Jesse Turner Park

Historical Significance

Nestled at the corner of South Parkway and Bellevue in South Memphis, Jesse Turner Park stretches across 18.29 acres of green space. It's named after Jesse H. Turner Sr., a remarkable civil rights champion who broke barriers as Tennessee's first Black CPA. Turner also served as president of Tri-State Bank in Memphis and made history as the first Black chairman of the Shelby County Board of Commissioners.

Recreational Facilities

This park offers plenty of options to keep you active or just enjoying the outdoors. Kids will love the playground area, where they can climb, slide, and let their imaginations run wild in a safe environment.

The 0.5-mile paved walking trail winds through the park's natural setting, well-suited for a morning jog, an evening stroll, or just stretching your legs while enjoying some fresh air.

Sports Amenities

Bring your mitt and bat to enjoy the park's lighted ballfield, which works well for casual games of baseball or softball with friends and family. The field is maintained nicely, making it suitable for both informal gatherings and more organized games.

Basketball enthusiasts can shoot some hoops at the outdoor basketball court, where you'll often find locals engaged in friendly competition. It's a great spot to work on your jump shot or join in on a pickup game.

Community Spaces

Planning a family reunion or birthday celebration? The park offers a rental pavilion complete with benches and picnic tables. This shaded area provides a fantastic setting for sharing meals and creating memories together outdoors.

Though not officially part of Jesse Turner Park, the adjacent Bellevue Tennis Center (managed by XS Tennis) enhances the area's recreational options with 2 indoor and 4 outdoor courts for tennis lovers.

Visitor Information

You can bring your four-legged friends along when visiting the park, however you should keep them leashed and be respectful of other visitors. Note that restroom availability can be limited, so it might be wise to plan ahead before spending extended time here.

While Jesse Turner Park offers a peaceful retreat for local residents seeking outdoor recreation, some areas could benefit from additional maintenance. It's a green space in South Memphis where people can play, exercise, and relax.