Things To Do
in West Memphis
West Memphis, Arkansas sits across the Mississippi River from downtown Memphis, offering a compact, riverfront atmosphere with a distinctly Southern Delta flavor. The city blends urban conveniences with easy access to parks and river views, making it a convenient base for exploring the Memphis metro while keeping a quieter pace. It has a waterfront character, casino entertainment at Southland Park, and a growing scene of local eateries and cafes.
The climate skews hot in summer and mild in winter, with spring and fall offering comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the West Memphis Museum, where you can explore local history and artifacts that showcase the city's rich past. Afterward, stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the architecture and stopping by local shops. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring southern specialties like biscuits and gravy.
In the afternoon, head to the Mississippi River Park for a scenic walk along the riverfront, taking in the views of the water and the bustling activity around it. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the shade of the trees, listening to the sounds of nature and the distant hum of city life. As the sun starts to dip, consider visiting the nearby Tilden Rogers Park for a relaxing hike or a round of disc golf.
As the sun sets, make your way to one of West Memphis's local barbecue joints for a hearty dinner featuring smoked ribs or pulled pork. After your meal, take a leisurely drive to the nearby Mississippi River to watch the sunset reflect off the water, creating a picturesque backdrop. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local pub or live music venue to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of adventure by the river. Head to the riverfront for a guided kayak tour, where you'll paddle along the scenic waters while learning about the local ecosystem and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife as you navigate through the calm waters.
After your kayaking adventure, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant, taking in the views as you dine. Spend your afternoon exploring the River Park, where you can walk or bike along the trails, or simply relax by the water. Don't forget to check out the various fishing spots available for those interested in casting a line.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot along the riverbank to watch the sunset, creating a perfect ambiance for reflection. Choose a nearby restaurant for dinner, where you can sample local seafood dishes or southern comfort food. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the river, listening to the sounds of nature and the city coming to life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range) | $25-60 |
| 🏨One-night hotel (mid-range) | $70-120 |
| 🚗Taxi or ride-share short trip | $6-20 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Memphis with riverfront access
- Casinos and entertainment options
- Relatively affordable compared to bigger cities
- Accessible riverfront and Delta culture
- Limited nightlife beyond casino days
- Smaller city with fewer major attractions
- Occasional river flood risk affecting waterfront areas
- Hot summers with high humidity
Places to Visit in West Memphis
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pedestrian bridge with sweeping Mississippi River and Memphis skyline views, especially at sunset.
Open riverfront area with vantage points for horizon shots and night lights.
Industrial and waterfront textures suitable for contrast photography.
Food in West Memphis
West Memphis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried catfish served with hush puppies and coleslaw, a Delta staple found at many neighborhood diners and seafood shacks.
Must-Try!
Smoky, slow-cooked ribs with tangy sauce, available at local barbecue joints near the riverfront.
Seasoned crawfish often featured in springtime gatherings or Cajun-inspired menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods near the riverfront.
Casual street-food style BBQ and grilled specialties on weekend evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people warmly, say please and thank you, and be polite in queues and service encounters.
Treat parks and riverfront areas with care; clean up after yourself and keep noise reasonable in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in West Memphis
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, leave 15-20% of the bill for good service. Casinos may have different expectations for service staff.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for small purchases and street vendors. Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly accepted in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with afternoon thunderstorm risk; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Mild to cool temperatures; occasional cold snaps. Expect indoor venues and occasional rainfall.
Pleasant, with blooming landscapes along the river; watch for severe weather alerts in late spring.
Comfortable temperatures; great for outdoor photography and walks along the river.
West Memphis at Night
Hiking in West Memphis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails offering easy to moderate strolls with river views and bird-watching opportunities.
Short drives to nearby Delta towns offer cultural and natural scenery with less-developed hiking but scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach West Memphis by plane.
Major regional hub with domestic and international flights; about a 15–25 mile drive across the river and through the Memphis metro.
Regional options within a couple hours’ drive for domestic flights; alternative access via Memphis area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
West Memphis features a mix of Black or African American, White, and smaller Hispanic/Latino communities, reflecting its Delta heritage and proximity to the Memphis metro.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College and professional football activities in the broader region; fans enjoy game-day atmospheres.
Local leagues, college basketball events in the greater Memphis area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting West Memphis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most diners; look for salads, veggie plates, sides like baked beans, corn, greens, and grilled vegetables. Ask chefs to modify dishes that include meat-based ingredients.