Tucked just 17 minutes east of downtown Memphis, Bartlett, TN is a suburban community that has lots to offer to visitors. It is also located in Shelby County and as of the 2010 U.S. Census, had more than 54,600 residents. It is steeped in history, having served initially as a stagecoach route for travelers heading westward from Nashville, called Union Depot and Green Bottom. It became Bartlett in 1866 and from there quickly evolved into the growing population center it is today.
Making Money Magazine’s Top 100 list in 2007, it has become the ninth largest city in the State of Tennessee. There is plenty to see and do in Bartlett, TN, which offers a slower pace than the larger City of Memphis. Visitors and others to the area should make time to travel the 13 miles east to see what the area has in store.
What Bartlett, TN has to offer
Bartlett began as an agricultural area, containing many of the region’s major plantations. After the Civil War and incorporation as a city (along with the change in name), it remained a small farming community until the late 1960s. The city grew from a population of just over 500 in 1960 to double that in 1970, with rapid growth occurring from 1990 on.
The City of Bartlett provides a quiet respite for those who enjoy living and working in Memphis and Shelby County. It is close enough to the action but tucked away just far enough to offer a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Its growth was spurred by a desire to get away from the rapid urbanization taking place in Memphis while maintaining enough of a connection to the Bluff City.
Things to Do in Bartlett, TN
There is plenty to see and do in Bartlett, TN. Among the city-sponsored events are:
- Fireworks Extravaganza – held at the city’s Bobby K. Flaherty Municipal Center (located on Highway 70 and Appling Road), the event takes place on July 3rd as part of the city’s Fourth of July celebration. The event features presentation of the flag by the Bartlett Police Department, music, and of course, fireworks.
- Children’s Fishing Rodeo – Before the fireworks go off in July, the city holds its annual fishing rodeo for children 12 and under. It is held at the Municipal Center in June and is a great way for families and children to start the summer.
- Bartlett Festival, BBQ Contest & Car Show – September’s reserved for the city’s large family-friendly festival. It is held at the end of the month at W.J. Freeman Park (2629 Bartlett Blvd.), featuring a 5K run, food, music, and plenty of activities.
- Bartlett Christmas Parade – December 7 is the start of the Christmas season for Bartlett residents. The annual parade, kicking off at 4 pm, has two reviewing stages, at Elmore Park and Bartlett Boulevard and Bartlett Boulevard and Shelby Street.
You can link to the past and get a glimpse of what Memphis was like. Bartlett, TN is more than a unique suburban community; it is a growing place of interest for residents and visitors alike. Spending time in Bartlett gives you a different perspective of the greater Memphis area and a chance at seeing a good change of pace.
You may also be interested in: The Best Places to Take Pictures in Memphis
