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Railgarten restaurant in Memphis, TN
Photo: Kevin Carlile
View of Railgarten in Memphis, TN
Photo: Natasha Mayton
View of Railgarten in Memphis, TN
Photo: Johnny sanchez

Railgarten

4.5(2,032 reviews)$$Entertainment
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-14. Toddlers and preschoolers can safely explore the outdoor playground while parents watch from nearby seating, elementary-aged kids enjoy ping pong and volleyball, and teens appreciate the cool industrial vibe and varied food options. Even infants are welcome with plenty of open space for strollers.

About

Railgarten is a one-stop family entertainment destination housed in a beautifully converted former rail station in Memphis. This versatile venue offers something for everyone with an outdoor playground for energetic kids, ping pong tables for family competitions, delicious dining options, and even an ice cream parlor for sweet treats,all in one convenient location so families can spend hours without needing to go anywhere else.

Highlights

  • Spacious outdoor playground with climbing structures and swings
  • Family-friendly ping pong tables for all-ages tournaments
  • On-site ice cream parlor for post-meal treats
  • Diverse food menu with kid favorites and adult options
  • Large outdoor space perfect for kids to run around safely

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early afternoon on weekends to snag picnic tables near the playground so you can watch kids play while enjoying lunch
  2. 2.The ice cream parlor gets busy after dinner,visit mid-afternoon for shorter lines and use it as an incentive to keep kids happy
  3. 3.Ping pong paddles and balls are available, but bring your own if you have picky players in the family
  4. 4.The outdoor space is dog-friendly, so this is a great spot if you're traveling with pets
  5. 5.Check their event calendar before visiting as they host family-friendly live music and food truck events

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons (3-6pm) offer the perfect balance of good weather and smaller crowds. Weekend mornings (10am-noon) are also great for families with younger kids before the lunch rush. Spring and fall provide ideal outdoor temperatures for playground time.

What to Know

Railgarten operates as both a restaurant and entertainment venue with moderate pricing ($$). Plenty of free parking is available in their lot. The outdoor playground is unsupervised, so parents need to watch their own children. The venue is mostly accessible with ramps and open spaces.

Seasonal Notes

Best enjoyed spring through fall when the outdoor playground and volleyball courts are most comfortable. The venue has covered areas for shade in summer. Some outdoor activities may be limited during winter months, though the indoor dining and ping pong remain available year-round. Check for special family events during holidays and summer.

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