Memphis in a Day — Family-Friendly Spring (April) Itinerary
A relaxed, kid-centered day in Memphis for families (best in spring): easy transfers, stroller-friendly routes, interactive exhibits and outdoor play. Built with nap/snack buffers and allergy-aware meal notes.
Highlights
- Memphis Zoo — animals and shaded walking paths
- Central BBQ (Overton Square) — family-friendly Memphis barbecue
- Memphis Botanic Garden — My Big Backyard play garden
- Overton Park greens & playgrounds — stroller-friendly rest stops
Itinerary
Day 1
Start with wildlife and easy walking, then a relaxed lunch, an interactive garden play area, and an early family dinner before returning. Plenty of buffer for snacks, naps, and restroom stops.
Memphis Zoo — morning visit (great for ages 2–12)
Stroller-friendly paved routes, shaded animal exhibits, hands-on experiences at select areas. Aim to arrive at opening to avoid crowds and use stroller for little ones' naps between exhibits.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at opening (9:00) to beat crowds and see animals when they’re most active; the zoo parking lot is large and stroller-accessible from the main entrance.
- There are family restrooms and diaper-changing stations near the main plaza; bring a lightweight stroller — paths are paved but can be hilly in places.
- Bring a refillable water bottle (water fountains at the main plaza) and plan a mid-visit snack break near the Children’s Zoo area where shaded benches are plentiful.
Short rest & stretch at Overton Park greenspace
A quick 15-minute break on the Overton Park greens gives kids space to run and provides shade and restroom access before lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the shaded benches near the Greensward for stroller naps or quick diaper changes (restrooms at the park edge).
- This is a good spot for a picnic-style snack if anyone needs energy before lunch; bugs can be present in spring—pack a small kids’ insect wipe.
- If your child needs a quiet corner, walk a short path toward the Art Museum lawn for calmer seating away from playground noise.
Lunch — Central BBQ (Overton Square) — kid-friendly barbecue
Relaxed counter-order BBQ with picnic tables and booths; hearty kid-pleasing options and accommodating staff for allergy requests.
Tips from local experts:
- Central BBQ - Overton Square offers high chairs and casual seating; tell staff about allergies and they’ll point out milder menu items for kids.
- Order family-style plates to share so picky eaters can try small portions; avoid peak lunch rush by arriving just before noon.
- Street parking near Overton Square is limited—use the small lots behind the square for stroller unloading and quick access to restrooms.
Transfer to Memphis Botanic Garden (easy drive; stroller onboard)
Short drive to the Botanic Garden with time to park, unfold strollers, and use restrooms before exploring My Big Backyard.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 10–20 minutes for parking and stroller setup—Memphis Botanic Garden has stroller-friendly paved paths and nearby parking.
- If a child needs a nap, the drive is a good window for a short rest; keep sunscreen and hats handy for the afternoon garden time.
- Bring a small bag of wipes and a change of clothes — spring flower blooms can be colorful but sometimes messy for toddlers.
Memphis Botanic Garden — My Big Backyard & family-friendly trails (ages 1–10)
Interactive children’s garden (My Big Backyard), paved stroller paths, shaded picnic spots and seasonal spring blooms — ideal for open play and gentle exploration.
Tips from local experts:
- Head straight to My Big Backyard — it’s designed for hands-on play and is fenced for safety; paths to the exhibit are flat and stroller-friendly.
- There are clean family restrooms and changing tables near the main visitor center; bring a hat and water — spring can warm quickly in April.
- Check with the welcome desk for any seasonal kids’ programs (often offered in spring) and for a quieter route if you prefer to avoid busier garden sections.
Short snack & downtime — quiet spot at the Botanic Garden
Use a shady bench near the visitor center or the picnic lawn for snack time, diaper changes, and a calm rest before heading back toward Midtown.
Tips from local experts:
- The visitor center lawn has benches and shade and is a dependable place for stroller naps or quiet bottle feeds.
- If allergies are a concern, choose a bench on the west side of the garden where blooms are less dense in spring; staff can suggest low-pollen routes.
- Use this time to swap wet clothes and refill water bottles; the Botanic Garden has fresh water taps at the restroom area.
Transfer back toward Overton area / prep for dinner
Short drive back toward the midtown restaurant area; use this transfer for a final quick nap in the car or stroller reset before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Traffic is usually light mid-afternoon; use the 15–20 minute drive for any final naps — many kids will wake refreshed for dinner.
- Park with stroller access in mind (pull-through spots help); keep a small cooler with milk/snacks handy for picky eaters.
- If anyone is still restless, plan a 5–10 minute walk around the restaurant block to stretch legs before sitting down.
Early family dinner — Huey's Midtown (kids' menu & casual vibe)
Casual burger-and-sides spot with booths and high chairs; popular with local families and flexible about substitutions for allergies or picky eaters.
Tips from local experts:
- Huey's Midtown has high chairs and a kids’ menu; ask for a booth to keep little ones secure and for quieter dining if needed.
- They can usually accommodate simple allergy swaps (plain grilled items) — mention allergies when ordering to avoid cross-contact.
- Plan to dine earlier (around 4:00–4:30) to reduce wait times and avoid the evening crowd; there’s nearby street parking and quick stroller access.
