Discover the versatile Pavilion at Shelby Farms Park—an accessible outdoor venue with picnic areas, a firepit, and stables, perfect for your next celebration or gathering amidst natural beauty in Memphis.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Flexible, based on your event plan
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, as activities are stationary or involve light activity
Wildlife
History
Shelby Farms has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, originally serving as a large plantation before becoming a public park in the 1970s.
Conservation
The park emphasizes sustainability, with efforts to maintain native plant habitats and minimize environmental impact during events.
Shelby Farms Park
Discover the versatile Pavilion at Shelby Farms Park—an accessible outdoor venue with picnic areas, a firepit, and stables, perfect for your next celebration or gathering amidst natural beauty in Memphis.
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.
Location
Memphis, TN
Accessible city park
Experiences
10 Experiences
Rentals, field trips, and pavilions
Rentals
Bike & Boat Rentals
Helmets provided, Tue–Sun
Meeting Space
Up to 40 Guests
Buffalo Room in Visitor Center
Check availability for pedal boats, bike rentals, pavilions, field trips, and the Buffalo Room meeting space — plan the perfect outdoor event.
Plan Ahead for Busy Seasons
Reserve the pavilion early during peak seasons to ensure availability for your event.
Bring Extra Chairs and Supplies
While the pavilion includes tables, additional seating and picnic gear can enhance comfort for larger groups.
Use Nearby Trails for Post-Event Activities
Incorporate a walk or short hike along the park trails to continue your outdoor experience.
Check Weather Forecasts
Scheduling your event on a clear day ensures comfort and reduces weather-related disruptions.
Portable seating
Additional chairs or cushions can improve comfort for extended outdoor gatherings.
Weather protection
Rain ponchos or umbrellas help keep your group dry during unexpected weather changes.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Food and beverage supplies
Bring supplies to keep snacks and drinks readily available for your event.
Outdoor lighting
String lights or lanterns add ambiance and visibility as daylight fades.
fall|winter