Top Outdoor Adventures in Memphis: Explore Nature and Fun

Memphis is a city that enjoys warm springs and falls, sunny summers, and fairly mild winters. This means that the weather is often perfect for heading outdoors. If you’re looking for something to do outside in Memphis, here is a list of some of the best outdoor activities and destinations in the area, which are sure to create a memorable day for the entire family.

Mississippi River

Memphis sits on the banks of the mighty Mississippi. Known as the Bluff City due to the high bluffs along the riverside, many residents enjoy recreation along or in the river. Consider having a picnic at one of the parks bordering the river or taking a leisurely stroll along the cobblestones at the river’s edge. For the adventurous, Big River Crossing offers the chance to walk across the river from downtown Memphis to West Memphis, Arkansas.

The Memphis Greenline

The Shelby Farms Greenline is a scenic 6.7-mile trail that connects Shelby Farms to Midtown. Developed over a portion of abandoned railway, it now serves as a beautiful trail for walking, running, or biking. With nine access points throughout the city, it’s easy to get on and off the trail for meals and refreshments along the way.

Mud Island

This unique park, located on an “island on the river,” offers free admission and features a scale model of the Mississippi River for wading—ideal for those hot summer days. To access the park, visitors can cross a 1/3 mile pedestrian bridge or ride a monorail, making the trip even more exciting. Visitors can explore tales of the Mississippi River, including historical riverboats, making it both educational and adventurous.

Memphis Zoo

Since its inception in 1906, the Memphis Zoo has been a beloved city attraction. With over 3,500 animals spread across 70 acres, the zoo offers educational and entertaining experiences for visitors of all ages. Nestled in Overton Park, it provides a beautiful backdrop for families to picnic or let the kids play. Notably, the zoo is home to giant pandas Ya Ya and Le Le, making it one of only four zoos in the USA to exhibit pandas from China.

Botanic Gardens

The Memphis Botanic Garden spans 96 acres and features 23 specialty gardens, including a variety of flora from roses to cacti. For families, the My Big Backyard garden offers a fun space for children to explore and engage with nature. Additionally, the garden hosts summer concerts and events for all ages, providing a delightful experience for visitors.

Herb Parsons Lake

Herb Parsons Lake is a favored spot for local fishing enthusiasts, offering an abundance of crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and catfish. Additionally, it is an excellent location for boating and picnicking. Families and individuals alike flock to the lake every weekend to enjoy its scenic beauty.

Outdoor Concerts

Given Memphis’ generally pleasant climate, outdoor concerts are a popular attraction year-round. Various genres and locations offer a wide selection of concerts, many of which are free. Notably, major concert series occur at the Levitt Shell in spring and fall and at the River Series at Harbor Town Amphitheater, among others.

Charity Walks/Runs

Charity walks and runs are excellent opportunities to support various organizations while engaging in physical activity. Participants usually contribute a registration fee or gather donations for the cause. These events are often great for families and friends to join together, encouraging personal goals like completing a 5K run.

Shelby Farms Park

Memphis’ Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, spans 4,500 acres—five times the size of Central Park in New York City. The park offers abundant activities for everyone, including trails for hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding (horse rentals are available). It features elaborate playgrounds, water parks for toddlers, dog parks, zipline opportunities, and paddle boats for rent. There’s even a roaming herd of bison within a large fenced area to seek out during your visit.