Things to do in Memphis, Tennessee with kids

Dubbed as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ’n Roll, the city of Memphis will not disappoint in serenading its way to be your new favorite family destination.

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Explore the gorgeous gardens and breathtaking landscapes along the rivers and lakes, take a walk back in time with the amazing museums and children attractions that’ll leave you wanting for more.

You won’t leave this city without a fresh and brand new perspective of music, as you walk past the roads, houses and recording studios where iconic and legendary artists once frequented.

Don’t miss a beat with all the must-visit sites and places with our list of the most fun things to do in Memphis with kids.

1. Fire Museum of Memphis — Downtown Memphis

Fire Museum Of Memphis — Downtown Memphis

118 Adams Ave
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 636-5650

The Fire Museum of Memphis is a non-profit organization dedicated in promoting education to everyone about fires, disaster risk prevention and ultimately preserving the heritage of the fire service and its contribution to the community.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The Fire Museum of Memphis is one of the best places to take kids in Memphis for informative, interactive and entertaining exhibits that’ll show you the ropes of how to fight fire with knowledge.

A touching exhibit inside the museum we recommend visiting is known as the memorial wall located in a special kiosk with an interactive computer program.

Listen in the archive are all the unsung heroes who lost their lives while fighting a fire.

The Fire Museum of Memphis is a must visit for families with children aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Big Cypress Lodge

2. Sun Studio — Medical District

Sun Studio — Medical District

706 Union Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 521-0664

Click Here To See Ticket Price

Famously known as a recording studio opened by rock-and-roll pioneer Sam Phillips, the Sun Studio takes you on a musical journey down memory lane.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The place that gave birth to the beginning of Elvis Presley’s legendary career.

This studio is where 18-year-old Elvis recorded his first song.

Today, Sun Studio still keeps the ball rolling as a recording studio in the evenings, and is open in hosting public tours and educational excursions during daytime hours with the best guides the city has to offer.

The Sun Studio is a great opportunity to explore the rich musical history with the whole family and they offer free admission for children aged 5 to 11.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: River Inn of Harbor Town

3. America’s Incredible Pizza Company — East Memphis

America’s Incredible Pizza Company — East Memphis

1245 N Germantown Pkwy Suite 104
Cordova, TN 38016
(901) 309-3132

Pizza, snacks, and arcade games?

Sounds like a plan!

Have an amazing family-bonding experience with America’s Incredible Pizza Company.

Why We Recommend This Activity

America’s Incredible Pizza Company is one of the best destinations for cheap family-fun in the whole city of Memphis.

Offering a variety of kids activities that’ll keep the kiddos entertained for hours and hours.

From indoor go-karts, laser tag, spinning roller coaster ride and even an XD theater along with over 80 other arcade games, this entertainment center is a definite must visit for families looking for a great time.

We highly recommend America’s Incredible Pizza Company to tribes with children aged 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Galleria Inn & Suites

Also See:
Things for Kids to Do in Nashville
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4. Memphis Zoo — Overton Park

Memphis Zoo — Overton Park

2000 Prentiss Pl
Memphis, TN 38112
(901) 333-6500

The Memphis Zoo is one of the city’s best attractions for kids looking for a close and live encounter with the beautiful and intelligent animals that inhabit the area.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Home to more than 3500 animals in over 500 species, the Memphis Zoo sets you up on an amazing experience with the different majestic and magnificent creatures inside a wide array of designated habitats.

With the plethora of exhibits inside, there’s so many sites and options to choose from but we definitely recommend paying a visit to the China Pavilion of the zoo for a charming encounter with the famous and adorable pandas.

This fun family-friendly visit to the Memphis Zoo is highly recommended for tribes with tykes aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Guest House at Graceland

Related: Best Things to Do in Memphis

5. Memphis Music Hall of Fame — Beale Street Entertainment

Memphis Music Hall Of Fame — Beale Street Entertainment

126 S 2nd St,
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 205-2532

Click Here To See Ticket Price

The Memphis Hall of Fame honors Memphis musicians for their lifetime hard-earned achievements and contributions in music.

Why We Recommend This Activity

This hall features some of the most amazing and legendary artists Memphis has to offer and will give you an amazing tour around the rich history deeply-rooted in the hearts of the people of this city.

The Memphis Music Hall of Fame honors old and new artists alike and is a great visit for families wondering what to do in Memphis with kids.

We definitely recommend visiting during the months of October and November to witness the induction ceremony and concert that has become a famous tradition in the city and is an annual celebration in Memphis.

The Memphis Music Hall of Fame is bound to be a hit with rising little stars aged 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo – Memphis Downtown

6. Museum of Science & History Pink Palace — Chickasaw Gardens

Museum of Science & History Pink Palace — Chickasaw Gardens

3050 Central Ave
Memphis, TN 38111
(901) 636-2362

Wade through Memphis’ tedious journey from the time of Spanish explorers through the Civil War and the yellow fever epidemics.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Explore the rich cultural and natural history of the Mid-South through the Museum of Science & History Pink Palace’s exciting exhibits, impressive dioramas, and in-depth audio-visuals.

Enjoy this living time capsule with the whole family as you get a glimpse of the past with the different well-preserved objects and artifacts, and maybe even watch a movie on the museum’s movie theatre for a truly immersive experience.

Museum of Science & History Pink Palace is one of the best things to do in Memphis with kids aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Napoleon, Ascend Hotel Collection

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7. Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park — Shelby Farms Park

Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park — Shelby Farms Park

651 N Pine Lake Dr
Memphis, TN 38134
(800) 971-8271

Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park is a thrilling, heart racing and adrenaline-inducing experience deep in the wilderness.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Face the different exciting activities inside this adventure park like dangling and inverted obstacles, get a chance to explore the trees from a whole new perspective while you zoom through and fly around on multiple ziplines for a cool and unforgettable experience.

If you’re looking for outdoor family things to do for a fresh take on your vacation, then the Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park is a perfect opportunity for you.

Go Ace Ziplines & Adventure Park is the perfect place to have fun for teens and older kids aged 10 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Memphis Germantown

Related: Best Beaches Near Memphis, TN

8. American Queen Steamboat Company — One Commerce Square

American Queen Steamboat Company — One Commerce Square

40 S Main St
Memphis, TN 38103
(888) 749-5280

Built all the way back in 1995, the American Queen Steamboat is a six-deck recreation of a classic Mississippi riverboat that offers loads of amusing and entertaining activities for the whole family.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Have a quiet and peaceful cruise across the rivers of Memphis as you get a full show of gorgeous landscapes, pristine waters and a cool breath of fresh air.

Embark on an amazing journey with the whole tribe as you enjoy the waters with world-class food, amazing entertainment and bring home an unforgettable experience, heightened understanding and an enlightened perspective of the history of the city.

We recommend an entertaining cruise across Memphis’ rivers with the American Queen Steamboat Company to families slightly older kiddos aged 7 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Memphis Beale Street

Related: Best Restaurants in Memphis

9. Stax Museum of American Soul Music — South Memphis

Stax Museum Of American Soul Music — South Memphis

926 E McLemore Ave
Memphis, TN 38126
(901) 261-6338

Click Here To See Ticket Price

Searching for some specific family activities in Memphis that’ll satisfy your cravings for an authentic experience?

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music offers a unique trip through the soulful musical genre of the city.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Plunge into the deep and inspirational stories behind the moving history of soul music strongly ingrained in Memphis.

Explore the different exhibits like the Hallowed Ground, Wall of Sound and have a great time on the Express Yourself dance floor attraction where you can move and grove to all the iconic songs and Stax tracks this museum has in store.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a fun and inspiring experience for tribes with youngsters aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn Airport

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10. The Peabody Memphis — Downtown Memphis

The Peabody Memphis — Downtown Memphis

118 S 2nd St
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 529-4000

The Peabody Memphis is one of the most famous landmarks in the city for its amazing interior and infrastructure in all its 13-storey glory.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Be enthralled by the marble-columned lobby once you enter and be welcomed by the resident ducks—whose daily parade to the hall’s fountain is a vital, quirky and entertaining tradition dating all the way back from 1933.

Paying a visit or staying at the Peabody Memphis is one of the best stops for any family this weekend featuring an indoor pool and exquisite French and Italian cuisine, you’re bound for an amazing getaway.

The Peabody Memphis welcomes and is open to kiddos of all ages.

11. AutoZone Park — Downtown Memphis

Autozone Park — Downtown Memphis

200 Union Ave
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 721-6000

Known as a Minor League Baseball stadium located in the heart of downtown Memphis, the AutoZone Park is perfect for families wanting to witness the thrill and entertainment of live sports games.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The AutoZone Park is a well-maintained outdoor space with clean facilities and accessible concession stands for a convenient trip.

When you get the chance to visit, we definitely recommend booking a ticket to watch a game and get the full and authentic experience of the competitive and high spirits of the people of Memphis.

Watching a game at the AutoZone Park is a family-friendly activity we recommend to youngsters aged 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo – Memphis Downtown

Also See:
Things to Do in Johnson City, TN with Kids
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12. Memphis Botanic Garden — Audubon Park

Memphis Botanic Garden — Audubon Park

750 Cherry Rd
Memphis, TN 38117
(901) 636-4100

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a 96-acre botanical garden perfect for families travelling with a baby looking for a peaceful and calming walk around in tree-covered parks and trails.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Get ready to be captivated by all the beautiful landscapes, gorgeous flowers and serenity-filled environment of the Memphis Botanic Garden with the whole family.

Whether it’s having a lovely picnic or simply enjoying the beautiful trails these gardens have to offer, along with the different cafes and restaurants that line the park for a savory experience in the middle of the aesthetically-pleasing setting.

The Memphis Botanic Garden is one of the best free kid-friendly things to do in Memphis which is open and highly recommended for families with kiddos of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta ES Suites Memphis

Related: Things to Do Near Memphis

13. National Civil Rights Museum — Downtown Memphis

National Civil Rights Museum — Downtown Memphis

450 Mulberry St
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 521-9699

Featuring a complex of museums and historic buildings in Memphis, the National Civil Rights Museum takes you on a trip on the milestones of American History with rights and freedom.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Renowned as one of America’s premier heritage and cultural museums, the National Civil Rights Museum explores a relevant period in history on how freedom and rights were fought by our ancestors.

With a mission to continue sharing the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement, this museum offers an amazing new perspective of history.

We recommend visiting the National Civil Rights Museum to families with kiddoes aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: MOXY Memphis Downtown

14. The Children’s Museum of Memphis — Midtown Memphis

The Children’s Museum Of Memphis — Midtown Memphis

2525 Central Ave
Memphis, TN 38104
(901) 458-2678

If you’re searching for things to do in Memphis with toddlers, then look no further than the Children’s Museum of Memphis.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Be ready to create memorable learning experiences through a wide array of hands-on exhibits and educational programs inside this museum dedicated to children and the whole family.

Watch the youngsters learn and play in a safe environment.

They can try the role of a pilot, dentist, ballerina, firefighter and many more.

Several interactive exhibits will help and facilitate creativity, imagination, problem-solving skills, and even help the kiddos’ build vocabulary with all the challenges and activities specifically tailored for them.

The Children’s Museum of Memphis is a destination we highly recommend to tribes with tykes aged 3 to 10.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Memphis-University of Memphis

15. Graceland — Whitehaven

Graceland — Whitehaven

Elvis Presley Blvd
Memphis, TN 38116
(901) 332-3322

Graceland is a mansion on a 13.8-acre estate in Memphis that was previously owned by the world-renowned Elvis Presley.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Paying a visit to the Graceland Mansion is one of the most fun things to do in Memphis with kids as you get enchanted by the beautiful and stunning interior design of the mansion filled with a variety of items that were also previously owned by Elvis.

Explore the legacy of Elvis Presley with an interactive iPad tour of the Graceland Mansion that is hosted by John Stamos which even features recorded commentaries and stories by Elvis and his daughter, Lisa Marie.

Learning all you need to know about the iconic artist Elvis Presley at the Graceland mansion is a fun family bonding experience for children aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Guest House at Graceland

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Fun Things To Do In Memphis With Kids
  • Fire Museum of Memphis — Downtown Memphis
  • Sun Studio — Medical District
  • America’s Incredible Pizza Company — East Memphis
  • Memphis Zoo — Overton Park
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame — Beale Street Entertainment
  • Museum of Science & History Pink Palace — Chickasaw Gardens
  • Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park — Shelby Farms Park
  • American Queen Steamboat Company — One Commerce Square
  • Stax Museum of American Soul Music — South Memphis
  • The Peabody Memphis — Downtown Memphis
  • AutoZone Park — Downtown Memphis
  • Memphis Botanic Garden — Audubon Park
  • National Civil Rights Museum — Downtown Memphis
  • The Children’s Museum of Memphis — Midtown Memphis
  • Graceland — Whitehaven

15 Fun Things to Do in Memphis with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Is Memphis a good place to visit with kids?

Memphis' family-friendly attractions include hands-on museums that mix learning with play like the Fire Museum and Children's Museum, iconic experiences like marching ducks at The Peabody, Beale Street strolls and riverboat rides, award-winning Memphis Zoo, outdoor adventures for every age and more.

Can kids walk on Beale Street?

Beale Street Curfew Beale Street is known for its music and clubs. We discovered that a lot of clubs are actually restaurants and are family friendly during the day and early evening. Officially, after 9 PM, all Beale Street visitors must be either 21 or accompanied by a parent.

Is Memphis or Nashville better for kids?

Memphis and Nashville are both fun destinations for the whole family. Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden. Nashville is a family-friendly place to visit.

How do people spend 3 days in Memphis?

Memphis Botanic Garden.
Sun Studio. 706 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103-3218..
National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel. 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103-4214..
Beale Street. Memphis, TN 38103..
Statue of Elvis. ... .
Itta Bena. ... .
Graceland. ... .
Mud Island River Park. ... .
Mississippi River Museum at Mud Island..