If you should know one thing about Memphis neighborhoods, it’s that people are protective of where they live. A sure fire way to start a debate with a Memphian is to talk about what neighborhoods are considered what, where neighborhood lines begin and end, and so forth. So, as a disclaimer, we’re trying to keep things simple–there are so many nuances that would take a billion blog posts to describe!
Midtown, Cooper-Young, and Overton Park
Being unique isn’t a trend here, it’s a way of life. Midtown is where you’re free to be yourself and sure to find a crowd where you fit in.
Midtown Memphis is one of the most desirable places to live in the city. It’s currently a seller’s market, so to snag that house for sale or sign the lease on a rental, you better act fast!
Midtown is also full of popular and locally owned pubs and restaurants: The Beauty Shop, James Beard Award-nominated chef Kelly English’s two restaurants, Second Line and Swamp Bar, The Bar-B-Q Shop, Aldo’s, Central BBQ, Ecco, and so much more.
Centrally located in Midtown Memphis is Overton Park. At 342 acres, the park is home to the Memphis Zoo, which is consistently ranked as one of the top five zoos in the country, the Brooks Museum of Art, the Levitt Shell which features yearly free concert series, and the 126-acre Old Forest State Natural Area for biking, hiking, and exploring the outdoors.
Midtown also has several theatres and performance spaces: Theatre Memphis, Hattiloo Theatre, Ballet Memphis, and Playhouse on the Square. And annual block parties like the Cooper Young Fest that draws thousands of people from across the mid-south to enjoy the vibrant area’s amenities.
Binghampton
Binghampton is where diversity thrives. It’s one of the most multicultural parts of Memphis with strong immigrant communities living right next to families who have been there for generations. The Binghampton International Festival had their inaugural celebration in 2017, and there’s always something happening on the beloved Broad Ave that celebrates the diverse cultures of that community.
There are strong non-profits working to improve the lives of every Binghampton resident. Non-profits in the area include Service Over Self, Agape, the Center for Transforming Communities, Memphis Immigration Advocates, Refugee Empowerment Program, and many more.
Broad Avenue
Broad Avenue is where creativity and community come alive. This vibrant area in Memphis is a hub for artists, entrepreneurs, and families, all contributing to a unique and thriving cultural scene. The avenue is lined with eclectic shops, local businesses, and art galleries, celebrating the diverse talents of the community. Annual events like the Broad Avenue Art Walk bring together residents and visitors to enjoy live music, street performances, and art installations, showcasing the dynamic spirit of the neighborhood.
