Memphis Family Vacation Ideas

Mud Island River Park

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You'll be an expert before the day is over when you visit Mud Island River Park.

Memphis is full of opportunities for family fun. From music, to zoos, to outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy, you'll never get bored in Memphis. Head on out to the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock and roll and take the whole family along.

Memphis Zoos and Parks

• Memphis Zoo. This is one of the nation's premier zoos. The zoo is divided up into several section,s depending on the area that the animals come from. Take the time to visit the zoo's newest residents, the Giant Pandas. Lele and Yaya, the Pandas, are on loan from China and are a hit with the visitors to the zoo.
  
• Lichterman Nature Center. This is the nation's first accredited nature center. With nature trails to explore, as well as greenhouses and boardwalks, the center will be a favorite with everyone. See a piece of the country in downtown Memphis.
  
• Mud Island River Park. Learn about the Mississippi River at this recreational and educational facility dedicated to showcasing the mighty Mississippi River. The center features an 18-gallery Mississippi River Museum and five-block-long Riverwalk model. You can rent canoes, kayaks, airboats, pedal boats and bicycles.
  
• Libertyland. Located near the Memphis Zoo, this park has many fun rides, carnival games and great food. Ride the Zippin-Pippin, which is reported to be Elvis's favorite ride. The park has many discounts, but the best savings are the wristbands that allow unlimited access to all the rides.
  

Memphis Museums

• Elvis Presley's Graceland. This was the home of Elvis and is a sight to see. With over 14 acres of grounds and a grand mansion, you are sure to be impressed. Also on site are Elvis's planes, the Lisa Marie and the Hound Dog II. These are the custom designed planes that he used when he traveled and toured. You'll also be able to view his impressive collections of cars and motorcycles and a memorabilia museum where you can see "all things Elvis". If you can only do one thing in Memphis, go see Graceland. During the Christmas season, the grounds are lit up and sounds of the season fill the air. In January, the museums celebrate "the King's" birthday all month long.
  
• Children's Museum of Memphis. This is a cool museum for the whole family and there are tons of fun sections to explore and learn from. Visit the exhibit the Tooth and Nothing but the Tooth and learn about the human mouth and some of our animal friend's mouths as well. See Growing Healthy, where kids can crawl through a large model heart and learn its functions, or listen to their own heart beating. With so much to do and see here, you will want to spend days exploring.

Memphis Dining

• Hard Rock Cafe-Memphis. This chain restaurant is a favorite all over the nation, but the ones in Memphis have a special flavor. See the history of rock and roll while you enjoy your meals. The restaurants feature special exhibits that celebrate the musicians of Beale Street.
  
• Jillian's Entertainment Complex. Play games, eat, listen to music, and even bowl here. With so much to do, since there are over 150 games alone, you don't have to go here just for meals.