Dr. D. Jackson Maxwell
Courtesy Memphis Zoo
We are deep into summer and the kids are beginning to climb the walls. “What is there to do?” becomes a common refrain. Therefore, each year I like to recommend to parents’ fun summer activities, that for minimal or no cost, the whole family can enjoy doing together. Here’s what I have found!
Music, one of Memphis’ greatest treasures, can be had for free at the Levitt Shell. All genres can be heard on many evenings with blankets, picnic baskets, and coolers welcome. Not far away is Overton Square with a courtyard that has movies, bands, bean bag toss, and occasional markets offering free entertainment. The weekly farmers markets in Overton Park on Thursday afternoons and on Saturday mornings downtown and in Cooper Young provide fresh food, crafts, music, and something for all.
The Beale Street Walk of Fame with musical notes of notable musicians who have played the street makes for an adventure! The surrounding statuary provide photo ops with the likes of Elvis and W.C. Handy. Nearby Handy Park has free music by local musicians and buskers. The goats at Silky O’Sullivan’s as well as A. Schwab’s historical-everything store provide uniquely Memphis perspectives. Similarly, take a walk along the downtown streets around Court Square where you can view over 60 plaques telling the story of our city.
One of Memphis’ greatest treasures is Jimmy Ogle. Ogle regularly offers tours of downtown which cover historical buildings, local history, bridges, and just about any Memphis related topic. Please visit his website at: www.jimmyogle.com and take your family on one of his remarkable Memphis explorations.
I routinely take visitors to see the Mississippi River and have a picnic on President’s Island or Mud Island. A stroll along the River Walk and Beale Street Landing provide exercise opportunities as well as excellent views of the river plus sculptures (such as the one commemorating the hero Tom Lee, namesake of the prominent riverfront park). Beale Street Landing offers play areas and water fun for the kids. Then, walk through Martyrs Park to The Big River Crossing for a quick visit to West Memphis, Arkansas. While in the downtown area, visit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and take a self-guided tour through the Danny Thomas ALSAC Pavilion where you will learn about the history of this one-of-a-kind medical center. It contains information, awards and memorabilia about the entertainer and philanthropist Danny Thomas who founded St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
If nature is your thing, head to the Lichterman Nature Center after 1 p.m. on Tuesdays for free admission. Check out the exhibits and enjoy the gardens. Also on Tuesdays, from 2-5 p.m. the Memphis Zoo has free admission for Tennessee residents. The Memphis Zoo is consistently rated as one of the best zoos in America. The zoo has over 3,000 animals to view and learn about. New exhibits open every few years that keep the zoo fresh plus there are special events scattered across the calendar.
Memphis museums can also be seen on the cheap. For example, the Pink Palace Museum and Mansion exhibits are free on Tuesday beginning at 1 p.m. Everything from local history to a miniature circus to hands on interactive experiences can be enjoyed by visitors. You can learn about America’s history at the National Civil Rights Museum. Housed in the former Lorraine Motel, every major Civil Rights leader from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to Rosa Parks and even Memphis’ own Benjamin L. Hooks and Maxine Smith are featured. A one of a kind exhibit detailing one of the most important movements in American history can be seen for free on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. till closing.
Art is another option for a day out with the kids. The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is pay what you can on Wednesdays. The museum has a revolving collection of visiting art as well as a permanent collection of over 8,000 objects d’art. The Dixon Gallery and Gardens offers free admission on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon plus a pay what you can on Tuesdays. The Dixon features decorative arts and paintings, while also sporting a lovely outdoor garden.
I encourage you to get out and enjoy our city. I am always amazed at the variety of what Memphis has to offer for basically free. Additionally, the Choose901 website (choose901.com) offers continually updated information of what is happening throughout the city. Also, feel free to send me your favorite free Memphis destinations and finds to share!
Dr. D. Jackson Maxwell is an educator and freelance writer. Forward questions or comments to: djacksonmaxwell@gmail.com.
