Best Things to Do in the Memphis Suburbs This Summer

Summer in the Memphis Suburbs: More to Do Than You Might Think

One of the best-kept secrets about living in the Memphis suburbs is how much there is to do right here — without driving into the city. From world-class parks and farmers markets to local festivals, great restaurants, and splash pads for the kids, the communities of Germantown, Collierville, Bartlett, Arlington, Lakeland, and Cordova deliver a full summer of fun. Here's a look at what's happening and what's worth exploring this season.

Shelby Farms Park: Memphis's Outdoor Playground

Let's start with the crown jewel. Shelby Farms Park — one of the largest urban parks in the United States at nearly 4,500 acres — sits right at the heart of the metro and is accessible from multiple suburbs. This summer, enjoy:

• Miles of trails for hiking, running, and cycling
• Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on multiple lakes
• The heart of the park's dog-friendly trails and off-leash areas
• Concerts, food trucks, and community events throughout the season
• The beloved Shelby Farms Greenway, which connects to miles of additional trails

If you haven't explored the full extent of Shelby Farms, summer is the perfect time.

Collierville Town Square

Collierville's historic Town Square is one of the most charming spots in the entire metro and genuinely worth an afternoon. This summer:

• Browse the Collierville Farmers Market on Saturday mornings — fresh produce, local vendors, and a community vibe that's hard to beat
• Enjoy al fresco dining at one of the Square's excellent restaurants
• Check the city's events calendar for outdoor concerts and seasonal festivals
• Walk the charming main street boutiques and local shops

The Town Square captures the small-town feel that makes Collierville so appealing — it's a genuine community gathering place.

W.J. Freeman Park in Bartlett

Bartlett's W.J. Freeman Park is a summer staple for families. The park features a community center, splash pad, sports fields, and a public pool that draw residents all season long. Weekend youth sports leagues and organized events keep the park buzzing with activity from morning to evening.

Arlington and Lakeland: Small-Town Summer Charm

Both Arlington and Lakeland punch well above their weight for community events and local character. Lakeland's master-planned community hosts regular neighborhood events and has beautiful parks and trail systems worth exploring. Arlington's Old Town area and surrounding community have a genuine small-town summer feel — check local event boards for outdoor movie nights, community cookouts, and seasonal markets.

Great Local Dining Worth the Drive

The suburbs have elevated their dining scene significantly in recent years. A few worth putting on your summer list:

• The restaurant corridor along Germantown Parkway and Poplar Avenue in Germantown and Collierville offers everything from casual lunch spots to upscale dinner destinations
• Bartlett and Cordova's growing dining scene along Stage Road and Germantown Road includes both local favorites and newer arrivals
• Weekend brunch has become a serious sport in the suburbs — ask a local for their current favorites

Why Suburbanites Love Summer Here

The Memphis suburbs offer something that's genuinely rare: the ability to enjoy outdoor spaces, community events, and a relaxed pace of life without sacrificing convenience or quality. Add in the tight-knit neighborhoods, friendly neighbors, and the sheer beauty of mature trees and green spaces in summer, and it's easy to understand why people who move here tend to stay.

Thinking about making the Memphis suburbs your permanent home? I'd love to help you find your perfect fit. Reach out and let's talk.