6 Ways to Get on the Water in Memphis
Ready to cool off this summer? You don't have to travel far to get on the water in Memphis. Explore local lakes, cruise the Mississippi, or treat yourself to a pool day with hotel amenities. Image: Facebook / Shelby Farms Park
Longer, warmer days in Memphis invite you to slather on the sunscreen and go out in search of the nearest body of water. Fortunately, you don’t have to look too far. The 901 is home to plenty of ponds, lakes, rivers, and pools, plus no shortage of water activities to help you relax and cool off. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or cruising down the Mighty Mississippi, there’s something for everyone. Dive on in!
Paddle Along Ghost River
Less than an hour east of downtown, this popular section of the Wolf River is a local favorite for paddling. The winding route is a nature lover’s dream, and keen eyes might spot turtles, herons, egrets, and other native species throughout the journey. Several local outfitters offer kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers to get out on the water.
Explore Shelby Farms
You don’t have to spend hours driving outside the city limits to enjoy a day of water play. Just head to Shelby Farms Park, where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and canoes to explore Hyde Lake and other nearby waterways. This conveniently located, beginner-friendly spot makes it easy to fit a paddle session into an afternoon before dinner or combine it with a walk, bike ride, or picnic around the park.
Explore Poplar Tree Lake
Located in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, this lake with gorgeous views offers the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can explore the water by canoe, paddleboard, or boat (rentals are available), or relax on the banks and drop a fishing line. For a true retreat, we recommend making a weekend of it by camping on the grounds.
Enjoy a Mississippi Riverboat Cruise
Few things are as authentically Memphis as a Mississippi River Cruise. Here, you can kick back, relax, and take in the downtown skyline from a different perspective. Daytime sightseeing cruises offer a historical lens, while evening excursions often have live music, dinner service, and a spectacular vantage point for viewing the lights of the famous Memphis bridge. Be sure to check out upcoming events, including brunch cruises and theme nights.
Explore Horseshoe & Wapanocca Lakes
Less than an hour from Memphis, you’ll find two of Arkansas most popular spots for beating the summer heat. Both Horseshoe Lake and Wapanocca Lake offer scenic waterways ideal for boating, fishing, or swimming. Bird watchers will want to check out the many local species that inhabit Wapanocca Lake, along with other native wildlife.
Book a Pool Day
Here’s a lesser-known option for getting your water fix: hotel pool day passes. Through apps like ResortPass, you can spend your day sunning poolside at hotels like Hyatt Centric on Beale Street or Hilton Memphis, without having to book an overnight stay. Plus, you get all the perks, including lounge chairs, food service, and amenities for a fraction of the cost. It’s the perfect solution for a relaxing staycation or a family pool day without the fuss.
Enjoy your summer, Memphis!
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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.