Tom Lee Park

Searching for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Mississippi River near the heart of Memphis? Stop by Tom Lee Park for a perfect photo opportunity, green spaces, and more. On the banks of the Mississippi River, the park spans 31 acres near the foot of Beale Street. The bustling riverfront blends remarkable views of the river with a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

The scenic pathways at Tom Lee Park invite visitors to walk, jog, or bike along the waterfront. Additionally, sprawling green spaces throughout the park are ideal for relaxation or picnics. Visitors can also expect to find remarkable playgrounds, athletic courts, appealing art installations, and performance venues throughout the popular city park.

With famous landmarks like the Blues Hall of Fame Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum nearby, the park’s location in downtown Memphis makes it an ideal destination. Moreover, the park’s name, commemorating an African-American man who in 1925 saved 32 people from drowning after a steamer capsized, makes it a lasting legacy of Memphis’ community spirit.

Furthermore, Tom Lee Park plays a central role in the city’s biggest events, including the Memphis in May festival. Spring note: The park temporarily closes for a few weeks before the annual Memphis in May festivities in preparation for the celebration and three days of events. 

The best way to get to the park is to walk to one of the stair entries or take one of the accessible waterfront ramps. There are plenty of parking spots within just a couple of blocks of the park, making it perfect for stopping into Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken on your way to or from the area.

Tom Lee Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features

Tom Lee Park was so named in 1954 in commemorating a revered act of courage by a man of the same name. 

Before that, the city initially created a smaller space in 1938, naming it Astor Park in recognition of an 1820s land gift to the city by the Astoria Fur Company.

As history retells, on May 8, 1925, when passing by in his small wooden skiff, Tom Lee of Memphis managed to rescue 32 passengers of the M.E. Norman steamer from the chilly waters of the Mississippi. Many of the steamer passengers were distinguished Mid-South engineers and their families. Additionally, this was even more remarkable as Lee did not know how to swim. City and national officials, including President Calvin Coolidge, heralded Lee’s heroic actions at the time.

In 1991, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expanded Tom Lee Park to its current size. The thirty-one-acre park hugging the shore is an inviting space that recalls the city’s founding as a river city.

Food lovers will appreciate the park’s proximity to Central BBQ in downtown Memphis, widely known for its slow-smoked meats packed with flavor. How about ordering ahead and packing a picnic to bring to the park?

With so much to offer, Tom Lee Park ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a place to be inspired, to unwind, and to connect with the community spirit of Memphis. 

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Memphis to Tom Lee Park:

• Head southwest on Union Avenue toward South Front Street.
• Turn left onto Riverside Drive.
• Continue straight along Riverside Drive for approximately 0.5 miles.
• Turn right into the main entrance of Tom Lee Park.
• Address: 357 Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103

Cost

Visiting the Tom Lee Park is free. However, parking fees may vary depending on nearby lots. 

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.