Memphis, TN is no doubt a lively city. With rich history and its background in music and arts, everyone is bound to have a great time. So, what’s in it for the kids?
In a city focused on art and music, there are many museums and other forms of activities. Visiting them all can become very costly. I am here to share a few little known secrets to help you enjoy Memphis in all its glory on a tight budget.
Kids love music and I have discovered some great free events to satisfy them. Germantown, a town just outside of Memphis, hosts Municipal Melodies at the Municipal Park during the months of May and October from 11:45-1:15. These wonderful outdoor concerts are great for the entire family. Collierville has their Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Jam under the Historic Town Square Gazebo every Friday starting April 13, 2007. Local players come out and play together while families enjoy and relax to the sounds.
Story time is a popular choice for families with toddlers. Many places offer story time for free. A few complete the package with sing-a-longs and crafts! Davis-Kidd Booksellers has story time on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 11am. Barnes and Noble (Wolfchase location) offers story time on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11am for preschool aged and under children. In addition, the Collierville Location at the Avenue Carriage Crossing offers their story time on Mondays at 11am. In addition, many local libraries offer a story time as well.
Another popular attraction is the Memphis Zoo. It is one of the best zoos around! Every Tuesday, they offer free admission to TN residents with a valid Tennessee drivers license after 2:00pm.
Children young an old enjoy watching our historic marching ducks! Everyday at 11:00am and 5:00pm these pampered ducks march to and from the Italian travertine marble fountain in the famous Peabody Hotel’s lobby.
For those who enjoy the downtown atmosphere, be sure to stop by the Mud Island River Park. General admission is free everyday.
The Memphis Botanic Gardens is a beautiful place to wander leisurely through. With 96 acres to explore, you are guaranteed to have a relaxing time. From 12 noon to 6:00pm on Tuesdays, you can explore this wonderland free!
Museums are a great source of fun and learning for children. Many of the local museums offer free days. The Memphis Brooks Museum’s free day is Wednesday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The Dixon offers their free day on the 30th of each month. On Mondays from 3:00pm to 5:00pm, the Civil right Museum is open to the public. The historic Pink Palace museum opens their doors for free every Tuesday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm.
A more recent addition in Memphis, is the Play Zone inside the Wolfchase Mall. This is a soft play area, complete with things to climb on and a small library of books geared toward toddlers and preschoolers.
Be sure to check with your local churches for free events and play-days. They offer child-centered activities often. While you are having all this fun, don’t forget to check out one of the many wonderful parks around. A parks few even include sprinkler parks!
Memphis offers a plethora of free events and activities. These are just a few of the wonderful examples. This is sure to keep you and your little ones busy and full of knowledge and excitement.
