Mud Island River Park and Museum
Mud Island River Park is a unique 52 acre recreational, educational and entertainment facility dedicated to telling the story of the mighty Mississippi River and its people. It houses the 18-gallery Mississippi River Museum; which contains a permanent collection of over 5,000 artifacts in support of its mission to preserve and promote the natural and cultural history of the Lower Mississippi River Valley. Museum exhibits detail the valley’s creation and settlement from the Native American inhabitants to European explorers; the Civil War on the river, complete with a full scale Union gunboat engaged in battle with Confederate land troops; and the development of Delta Music from early Blues to today’s Rock-n-Roll.
Other attractions at Mud Island River Park include the Riverwalk, a half mile long scale model of the lower Mississippi River complete with 20 scale model replica river cities and 68 free standing text panels; The Adventure Center which offers canoe, kayak, pedal boat and bike rentals; a 5,000 seat Amphitheater which offers seasonal concerts; gift shops; food concessions and banquet facilities and marina.
Mud Island River Park is open during daylight hours daily and is well marked on directional signage maintained by both TDOT and the City of Memphis. The Mississippi River Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Non-rigorous hiking and outdoor exploration of the island and surrounding river is encouraged.
