


Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
About
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art transforms the museum experience for families with interactive workshops, engaging family programs, and exhibitions designed to spark children's creativity. Located in beautiful Overton Park, this acclaimed art museum makes exploring diverse cultures and artistic traditions accessible and fun for young visitors through hands-on activities and kid-focused tours.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive family workshops where kids create their own masterpieces
- ✓Kid-friendly audio tours and activity guides that make art exploration engaging
- ✓Diverse collection spanning ancient to contemporary art from around the world
- ✓Special family programs and art-making sessions scheduled throughout the year
- ✓Beautiful Overton Park setting with playgrounds and green space for post-museum play
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Thursday evenings when the museum stays open until 8:00 PM for a quieter, less crowded experience perfect for families.
- 2.Check their website before visiting for family workshop schedules and special kids' programs that often require advance registration.
- 3.Park in the free Overton Park lots and take a few minutes to explore the park's playgrounds before or after your museum visit.
- 4.Bring a sketchbook and pencils - the museum encourages kids to draw inspiration from the artwork they see.
- 5.Start at the information desk to ask about current family-friendly exhibitions and any scavenger hunts or activity guides available for kids.
Best Time to Visit
Saturday mornings right at 10:00 AM opening or Sunday afternoons offer the best experience - weekday crowds are minimal since school groups typically visit mid-morning. Avoid the first Sunday of the month when admission is free and crowds peak.
What to Know
Admission fees apply (children under 6 are typically free), and the museum offers free parking in Overton Park lots. The museum has a small café for snacks, stroller-friendly galleries, and family restrooms throughout.
Seasonal Notes
The museum hosts special holiday-themed family programs during winter and summer art camps for kids. The location in Overton Park makes spring and fall visits especially pleasant, as families can combine the museum with outdoor park activities. Check for extended summer hours during peak tourist season.
Nearby Eats
The Brushmark Restaurant inside the museum offers casual dining with a kids' menu, or head to Café Eclectic (5 minutes away) for family-friendly sandwiches, pizza, and a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes children.
More Activities Near Midtown
Evergreen
Evergreen offers families a peaceful escape into one of Midtown Memphis's most picturesque tree-canopy neighborhoods, where wide sidewalks and historic architecture create the perfect setting for leisurely family walks. Kids will enjoy spotting architectural details on grand historic homes, playing beneath the shade of mature trees, and experiencing a quiet, walkable community that feels worlds away from busy city streets.
Cooper-Young
Cooper-Young is a charming, walkable neighborhood in Midtown Memphis that's perfect for families seeking a relaxed day of exploration. With its eclectic mix of local shops, casual eateries with outdoor seating, and frequent street festivals, it offers a laid-back atmosphere where kids can enjoy the creative energy while parents browse unique boutiques and grab a bite at family-friendly restaurants.
Overton Park Shell
The Overton Park Shell is a beloved outdoor amphitheater in the heart of Midtown Memphis that brings families together for free concerts, movie nights, and cultural events under the stars. With its lawn seating and relaxed atmosphere, kids can dance, play, and enjoy live entertainment while parents soak in the beautiful park setting and community vibe.
Overton Park
Overton Park is a sprawling 335-acre urban oasis in Midtown Memphis that offers endless opportunities for family adventure. From well-equipped playgrounds and wide-open fields perfect for kite flying to old-growth forest trails that feel like stepping into another world, this beloved park has something to captivate kids of every age and energy level.