Memphis was Made for Family-Fun Vacations

Memphis is known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll and one trip to Beale Street proves it.  But this Bluff City is also known for its family-friendly activities and attractions. Pack up the fam and come play around in our backyard.

Daytime adventures
The Memphis Zoo is rated the #1 zoo by TripAdvisor and for good reason. Where else can you get up close and personal with a polar bear or play in a geyser? The fun doesn’t end there, hop the tram and see everything from exotic animals to the petting zoo and everything in between. Better plan to stay at least half a day with all there is to see and do.

If the mere mention of a museum makes your family unite in protest, then they haven’t been to Memphis. We don’t use our inside voices – we actually run, splash, put out fires and sing karaoke – and a whole lot more.  

Explore the Children’s Museum of Memphis where kids are encouraged to experience a flight simulator,  real airplane cockpit, 50-foot model of the Mississippi River, two live honeybee colonies, and much more!

The Memphis Botanic Garden definitely welcomes busy little bodies. With outdoor areas named Playhouse Lane, Critter Creek, Wormville, and Treetop Adventure, you can only imagine the fun you can have playing in this Children’s Garden - My Big Backyard.

Surprise the kids with dinosaurs and a shrunken head at the Memphis Pink Palace Museum. While you’re there, take in one of the features at the IMAX Theatre or visit a distant star system at the Sharpe Planetarium.

For anyone bursting with energy, try out the horseback riding, hiking, or paddleboating at Shelby Farms Park or take a run, walk or bike ride on the seven-mile trail that runs from Shelby Farms into the heart of Midtown. There is also bike riding, kayaking and wading in the riverwalk at Mud Island River Park.

Winding Down at Night
After a day of activities, you might want to grab a box of popcorn and enjoy a classic movie at The Orpheum Theatre.  Past shows have included The Wizard of Oz, Swiss Family Robinson and other kid-friendly flicks.  If a movie is not your thing, head over to AutoZone Park and catch a Redbirds game at the finest baseball park in the minor leagues or watch the Peabody Ducks make their way from the lobby fountain to their penthouse suite.

When the lights go down, the campfires come to life on Mud Island. Enjoy camping on the Mississippi River where all you need to bring is yourself. Everything else is provided – right down to the s’mores.

As you can see, Memphis was made for families.

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America's Incredible Pizza Company

Fire Museum of Memphis

Memphis Riverboats, Inc.

Shelby Farms Park

Main Street Trolley