Overton Park Memphis - A neon sign that is on the side of a building
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Overton Park Memphis

4.6
·8k reviews·Memphis, United States

Memphis's green heart, offering a historic Shell, a renowned zoo, ancient forests, and vibrant community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall evenings

Pleasant weather for concerts

CrowdMedium
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Overton Park Memphis - A neon sign that is on the side of a building

Overton Park Memphis

Best Time

Spring & Fall evenings

Pleasant weather for concerts

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Memphis's green heart, offering a historic Shell, a renowned zoo, ancient forests, and vibrant community events.

4.6
(8k reviews)

"A beautiful park in a very nice part of town with lots of walking, jogging, and backing paths."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Tips

Carpool or rideshare for popular events. Arrive early for best spots!

🎶 Free Concerts

Check the Overton Park Shell schedule for free concerts, especially in fall.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Overton Park Shell

Overton Park Shell

Amphitheater

Iconic outdoor venue hosting free concerts and performances. A must-visit for music lovers!

Memphis Zoo

Memphis Zoo

Within Overton Park

A well-maintained zoo with impressive, state-of-the-art enclosures and diverse animal exhibits.

Old Forest State Natural Area

Old Forest State Natural Area

Northern section of the park

Explore 126 acres of old-growth forest with marked trails for walking and nature observation.

The Greensward

The Greensward

Central open field

A vast, open green space perfect for picnics, frisbee, or simply relaxing under the sun.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors & Events

Overton Park is a sprawling urban oasis offering diverse activities from nature trails to live music. Check the schedule for free concerts at the Overton Park Shell, especially during warmer months. Consider visiting during a festival like Memphis Pride or the Mushroom Festival for a vibrant experience. TikTokInstagram+3

Plan for Parking & Crowds

While many events are free, parking can be challenging, especially during popular concerts or festivals. Carpooling or using ride-sharing services is highly recommended. Instagram Arrive early to secure a spot, or be prepared for a short walk. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall evenings
Why
Pleasant weather for concerts
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Great for zoo & park exploration
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter park experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Join us this weekend for the Rainbow Dash 5k Walk & Run in Overton Park! Sat Sept 27th the race starts at 10a!! #memphis #5k #overtonpark #fyp #CapCut
@memphispride
12 likes • 171 views

🚗 Parking Tips

Carpool or rideshare for popular events. Arrive early for best spots! InstagramReddit

🎶 Free Concerts

Check the Overton Park Shell schedule for free concerts, especially in fall. TikTok+2

LIVE 7PM AT @Overton Park Shell THIS SATURDAY 9/13/25! SEE YALL THERE MEMPHIS!
@big.lukah
68 likes • 1.1K views
🙏 Honoring the City of Memphis National Day of Prayer at Overton Park Shell, on May 1st — a powerful evening of unity, reflection, and community. Together, we lifted our voices in prayer, with a special focus on our youth — asking for guidance, protection, and strength for the next generation as they navigate a complex world. May they rise with courage, character, and purpose. Thank you Dr. Regin...
officeofyouthservices
65 likes • 1.6K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! Explore trails or visit the dog park. TikTokInstagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Pack a lunch and enjoy the many open spaces and picnic areas. Reddit

Overton Park Shell, Memphis #memphis #thingstodoinmemphis #overtonpark #overton #ilovememphis #memphisevents
farfromhomechronicles
0 likes • 508 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Tips

Carpool or rideshare for popular events. Arrive early for best spots! InstagramReddit

🎶 Free Concerts

Check the Overton Park Shell schedule for free concerts, especially in fall. TikTok+2

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! Explore trails or visit the dog park. TikTokInstagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Pack a lunch and enjoy the many open spaces and picnic areas. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Overton Park is widely praised as a beautiful, free urban oasis offering diverse activities for all ages. Visitors love the variety, from the historic Shell concerts and the well-maintained zoo to the serene Old Forest trails. While parking can be a challenge during events, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its value as a community hub and natural retreat.

"Overton Park is a great outdoor spot to spend with family that doesn’t cost anything. Pack a lunch and enjoy the entire day! So many activities that are fun for people of all ages. Even if you just want to sit and watch the little ones discover new ways to have fun without their devices."

Linda Johnson

"This was an awesome zoo. My wife loves zoos and we see a lot of them. The facility was impressive and well maintained. The enclosures are very state of the art and do justice to the natural habitat of the animals. The price was very reasonable and they have price reciprocal agreement with A.Z.A. zoo memberships."

jim r

"From the museum and majestic trees to golf - Overton Park brings it all together. The free concerts are so much fun! And what an honor to gather where Elvis had his first public gig. I come here often to explore. Love the trails! It's great to see how active Memphians are here."

Travel Babe IG: jenny.soulwind

What People Like

Free entry and activities
Variety of attractions
Historic Overton Park Shell

What People Dislike

Limited parking during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Overton Park is located in Midtown Memphis. It's easily accessible by car, with several entrances off Poplar Avenue and North Parkway. Public transportation options are also available via Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) buses. TikTok+1

Parking can be limited, especially during events. There are several lots within the park, but they fill up quickly. Consider carpooling, using ride-sharing services, or arriving early. InstagramReddit

Yes, several MATA bus routes serve Overton Park, making it accessible for those without a car. Check the MATA website for specific route information and schedules. TikTok

Absolutely! Overton Park is bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and ample space to lock up your bike. It's a popular destination for cyclists in Memphis. TikTok

For the Overton Park Shell, parking is available in the main lots, but it's often best to arrive early or consider parking on nearby streets and walking a short distance. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Overton Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, specific attractions within the park, like the Memphis Zoo, have their own admission fees. Reddit

Many concerts at the Overton Park Shell are free, especially during series like the Orion Free Concert Series. However, some special ticketed events may also be held. Always check the official schedule. TikTok+1

Overton Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific attractions within the park, such as the Memphis Zoo, have their own set operating hours. Instagram

Yes, picnicking is highly encouraged! You can bring your own food, non-alcoholic beverages, and blankets to enjoy in the park's many open spaces. Reddit

Overton Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including free concerts, festivals like the Memphis Pride Festival and Memphis Mushroom Festival, and community gatherings. TikTokInstagram+3

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the Memphis Zoo, the Overton Park Shell (an outdoor amphitheater), the Old Forest State Natural Area, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, playgrounds, and a golf course. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Overton Park features numerous walking trails, including paved paths and unpaved trails through the Old Forest. They are well-marked for exploration. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Overton Park offers two playgrounds, the Memphis Zoo, and plenty of open space for kids to run and play. It's a fantastic family-friendly destination. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, leashed dogs are welcome in most areas of Overton Park. There's also a dedicated dog park for them to enjoy off-leash play. TikTokInstagram

The Overton Park Shell is historically significant as the venue where Elvis Presley played his first paid gig in 1954, launching his legendary career. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there aren't extensive restaurant facilities directly within Overton Park, there are concessions available at the Memphis Zoo. Many visitors opt to bring their own food for picnics. Reddit

The areas surrounding Overton Park, particularly Midtown and Cooper Young, offer a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Reddit

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity in Overton Park. There are many open grassy areas and designated picnic spots perfect for a meal outdoors. Reddit

Food trucks are often present at larger events and festivals held in Overton Park, offering diverse culinary choices. TikTokInstagram

The Memphis Mushroom Festival typically features local food vendors offering a variety of options, often including unique mushroom-inspired dishes and other local treats. TikTokInstagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Overton Park Shell, the formal gardens, the Old Forest trails, and the Memphis Zoo offer excellent photographic opportunities. The park at dusk is also beautiful. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Memphis Zoo for personal use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibits to protect the animals. Reddit

Personal photography is usually permitted during concerts at the Overton Park Shell, but professional photography or videography may require special permits. TikTokInstagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade of the Old Forest provides good options. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check with park authorities for specific regulations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Overton Park is a paradise for families! Beyond the two fantastic playgrounds, the Memphis Zoo offers hours of animal encounters. TikTok+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy on The Greensward, or let the kids burn off energy exploring the open fields. Reddit The park's vastness means there's always something new to discover, making it a perfect spot for a full day of affordable family fun. TikTokReddit

🎵 Music Enthusiasts

For music lovers, the Overton Park Shell is an absolute must-visit. Catch free concerts during the Orion Free Concert Series or check for other ticketed performances. TikTok+2 Immerse yourself in the history of this iconic venue, where Elvis Presley played his first paid gig. Instagram The Shell offers a unique opportunity to experience live music in a beautiful outdoor setting, often with a vibrant community atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

🐶 Dog Owners

Overton Park is a dog-friendly haven! Your furry friends are welcome on a leash throughout most of the park, allowing them to enjoy the trails and open spaces alongside you. TikTokInstagram For off-leash fun, head to the dedicated dog park, where pups can socialize and play freely. Instagram It's a great place for dogs to get their exercise and for owners to connect with other pet lovers in the community. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Overton Park Shell

The Overton Park Shell is more than just an amphitheater; it's a cornerstone of Memphis's musical heritage. Famously, it was here in 1954 that a young Elvis Presley played his first paid public performance, a moment that would echo through music history. Instagram Today, the Shell continues this legacy by hosting a vibrant array of events, most notably the Orion Free Concert Series, which draws crowds throughout the spring and fall. TikTok+2 Visitors can experience everything from local bands to touring artists, all within a beautiful, natural setting. The atmosphere during a free concert, with families and friends gathered on the lawn, is truly special. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the free concerts, the Shell also hosts ticketed events and has been a venue for significant cultural moments, including the National Day of Prayer. Instagram Its iconic curved stage and surrounding greenery make it a picturesque spot, whether you're there for a performance or just to soak in the history. Instagram The Shell is a testament to Memphis's enduring love affair with music and community gathering. Instagram

Exploring the Old Forest State Natural Area

Step into a different world within Overton Park by exploring the Old Forest State Natural Area. This 126-acre tract is one of the few remaining old-growth urban forests in the country, offering a serene escape from the city bustle. TikTokInstagram Marked trails wind through towering trees, providing opportunities for peaceful walks, birdwatching, and nature photography. TikTokReddit The forest floor is carpeted with native plants, and the mature canopy creates a cool, shaded environment even on the hottest days. TikTok

Navigating the Old Forest is straightforward, with clearly marked paths that cater to various fitness levels. Reddit It’s a fantastic place to connect with nature, observe local flora and fauna, and appreciate the importance of preserving urban green spaces. TikTok Many visitors find the tranquility of the Old Forest to be a highlight of their Overton Park visit, offering a stark contrast to the more active areas of the park. TikTok

Family Fun at Overton Park

Overton Park is a dream destination for families, offering a wealth of activities to keep children entertained and engaged. The park boasts two well-equipped playgrounds, providing ample space for kids to climb, slide, and swing. TikTok+1 Adjacent to these are open fields like The Greensward, perfect for running, playing frisbee, or enjoying a family picnic. TikTokReddit

The Memphis Zoo, located within the park, is a major draw for families. It features impressive enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats and a diverse collection of animals that captivate visitors of all ages. Reddit The zoo's reasonable admission prices and reciprocal agreements with other AZA zoos make it an accessible outing. Reddit With so much to see and do, Overton Park provides a cost-effective and enjoyable way for families to spend a full day outdoors, encouraging active play and discovery away from screens. TikTokReddit

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