Best Things to do with Kids in New South Memphis, TN

Last Updated: January 9, 2026By Tags:

Best Things To Do With Kids In New South Memphis TN

Planning a family trip to New South Memphis, TN opens the door to a variety of engaging, kid-friendly activities that combine fun, learning, and Southern charm. From interactive museums and scenic riverfront parks to exciting indoor play centers, this vibrant neighborhood offers countless ways to keep children entertained. Families can explore hands-on exhibits, enjoy outdoor adventures, and discover cultural attractions that highlight the area’s rich history. Moreover, New South Memphis provides convenient access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options that make it easy to plan a full day of family fun. As you consider the best things to do with kids in New South Memphis, TN, you’ll find that the community’s welcoming atmosphere and range of attractions create memorable experiences for all ages. With so many choices available, parents can effortlessly design an itinerary that balances excitement, education, and relaxation.

Introduction

New South Memphis, TN, often simply called South Memphis, is a vibrant family destination packed with educational, cultural, and outdoor attractions. Whether you are a local parent or visiting with children, you will find a wide range of kid-friendly activities that blend fun, history, and Southern charm. From interactive museums to beautiful parks, there are plenty of ways to keep kids engaged while creating lasting memories. This guide highlights the best things to do with kids in New South Memphis and offers practical tips to help you plan your next family outing.

Explore Kid Friendly Museums And Cultural Attractions

For families who love learning together, New South Memphis offers enriching museums and cultural centers. A short drive away, the Children’s Museum of Memphis invites kids to explore hands-on exhibits, science experiments, and imaginative play areas. Nearby, the National Civil Rights Museum provides older children and teens with a powerful, age-appropriate introduction to American history through immersive exhibits and multimedia presentations. These destinations encourage curiosity, spark meaningful conversations, and make education exciting for all ages.

To help you compare several top cultural stops, the table below outlines features that matter most to families, including educational value and typical visit length.

Attraction Best For Highlights Typical Visit Length
Children’s Museum Of Memphis Young Children Hands-on exhibits, splash pad, creative play zones 2–3 hours
National Civil Rights Museum Older Kids & Teens Interactive history exhibits, guided tours 2–3 hours
Local Community Arts Centers All Ages Workshops, performances, art displays 1–2 hours

Enjoy Parks Playgrounds And Outdoor Adventures

When it is time to burn off energy, New South Memphis delivers with family-friendly parks and outdoor spaces. Neighborhood parks feature playgrounds, open green fields, and picnic areas that are perfect for an afternoon outing. Kids can climb, run, and explore while parents relax under shady trees. In addition, several larger parks and greenways around South Memphis offer walking and biking trails that make it easy to introduce children to nature and healthy outdoor exercise.

Many parks also host seasonal festivals, youth sports, and community events, creating opportunities for children to socialize and experience the local culture. By planning your visit around these activities, you can transform a simple park trip into a full day of entertainment.

Experience Family Friendly Dining And Local Flavors

Another of the best things to do with kids in New South Memphis is to sample the area’s flavorful Southern cuisine. Many restaurants in and around South Memphis cater to families with special kids’ menus, relaxed atmospheres, and quick service. From classic Memphis barbecue to homestyle comfort food, children can try new tastes while parents enjoy authentic local dishes.

To simplify your planning, consider the following comparison of typical family dining experiences in the area.

Dining Option Family Features Kid Favorites Approximate Price Range
Casual Barbecue Spots High chairs, quick service, informal seating Pulled pork sliders, mac and cheese, fries $$
Southern Cafés & Diners Kid menus, friendly staff, shareable portions Pancakes, chicken tenders, vegetables $–$$
Takeout & Picnic Meals Flexible, ideal for parks and outdoor spots Sandwiches, fruit cups, snacks $

Plan Seasonal Events And Special Experiences

Throughout the year, New South Memphis hosts family-oriented events such as holiday celebrations, outdoor concerts, and community fairs. These events often feature live music, kid zones, craft stations, and local food vendors. By checking community calendars and school newsletters, parents can discover festivals and activities that align with their children’s interests, from arts and crafts to sports and live performances.

Furthermore, many local organizations offer special programs like summer camps, after-school activities, and weekend workshops, giving families additional ways to stay active and engaged.

Conclusion

When you combine interactive museums, welcoming parks, flavorful dining, and engaging community events, it becomes clear that New South Memphis, TN, is an excellent place for families. There is a wealth of fun and educational things to do with kids in New South Memphis, and each experience offers its own unique opportunity for learning and connection. By exploring these attractions and planning ahead, parents can create memorable adventures that children will cherish, while also discovering the rich culture and warm hospitality that define this dynamic part of Memphis.

Finding the Best Things to Do with Kids in New South Memphis, TN

What are some of the best outdoor activities for kids in New South Memphis, TN?

Families can enjoy several kid-friendly outdoor options in and around New South Memphis. Local parks and playgrounds typically offer open green spaces, walking paths, and play structures suitable for a range of ages. Riverfront areas along the Mississippi River, accessible with a short drive, provide scenic spots for picnics, walking, and supervised play while watching boats and enjoying the views. Community sports fields are often available for informal games of soccer, baseball, or catch, giving kids space to be active and social. Some nearby nature areas and greenways offer easy walking or biking trails that work well for family outings, especially in cooler seasons. Before heading out, it is wise to check city or county parks and recreation websites for current hours, amenities, and any seasonal events or safety notices, such as playground upgrades or trail maintenance.

Where can families find educational activities for children near New South Memphis?

Educational activities for kids near New South Memphis often center around museums, libraries, and community learning centers in the greater Memphis area. Local public libraries typically host free or low-cost programs such as story times, homework help sessions, craft days, and summer reading challenges. Nearby museums and cultural centers may offer interactive exhibits, family days, or hands-on science and history activities that appeal to school-age children. Some area community centers and nonprofit organizations provide after-school programs, tutoring, and enrichment classes focused on STEM, arts, or reading skills. Parents can also look for special children’s events, workshops, or guided tours posted on museum calendars or city events listings, which often highlight kid-focused opportunities on weekends and during school breaks.

Are there indoor play options for kids in and around New South Memphis?

Families can usually find several indoor options near New South Memphis that work well for rainy days, hot weather, or winter months. Indoor recreation centers often include gym space, open-play courts, and youth-oriented programs such as dance, fitness, or sports clinics. In the broader Memphis area, you may find dedicated indoor play facilities with climbing structures, trampolines, arcade games, or soft play zones designed for younger children. Some churches and community organizations also open their multipurpose rooms for parent-and-child playtimes or structured youth activities. Additionally, libraries and community centers frequently schedule indoor events like craft sessions, movie afternoons, and game days, giving children a chance to socialize and stay active in a supervised environment. Checking online listings and calling ahead is useful, as some venues require advance registration or have age-specific time slots.

How can parents find budget-friendly family activities in New South Memphis, TN?

Many family-friendly activities in and around New South Memphis are low-cost or free when you know where to look. City and county parks, playgrounds, and greenways typically have no admission fees and offer space for picnics, games, and unstructured outdoor fun. Public libraries are a major resource for free events, including children’s story hours, book clubs, and seasonal programs. Community centers and local nonprofits may host family nights, youth sports clinics, or cultural events with minimal or no cost, especially for residents. Parents can monitor local event calendars, social media pages for nearby attractions, and municipal websites for information on free festivals, concerts, or movie nights. Taking advantage of off-peak times, resident discounts, and occasional free-admission days at larger attractions in the Memphis area can also help families enjoy more experiences while staying within a budget.

What is the best way to plan a kid-friendly weekend in New South Memphis and nearby areas?

Planning a kid-friendly weekend in New South Memphis starts with combining a mix of active, educational, and relaxing activities that fit your children’s ages and interests. You might begin with a morning visit to a nearby park or riverside area for playtime and fresh air, followed by a simple picnic. In the afternoon, consider an indoor museum, community center event, or library visit to add an educational component and a break from the weather. On the second day, you could schedule a short family hike or walk on a local trail, then explore an indoor play facility or recreational program where kids can burn energy. Reviewing local online calendars early in the week allows you to align your plans with special events, such as kids’ workshops, festivals, or sports activities in the broader Memphis area. Building in flexible time for rest and snacks, and confirming hours and any age or reservation requirements in advance, helps ensure a smooth, enjoyable weekend for both kids and adults.

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