WELCOME TO
POETRY PATHWAY
CHATTANOOGA
Passionately Putting Poetry in Public Places
Poetry Pathway is a unique blend of public art, storytelling, and nature. This installation celebrates the literary arts of our city by showcasing poetry inspired by the very spaces where you will stand as you visit the park. Each poem reflects the personal experience, emotion, and perspective of those who have walked these paths before you.
Renaissance Park is the first home of Poetry Pathway with a public launch date of April 12, 2025. Along the park’s scenic trails, you’ll find QR-coded signage that connects you to poetry written by local poets, as inspired by the beauty and spirit of the park's landscape.
We invite you to pause along your walk through our park and interact with the placards placed along the walkway. Take in the beauty of nature and immerse yourself in the writings of local poets as they share their inspired writing with you. There is also an opportunity for you to reply with your own original poetry inspired by your experience.
Whether you’re exploring alone, with family, or among friends, Poetry Pathway offers a meaningful way to experience the intersection of art and nature. Let these verses inspire you to see, feel, and create—because every step along the pathway is a story waiting to be told.
Democracy Speaks Civic Poetry Pathway Launches Sunday, June 28, 2026
Rhyme N Chatt and the City of Chattanooga Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy Launch “Democracy Speaks” Civic Poetry Pathway at Renaissance Park
Rhyme N Chatt, in partnership with the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, will launch the Democracy Speaks Civic Poetry Pathway on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Renaissance Park.
This free, public event will feature live performances by some of the 16 selected poets, along with music and food. An expansion of the existing Poetry Pathway, this semi-permanent installation showcases original works by 16 local poets exploring themes of freedom, democracy, identity, and civic responsibility, while reflecting Tennessee’s role in shaping the American story.
Designed as an interactive experience, the pathway includes QR-coded signage where visitors can read and hear each poem and submit their own work for future installations—creating an evolving, community-driven literary space.
Supported through Tennessee America 250 grant funding, the project invites residents and visitors alike to engage with poetry as a reflection of democracy, history, and the diverse experiences that shape Chattanooga. The pathway will feature original poetry installations designed to inspire reflection, dialogue, and connection in a public space accessible to all.
The installation will remain in place throughout 2026, with the June 28 launch offering a unique opportunity to meet the poets and experience the work in community.
Get Published!
Rhyme N Chatt in partnership with GoldNook Publishing is opening the opportunity to the community to submit poetry in connection to the America 250 celebration. We are asking the community to submit poetry with a connection to a historical event written from their unique perspective.
Scan the QR code below or click this link to submit your poem for consideration for publication in Rhyme N Chatt's next citywide poetry anthology coming December 2026.
JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS!
Recap of the official Poetry Pathway at Renaissance Park Launch -
April 12, 2025
The poets of Rhyme N Chatt Interactive Poetry Organization, organization and city officials and the general public gathered on Saturday, April 12 for the official launch of the city's first Poetry Pathway installation located at Renaissance Park (Manufacturers Road). This interactive poetry installation was presented in partnership with the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy as part of the official "Rhyme N Chatt Day" schedule of events that day!
This innovative project features QR-coded signage along the park’s walking paths, allowing visitors to experience poetry written by local poets inspired by the surrounding landscape. At the unveiling, featured poets will perform their pieces live, accompanied by live music, and attendees will have the opportunity to submit their own poetry for future installations.
A stroll through Poetry Pathway at Renaissance Park is the perfect activity for families, groups, couples, and individuals. We invite everyone to engage with the beauty of words and nature in a new and dynamic way.
A few of our recent visitors . . .
What a Cool Idea!
“I love bringing my grandson to this park. Now I can share poetry with him during our visits!”
jackie
Want to See More
“This is a great start to something that has the potential to be really impactful throughout our city and beyond.”
kesha
Self Care
“I enjoy getting time alone here and the addition of poetry has really added to my experience. I especially like being able to hear the diverse voices and accents of the poets. A great representation of Chattanooga’s cultural mix.”
nancy
Rhyme N Chatt’s Poetry Pathway is an interactive poetry installation hosted by Rhyme N Chatt Interactive Poetry Organization in partnership with the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy and with support from the Lyndhurst Foundation.
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