Exploring Memphis with Kids
In support of our exciting Home Insemination Kit Travel Guide, we’ve curated a list of the most enjoyable activities for families visiting Memphis. While the city is often linked with Elvis and Graceland, it also boasts a variety of venues perfect for family adventures. And if you find yourself with some adult time, Beale Street offers fantastic jazz music and a lively atmosphere for people-watching.
Here are our favorite family-friendly attractions in Memphis.
Kid-Friendly Attractions in Memphis
The Peabody Hotel is a must-see destination, even if you don’t have a reservation. Known for its stunning architecture and fantastic indoor pool, the hotel is especially famous for its resident ducks. In the 1920s, the owners decided to host a few ducks for fun, and they became such a hit that they now live there permanently. Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., the ducks ride the elevator down to the lobby fountain, strutting down a red carpet to their watery home. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop to see the Royal Duck Palace!
The Memphis Zoo is another highlight, recognized by TripAdvisor as the #1 zoo in the country. With over 3,500 animals and 550 species, there’s plenty to see, including a captivating sea lion show and the impressive polar bears swimming alongside the glass.
For a budget-friendly evening, check out the Orpheum Theater Memphis, which offers free movies throughout the summer. This architectural gem is one of the last remaining “movie palaces,” making it a delightful experience. Bartlett, a nearby suburb, also hosts free outdoor movies for families during the summer and fall.
Don’t miss the dinosaur and fossil exhibits at The Pink Palace and Planetarium. This historical and science center is perfect for a fun and educational outing, featuring a mini Piggly Wiggly grocery store and frequently changing traveling exhibits.
While downtown Memphis may seem geared towards adults, it has plenty for families as well. Historic trolleys run along the riverside, with the Riverfront Trolley being a favorite of ours. Court Square, a historic site, features beautiful fountains, including some where kids can splash around. If your little ones are fascinated by fire trucks, the Fire Museum of Memphis allows them to climb aboard a real fire truck.
The Memphis Botanical Gardens is a fantastic spot for kids, featuring a playhouse, a butterfly garden, and a Japanese Garden where they can feed fish. Dinosaur enthusiasts will adore the Prehistoric Plant Trail, where kids can dig for “relics” and enjoy the play area.
We also love the Children’s Museum of Memphis, designed after the Boston Children’s Museum. It’s packed with interactive exhibits, including an art studio, a treehouse, a children’s grocery store, and even a real fire engine!
For outdoor fun, Tom Lee Park is a great choice, recently adding a water spray area perfect for hot days. It also hosts events like the Beale Street Music Festival and an annual fireworks display.
Don’t forget to visit Mud Island River Park, accessible by monorail. Here, you can explore a scale model of the Lower Mississippi River, visit the Mississippi River Museum, and rent pedal boats shaped like swans or pirate ships for a small fee.
Kid-Friendly Dining Options in Memphis
No trip is complete without indulging in some local cuisine. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is a must-try “hole-in-the-wall” spot known for its delicious chicken, featured on the Food Channel. The menu is simple but focuses on what they do best.
Another family favorite is Huey’s, voted the #1 Kid-Friendly Restaurant in Memphis. With multiple locations, the downtown Madison spot is particularly enjoyable. While waiting for your meal, kids can entertain themselves by pummeling toothpicks into the ceiling using straws!
Finally, a visit to Memphis wouldn’t be complete without tasting the city’s famous BBQ at Blues City Café. Renowned for its fantastic barbecue and live music, this restaurant offers a complete Memphis experience and has appeared on shows like “The Bobby Flay Show” and “Taste of America.”
Memphis may be famous for its vibrant nightlife, but it is also a family-friendly destination with plenty of fun, affordable, and even free activities for kids.
For more insightful articles, be sure to check out this home insemination guide for additional resources on pregnancy and family planning.
Summary
Memphis offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, from the whimsical ducks at The Peabody Hotel to the engaging exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Memphis. With activities that include visiting the Memphis Zoo, enjoying free outdoor movies, and exploring the Botanical Gardens, families can create lasting memories. Plus, delicious dining options like Gus’s Fried Chicken and Blues City Café ensure that everyone has a great culinary experience.