Memphis, Tennessee, USA-nature-spots

Nature Spots in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee, a city known for its rich musical heritage and BBQ joints, also offers several natural escapes that showcase the beauty of the Mid-South. From parks along the Mississippi River to forests and wildlife areas, here are some of the best nature spots in and around Memphis.

1. Big River Crossing

  • Location: East of downtown Memphis, spanning across the Wolf River Harbor.
  • Description: The longest pedestrian bridge over water in the United States offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Mississippi River. It connects to West Memphis, Arkansas, for a great day trip.

2. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

  • Location: Approximately 20 miles north of downtown Memphis.
  • Description: This park is one of the largest urban state parks in the country. It features hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites within a dense forest setting.

3. Shelby Farms Park

  • Location: Located just west of Memphis.
  • Description: Spanning over 4,500 acres, Shelby Farms is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It includes biking trails, a working farm with a petting zoo and play areas for kids.

4. Pink Palace Nature Center

  • Location: Located in Midtown Memphis.
  • Description: This nature center offers a variety of exhibits on local wildlife, geology, and history. The property also includes trails along the Wolf River Greenway.

5. Tom Lee Park

  • Location: A public park located along the Mississippi River waterfront in downtown Memphis.
  • Description: Known for hosting big festivals like Live on the Green, Tom Lee Park offers scenic views of the river and a beautiful setting for outdoor events.

Exploring these nature spots not only helps to preserve and appreciate the natural beauty around Memphis but also provides opportunities for recreation, education, and community engagement.