Experience · Memphis

Memphis Zoo & Park Day

Start your day with an exciting visit to the Memphis Zoo, home to a wide array of fascinating animals. Afterwards, refuel with some classic Memphis fried chicken, a local favorite. Conclude your family day with some outdoor play and fresh air at a nearby park.

A 5.5-hour Memphis full_day plan for families — Memphis Zoo, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken.

Duration: 5h 15m
Cost: $50–$120
Stops: 2 stops
Area: Midtown + 1 more
Walking: Light walking · Total 3.7-mile driving route
Ideal for: Families · Kids · Parents

Start Plan

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The plan

1Memphis Zoo(3 hrs)→
2Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken(1 hr)

Why this plan works

The 2 stops cover about 3.7 miles total, which keeps you in one pocket of Memphis instead of crossing town between them. Memphis Zoo is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. Best suited to families, families with kids, and parents who want a planned Memphis outing without improvising between stops.

The story

The itinerary

2 stops, one great day

1
3 hrs
Memphis Zoo
Family · Midtown
Many different species of land & sea animals displayed in pavilions organized geographically.
What to do — Spend the morning discovering the Memphis Zoo. Visit your favorite animals, enjoy the various exhibits, and make sure to catch any scheduled feedings or shows.
Scout Side Quest
Spot an animal doing the absolute weirdest stretch or nap pose. Vote on the zoo's reigning champion lounger.
Book it · Memphis Zoo
Overton Park Shell Guided Backstage History Experience Tour
5.0 (2)1 hrFrom $160.3 mi away
Check availability
Private Elvis Tour in Memphis – The Early Years of the King
5.0 (1)1.5 hrFrom $3650.3 mi away
Check availability
3.7 mi · 11 min drive
Then A short drive will take you to Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken for lunch.
2
1 hr
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Food & Drink · Downtown Memphis
Long-running chain serving spicy fried chicken & comfort sides in a low-key setting.
What to do — Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken. Grab some spicy fried chicken and classic sides for a true taste of Memphis.
Book it · Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Welcome to Memphis: Private Downtown Orientation Walk
5.0 (1)1 hrFrom $850.2 mi away
Check availability
Premium Elvis Experience: City Tour with Graceland Tickets
5.0 (61)7 hrFrom $4800.2 mi away
Check availability

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The route

On the map

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Common questions

Planning this outing

Is this a good Memphis itinerary for families?: Yes. It's built for families, families with kids, and parents and runs about 5 hr 15 min across 2 stops, starting at Memphis Zoo.
How long does this outing take?: Plan on 5 hr 15 min door to door, including time between stops.
How much does this Memphis itinerary cost?: Roughly $50–$120 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
Is this itinerary walkable?: Not entirely. The stops cover about 3.7 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
Do I need reservations?: No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.

Keep exploring

Different moods, same city.

See all things to do in Memphis →

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Cost
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Cost
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Cost
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Cost
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Cost
$50–$80
Ideal for
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Duration
3h 30m
Cost
$25–$75
Ideal for
Friends · Couples
View the plan