Memphis, Tennessee, December 5, 2025
Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tennessee, has been awarded the Large Urban Park Award for North America by World Urban Parks. This marks the park’s twelfth major award since its reopening in 2023. Celebrated for its innovative design, inclusivity, and community engagement, the park continues to draw millions of visitors. As part of its ongoing transformation, the Memphis Flyway will opening soon, featuring an ADA-accessible observation deck along the Mississippi River. The park honors the legacy of Tom Lee, a heroic figure in Memphis history.
Memphis, Tennessee
Tom Lee Park in Memphis has been honored with the Large Urban Park Award for North America by World Urban Parks, marking its twelfth major award since reopening in 2023.
The 31-acre riverfront park was recognized for its innovative design and commitment to inclusivity, environmental restoration, and community engagement. The award was announced at the World Urban Parks Symposium in Istanbul, Turkey, where Tom Lee Park was one of only three North American parks to receive this distinction.
Paul Chandler, President & CEO of Memphis River Parks Partnership, expressed pride in the park’s achievements, stating that the design principles of equity, opportunity, and joy have been central to its development. He emphasized the honor of sharing this international recognition with the city of Memphis.
A Growing Destination for Visitors and Locals Alike
Since its reopening in 2023, Tom Lee Park has attracted over 2 million visitors from around the world. It’s not just a spot for relaxation but a vibrant hub of activities that encourages community interaction and outdoor learning. The park’s redesign incorporates features such as a destination playground, outdoor classrooms, art installations, and water play areas, transforming the landscape of Memphis’s downtown area.
Memphis Flyway: A Unique Addition
The final phase of the park’s redesign, known as the Memphis Flyway, is set to open in the spring. This phase will celebrate the park’s legacy while providing unique amenities that cater to diverse community needs, including the only free and ADA-accessible observation deck on the Mississippi River. Such additions reflect an ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility and connectivity to the waterfront, which is vital for promoting outdoor activities and local business opportunities.
A Tribute to Community and History
Tom Lee Park is named after Tom Lee, an African-American river worker who heroically saved 32 people from a capsized steamboat in 1925. The park’s design not only honors his legacy but also underscores the community’s dedication to inclusivity and environmental stewardship. It serves as a reminder of the power of individual action and community resolve, reflecting how such attributes can spur growth and development in local neighborhoods.
Accolades Highlighting Success
The park’s accolades include the 2025 Regional and Urban Design Award from the American Institute of Architects and a Design Honor Award from the American Society of Landscape Architecture. These awards highlight not only Tom Lee Park’s architectural achievements but also its essential role in revitalizing Memphis’s riverfront, creating a natural and beautiful space for the community. By investing in urban parks, Memphis is fostering an environment that allows for entrepreneurial innovation and private investments, ultimately leading to economic growth.
Conclusion
The recognition of Tom Lee Park as a premier urban park is a testament to the collaborative efforts of city planners, local businesses, and community members. This success illustrates how vital urban green spaces are in enhancing local economies and reinforcing community bonds. As Memphis continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like the redevelopment of Tom Lee Park are essentials for future prosperity. Supporting local businesses and engaging with community projects can lead to a vibrant and economically healthy Memphis, TN.
FAQ
What is Tom Lee Park?
Tom Lee Park is a 31-acre riverfront park in Memphis, Tennessee, named after Tom Lee, an African-American river worker who saved 32 people from a capsized steamboat in 1925. The park features a destination playground, outdoor learning classrooms, art installations, and water play areas.
What recent award did Tom Lee Park receive?
Tom Lee Park received the Large Urban Park Award for North America from World Urban Parks, marking its twelfth major award since reopening in 2023.
When did Tom Lee Park reopen?
Tom Lee Park reopened in 2023 after a significant redesign aimed at revitalizing Memphis’s riverfront and reconnecting the city to the Mississippi River.
What is the Memphis Flyway?
The Memphis Flyway is the final phase of Tom Lee Park’s redesign, set to open in the spring. It will feature the only free and ADA-accessible observation deck on the Mississippi River.
Who was Tom Lee?
Tom Lee was an African-American river worker who heroically saved 32 people from a capsized steamboat in 1925. The park’s design honors his legacy and reflects the community’s commitment to inclusivity and environmental stewardship.
Key Features of Tom Lee Park
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 31-acre riverfront park |
| Design Highlights | Destination playground, outdoor learning classrooms, art installations, water play areas |
| Memphis Flyway | Final phase of redesign, opening in spring, featuring free and ADA-accessible observation deck |
| Historical Significance | Named after Tom Lee, who saved 32 people from a capsized steamboat in 1925 |
| Recent Awards | Large Urban Park Award for North America from World Urban Parks, 2025 Regional and Urban Design Award from the American Institute of Architects, Design Honor Award from the American Society of Landscape Architecture |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
