10 Best Family-Friendly Things to Do In Memphis This Summer

1. Memphis Museum of Science & History

The Memphis Museum of Science and History, also known as the Pink Palace, the Pink Palace Mansion, or the Pink Palace Museum, is one of Memphis’s most cherished organizations. It has a broad spectrum of activities, exhibits, and changing attractions that captivate inquisitive visitors of all ages. Below are just some of the things offered at this incredible museum:

• Piggly Wiggly: You can take your little ones “shopping” at an old-fashioned Piggly Wiggly, the first self-service grocery store!

• Mission Astronaut: Starting June 8th, this exhibit will offer an out-of-this-world experience for aspiring astronauts. This interactive journey simulates the thrilling challenges of space exploration, providing an educational adventure that’s both fun and inspiring.

• Planetarium: You don’t miss this state-of-the-art theater that projects images of stars, planets, and constellations on the inner surface of a dome. The immersive planetarium shows take you on a celestial journey through the cosmos. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that’s perfect for stargazers of all ages.

• Giant Screen Theater: Tired of seeing the same old remakes or sequels in traditional movie theaters? Don’t want to stream something again? Check out the Museum of Science and History’s CTI 3D Giant Screen Theater. They put on stunning documentaries, classic kid-friendly movies (such as Spirited Away on June 15th), and even screenings of films that have showcased local Memphians on a huge, high-quality screen with unbeatable audio quality. It really takes movie night up a notch!

All throughout the summer, the Museum of Science and History will host an assortment of special programs devised to engage families. Interactive workshops, live science demonstrations, and themed events offer fun and educational value. Be sure to check their calendar and website for these exciting seasonal or occasional events!

2. Overton Park & Overton Square

A short seven- to ten-minute drive from the Pink Palace are Overton Park and Overton Square! Together, the two offer Memphians a delightful blend of nature, culture, and entertainment, perfect for families seeking a fun-filled day out. This lively area has something for everyone, making it a great place to visit this summer.

• Paint & Picnic

• Children’s Ranger Programs

• Free concerts at the Levitt Shell

• Playhouse on the Square Theater

• Free movie screenings on the Square

• & more!

Review the appropriate calendar for dates, times, rules, age ranges, and sign-up sheets!

3. Fire Museum of Memphis

Did you know that in the heart of downtown, you can get a fascinating glimpse into the history and heroism of firefighting? At the Fire Museum of Memphis, your family can explore exhibits showcasing historic fire engines, gear, and equipment, giving you a sense of how firefighting has evolved.

The museum’s interactive displays, like the Fire Safety House, teach kids about fire prevention and safety in a fun and engaging way. Kids will have a blast climbing onto a real fire truck and pretending to be a firefighter.

This museum is a must-visit for a day filled with excitement and learning.

4. Memphis Zoo

Number four on our list is the Memphis Zoo. Known as one of the best zoos around, this award-winning zoo houses 3,500 animals and will give the entire family a day you won’t soon forget!

On top of their spectacular “regular” setup that includes viewing all the animals and feeding giraffes, the Memphis Zoo also has one-of-a-kind events like Zoom Through The Zoo, Picnic for Pachyderms, and Dino Park! And, for kids and families particularly interested in learning about wildlife, the zoo has many educational programs throughout the summer that will surely fuel and nurture that passion!

5. Memphis Botanic Garden and Dixon Gallery & Gardens

Okay, okay—Memphis Botanic Garden and Dixon Gallery and Gardens are technically two different things to do in Memphis, but we couldn’t leave one out! They’re both tremendous, family-friendly options for nature and art lovers!

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a beautiful oasis delivering a myriad of activities for visitors of all ages. One of the garden’s most popular attractions for families is “My Big Backyard,” a whimsical, expansive, 2.5-acre space designed for children.

During the summer, the garden frequently offers free admission days, making it easy and affordable for families to enjoy its lush landscapes and diverse plant collections. Scan their calendar every so often for special dates and plan your visit accordingly so you don’t miss out on things like mushroom chimes, summer camps, and photography workshops.

A two-minute drive away is the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, also known as the Dixon Galleries. Also a beautiful oasis, the Dixon Gallery & Gardens combines art and nature in a delightful setting perfect for a family outing. The gardens are known for their stunning seasonal displays and serene walking paths, making them an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll or a day of nature appreciation.

They host many family-friendly events, such as the Mini Masters art class, Food Truck Fridays, Project Popups, and more, so don’t forget to check their calendar, too!

6. The Art Project

If you and your kids love creating but hate cleaning up, you’re just like us! That’s why The Art Project is a wonderful place to go. Your child can create one-of-a-kind art, and you don’t have to clean it up after! With various materials, from paints and clay to collage supplies and more, and instructional classes available, there’s something to spark the imagination of every artist.

We guarantee that your smile will light up while watching your kids be encouraged to experiment and explore their artistic side without pressure to be neat and clean. The Art Project’s focus on creativity and fun makes it an ideal spot for a family outing, providing a unique opportunity to bond over shared artistic endeavors.

7. The Children’s Museum

The Children’s Museum of Memphis is a haven for young explorers, offering a plethora of interactive exhibits and activities designed to inspire curiosity and learning. This dynamic museum is a favorite destination for families, providing endless opportunities for hands-on fun.

One of the most popular attractions is the “Waterworks” exhibit, where children can learn about the science of water through engaging, splash-filled activities. Another highlight is the “CMOM TV News Studio,” where kids can step into the shoes of a news anchor or meteorologist, experiencing the excitement of a live broadcast. The museum also features a real airplane cockpit and a fire engine, allowing children to climb aboard and explore these fascinating vehicles.

You will likely appreciate the museum’s thoughtful design, which includes plenty of seating areas and convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The museum’s outdoor play space with a splash pad and climbing structures is perfect for burning off some extra energy.

Throughout the summer, The Children’s Museum of Memphis has a variety of special programs and camps, like themed camps that cover everything from art and science to theater and technology. Be sure to check their schedule for these enriching summer activities!

8. Memphis Escape Rooms

Looking for a thrilling family adventure? Memphis Escape Rooms offers an exciting and interactive experience that’s perfect for groups of all ages.

Each themed room presents unique puzzles and challenges that require teamwork and quick problem-solving. With options ranging from haunted houses to discovering magical secrets, there’s a storyline to captivate everyone.

The immersive environments and clever clues make for a fun and memorable outing. Whether your family are seasoned escape artists or first-timers, Memphis Escape Rooms provides an exhilarating experience that brings families closer together as they work against the clock to escape.

9. Memphis Redbirds

Watch America’s pastime at the Autozone Park in Downtown Memphis! A Memphis Redbirds game is always a fun-filled family outing! The beloved minor league baseball ballpark’s family-friendly atmosphere includes exciting promotions, themed nights, and interactive activities for kids.

Enjoy classic ballpark snacks while cheering on the team from comfortable seats with great views of the action. Special events like fireworks displays and kids’ run-the-bases nights add extra excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just want to get out of the house, a Redbirds game is an engaging and entertaining experience for the whole family.

10. K1 Speed

For an adrenaline-pumping family adventure, visit K1 Speed. This premier go-kart racing facility gives high-speed thrills in a safe and controlled environment.

With junior karts available, kids can experience the excitement of racing just like the adults. The track features state-of-the-art electric karts that can reach up to 45 mph, providing an exhilarating experience for everyone. K1 Speed is an unforgettable destination for family fun and friendly competition.

Your Memphis Experts In Real Estate

Ready to make the most of your summer in Memphis? With so many family-friendly activities to choose from, you’ll have no trouble keeping everyone entertained.

If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in the Memphis, TN, area, we're the best Memphis agent to help! Our team is dedicated to helping you find your dream home that’s near everything you like to do. Call 901-277-5839 or email us at [email protected] today for professional real estate advice and personalized service!