It takes forever to get here, then disappears in the blink of an eye, but you still have time to plan a family adventure or two before summer is over! If you’re tired of the same old pools and splash pads, and desperate to get the kids off their phones and out of the house for some quality time together, we’ve got you covered. Scott Edwards DDS team has put together a list featuring some of our favorite things to do around town in the summer, so take a look below for some fun-filled inspiration!
6903 Great View Drive North
Memphis, TN 38134
Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It’s 4,500 acres hold a massive green space that’s a popular destination for locals and tourists hoping to spend time outside. Shelby Farms parks offers a wide variety of activities, whether you want to relax or go on an adventure.
The park features miles of walking and biking trails that wind through green lands, forests, and around the 20+ bottles of water that can be found in the park. The Go Ape ropes course is an exciting family adventure course that features zip-lines and six individual ropes course sections that take you high up into the tree canopy. In total, the course features more than 40 obstacles.
You can bike around the park, or even ride a horse! Our trail guides can take you on an adventure around the park, or provide a private lesson. Shelby Farms Park also boasts more than a hundred acres of off-leash dog park so you can roam free with your furry friends. The park also has playgrounds and a splash pad for kids to have their own adventures and stay cool.
On those hot Memphis days that we all know will come, spend some time on the water. Rent a for a ride around Pine Wood lake, or rent kayaks and canoes for a trip around Hyde Lake. Either way, you’ll feel cool and refreshed afterwards.
Memphis Museums
As a city rich with history, Memphis is also a city rich with museums to explore. Whether you want to learn more about music, civil rights, cotton, or art, Memphis has a spectacular museum for you to spend a day in. You can check out the Stax Museum of American Soul or Sun Studios to learn more about the rich musical legacy of Memphis. Check out the Brooks Museum or the Dixon Galleries for amazing and unique art exhibits. The Civil Rights Museum on South Main honors the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, including Martin Luther King Jr. and allows you to see the Lorraine Motel where he was assassinated. Mud Island River Park and Museum is a great place to spend summer days. Not only can you learn about this history of Mississippi River and the role of Memphis as a port city, but you can walk along a scale model of the river, and then cool off with a paddleboat ride.
Levitt Shell Summer Concert Series
Every week during the summer, Thursday-Sunday, you and your family can enjoy live music at the Levitt Shell in Overton Park. The Orion Summer music series celebrates a wide variety of musical styles, from jazz to rock to world rock. Not only is this a great way to spend time with your family, but it’s also a great way to teach your kids about different cultures and art forms. There are always food trucks with great, unique local cuisine, but you can also bring a picnic and enjoy the warm summer nights.
Germantown and Memphis host several fantastic farmers markets that offer everything from farm fresh eggs and ethically raised meat to handmade soap and jewelry. They’ve even been known to offer entertainment from local musicians while you shop!
No matter what part of town you call home, you can find a farmers market close to home. In downtown an midtown, check out the Memphis Farmer’s Market on Front St., or the Cooper-Young Farmer’s Market on Cooper. For those in Cordova and Germantown, check out the Farmer’s Market at the Agricenter, the Winchester Farmer’s Market, or the Collierville Farmer’s Market. Stop at any of these local gems to keep your family healthy while supporting local businesses.
Memphis Redbirds and 901 FC
If you’re looking for some family-friendly fun, look no further. We all know that Memphis has the best sports teams, and in the summer you can enjoy a classic day at the ballgame by attending a Redbirds game, or an exciting soccer match with the brand new 901 FC. The Redbirds are a triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis and are the current Pacific Coast League Champions. You can watch them defend their title all summer long! Plus, starting this season we have a new soccer team, the 901 FC. If you haven’t seen a professional soccer game before, don’t miss out on the fast passed action this season.
Keep Your smile in shape this summer
Whatever you and your family are planning this summer, make sure your teeth stay healthy and strong. Don’t let your hygiene be a casualty of your summer fun.
Be sure your dental hygiene routine is maintained and that you’re are brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and flossing every night before bed.
By following the tips we’ve outlined above, you can make the most of the summer without sacrificing yours or your child’s smile! And don’t forget that you can always count on our expert team for trusted support and advice if you ever have any questions or concerns. Scott Edwards DDS is here to help you and/or your child achieve a healthy smile this summer, and throughout the rest of the year!