Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Memphis, United States
1. Mississippi River Greenway
A scenic trail along the Mississippi River offering stunning views and opportunities for biking or walking.
- Length: Stretches over 10 miles, connecting various parks and attractions.
- River Views: Provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi River throughout its length.
- Accessibility: Easy access from downtown Memphis and multiple entry points.
2. Big River Crossing
A pedestrian and biking bridge crossing the Mississippi River with scenic views and connections to trails on both sides.
- Architecture: Features a unique, modern design that's a sight to behold.
- Connectivity: Links trails on the Tennessee and Arkansas sides of the Mississippi River.
- Activity Options: Offers opportunities for sightseeing, jogging, or simply enjoying the views.
3. Shelby Farms Greenline
A biking and walking trail running through Shelby Farms Park, offering a mix of natural landscapes and urban vistas.
- Size: Covers over 4 miles and passes through the largest urban park in the U.S.
- Variety: Features a mix of wooded areas, open fields, and cityscapes along its route.
- Activities: Provides easy access to other park amenities like the Dog Park and Playhouse on the Green.
4. Tanglewood Nature Center and Arboretum
A peaceful nature preserve with walking trails, wildlife observation areas, and educational programs.
- Wildlife: Home to a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles that can be observed along the trails.
- Education: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.
- Tranquility: A quiet, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Overton Park Bike Trail
A biking and walking trail within Overton Park that connects to various park attractions.
- Attractions: Easy access to the Memphis Zoo, the Dixon Gallery & Gardens, and the Levitt Shell.
- Landmarks: Runs alongside famous Memphis landmarks like the I-240 Overpass Staircase.
- Urban Vibe: Offers a vibrant, urban atmosphere with plenty of things to see and do nearby.
6. Mud Island Riverwalk
A riverfront park featuring a model of the lower Mississippi River and walking trails.
- Model River: Features a one-mile scale model of the Mississippi River for educational purposes.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown Memphis.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits about the history, geography, and ecology of the Mississippi River.
7. Tom Lee Park
A riverfront park offering scenic views, walking paths, and access to the Big River Crossing.
- Big River Crossing: Directly connects to the Big River Crossing pedestrian bridge.
- Views: Offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline.
- Events: Hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
8. Wolf River Greenway
A biking and walking trail following the Wolf River corridor with connections to downtown Memphis.
- Connections: Connects to other bike trails, parks, and neighborhoods in the city.
- Natural Beauty: Features natural beauty with forested areas and wildlife sightings.
- Urban Vibe: Offers a mix of urban and natural environments for an interesting exploration.
9. Harbor Town
A waterfront neighborhood with walking paths, shops, restaurants, and Mud Island Riverwalk.
- Shopping & Dining: Features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
- Mud Island Riverwalk: Directly connects to the Mud Island Riverwalk for continued exploration.
- Views: Offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown Memphis.
10. Germantown Greenbelt
A biking and walking trail in Germantown that connects to the Shelby Farms Greenline.
- Connectivity: Connects to the Shelby Farms Greenline for expanded exploration.
- Urban Vibe: Passes through a mix of residential, commercial, and natural areas.
- Amenities: Adjacent to amenities like the Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC).
11. Collierville Greenbelt
A biking and walking trail in Collierville that connects to Shelby Farms Park.
- Connectivity: Directly connects to Shelby Farms Park for extended exploration.
- Urban Vibe: Passes through a mix of residential, commercial, and natural areas.
- Historic Sites: Nearby historic sites like the Collinsville Historic District.
12. Cooper-Young Festival
An annual arts and music festival in the Cooper-Young neighborhood with walking paths throughout.
- Art & Music: Features local artists, musicians, and food vendors.
- Community: Celebrates the vibrant Cooper-Young neighborhood and its residents.
- Walkability: Offers walkable streets lined with unique shops, restaurants, and galleries.
13. Midtown Memphis
A lively neighborhood with walking trails, parks, shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
- Diversity: Features a diverse mix of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
- Culture: Home to the Brooks Museum of Art and the Memphis College of Art.
- Walkability: Offers walkable streets lined with unique architecture, shops, and restaurants.
14. Beale Street Entertainment District
A historic street featuring live music venues, bars, restaurants, and shopping.
- Entertainment: Home to world-famous blues clubs like BB King's Blues Club.
- History: Part of the National Register of Historic Places.
- Nightlife: Offers a vibrant nightlife scene with live music and entertainment.
15. Peabody Hotel Rooftop Duck Parade
A daily tradition of marching ducks from the Peabody Hotel elevators to the rooftop fountain.
- Tradition: A beloved, long-standing Memphis tradition since 1933.
- Entertainment: Offers a unique and entertaining experience for visitors.
- Historic Building: Located in the historic Peabody Hotel.