We've rounded up the absolute best family outings in Memphis for the weekend of February 28th and March 1st, 2026. You can catch science exhibits, hands-on workshops for older kids, and some great recurring activities at the Dixon!
See our top picks
Project Pop-up
The Dixon Gallery & Gardens
Free art activities at the Dixon gallery on Saturday afternoon.
FOOD: Science, Culture and Cuisine
Pink Palace Museum & Mansion
Explore food through all five senses inside the Pink Palace Museum.
Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! - the Musical
Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center
A musical based on the beloved Mo Willems book playing Saturday afternoon.
· February 28
8: Kids aged 10-13 get to explore painting on unique surfaces using a variety of mixed media. They'll pick mystery objects to create a truly custom canvas piece.Specific programming tailored for tweens who want a structured, creative workshop.
: If you are planning summer or future camp enrollment, this expo at the Pink Palace is where you need to be. Meet various camp providers all in one spot.A specialized event perfect for parents planning ahead for summer activities.
FREE : Join the library for a special read-in event celebrating African American stories. It's a fantastic, free way to encourage reading and history.It's a free, community-focused literary event happening downtown.
: Catch the massive screen experience featuring authentic dinosaur animations against real backgrounds. This is the ultimate dinosaur fix for any kid.It’s an immersive 3D movie experience featuring dinosaurs, a guaranteed win for most families.
: Bring the little ones to see the beloved Mo Willems book brought to life as a musical! This TheaterWorks USA production is perfect for younger audiences.A direct adaptation of a famous children's book, ensuring engagement for younger kids.
: See a production of Shakespeare's 'As You Like It' adapted into a musical by the University of Memphis program. A great introduction to live theater.A chance to see local university theater production on Saturday afternoon.
: Head to the Overton Park Greenhouse for a session focused on seeds. This is a great way to spend a Saturday morning outdoors near the park.A specific gardening event occurring Saturday morning at a popular park location.
: If your family collects coins or trading cards, this show at the Landers Center runs all weekend. It’s a fun, indoor browsing opportunity.This event runs both Saturday and Sunday, offering flexibility for families.
· March 1
1: Experience the high-energy spectacle of Drum Tao at the GPAC. This powerful Japanese drumming performance is thrilling for all ages.A unique, high-impact performance happening Sunday afternoon.
Also On· anytime this weekend
6FREE : Swing by the Dixon for a casual afternoon activity session centered around art and the beautiful gardens. This is a great drop-in event if you’re already planning a museum visit.It’s a free, casual recurring event perfect for a Saturday afternoon that fits any schedule.
FREE : Head out to the Dixon Gardens for a hands-on horticulture lesson. Get ready to dig in the dirt and learn something new about gardening this month.A wonderful, free, hands-on way to engage kids with nature right at the Dixon.
: Check out the MoSH exhibition featuring the Mud Island River Museum's boat model collection. It’s a deep dive into Memphis river history perfect for a museum day.This exhibition is focused on local history and is located inside the Pink Palace Museum.
: This multi-sensory exhibition explores the science and culture behind food, engaging sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound. Great for kids who love exploring how things work.It is a specific exhibition running this weekend that promises sensory engagement related to food.
FREE : Bring broken items to the library to see if volunteers can help fix them! This is a wonderful lesson in repair and sustainability for the whole family.A fantastic, free, practical event happening Sunday afternoon at the Central Library.
: Take the family out on the water for a sightseeing cruise on the river. It’s a classic Memphis experience and a great way to see the city.A classic Memphis river activity available Sunday afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Memphis this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-01) the best free options are Project Pop-up and Project Grow at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens on Saturday, and the MPL Repair Cafe at the Central Library on Sunday.
Are there any hands-on workshops for kids this weekend?
Yes, The Dixon Gallery & Gardens is hosting a Youth Workshop: Mixed Media Painting for ages 10-13 on Saturday afternoon.
What can we see indoors that appeals to all ages?
The Pink Palace Museum has two great options: the 'Last Whistle: Steamboat Stories of Memphis' exhibit and the multi-sensory 'FOOD: Science, Culture and Cuisine' exhibit, plus several planetarium shows.
