10 Best Things to Do Near Germantown, Tennessee (Shelby County)

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Germantown, Tennessee (Shelby County)

If you’re planning a trip to Germantown, Tennessee in Shelby County, you’re in a great spot. This small, upscale suburb just east of Memphis has its own charm, plus easy access to some of the best things to do in the Memphis area. Whether you’re visiting family, checking out neighborhoods, or just looking for a quiet base near the city, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Germantown that are perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers.

1. Stroll, Shop, and Dine in Old Germantown

Start right in the heart of town. The Old Germantown area feels like a small Southern village tucked inside the suburbs. You’ll find:
  • Historic buildings and churches
  • Locally owned boutiques
  • Cafés and laid-back restaurants
It’s a great place for:
  • A slow morning walk with coffee in hand
  • Window shopping
  • A casual date night dinner
If you enjoy charming main streets more than big malls, this area will be your favorite part of Germantown.

2. Relax at the Germantown Greenway & Parks

One of the best things about Germantown is how green it is. The Germantown Greenway connects several parks with paved walking and biking trails, making it easy to get outside without driving far. Some popular spots include:
  • Johnson Road Park – Scenic lake, walking paths, and picnic tables.
  • Municipal Park – Near Germantown City Hall with a nice pond and open space.
  • Riverdale Park – Great for kids with a playground and fields.
If you like light exercise, this is perfect. No hiking boots needed—just comfortable shoes. On a sunny afternoon, you’ll see joggers, kids on bikes, and folks walking their dogs.

3. Catch a Show at the Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC)

The Germantown Performing Arts Center, often called GPAC, is one of the cultural gems of Shelby County. They host:
  • Live music (jazz, classical, pop, and more)
  • Theater and dance performances
  • Family-friendly shows and special events
If you’re visiting over a weekend, it’s worth checking their schedule ahead of time. Seeing a show here feels more “local art scene” than big-city arena concert, which can be a really nice change of pace. In the warmer months, keep an eye out for:
  • Outdoor concerts and festivals on the grounds
It’s a great date night idea if you want something a little more special than just dinner.

4. Step Back in Time at the Germantown Depot & Historic Sites

Love history? Germantown has roots going back to the 1800s, and you can still see traces of that past. Look for:
  • Germantown Depot – A restored old train depot area that hints at the town’s railroad history.
  • Historic churches and homes – Many with classic Southern architecture.
It’s not a huge “museum district,” but walking or driving through older parts of town gives you a feel for how this once-small railroad stop grew into an upscale Memphis suburb. If you enjoy photography, the older buildings, big trees, and small-town vibe make for some great shots.

5. Explore Shelby Farms Park – One of the Largest Urban Parks in America

Just a short drive northwest of Germantown is Shelby Farms Park, one of the top things to do in Shelby County and the greater Memphis area. This massive park (over 4,500 acres) offers:
  • Biking and walking trails
  • Lakes for kayaking and paddleboarding
  • Playgrounds and splash areas for kids
  • Horseback riding (seasonal)
  • A chance to see the park’s famous bison
You can rent bikes or boats inside the park, or just bring a blanket and enjoy a simple picnic. On a nice day, you could easily spend several hours here without getting bored. If you’re visiting Germantown with kids, Shelby Farms Park is almost a must-do.

6. Shop and Savor at Saddle Creek & Other Germantown Shopping Areas

If you enjoy a little retail therapy, you’re in luck. Germantown is known for its high-end and boutique shopping, especially around the Shops of Saddle Creek near Poplar Avenue and Germantown Road. You’ll find:
  • National brands in an outdoor, walkable setting
  • Local shops, gift stores, and specialty boutiques
  • Plenty of places to grab coffee, lunch, or dessert
Even if you’re not a huge shopper, this area is fun for:
  • People-watching
  • A lazy afternoon stroll
  • Picking up something you forgot to pack for your trip
And yes—this is also where you’ll find many of Germantown’s best restaurants and coffee shops, from casual to a bit more upscale.

7. Enjoy Southern Food and Date Night Dining

Food is a big part of travel, and Germantown delivers. While you’re close to all the famous Memphis BBQ joints, you’ll also find plenty of great places right in town. Expect:
  • Southern comfort food and meat-and-three style spots
  • Steakhouses and date-night restaurants
  • Fun brunch places with biscuits, pancakes, and strong coffee
If you’re not sure where to start, ask a local, “Where would you go for a special dinner?” You’ll usually get a handful of Germantown favorites rather than big chain names. One tip: plan at least one “nice dinner” while you’re here. The local dining scene is a big part of the Germantown experience.

8. Hit the Links at Nearby Golf Courses

If you like golf, Germantown and the surrounding area have some very nice courses. Within a short drive you’ll find:
  • Well-kept public courses with tree-lined fairways
  • Practice ranges and putting greens
Many visitors squeeze in a round in the early morning, then spend the rest of the day exploring. Tennessee weather can be hot and humid in summer, so aim for an early tee time if you’re visiting between June and August. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, a relaxed 9 holes can be a fun way to enjoy the Shelby County scenery.

9. Take a Day Trip into Memphis for Music, BBQ, and Museums

One of the biggest perks of staying in Germantown is how easy it is to reach Memphis. In about 25–30 minutes (depending on traffic), you can be downtown or at some of the city’s top attractions. Popular Memphis day trips from Germantown include:
  • Beale Street – Live music, neon lights, and a classic Memphis vibe.
  • Graceland – Elvis Presley’s famous home, a must for music fans.
  • National Civil Rights Museum – Powerful and moving, built around the Lorraine Motel.
  • Memphis Zoo – Great for families with kids.
The beauty of staying in Germantown is that you can explore the energy of Memphis during the day, then come back to a quieter, more relaxed base at night.

10. Experience Local Festivals & Community Events

Germantown has a strong community feel, and if you visit at the right time, you can catch one of its seasonal events. Depending on the time of year, you may find:
  • Summer concerts in local parks
  • Holiday events with lights and decorations
  • Community fairs, farmers markets, and art events
These gatherings are a great way to:
  • Meet locals
  • Try regional food and treats
  • Get a real sense of life in Germantown beyond the usual tourist spots
If you’re planning ahead, search for “Germantown TN events” for your travel dates so you don’t miss anything fun.

Why Base Yourself in Germantown, Tennessee?

So, why pick Germantown instead of staying right in downtown Memphis? A few reasons travelers love it:
  • Quieter, suburban feel with tree-lined streets and parks.
  • Easy access to both Memphis attractions and Shelby County nature.
  • Great restaurants, shopping, and family-friendly activities without big-city noise.
It’s a good choice if you:
  • Are traveling with kids
  • Prefer a calm place to stay at night
  • Like mixing city fun with quiet downtime

Final Thoughts: Plan Your Trip to Germantown and Shelby County

From peaceful parks and local shops to nearby Memphis music, there are plenty of things to do near Germantown, Tennessee. You can:
  • Walk the Greenway in the morning
  • Shop and enjoy lunch in town
  • Catch a show at GPAC or head into Memphis at night
It’s the kind of place where you can move at your own pace—busy if you want, relaxed if you don’t.

Share Your Germantown Experience

Have you visited Germantown, TN or the Memphis / Shelby County area?
  • What was your favorite thing to do?
  • Did you find a great restaurant or hidden gem?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they can really help other travelers planning their trips. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or on social media so more people can discover all the fun things to do near Germantown, Tennessee.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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