Top 10 Must-Visit Parks in Memphis

Memphis may be famous for its music, barbecue, and civil rights history. However, what people don’t know is Memphis has some of the country’s best parks. These urban oases provide a unique getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to revel in the great outdoors. Many parks feature exceptional amenities, including interactive playgrounds, zip lines, and even rare buffalo herds. Additionally, there are multiple hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails suitable for users of all levels, along with sports facilities that include swimming pools. Thus, when in Memphis, the great outdoors truly awaits!

Shelby Farms Park

Address

Shelby Farms Park, Memphis, TN 38018, USA

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Rating: 4.2

Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, covering 4,500 acres. This sprawling park features 40 miles of trails and 20 bodies of water, catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. For younger children, there are two elaborate playgrounds, including a water park, while older kids will enjoy the treetop adventure course and zip lines. In addition, the park offers trails for horseback riding and biking, along with rentals for kayaks and paddle boats. Nature lovers may even catch a glimpse of the buffalo herd grazing freely on the grounds. The park regularly hosts special activities such as night hikes and stargazing events.

Overton Park

Address

1914 Poplar Ave #202, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

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Phone: +1 901-214-5450

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Situated in the heart of midtown Memphis, Overton Park spans 342 acres and features a variety of attractions. Notably, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Memphis Zoo, and Levitt Shell, which hosts a free summer concert series, are all found here. For golf enthusiasts, there’s a nine-hole course that feels like a tranquil escape from the city noise. Families will appreciate the Rainbow Lake Playground, where children can explore a hollow tree tunnel and enjoy a classic merry-go-round. Additionally, hiking through Overton Park’s Old Forest offers the chance to see historic trees and diverse wildlife. Bikers benefit from the trails that connect downtown Memphis to Shelby Farms Park. Equipped with water stations and trail maps, it’s an excellent starting point for any biking adventure.

Tom Lee Park

Address

422 Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103, USA

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Located on the scenic bluff overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis, Tom Lee Park promises stunning views and ample outdoor space. Visitors flock here on weekends to throw frisbees or enjoy picnics, and it’s a favored spot for sunset watching. The park features six fitness stations, two sand volleyball courts, a soccer field, and is the host venue for the famous Memphis in May festival.

Wolf River Greenway

Address

Wolf River Greenway, Memphis, TN 38120, USA

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On the Wolf River Greenway, visitors can fully immerse themselves in nature. This protected area along Wolf River Park features a paved pathway ideal for bikers, joggers, and walkers alike. The lush wetlands host rare wildlife, such as blue herons, creating opportunities for nature enthusiasts to appreciate local flora and fauna. The Conservancy organizes various outdoor activities, including kayaking trips and food festivals, providing a vibrant community experience. Currently, the Greenway is constructed in stages, with plans for the full 36-mile path in the future.

Cameron Brown Park

Address

8628 Farmington Blvd, Germantown, TN 38139, USA

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Phone: +1 901-757-7375

Cameron Brown Park, located in Germantown, a suburb of Memphis, spans 55 acres and is the ideal spot for a fun-filled day of sports. The park features five baseball and softball fields, a football field, a batting cage, and two lighted tennis courts. A serene three-acre lake provides kids with the opportunity to feed the fish, while adults delight in strolling the area. Families can take advantage of two playgrounds and 32 picnic tables equipped with grills and nearby restrooms to enhance their outdoor experience.

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Address

910 Riddick Rd, Millington, TN 38053, USA

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Phone: +1 888-867-2757

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Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is a spectacular 13-mile stretch of land located just north of Memphis. It is situated on the Chickasaw Bluffs, characterized by their lush oak and hickory trees and protected plant species. Outdoor enthusiasts can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the beauty of Poplar Tree Lake. This area is also renowned for birdwatching opportunities, with organized walks available for avid birders. With a 36-hole disc golf course, 20 miles of hiking trails, and equestrian facilities, there is something for everyone. Additionally, six two-bedroom vacation cabins are available for those wishing to extend their stay in this idyllic location.

Riverdale Park

Address

Germantown, TN 38138-2744, USA

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Riverdale Park stands out as an exceptional neighborhood park featuring Everybody’s Tree House, an impressive play structure equipped with swings, gliders, and various interactive activities. Future enhancements, including an outdoor classroom and interactive gardens, promise to add even more value to this 20-acre park. Moreover, visitors will find ample amenities such as picnic areas, a batting cage, a street hockey rink, and lighted softball fields, making it a suitable spot for family outings without the crowd.

Mississippi Greenbelt Park

Address

830 Island Dr, Memphis, TN 38103, USA

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Phone: +1 901-312-9190

Located on Mud Island, Mississippi Greenbelt Park spans 105 acres along the river. This beautiful park offers a tranquil 1.5-mile paved trail ideal for jogging, picnicking, or playing frisbee. The breathtaking views of the river and passing barges create a unique experience more secluded than other downtown parks, making it a perfect place for relaxation and nature appreciation.

Peabody Park

Address

712 Tanglewood St, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

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Phone: +1 901-272-2528

Peabody Park, a quaint park in midtown Memphis, is renowned for its extraordinary feature: a splash park. Initially appearing as a conventional playground with slides and tunnels, it surprises visitors with fountains, geysers, and misters for those hot summer days. Additionally, the park has open spaces for sports and showcases large metal sculptures crafted by local artist Yvonne Bobo. Nearby, the Raymond Skinner Center offers recreation options for individuals with mental and physical disabilities.

Martyrs Park

Address

Channel 3 Dr, Memphis, TN 38103, USA

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Phone: +1 901-312-9190

Martyrs Park, situated atop the river bluff at the base of the Hernando DeSoto Bridge, presents breathtaking views of the Memphis skyline, particularly stunning at sunset. The park serves as a memorial to the courageous heroes who fought during the yellow fever epidemic in 1878, providing care at great personal risk. A prominent sculpture within the park pays homage to their bravery and sacrifices.