Best Parks in Memphis

Joe Coleman

You know that Memphis is the home of the blues (and rock, gospel, and soul, among others). You know that it’s a place willing to fiercely defend its barbecue style. However, you might be surprised to learn that Memphis is actually filled with parks to add to your trip itinerary! If you’re looking to walk off those Memphis-style ribs, you’ll have plenty of lush urban and traditional parks to choose from.

Wolf River Greenway - Shady Grove Trailhead, Audubon Park, Memphis Botanic Garden, Tom Lee Park, Overton Park, Chickasaw Heritage Park, Greenbelt Park, Martyrs Park, Shelby Farms Park

  • Wolf River Greenway - Shady Grove Trailhead in Memphis, United States

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      If you’re looking to get a workout in, Audubon Park is the place to do so. Located in The Links at Audubon, this pleasant patch of greenery features a full workout setup. If you’ve got a four-legged friend to bring along, you’ll have plenty of room to roam.

  • Audubon Park in Memphis, United States

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      If you’re looking to get a workout in, Audubon Park is the place to do so. Located in The Links at Audubon, this pleasant patch of greenery features a full workout setup. If you’ve got a four-legged friend to bring along, you’ll have plenty of room to roam.

  • Memphis Botanic Garden in Memphis, United States

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      On nearly 100 acres of land, you’ll find 28 different gardens to enjoy here. While not strictly a park, it deserves a spot on this list for anyone looking to stretch their legs among vast greenery. There’s something for all interests with a butterfly garden, succulent garden, and herb garden, among many others.

  • Tom Lee Park in Memphis, United States

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      While definitely smaller than Overton, Tom Lee has its own charm. On the banks of the Mississippi, you can watch the world go by and get great views of the Arkansas side of the Mississippi River, located just on the other bank.

  • Overton Park in Memphis, United States

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      Moving away from the Mississippi River, Overton Park is located towards mid-town Memphis. This massive park is the place to be whether you’re looking to relax or get your heart rate up. With a 9-hole golf course, zoo, and 126 acres of forest, you’ll have more than you know what to do with at Overton.

  • Chickasaw Heritage Park in Memphis, United States

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      You’re probably sensing a theme by now. A lot of these parks are by the Mississippi River. Personally, I’m never one to complain about too many parks by a river. If you’re looking to experience the local history, this park has a pair of ceremonial Chickasaw burial mounds.

  • Greenbelt Park in Memphis, United States

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      If you’re looking to just relax, Greenbelt is where you want to be. While it’s got nice, paved walking trails, the serenity of this riverfront park just calls to you to enjoy a slower pace of life.

  • Martyrs Park in Memphis, United States

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      Located near the Mississippi River, this is a much smaller alternative to the larger urban parks. You’re guaranteed incredible views and tranquility at this park named in honor of those who helped the sick during the yellow fever epidemic of 1878.

  • Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, United States

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      Shelby Farms is one of the largest urban parks in the country and feels like a place all its own. You’ll forget you’re in a city of almost two million people when you walk or cycle down the miles of paved trails.