16 Free Things to Do in Memphis
Memphis offers plenty of ways to have fun without spending a dime. Catch a Mississippi River sunset, step inside a crystal cave, admire world-class art, and discover more free ways to experience the Bluff City. Image: Facebook / Memphis River Parks Partnership
You donβt necessarily need a big budget to have a memorable day. Whether youβre entertaining out-of-town guests, planning a family outing, or simply searching for free things to do in Memphis this weekend, these activities showcase some of the best the Bluff City has to offer.
1. Stroll Along the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: memphisriverparks.org
Since its revamp, Tom Lee Park is now one of Memphisβs top spots for tourists and locals. You can walk along the Mississippi River, relax on the lawns, let your kids enjoy the playground, or just watch the barges float by. Itβs the perfect picnic spot, and a great place to catch the sunset at the end of a busy day. (You can even enjoy dinner at nearby Harbor Town for an unbeatable view.)
2. Explore Shelby Farms Park
Neighborhood: Cordova
More Info: shelbyfarmspark.org
Did you know one of the largest urban parks in the country is right here in the 901? Shelby Farms Park offers miles of walking and biking trails, scenic lakes, wide-open green spaces, and plenty of wildlife. Though some attractions require admission (like the zipline and treetop adventures), exploring the park itself is free of charge and full of fun.
3. Discover Downtown Memphisβ Murals and Artwork
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: downtownmemphis.com
Check out the work of local artists and muralists who have literally painted the town. Follow this guide for an artistic scavenger hunt of murals, mosaics, and so much more. Many showcase Memphis history and take you through classic downtown landmarks.
4. Visit the Crystal Shrine Grotto
Neighborhood: East Memphis
More Info: memorialparkfuneralandcemetery.com
Hidden inside Memorial Park Cemetery, the Crystal Shrine Grotto is one of Memphisβs most unique attractions. Founded more than 100 years ago, the βonly man-made crystal cave in the worldβ is home to colorful quartz crystal formations, sculptures, and artwork β¦ truly a hidden gem!
5. Cross the Big River Crossing
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: bigrivercrossing.com
At nearly one mile long, Big River Crossing is the longest public pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi River. Walk or bike across it for incredible views of the downtown skyline and waterfront. Plan your visit around sunset to see the nightly βMighty Lightsβ on the Hernando De Soto Bridge (AKA the big βMβ bridge).
6. Browse the Dixon Gallery & Gardens
Neighborhood: East Memphis
More Info: dixon.org
The Dixon Gallery & Gardens offers free admission every day except Monday. Here you can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, rotating art exhibitions, and one of the Southβs finest collections of Impressionist paintings and sculptures. If you visit in the spring, youβll also spot thousands of vibrant tulips and other plants in bloom.
7. Overton Park Shell Free Concerts
Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: overtonparkshell.org
Throughout the year, Memphis hosts dozens of free concerts and outdoor performances at the Overton Park Shell. Bring your own chairs, picnic basket, and blankets so you can kick back, relax, and enjoy live music.
8. Tour Elmwood Cemetery
Neighborhood: South Memphis
More Info: elmwoodcemetery.org
If youβre a history buff, donβt miss a self-guided walking tour of historic Elmwood Cemetery. Here youβll get a peek into Civil War history, learn about notable Memphians, view beautiful monuments, and admire the stunning landscaping.
9. Explore Overton Park
Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: overtonpark.org
Overton Park has something for everyone, including Overton Bark, the playground for your canine friends. Located in the heart of Midtown, itβs easy to walk the trails, let your kids play at the Rainbow Lake playground, or unplug and unwind in the peaceful, green space.
10. Walk Historic Beale Street
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: bealestreet.com
Even if you donβt step foot inside the clubs or shops, Beale Street is always worth a trip. Between the neon lights, historic architecture, street performers, and live music coming out of the restaurants, you can see for yourself why this spot is famous around the world. Start at the Orpheum Theatre for the entrance and a photo opp.
11. Visit the University of Memphis Art Museum
Neighborhood: East Memphis
More Info: memphis.edu
The University of Memphis Art Museum offers free admission year-round. Its rotating exhibitions feature regional artists and works from the universityβs permanent collection β a fun, inexpensive way to immerse yourself in local art while also supporting students.
12. Explore Crosstown Concourse
Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: crosstownconcourse.com
Though Crosstown Concourse has many shops and restaurants, you can soak in the surroundings without spending a dime. Take a stroll and enjoy the public art, unique architecture, community gathering spaces, and occasional free performances or exhibitions throughout the building.
13. Browse the Memphis Farmersβ Market
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: memphisfarmersmarket.org
You donβt have to buy anything to enjoy the Downtown Memphis Farmersβ Market (but you may still be tempted to take home some goodies). Browse local produce, handmade goods, fresh flowers, live music, and community events on Saturday mornings during market season. Itβs a good way to get to know your local growers.
14. Walk the Wolf River Greenway
Neighborhood: Cordova
More Info: wolfriver.org
Whether you love nature or simply want to see another side of Memphis, the miles of paved trails along the Wolf River Greenway deliver. The route winds through forests, wetlands, and scenic overlooks, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and birdwatching.
15. Explore Historic Court Square Park
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: memphisparks.com
Downtownβs Court Square Park is one of the cityβs oldest public spaces. Enjoy the fountains, public art, shaded seating areas, and beautifully restored park while taking in views of surrounding historic buildings. Plus, itβs conveniently located near several of the other stops on this list, so you can make a whole day of it.
16. Visit the Victorian Village
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: victorianvillageinc.orgΒ
Formerly known as Millionaireβs Row, this stretch of centuries-old homes on Adams Avenue lets you step back in time. Twelve of the houses are even on the National Register of Historic Places. Admiring the impressive exteriors is free, but a small fee gets you a tour of the Woodruff-Fontaine and Mallory-Neely Houses, or a drink at the Mollie Fontaine Lounge.
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Ariel Taranski
Ariel's been writing professionally for over a decade, with a passion for travel, pets, good food, and a great book. She's lived in Memphis for over half of her life, a transplant from Florida and Southern through-and-through.