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Enjoy an evening paddle followed by cocktails and community at Shelby Farms Park. Perfect for unwinding after sunset with friends in a beautiful, natural setting.
Enjoy an evening paddle followed by cocktails and community at Shelby Farms Park. Perfect for unwinding after sunset with friends in a beautiful, natural setting.
Book with Shelby Farms Park
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
12,185 ratings
Operated by Shelby Farms Park · Memphis, Tennessee
Shelby Farms Park, located in Memphis, Tennessee, offers a vibrant backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers seeking a unique evening adventure. The centerpiece of this experience is Hyde Lake, a serene spot perfect for paddle sports and social gatherings. The 'Canoes + Cocktails' event combines scenic paddling with a lively, community-oriented atmosphere, making it a standout activity in the region.
As the sun dips toward the horizon, participants glide quietly across Hyde Lake, a calm body of water framed by lush trees and natural wetlands that support diverse birdlife. The guided paddle offers a peaceful escape, with gentle breezes and the chance to spot herons, ducks, and occasionally, a curious turtle basking on a log. Afterward, the fun continues onshore, where guests can unwind with specialty cocktails and locally crafted snacks under string lights. Yard games and live music add to the evening’s convivial vibe, fostering connections amidst the park’s natural beauty.
Shelby Farms Park is known for its vast green spaces—covering over 4,500 acres—featuring lakes, trails, and forestry rich in both flora and fauna. This event highlights the park’s commitment to community and conservation, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and activity in Memphis's urban outdoor scene. What makes this event particularly special is its accessibility—targeted at adults 21 and over—and the way it marries water-based recreation with social fun.
A visit here isn’t complete without experiencing the vibrant sunset over Hyde Lake. Whether you're a local or a visiting outdoor lover, the 'Canoes + Cocktails' event at Shelby Farms Park provides a memorable way to connect with nature and friends after a day in Memphis. Don't miss this chance to paddle, sip, and relax in one of Tennessee’s most lively outdoor destinations.
easy.
2–3 hours.
All fitness levels welcome; paddling is gentle and suitable for most participants.
Yes, the guided paddle is appropriate for all skill levels, including beginners.
No, all paddles and boats are provided as part of the event.
This event is 21+ due to alcohol service, so children are not permitted.
The event is weather-dependent; in case of rain, it may be rescheduled or canceled for safety.
Participation in paddling is part of the experience, but spectators are welcome to join after the activity.
Arrive about 15 minutes before the event start time to settle in and prepare for the paddle.
Shelby Farms was established in the late 1800s as a major agricultural hub before becoming a public park in the 1970s.
The park actively manages invasive species and promotes native habitat preservation to maintain rich biodiversity.
Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, Tennessee is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering a wide range of outdoor recreation, rentals, and reservable event spaces. The park provides guided nature experiences such as ranger-led hikes and structured field trips tailored for school groups and youth organizations. Rentals include pedal boats on Pine Lake and three-speed hybrid and kids bicycles available hourly or for two-hour sessions, with helmets provided for safety. Multiple pavilions and picnic areas—Hyde Lake Pavilion, Jones Pond Pavilion, Beaver Lake (#5) Uncovered Picnic Area, and Stables (#3) Pavilion—offer picnic tables, grills, firepits, electricity, and restroom access for family gatherings and celebrations. The First Horizon Foundation Visitor Center houses the Buffalo Room meeting space accommodating up to 40 guests with WiFi and a kitchenette, allowing outside catering for meetings and events. Community programming includes the Get Outside! Fitness initiative in partnership with Girls on the Run, focusing on physical activity and life skills for girls in grades 3–8 and culminating in a 5K celebration. Amenities on site include a gift shop and coffee house near pavilion areas. Shelby Farms Park supports conservation through activities like pedal boat rentals and maintains paved trails for biking and walking across scenic landscapes. Operating hours and rental availability vary by activity; bike rentals run Tuesday through Sunday. Shelby Farms Park serves families, schools, and event planners seeking accessible outdoor experiences in Memphis, combining recreation, education, and community-focused amenities. Visitors can reserve spaces and rentals online or by phone today.
Book with Shelby Farms Park