Tom Lee Park

Tom Lee Park is a 31-acre public park located along the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. The park stretches for about one mile along the riverfront, offering panoramic views of the river and the Arkansas shoreline on the opposite bank.

Named after Tom Lee, an African American river worker who heroically saved 32 people from a sinking steamboat in 1925, the park underwent a major $61 million renovation that was completed in 2023. The redesign, led by Studio Gang and SCAPE, aimed to create a more dynamic and ecologically sustainable space that better connects the city to its riverfront.

The park features a variety of landscapes and amenities designed to accommodate different activities and provide diverse experiences for visitors. These include open lawns for events and recreation, shaded groves for relaxation, and specialized areas for sports and play. The park's topography has been sculpted to create elevated views of the river while also improving flood resilience.

At the heart of the park is the Sunset Canopy, a large timber structure that provides shade for basketball courts and hosts various community activities. The park also incorporates extensive native plantings, including over a thousand new trees, which support local wildlife and enhance the park's ecological value.

Tom Lee Park serves as a significant public space for Memphis, hosting major events like the Beale Street Music Festival and offering daily recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.