Overton Square Memphis
A lively entertainment district in Memphis with trendy eateries, live performance venues, a cinema, and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free movie nights under the stars
Overton Square Memphis
Best Time
Free movie nights under the stars

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively entertainment district in Memphis with trendy eateries, live performance venues, a cinema, and vibrant nightlife.
"Overton Square truly gives back to Midtown so much with this beautiful space and all of the wonderful businesses that are in it."
🎬 Catch a Free Movie
Check for free movie nights on Thursdays during warmer months. Bring a blanket or chair!
🍽️ Progressive Dinner Fun
Experience multiple restaurants in one night by planning a progressive dinner.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Movie Nights
The Square
Enjoy classic films under the stars in a lively outdoor setting. A perfect, budget-friendly evening for all ages.
Petals of a Peony
2110 Madison Ave
Savor authentic Chengdu Sichuan cuisine, from hot pots to mapo tofu and spicy dumplings. Great for groups!

Playhouse on the Square
51 S Cooper St
Catch a professional theater production, from musicals to dramas. A cornerstone of Memphis's performing arts scene.

Babalu Memphis
2115 Madison Ave
Indulge in delicious tapas, tacos, and unique cocktails in a lively atmosphere. Known for its date-night appeal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Evening Vibe
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎬 Catch a Free Movie
Check for free movie nights on Thursdays during warmer months. Bring a blanket or chair!
🍽️ Progressive Dinner Fun
Experience multiple restaurants in one night by planning a progressive dinner.
🎭 Live Theater Experience
Don't miss a show at Playhouse on the Square for a dose of local performing arts.
🛍️ Shop Local Boutiques
Discover unique gifts and artisan goods at the various shops in the square.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎬 Catch a Free Movie
Check for free movie nights on Thursdays during warmer months. Bring a blanket or chair!
🍽️ Progressive Dinner Fun
Experience multiple restaurants in one night by planning a progressive dinner.
🎭 Live Theater Experience
Don't miss a show at Playhouse on the Square for a dose of local performing arts.
🛍️ Shop Local Boutiques
Discover unique gifts and artisan goods at the various shops in the square.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Courtyard
There's a great courtyard with a play area for kids, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors adore Overton Square for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining, and family-friendly amenities like a dedicated play area and free movie nights. It's praised as a great location for quality time and a must-visit for tourists. Some find the hotel options expensive, and occasional busy periods can lead to crowded conditions.
"I adore Overton Square so much, and my son and I go there all the time. There is a great courtyard in the back where kids can play and there’s a little house that he loves to play in and we can just get pizza and run around and go to the candy store and then they have this amazing light installation in the hallway that we could literally just sit in for days and stare at it’s so beautiful. Overton Square truly gives back to Midtown so much with this beautiful space and all of the wonderful businesses that are in it. I love it here. It’s a great location."
K G
"I had the best time ever. On Thursdays nights they play movies in the square and this Thursday I watch The Bird Cage . Order wings and a slush . Although it rained I was prepared with raincoat and umbrella. I had the best time ever. Make sure you bring your own chair if you do not get there in time to get a seat. It gets cool at night so bring a coat or blanket and it's awesome to make a picnic basket. I can wait to go back .🥰"
nautea P
"A great place to take family and friends. There's even a play area for children. It's a must site for visitors to our city. You can spend quality time with your children there. These are videos of my grandsons from last weekend."
Andree Webb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Overton Square is located in Midtown Memphis, easily accessible by car. Parking is available in nearby garages and street parking. Public transportation options are also available via Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) buses.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options around Overton Square. Some areas may have time limits, so be sure to check signage.
Absolutely! Overton Square is designed to be a walkable entertainment district, with shops, restaurants, and theaters all within easy strolling distance.
Walking is the best way to experience Overton Square, allowing you to discover its unique shops, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere at your own pace.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to and from Overton Square, especially if you plan on enjoying the nightlife.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Overton Square itself is a public space and does not require an entry ticket. However, individual venues like theaters or specific events may have their own ticket requirements.
Yes, Overton Square frequently hosts free events, most notably their popular Thursday night movie series during the warmer months.
The movie nights held at Overton Square are typically free to attend, making it a fantastic budget-friendly activity.
You can usually find event schedules on the official Overton Square website or their social media pages. Local Memphis event listings are also a good resource.
No, there are no admission fees for most restaurants and shops in Overton Square. You only pay for what you order or purchase.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Overton Square boasts a diverse culinary scene. Popular choices include Petals of a Peony for Sichuan Chinese, Babalu for tapas, and Saltwater Crab for seafood. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating.
While specific menus vary, many restaurants in Overton Square offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. It's always best to check with the restaurant directly or view their online menus.
You can find a wide range of cuisines, including Sichuan Chinese, American (tapas, steakhouse), seafood, and more.
Overton Square is a fantastic spot for date nights, with its array of trendy restaurants, bars, and entertainment options like live music and movies.
Yes, Overton Square is ideal for a progressive dinner, allowing you to enjoy cocktails at one place, appetizers at another, and dessert elsewhere.
🎫 🎭 Entertainment & Activities
Overton Square offers a variety of entertainment, including live theater at Playhouse on the Square, movie nights, diverse dining options, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
While specific venues can change, Overton Square has a history of hosting live music, with some restaurants and bars featuring performances. Check local listings for current acts.
Playhouse on the Square stages a variety of professional theatrical productions, including musicals, dramas, and comedies.
Yes, Overton Square has a dedicated courtyard with a play area for children, making it a great spot for families. Free movie nights are also family-friendly.
Overton Square is known to host various festivals and special events throughout the year, such as Latin Fest and fall festivals.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant atmosphere, unique architecture, and the light installation in the hallway offer great photo opportunities. The lively courtyards and restaurant facades are also picturesque.
Yes, Overton Square is particularly photogenic in the evening when the lights come on, creating a lively and colorful ambiance.
One reviewer mentioned an 'amazing light installation in the hallway' that is very beautiful and photogenic.
You can capture shots of people enjoying themselves, delicious food, vibrant street scenes, theater marquees, and the general lively atmosphere of the district.
Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of your food and the general ambiance of restaurants, especially if you're sharing your experience online.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
Beyond the play areas, the vibrant atmosphere and diverse dining options mean there's something to please even the pickiest eaters. From pizza to ice cream, you can easily find kid-friendly fare. The overall walkability of the square also makes it easy to navigate with strollers or little ones in tow.
🍽️ Foodies & Couples
Beyond dining, the square's lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, provides a romantic backdrop. Catching a show at Playhouse on the Square or enjoying a movie under the stars adds to the entertainment options. The variety of memphis overton square restaurants ensures you can find the perfect ambiance for any occasion, from casual bites to upscale dining.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some restaurants can be upscale, many offer affordable lunch specials or happy hour deals. Look for places with tapas or small plates that allow you to try multiple items without breaking the bank. The general vibe of the square is accessible, and simply enjoying the lively street scene can be an enjoyable experience without spending a lot of money.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Hotspot: Dining in Overton Square
Many visitors enjoy the concept of a progressive dinner, where they can sample different courses at various restaurants throughout the square, making for a dynamic and delicious evening. This approach allows you to experience the breadth of culinary offerings. For those seeking specific dietary options, while menus vary, many restaurants are accommodating, and checking online menus or calling ahead is recommended. The lively atmosphere, especially during evenings, enhances the dining experience, making it a popular choice for date nights and group outings.
Beyond the main dining establishments, Overton Square also features spots for sweet treats and casual bites. The mention of a candy store and ice cream adds to the overall appeal for a complete culinary journey. The concentration of Memphis overton square restaurants makes it a prime location for exploring the local food scene.
Entertainment Hub: Live Performance and Movies
During warmer months, Overton Square transforms into an open-air cinema with its popular free movie nights, typically held on Thursdays. These events are a beloved community gathering, encouraging visitors to bring blankets or chairs and enjoy films under the stars. It's a fantastic, budget-friendly way to experience the square's vibrant atmosphere. The lively ambiance of the square, especially in the evenings, makes these movie nights a memorable experience.
Beyond theater and movies, Overton Square has a history of hosting live music and various festivals, contributing to its reputation as a dynamic entertainment district. Events like Latin Fest and fall festivals add to the square's appeal, showcasing diverse cultural expressions and community engagement. The things to do in overton square memphis are plentiful, catering to a wide range of interests and ages.
A Vibrant Community Space
The square also features unique artistic elements, such as a beautiful light installation in the hallway, which adds a touch of wonder and provides a visually appealing backdrop for visitors. This artistic touch contributes to the overall ambiance and offers a delightful surprise for those exploring the area. The community's pride in Overton Square is evident, with local businesses frequently nominated for awards, reflecting the area's vitality and contribution to Memphis.
Efforts to maintain the beauty of the area are also visible, with community clean-up initiatives like those organized by Litter Buggies taking place in Overton Square. This collective care underscores the residents' dedication to preserving and enhancing this beloved midtown memphis restaurants overton square hub.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit