Court Square Park

A Historic Green Space in the Heart of Memphis

Tucked away in downtown Memphis, Court Square Park is a charming 2-acre plaza with quite the backstory. It's actually the last survivor of Memphis' four original parks from the city's 1819 planning, still maintaining its original layout after all these years.

This little urban oasis earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1982 - not too shabby for a neighborhood park!

The Iconic Hebe Fountain

The real showstopper here is the Hebe Fountain standing proudly in the center since 1876. This cast iron fountain rises 20 feet high with a 35-foot diameter, depicting Hebe, the mythological cupbearer to the Greek gods (talk about an interesting job title!).

After getting a complete makeover in 1980, the fountain remains a popular photo spot in downtown Memphis and catches the eye of many who wander through the area.

What You'll Find

The park offers a peaceful retreat with its mature shade trees, winding paths, and plenty of benches to catch your breath. Need a spot for lunch? Several picnic tables are scattered throughout for impromptu outdoor dining.

Nestled between Main and Second Streets at Court Avenue, it's super accessible if you're already downtown. And don't be surprised if you're greeted by the park's unofficial welcoming committee - the local squirrels. Some visitors bring unshelled, unsalted peanuts to feed the squirrels.

Happenings Throughout the Year

The square regularly hosts intimate gatherings and community events. If you're around on Thursdays, food trucks typically line up around the park.

Keep an eye out for occasional jazz concerts and performances that make use of this cozy setting. Just note that parking can be tricky during events, but the park's central location makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring downtown Memphis by foot.

A Piece of Memphis History

Court Square has seen its fair share of Memphis history unfold. Interestingly, it was home to the city's first schoolhouse, but it never actually housed a courthouse despite what the name suggests.

The park has made cameos in films and remains a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. History buffs might appreciate checking out the artesian well located within the grounds.

Good to Know

Feel free to bring your four-legged friends - the park is dog-friendly, but there aren't specific dog areas or water stations, so you'll want to pack some water for your pup. There are no public restrooms available, so plan accordingly.

The Blue Suede Brigade patrols the area, helping to maintain a relaxed atmosphere for everyone enjoying this historic glimpse of Memphis.