Mississippi River Park - a river running through a lush green forest
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Mississippi River Park

4.6
·981 reviews·Memphis, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
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Mississippi River Park - a river running through a lush green forest

Mississippi River Park

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(981 reviews)

"One of the coolest places I've been since I've been here in Memphis, such cool and informative places."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tom Lee Park

Tom Lee Park

Downtown Memphis

Recently reconstructed park designed for resilience, recreation, and community events along the Mississippi River.

Mud Island River Park

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

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

The Memphis Sign

Mud Island River Park

An iconic spot for photos with the Mississippi River and downtown Memphis skyline as your backdrop.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Riverfront

The Mississippi River Park offers stunning views and recreational opportunities. Plan to explore the revitalized Tom Lee Park, known for its resilience against flooding and community amenities. Consider visiting Mud Island River Park for its unique scale model of the Mississippi River.

Timing is Key for Views

For the best experience, aim for sunrise or sunset to capture the magical light on the Mississippi River. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of the parks and trails.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Fall & Spring
Why
Pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#raley #wakeboarding #memphis #mississippiriver #memphispyramid
@justincrawford04
2.8K likes • 46.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Riverwalk

Enjoy scenic paths for running or biking with stunning river and skyline views. Very safe! Reddit

📸 Snap the Memphis Sign

Don't miss the iconic Memphis sign at Mud Island for great photos with the river backdrop. TikTok

It’s always a good idea to take the scenic route 🌳🚣‍♂️ You can discover Memphis naturally here⬇️ MISSISSIPPI RIVER EXPEDITIONS WOLF RIVER BEACH OVERTON PARK 📸 @overtonpark TOM LEE PARK SHELBY FARMS PARK BIG RIVER CROSSING MEEMAN-SHELBY FOREST PARK Click the link in bio for even more ways to enjoy the outdoors✨ Where’s your fave outdoor oasis in Memphis? #memphis #mustbememphis #outdoors #park #...
@memphistravel
371 likes • 16.9K views
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park 📍10360 West River Road, Brooklyn Park The Treetop Trail stretches over 900 feet into the treetops and extends over the wetland, offering stunning views of the park. The Treetop Trail is accessible and can be entered near the Gateway Center. The Hillside Play Area features a variety of activities for all ages, including slides, climbing rocks and nature play ...
mnbucketlistmom
6.7K likes • 247.2K views

💧 Explore Mud Island Model

Discover the unique 2km scale model of the Mississippi River at Mud Island River Park. TikTok

🌳 Tom Lee Park's Resilience

Experience the newly reconstructed Tom Lee Park, built to handle floods and offer community amenities. TikTok

Mississippi Gateway Regional Park got a MAJOR glow-up ✨ Here’s what’s new + perfect for your next family day: 🌲 Treetop Trail with epic river views 🛝 Nature Play + Mini-Mississippi splash zone (water play area is seasonal) 🏹 Archery range & 6-acre dog park 🎣 Fishing (poles + bait at Gateway Center!) 🚲 Stroller-friendly trails + bike rentals Go early on a weekend or go on a weekday when it’s a li...
girlof10000lakes
156 likes • 5.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Riverwalk

Enjoy scenic paths for running or biking with stunning river and skyline views. Very safe! Reddit

📸 Snap the Memphis Sign

Don't miss the iconic Memphis sign at Mud Island for great photos with the river backdrop. TikTok

💧 Explore Mud Island Model

Discover the unique 2km scale model of the Mississippi River at Mud Island River Park. TikTok

🌳 Tom Lee Park's Resilience

Experience the newly reconstructed Tom Lee Park, built to handle floods and offer community amenities. TikTok

☀️ Pack for the Sun

Bring sunscreen and water, especially during warmer months, as there's limited shade in some areas. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(981 reviews)

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

Stunning river views
Informative river model
Revitalized Tom Lee Park

What People Dislike

Bathrooms sometimes locked
Long walk to sign

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Mud Island River Park is accessible by car, with parking available. You can also walk or bike to it from other downtown riverfront areas. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Entry to Mud Island River Park itself is typically free, allowing access to the scale model of the Mississippi River and the Memphis sign. TikTok

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. TikTok

Tom Lee Park has been specifically reconstructed to be resilient and manage flooding, allowing for continued access and use even during high water events. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ 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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+1

Yes, Tom Lee Park has a large, sturdy playground designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wooden and rope structures. TikTok

It appears fishing from the riverbank might be possible in some areas of the park, though regulations should be checked. Reddit

Restrooms are available in the park areas, though they may be locked at times. It's advisable to check their status upon arrival. TikTok

📸 📸 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. TikTokReddit

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the river and city skyline. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families will love the revitalized Tom Lee Park, which features a large, accessible playground designed with safety and fun in mind. The park's open spaces are perfect for picnics and letting kids burn off energy. TikTok

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. TikTok

🏃‍♀️ Runners & Cyclists

The Mississippi River Park is a dream for runners and cyclists. The Riverwalk offers miles of paved paths with stunning views, making it ideal for both morning jogs and evening rides. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find ample opportunities along the Mississippi Riverfront. The Memphis sign at Mud Island is an iconic spot, especially during golden hour. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mississippi River Scale Model at Mud Island

Mud Island River Park is home to a truly unique attraction: a 2-kilometer scale model of the Mississippi River. This impressive model meticulously replicates the river's twists and turns, showcasing the various towns, cities, and geographical features it passes through on its journey. It's an incredibly educational experience, allowing visitors to visualize the immense scale and importance of this vital waterway. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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

Tom Lee Park, located on the Memphis riverfront, has undergone a significant transformation to become a resilient and vibrant public space. The recent reconstruction focused on enabling the park to better manage the Mississippi River's natural fluctuations, including flooding, while also enhancing its recreational offerings for the community. TikTok+2

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. TikTok

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

For active visitors, the Mississippi River Park offers an excellent network of paths perfect for running and biking. The Riverwalk, in particular, provides a safe and scenic route with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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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