Riverview Chattanooga, TN

The NorthShore district was originally called Hill City by the African Americans who established a new life here after the Emancipation Proclamation ended slavery in 1863. Since then, the neighborhood has evolved into an eclectic mix of homes, storefronts and restaurants.

Art lovers are sure enjoy a visit to the Hunter Museum of American Art. Nestled along the Tennessee River and just 2 miles from the Riverview neighborhood, this museum boasts American art from the Colonial period to present day and hosts new travelling exhibits every 6 months.

Kick off your summers with Pops on the River, an outdoor concert presented by the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra, and wrap up the season with the yearly Swingfest concert featuring swing and jazz music and dancing under the stars.

Riverview lies within minutes of some of Chattanooga's favorite food destinations. Located in the historic Knitting Mill building, Food Works has been pleasing customers for almost a decade. Regulars enjoy the famous chips and dip, homemade sweet potato chips dusted with original spices and served with a blue cheese fondue. For dinner, Shrimp 'N' Grits serves fresh Gulf Coast shrimp served with green onions and tomatoes served over a Smoked Cheddar Grit Cake and topped with Tasso Scampi Cream Sauce, practically guaranteeing your return visit.

When your sweet tooth is acting up, head over to Milk and Honey at the NorthShore shopping area. Famous for pure gelato and strong coffee, this restaurant keeps locals and tourists buzzing. Open for breakfast and lunch, Milk and Honey serves homemade sandwiches and original sweet treats. Try a seasonal drink, such as the Lavender Honey Latte, or the delightful avocado gelato.

If you're looking for a casual place to meet up with friends and sample German fare, go to Brewhaus Bar on Frazier Avenue. As Chattanooga's only German-American gastropub, the Brewhaus has over 30 German and American beer options. Stop by for a late-night brew paired with one of many German-influenced appetizers, such as Bavarian pretzels and mustard or the Krautballs.

Close proximity to the city and temperate year-round weather promote the NorthShore district of Chattanooga as an ideal place to navigate. Bikers and walkers benefit from well-paved sidewalks, bike lanes and extensive greenways, and bike racks are readily available in most shopping areas throughout the downtown and NorthShore districts.

CARTA, the local public transit system, runs throughout the northern suburbs, transporting residents into downtown and to the TCU campus. CARTA also provides free electric shuttle bus service within the downtown district and around the TCU campus.

If you're driving, you can reach downtown within 10 minutes; the 27 and 153 highways sit within 5 miles of the Riverview neighborhood. For those in need of a ride to the airport or experiencing car trouble, a number of taxi companies and Uber service the downtown Chattanooga area and its surrounding neighborhoods.

Residents of Riverview benefit from scenic views of both the river and the mountains. For an afternoon excursion, bike, walk or drive just over a mile to Coolidge Park. Ride the 100-year-old carousel, play in the interactive water fountains, picnic on one of the many open spaces or test your skills on the rock wall. To burn more calories, bike or walk across the world's largest pedestrian bridge—the Walnut Street Bridge—or follow the 15-mile-long public greenway that runs along the Tennessee River.

The Chattanooga area hosts several annual music events, including the Riverbend Festival. Listed as one of the top 10 musical festival in the United States, this event spans multiple days and showcases music ranging from Bluegrass and Jazz to Classic Rock and Country. This festival takes place at the 21st Century Waterfront and kicks off with the BlueCross Riverbend 5K and 10K Run and Walks, benefiting the Children's Hospital.

Residents of Chattanooga enjoy an overall cost of living considerably lower than the national average. Although the area's boutique-style and historically renovated single-family homes sell for 33 percent higher than the national average, the one-bedroom residences rent for an average of $850, which is 5 percent lower than the national average. Close proximity to the waterfront and the city's premier shopping and dining destinations make the Riverview neighborhood's cost of living similar to that of the downtown area.

Citizens of Chattanooga enjoy filling their gas tanks for 9 percent less than the rest of the country. To celebrate this difference, purchase a local domestic brew for 15 percent less than the national average, and don't worry about the ride home. If you've had one too many, just catch local public transit for only $1.50 one way.

Numerous shopping opportunities exist only minutes away from the Riverview neighborhood. Whether you're looking for that perfect accessory to complete your outfit or need a hostess gift for this weekend's housewarming party, you have many options.

Located on Frazier Avenue, only 2 miles from Riverview, the NorthShore shopping area piques curiosity and awakens senses. Complete your outfit with flair when you shop at Peaches Fine Millinery, a unique boutique that sells hats, jewelry and other accessories in a fun setting. Find that special piece for your home at Tangerinas, a local artisan showroom selling funky furniture and artwork created from recycled and reclaimed materials.

Grocery shopping is easy and accessible in the NorthShore district. Whole Foods, located 2 miles away on Manufacturers Row, is a favorite among the locals for fresh and organic fare. If you're shopping between late April and early October, take advantage of the Chattanooga Market 3 miles across the river on Carter Street. Named by "Frommer's" as one of the "Top 10 Public Markets" in America, this establishment opens Sundays and Wednesdays and includes over 50 local farmers and artisans.