Memphis Parkway System

The Memphis Parkway System is a network of roads that frames the city in a rectangular shape, connecting South Parkway, East Parkway, and North Parkway through different neighborhoods. These broad routes link parks and public spaces while serving as main thoroughfares around the urban area.

The system was created between 1904 and 1906 as a response to the yellow fever outbreaks of the 1870s that shaped Memphis development. The planning reflected a vision to weave green space into the city to improve public health and living conditions.

The parkway network links important institutions including the Memphis Zoo, Rhodes College, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art.

The road is well-maintained with divided lanes featuring tree-lined medians and planted flowers throughout. You can explore the route on foot or by car, and the moderate traffic pace makes it easy to move between different sections and neighborhoods.

The original design of North Parkway included racing sections planned by landscape architect George Kessler. These sections were removed in 1910 due to safety concerns and converted to regular roadways.