Summary
Welcome to Mud Island
Mud Island isn’t actually an island; it’s a small peninsula that juts into the Mississippi River off downtown Memphis. Some have even dubbed it the city’s “Gulf of Mexico.” Nevertheless, this fact doesn’t diminish its charm. For decades, families have flocked here to unwind by the water, celebrate the mighty Mississippi River, and engage in vibrant social and cultural events.
The park is particularly well-known for its Mississippi River Museum, where visitors of all ages can explore 10,000 years of river history. From tales of Mark Twain to steamboat disasters and river folklore, the museum showcases it all. Additionally, there is a scaled replica of the entire river that you can walk alongside. Renting paddle boats to enjoy views of downtown Memphis from the water is another popular activity. Moreover, many visitors head to Mud Island for special events, as world-renowned musicians frequently perform at the 5,000-seat amphitheater thanks to its exceptional acoustics.
History of Mud Island
Mud Island formed over 100 years ago when sand, gravel, and mud accumulated near the Memphis harbor. One theory suggests that a warship named the USS Amphritrite ran aground there for two years, contributing to the buildup around its stern. Others believe it was simply caused by the natural ebb and flow of the river.
In the 1920s, ’30s, and ’40s, squatters took up residence on Mud Island, a risky endeavor given that high waters frequently flooded the area. In 1958, a small airport with a 3,100-foot runway was established on the peninsula, becoming popular among businessmen for its proximity to downtown Memphis. However, the airport closed in 1970.
On July 4, 1982, the Mud Island River Park officially opened for recreation, marking a significant investment by the city of $63 million. One of its standout features was the amphitheater, attracting major acts like Andy Williams. Notably, Johnny Carson brought attention to the venue by humorously commenting on its name during a Tonight Show segment.
In May 2018, the city received approval to invest millions into further development of the park, including negotiations for a new state-of-the-art aquarium.
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Things to Do
A central attraction of Mud Island is The Riverwalk, a concrete model of the lower Mississippi River designed for visitors to stroll along. In certain areas, the water is wide enough for people to step inside! This model illustrates how the river flows for 954 miles through 20 cities and watersheds, covering five city blocks.
The Riverwalk is an integral part of the Mississippi River Museum, which features 18 galleries detailing the history, culture, engineering, and myths surrounding the Mississippi River. Visitors can expect to see a life-size replica of a riverboat and hear stories of those who made a living on this vital waterway. Among the exhibits, five galleries are dedicated to Civil War history, including a gunboat. The museum operates from May through October, Thursday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with admission costs of $10 for adults and $8 for youth aged 5-11, while children under four are free with an adult.
After delving into the river’s history, consider a relaxing paddle boat journey in a designated recreational area. Paddle boats can be rented at a booth located near the museum exit for just $5, a small price for the remarkable views of downtown Memphis you’ll experience along the way.
Special Events at the Park
Set against the backdrop of the Memphis City Skyline, the Mud Island Amphitheater is a renowned 5,000-seat, open-air venue that has welcomed some of the biggest names in the music industry. During the 1980s, the Beach Boys were regular performers, while in 2018, Alison Krauss graced the stage. Other artists like Nora Jones, Widespread Panic, Journey, and the Alabama Shakes have also performed here. Concerts typically occur during the summer, with updated tickets and schedules available directly at the park’s website.
Where to Eat
For a quick bite, there’s a café inside the museum offering reasonably priced sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Additionally, near the paddle boat area, a park is available for picnicking or grilling.
If you’re seeking a more formal dining experience, consider heading to nearby Harbor Town. Tugs is a family-friendly restaurant known for its local craft beer and beautiful sunset views. Alternatively, you can visit the roof of the River Inn of Harbor Town for happy hour drinks and snacks while admiring the changing colors of the sky. For gourmet provisions, Cordelia’s Market is a community grocery where you can find everything from gourmet meats and cheeses to salads and even ice cream—perfect for a picnic by the Mississippi River.
Getting There
No matter your reason for visiting Mud Island, the journey is part of the experience. The park, officially part of Memphis, is located just 1.2 miles from downtown. You can reach Mud Island by strolling along the footbridge (situated at 125 N. Front Street) or taking a ride on the monorail over the Mississippi River, both of which offer breathtaking views.
The park welcomes visitors daily during spring, summer, and fall from dawn until dusk. While admission is free, additional charges apply for museum access, activities, and concerts. However, note that the park is closed in winter.
Bikers can enjoy the island, as there is a designated entrance for them at Northgate. Additionally, garage parking is accessible for $6, requiring payment via credit card.
