There’s nothing quite like an afternoon spent at the park, but Overton Park in Memphis, Tennessee is perhaps one of the most impressive in the state. Don’t expect a playground tucked away in the corner of the grass; no, this urban park has everything from an art museum to a zoo and plenty of hiking trails. There are several events held in the park throughout the year, so whether it’s cold or hot in Memphis, there’s something to do in Overton Park. It’s the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy!
Overton Park is 342 acres in total, and the area, once known as Lea’s Woods, has been part of the greater Memphis community since its purchase in the fall of 1901. The park is named after John Overton, famous as one of the co-founders, in 1902, and the area remains one of the most visited by locals and tourists alike.
Overton Park is home to the Memphis Zoo, a golf course, the Memphis College of Art, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Old Forest Arboretum at Overton Park, and Rainbow Lake, among other recreational areas. The Levitt Shell Theater is another famous location, put on the map when Elvis Presley gave his first paid concert there in 1954.
The “Limestone Loop” is one of Overton Park’s most popular trails, perfect for running with its smooth running surface and perfect for little visitors and their parents. Cyclists flock to Overton Park to spend time on the park’s trails, which are part of the city’s extensive trail network.
The park offers many rental places for people wishing to organize an event of less than 25 people. There are plenty of picnic tables that are first come, first served, and there are several pavilions that are perfect for birthday parties and family events. Overton Park also hosts city-sponsored events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets and running events.
The Overton Park Conservancy does a great job of keeping the park beautiful and inspiring, and it takes up to $1 million every year to keep the recreation space safe and clean. Every day you can find people from the Conservancy cleaning, repairing and maintaining the natural landscape. If you’re interested in volunteering, there’s an entire page on the Overton Park website devoted to opportunities. We’ve linked it below!
The beautiful Memphis Zoo is located in Overton Park and, along with the Levitt Shell, is perhaps the most popular place to visit. The zoo has been part of Overton Park since 1906 and is home to over 3,500 animals. Come say hello to the animals, then head to a show afterwards and you’ll have the perfect day in Memphis.
Overton Park is vast, beautifully equipped and maintained, and remains the ideal destination for families and urban adventurers. If you’re looking for a day spent in the beauty of Western Tennessee’s premier city, you’ve found it.
What a wonderful place to live with the whole family! You can find out more about Overton Park on its official website or on its Facebook page.
Address: Overton Park, 1914 Poplar Ave #202, Memphis, TN 38104, USA
