By Nathan Wright
Memphis offers plenty of green space, world-famous attractions, and fun weekend options whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo. Here’s a curated guide to things to do in and around the city that remain relevant over time.
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Shelby Farms Park
This massive urban park is ideal for biking, hiking, kayaking, picnics, and nature walks. The trails and lakes give you space to stretch out and breathe fresh air not far from the heart of the city.
Overton Park
One of Memphis’ best green refuges—home of the Zoo, Old Forest Arboretum, the Greensward for picnics and sports, and beautiful walking paths. Great for a mellow day outside without leaving the city limits.
Mud Island River Park & Tom Lee Park
These riverfront spaces bring water views, paddle-boat rentals, skyline views and places to relax or stroll. Tom Lee Park is especially popular in the evening while Mud Island has its charm with unique riverfront paths.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Located near Millington, this state park offers deep woods, wildlife viewing, fishing and camping. It’s the kind of place you escape to, even for just a half day, to reset and reconnect with nature.
Landmarks & Cultural Must-Sees
National Civil Rights Museum & Historic Sites
Learn about Memphian history at the Lorraine Motel, and dive deeper into civil rights stories that shaped the city and the nation. It’s powerful and worth spending a couple of hours in reflection and exploration.
Graceland, Sun Studio, Stax Museum
For music lovers: pick your path. Graceland takes you to the world of Elvis, Sun Studio shows where rock ’n’ roll grew up, and Stax taps into soul. Each tells a different but essential Memphis story.
Beale Street & Riverside Walks
As daylight fades, Beale Street comes alive with restaurants, live music, and nightlife. Pair it with a walk along the riverfront to see bridges, lights, and river barges drift by—perfect for photos or quiet reflection.
Weekend Ideas & Neighborhood Fun
If you’re wondering what to do on a free weekend:
- Attend a farmers’ market—Midtown, Bartlett and other neighborhoods frequently host pop-ups with local food, music, and community energy.
- Catch a show—Memphis has theater, small venues, and live music daily. Seek out events in Overton Park Shell or local galleries.
- Try local eats and brews—Food truck fairs, BBQ joints, breweries are widespread; exploring different neighborhoods by cuisine is always rewarding.
- Seasonal festivals and outdoor concerts—during warm months, the city offers free or low-cost music in parks, gardens, rooftop parties, etc.
Tips for Planning
• Start with your interests: music history, nature, food, or art. Memphis has strong offerings in all those.
• Mix indoor and outdoor so weather won’t derail your plans.
• Some attractions need timed tickets; check in advance so you don’t rush.
• Aim for afternoons outdoors or riverfront walks, save evenings for music, dining, or Beale Street’s scenes.
Memphis isn’t short of things to do—it’s rich with possibility. Wherever you go, there’s a story, a view, or a melody waiting to make your day that much better.