Downtown Memphis
Thanks in part to some of Memphis' movers and shakers, the
downtown area has experienced a revitalization in the past ten years. The last decade has
brought The Pyramid Arena, the return of the Trolley car system, the opening of the
National Civil Rights Museum, a rejuvenated Beale Street and an extended riverfront park.
Perhaps because of the convenience (many people work
downtown), the affordability or the incredible view of the Mississippi River, a number of
people are moving into the area's restored apartment buildings, condominiums and
resort-like homes along the river. One of the advantages is freedom from depending on your
car and the hassle of traffic from commuting back and forth to work.
And downtowners almost never complain that there's nothing to
do. The Peabody Hotel is perfect for people-watching and the Orpheum Theatre stages
Broadway shows. There are also concerts at Mud Island and the Memphis Cook Convention
Center, and the many clubs and restaurants of Beale Street.
Festivals and fairs are held throughout the year. Events such
as Oktoberfest, Memphis in May, the Memphis Blues Festival and others make the downtown
area a lively place to live. For more solitary fun, there are lots of parks to enjoy a
free afternoon. Court Square, one of the oldest and prettiest parks, is perfect for quiet
reflection in the company of resident pigeons. Other downtown parks include DeSoto Park,
Tom Lee Park and Confederate Park. There are plenty of the usual amenities and
restaurants. Most children attend schools in Midtown.
