September 22 may have signaled a new season on the calendar, but the changing foliage unofficially marks the start of fall in Memphis for many of us. According to this year’s color forecast maps, the peak for fall colors in Memphis will be mid-November — so the best is still yet to come! Here some of our favorite spots around town to take in those beautiful changing leaves.
Greenbelt Park
Neighborhood: Harbor Town
More Info: memphisparks.com
Greenbelt Park is a mile-long area that runs along Mud Island. It is a natural floodplain that changes from season to season, and in the fall, Lower Greenbelt Park is usually above water. Walk or run on the paved trails, picnic on the grass, and bike along the river. This park is pet- and stroller-friendly, making it the perfect fall family outing. The views of the Mississippi River, accompanied by fall foliage, are truly breathtaking.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Neighborhood: Millington
More Info: tnstateparks.com
Just 30 minutes north of Memphis, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is an easy drive for a day trip or even an afternoon escape. The 12,539-acre park borders the Mississippi River and offers every outdoor activity you can dream up, from hiking and biking to camping, paddling, horseback riding, and more! The beech, oak, and elm trees come alive in the autumn months, creating one of the most stunning fall canopies in the state.
Memphis Botanic Garden
Neighborhood: Colonial Acres
More Info: membg.org
In October and November, the Memphis Botanic Garden transforms into a fall wonderland as the 96-acre property dons its autumnal hues. Stroll through the 30 specialty gardens, stop by the arboretum, and bring your little ones to the children’s garden. Stay up-to-date on the fall events calendar for art classes, “fall tram tours,” concerts, and more. This is also a prime spot to take family photos!
Overton Park
Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: overtonpark.org
Right in the heart of midtown, Overton Park is a hub of Memphis activity. This 342-acre park is home to the Memphis Zoo, a nine-hole golf course, the 126-acre Old Forest State Natural Area, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Memphis College of Art, a dog park, and more! Admire fall colors as you stroll through the cultural heartbeat of the city.
Rhodes College
Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: rhodes.edu
Rhodes College is beautiful any time of year, but there is something special about academia in autumn. Admire fall foliage and stunning architecture as you stroll through campus, and be sure to stop by the arboretum. It is home to more than 120 tree species and over 1,500 trees.
Shelby Farms Park
Neighborhood: Cordova
More Info: shelbyfarmspark.org
We Memphians have many reasons to love where we live, but Shelby Farms Park is high on the list. The 4,500-acre urban park is one of the biggest in the country, with over 40 miles of trails, 20 bodies of water, playgrounds, restaurants, pet trails, event venues, and more. In October and November, the park is transformed into a landscape of fall hues.
Wolf River and Greenway
Neighborhood: East Memphis
More Info: memphisparks.com
Canoe or kayak up the Wolf River and enjoy picturesque fall views at a leisurely pace! The river runs from Mud Island to Kennedy Park. For those of us who prefer to leaf-peep on solid ground, the Greenway has a walkway — 25 miles of the proposed 26-mile pedestrian walkway are either under construction or have been completed.
Court Square Park
Neighborhood: Downtown Memphis
More Info: memphisparks.com
You don’t have to escape the city to see beautiful fall colors. Court Square Park is a lush two-acre plaza in the center of downtown. Soak in the brisk air as you sip your coffee or take your lunch break on one of the benches, and be sure to stop by the famous central fountain!
Happy fall, Memphis!
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