Mississippi River Park
A vibrant riverfront park offering educational exhibits, recreational paths, and stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
Mississippi River Park
Best Time
Golden hour views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant riverfront park offering educational exhibits, recreational paths, and stunning views of the Mississippi River.
"One of the coolest places I've been since I've been here in Memphis, such cool and informative places."
🚶♀️ Walk the Riverwalk
Enjoy scenic paths for running or biking with stunning river and skyline views. Very safe!
📸 Snap the Memphis Sign
Don't miss the iconic Memphis sign at Mud Island for great photos with the river backdrop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tom Lee Park
Downtown Memphis
Recently reconstructed park designed for resilience, recreation, and community events along the Mississippi River.
Mud Island River Park
Downtown Memphis
Home to a 2-kilometer scale model of the Mississippi River, offering an educational and unique perspective.
Mississippi Riverwalk
Downtown Memphis
Scenic pathways perfect for running, biking, or a leisurely stroll with breathtaking views of the river and skyline.

The Memphis Sign
Mud Island River Park
An iconic spot for photos with the Mississippi River and downtown Memphis skyline as your backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riverfront
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Riverwalk
Enjoy scenic paths for running or biking with stunning river and skyline views. Very safe!
📸 Snap the Memphis Sign
Don't miss the iconic Memphis sign at Mud Island for great photos with the river backdrop.
💧 Explore Mud Island Model
Discover the unique 2km scale model of the Mississippi River at Mud Island River Park.
🌳 Tom Lee Park's Resilience
Experience the newly reconstructed Tom Lee Park, built to handle floods and offer community amenities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Riverwalk
Enjoy scenic paths for running or biking with stunning river and skyline views. Very safe!
📸 Snap the Memphis Sign
Don't miss the iconic Memphis sign at Mud Island for great photos with the river backdrop.
💧 Explore Mud Island Model
Discover the unique 2km scale model of the Mississippi River at Mud Island River Park.
🌳 Tom Lee Park's Resilience
Experience the newly reconstructed Tom Lee Park, built to handle floods and offer community amenities.
☀️ Pack for the Sun
Bring sunscreen and water, especially during warmer months, as there's limited shade in some areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mississippi River Park for its beautiful views, informative attractions like Mud Island's river model, and the revitalized Tom Lee Park. It's seen as a great place for relaxation, picnics, and family outings, with a focus on sustainability and accessibility. Some note that certain amenities, like bathrooms, may be locked, and the distance to the Memphis sign can be a trek.
"One of the coolest places I've been since I've been here in memphis, went walking and this place cane about , such cool and informative places tells you about the different parks and states connected to the Mississippi River, I highly recommend this place to any visitors or residents that just want to get out , relax with family or with friends to come experience this beautiful place"
Leon merrill
"The city should really invest in this park...it could be so wonderful. It is already a beautiful place visually."
king edwards
"Nice area to sit, have a picnic, and relax!"
Mz. Mikki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mississippi River Park is easily accessible in downtown Memphis. You can drive and find parking nearby, or consider using ride-sharing services. For a scenic approach, biking or walking along the Riverwalk is highly recommended.
Parking is available in the downtown Memphis area, with several lots and garages within walking distance of the parks along the riverfront. Some areas might have limited street parking.
Absolutely! The Mississippi Riverwalk offers dedicated paths perfect for cycling. It's a fantastic way to experience the riverfront and connect with attractions like Tom Lee Park and Mud Island.
While direct bus routes might vary, downtown Memphis is served by public transportation. You can take a bus to a stop near the riverfront and then walk or bike to the park areas.
Mud Island River Park is accessible by car, with parking available. You can also walk or bike to it from other downtown riverfront areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Mississippi River Park and its main areas like Tom Lee Park and the Riverwalk is free. Some specific attractions or events within the parks might have separate admission fees.
The parks along the Mississippi Riverfront, including Tom Lee Park and Mud Island River Park, are generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific hours can vary, so it's always best to check official city or park websites.
Entry to Mud Island River Park itself is typically free, allowing access to the scale model of the Mississippi River and the Memphis sign.
The riverfront parks, especially Tom Lee Park, frequently host events, concerts, and festivals. Check local Memphis event listings or the official Memphis Riverfront Development Corporation website for schedules.
Tom Lee Park has been specifically reconstructed to be resilient and manage flooding, allowing for continued access and use even during high water events.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk, run, bike, have picnics, enjoy sunset views, visit the scale model of the Mississippi River at Mud Island, and take photos at the Memphis sign. Tom Lee Park also offers playgrounds and fitness areas.
Yes, Mud Island River Park features a large-scale model of the Mississippi River, complete with towns and geographical features, making it an educational experience.
Yes, Tom Lee Park has a large, sturdy playground designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wooden and rope structures.
It appears fishing from the riverbank might be possible in some areas of the park, though regulations should be checked.
Restrooms are available in the park areas, though they may be locked at times. It's advisable to check their status upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The Memphis sign at Mud Island River Park offers iconic shots with the city skyline. The Riverwalk provides stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Big River Crossing bridge.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the river and city skyline.
Mud Island's scale model of the Mississippi River is a unique photographic subject. You can also capture the vastness of the river itself from various vantage points.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and near bridges for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river views and cityscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the Big River Crossing or distant river traffic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Mud Island River Park offers a unique educational experience with its scale model of the Mississippi River, which can be fascinating for curious young minds. The Memphis sign also provides a fun photo opportunity for the whole family.
🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
Consider exploring the Big River Crossing for an extended cycling adventure across the Mississippi River. The paths are generally well-maintained and offer a refreshing escape from the city bustle.
📸 Photographers
Capture the vastness of the Mississippi River, the city skyline, and the impressive Big River Crossing bridge. Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for memorable shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mississippi River Scale Model at Mud Island
Walking along the model, you can trace the river's path from its headwaters all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. Informative plaques and markers provide details about different sections and historical points of interest. It's a fascinating way to learn about the river's geography and its impact on the surrounding landscape and communities.
This feature makes Mud Island River Park a must-visit for anyone interested in geography, history, or simply experiencing something truly one-of-a-kind. It offers a tangible connection to the mighty Mississippi and its enduring significance.
Tom Lee Park: A Resilient Riverfront Oasis
The revitalized park boasts a range of amenities designed for diverse users. Visitors can enjoy scenic pathways, a stunning playground, fitness areas, public art installations, and even new food and beverage options. The park's design emphasizes sustainability and accessibility, ensuring it's a welcoming space for everyone.
Tom Lee Park now stands as a testament to how urban riverfronts can be reimagined to serve both environmental resilience and community well-being. It's a prime example of how parks can foster a stronger connection between a city and its iconic river.
Running and Biking the Riverfront
Many travelers find these paths to be well-maintained and enjoyable for morning jogs or evening rides. The Big River Crossing, a pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting Memphis to Arkansas, also offers a unique perspective and a longer route for those looking for an extended adventure.
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a leisurely bike ride, the riverfront provides a refreshing and visually rewarding experience. Remember to check for any specific trail closures or event schedules that might affect access.
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