Everything you need to know about visiting Memphis with kids

01.03.2024 - 19:49 / lonelyplanet.com

Memphis may be synonymous with live music and a raucous nightlife but there's more to the city than bar hopping and late-night revelry.

Look a little closer and you'll realize it's actually a wonderful destination for the whole family. Lush and plentiful public parks packed with activities, wonderful museums and world-class barbecue restaurants that actively encourage eating with your hands!

Here's everything you need to know about visiting Memphis with kids in tow.

Memphis is a great spot for families due to the range of experiences available and its significant place in American history. There’s always something going on in Bluff City, whether it’s the famed Memphis in May music festival that brings in world-renowned performers, the July 4th fireworks over the river or the holiday lights displays around town.

Due to the sprawling nature of the city, it's easiest to get around by car when traveling as a group, especially if you're using a stroller. Free and paid parking is available in most neighborhoods. That said, the MATA transportation system includes buses and historic trolleys that cover most of the city's sights and the vintage trolleys are a fun experience in themselves.

Fares cost $1 per ride for adults and kids under five ride for free. Students in grades one through twelve also receive reduced fares. Multi-day passes are also available if you plan on taking advantage of the network.

If you’re looking to save cash on your visit, try the Memphis Kids Pass, which charges one price for entry into the Memphis Zoo, the Children's Museum of Memphis, Memphis Botanic Garden, and the Fire Museum of Memphis, as well as additional discounts.

The vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods of Cooper-Young, Overton Square, and South Main are best for kids – the streets are wide and filled with restaurants, shops, and colorful murals. Overton Square in particular is home to a large city park and several performing arts venues.

The twice-weekly storytime at this beloved local bookstore is recommended for children up to age five and allows little ones time to enjoy stories and songs, including classics and new titles. It’s free to attend, but you might find yourself picking up a few books to bring with you for the rest of the trip. There’s also a cafe in case anyone’s in need of a snack.

This sprawling 4500-acre park is one of the city’s most beloved with endless activities for all ages. Toddlers can explore the Woodland Discovery Playground, voted one of the best in the nation, with climbing boulders, slides, swings, plus a seasonal splash pad.

The older kids won’t be left out, though, as the park also has a ten-mile paved trail, bike rentals, a zipline course, horseback riding, boating, fishing, paintball, and disc golf.