattanooga and its surrounding towns by car. Free parking comes readily available in both the Red Bank neighborhood and throughout the downtown area.

Natural beauty surrounds the outer suburbs of Chattanooga, and Red Bank proves no exception. Bikers, hikers and kayakers alike can find plenty to do near the neighborhood of Red Bank. Only 3 miles away, you find one the city's most sought-after nature preserves: Stringer's Ridge Park. The park boasts 92 acres of trails, and numerous scenic views of both the surrounding neighborhoods and downtown Chattanooga. On the weekends, you can find families, pet-owners and exercise enthusiasts sharing these amenities. Mountain bikers grow especially fond of this park, with single track trails that vary from family friendly to expert-level.

If time on the water sounds like your idea of relaxation, head 5 miles south to the Tennessee River. Renaissance Park serves as just one of the many places you can park your vehicle and put in' your paddle boat, kayak or canoe for a day on the river. If you do not own your own watercraft, rent one at River Canyon Kayak, or participate in one of their guided tours. Pack a picnic, and stop your watercraft on one of the many inlets or islands that pepper the Chattanooga stretch of the Tennessee River.

If you enjoy mixing music and the outdoors, you can't miss the annual Riverbend Festival, an international festival of music held every summer in Chattanooga. Only 6 miles south of the Red Bank neighborhood, the 21st Century Waterfront venue hosts this 9-day festival of music and fun. Each June, you can hear over 100 bands spread over five stages play your favorite jazz, classic rock, country and bluegrass. This festival ranks as a must for any music lover.

North Chattanooga affords the convenience of close proximity to downtown and the luxury of a lower cost of living. With a one-bedroom residence leasing for an average of only $670 per month, Red Bank sits 15 percent lower than Chattanooga and 25 percent lower than the national average.

Public transportation, available through CARTA, proves both accessible and affordable. Cross-town one-way routes cost $1.50 for adults, and only 75 cents for seniors and children. Better yet, free options exist when travelling to certain areas close to TCU or downtown.

If you enjoy a pint at the end of the day, enjoy purchasing your favorite brew for 20 percent less than the national average. Driving to your preferred pub costs you 9 percent less in gas than the national average, too.

The shopaholic has nothing to fear when living in North Chattanooga. Whether looking for a quick trip to the mall or a slow, window-shopping excursion down a boutique-lined street, this southern city has you covered. With easy access via the CARTA Northgate line or car, you can reach the Northgate Mall within 5 to 7 minutes from Red Bank. This neighborhood mall houses several traditional retail locations found in shopping centers around the country with free parking and small crowds.

If you want to make a day of it or are looking for something special, head downtown to the NorthShore shopping area on Frazier Avenue. This trendy collection of boutique shops provides an eclectic selection of stores, such as Sophie's, where you can find funky home and personal accessories. If in the market for some outdoor gear and equipment, visit Four Bridges Outfitters to stock up on great gear and advice.

The foodie in you falls in love when visiting the Chattanooga Market, one of the country's Top Ten Public Markets. This farmer's market sells fresh food from over 50 local suppliers, as well as wares from local craftsman and live music. The market opens every Sunday and Wednesday from late April through early October.