23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Germantown (TN)

Germantown is a fascinating city in Shelby County, Tennessee, United States. It has a current population of about 40,684.

Germantown is home to numerous attractions; whether you are searching for outdoor activities, retail therapy, relaxation, or an exciting expedition, there is something for you.

Explore its lush parks, such as the scenic Cameron Brown Park or the serene Oaklawn Garden, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Discover the area’s rich history by visiting the Germantown Historical Marker Trail or the Bobby Lanier Farm Park, showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage.

Are you planning an exploration of Germantown, TN? Let’s explore the best and fun things to do in Germantown, TN.

Things to Do in Germantown, TN

1. Have a Picnic in Cameron Brown Park

Cameron Brown Park
Credits: duluoz cats / Flickr
Cameron Brown Park

Parks are among the most famous recreational areas in the world, and Germantown has countless mesmerizing parks that you can explore. 

Cameron Brown Park is one of the numerous parks where people can do activities like picnicking and relaxing with family and buddies.

This 55-acre park is home to a huge pavilion, well-lit fields for sports -including tennis courts, baseball court, and soccer field-, picnic spots with benches and tables, food stands, BBQ grilling areas, water fountains, and restrooms.

Cameron Brown Park also has a three-acre lake where you can fish and enjoy its picturesque view. There is also a one-and-a-half mile of hiking trails for your exploring pleasure.

Address: 8628 Farmington Blvd, Germantown, TN 38139, United States

2. Marvel at the gorgeous flowers in Oaklawn Garden

Oaklawn Garden
Credits: ruthdaniel3444/ Flickr
Oaklawn Garden

Oaklawn Garden is one of the best places to visit in Germantown, TN. The beautiful garden of Oaklawn is nestled in a six-acre field full of lush greeneries.

Oaklawn Garden combines a botanical garden, a plaza, and a museum where you can walk around and feed your eyes with the views of bright-colored flowers blooming.

You can watch the gardeners while they are taking care of the plants and inquire from them about the right method to maintain a garden. 

Spring season is the best period to visit Oaklawn Garden because the flowers will bloom and explode with amazing colors during this time.

Oaklawn Garden assures a calming afternoon while staring at the gorgeous plants and shrubs in the meadows.

You can explore the various paths around the gardens and take photos of the lovely views of Oakland Garden.

Address: 7831 Poplar Pike, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

3. See a life performance in Germantown Community Theater

Germantown Community Theater
Credits: BigPixel Photo / Shutterstock

One of the fun things to do in Germantown, TN, is to watch a live performance in Germantown Community Theater.

This 110-seater facility nestled in Forest Hill-Irene Road of Germantown offers learning and entertainment opportunities for locals and visitors of this city.

Germantown Community Theater is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to promote the creativity and talent of the community by providing a safe space where individuals can freely express themselves. 

If you are a fan of live performances, buy a ticket and witness an incredible show from the most talented entertainers of Germantown.

Maybe you will also get to meet the theater’s community ghost, Mr Murray, who is known for making the light flicker. 

Address: 3037 Forest Hill Irene Rd, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

4. Go shopping and dining at Saddle Creek

Saddle Creek
Credits: VGstockstudio / Shutterstock

Saddle Creek, the first retail complex constructed in 1987, still stands as one of the best shopping centers in Germantown, TN.

This shopping center is a one-stop destination for beauty products, electronics, fitness, home appliances, clothing, and more.

You may choose from over fifty popular and unique stores, like Banana Republic, Apple, Michael Kors, Pandora, Sephora, and other renowned brands.

You are bound to get famished after visiting the stores In Saddle Creek, so when you do, head to one of the restaurants around the place and dig into something tasty. 

Enjoy the ample parking lot and admire the unusual architecture of the architectural design of the shopping center.

Saddle Creek provides a sensational shopping experience for each buyer. So watch out for some great deals and events that sometimes take place. Exploring this shopping center should be on your itinerary of what to do in Germantown, TN.

Address: Poplar Ave. & W Farmington Blvd, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

5. Learn the struggles and experience of the old soldier in Fort Germantown

Fort Germantown
Credits: Thomas R Machnitzki [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Fort Germantown
You will be taken back in time when you visit Fort Germantown, which is among the well-preserved forts used by garrison troops during the Civil War.

This significant site is a valuable piece in the legacy of Germantown. It provides historians with a perspective on the establishment of the fort and the daily life of people around it.

You can drop by Fort Germantown and have the chance to admire the legacy given by the individuals who lived a long time ago.

A tour around Fort Germantown can enhance your understanding of the place and reflect on the struggles and experiences of the soldiers in former times.

Address: 3085 Honey Tree Dr, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

6. Purchase fresh fruits and Vegetables at Farm Park Farmer’s Market

Farm Park Farmer's Market
Credits: dotshock / Shutterstock

Farm Parker Farmer’s Market boats of fresh, sustainable, and locally grown produce. 

This Market is a family-friendly place to purchase the freshest vegetables and fruits sourced from local farms.

At Farm Parker Farmer’s Market, you can also see the art collection produced by the gifted resident artist of Germantown and enjoy live musical performances.

They are available food trucks serving delicious and healthy food for buyers. The market also provides fun activities for kids and educational cooking presentations in a beautiful rural setting. 

At Farm Park Farmer’s Market, you can shop all you want without getting bored. 

Address: Germantown, TN, United States 

7. Spend a few hours in the great outdoors at the Wolf River Nature Area

Wolf River Nature Area
Credits: curated by Gary Bridgman/ Flickr
Wolf River Nature Area

The 150-acre Wolf River Nature Area has become a well-known destination for all outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts.

This natural reserve offers educational areas for picnic tours, areas for relaxation, scenic spots, and restrooms.

It also contains a 5-3-kilometer trail where you can walk, hike, jog, or just enjoy the natural surroundings. 

Along the trails, you will come across some benches, signs, wetlands, and gardens.

Wolf River Nature Area provides many outdoor activities where you can stay in shape and have fun at the same time. Exploring this destination is one of the best things to do in Germantown, TN.

Address: 7014 Wolf River Boulevard, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

8. Catch a performance at Germantown Performing Center

Germantown Performing Center
Credits: Memphis CVB/ Flickr
Germantown Performing Center

Since 1993, the 868-seat Germantown Performing Center has been offering world-class entertainment. 

This center is home to various artists who specialize in acting, comedy, dance, and music. It is where you can find exceptional artists performing. 

You will be blown away by the performing center’s performances, facilities, staff, and the general experience provided by the Germantown Performing Center.

Whether you are an art lover or enjoy seeing performances from outstanding performers, Germantown Performances are a must-see.

Address:1801 Exeter Rd, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

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9. Have a taste of the Germantown Commissary BBQ’

Germantown Commissary BBQ
Credits: Ben+Sam / Flickr
Germantown Commissary BBQ

Germantown Commissary BBQ is a restaurant in the downtown area serving excellent cured and smoked meats.

Although the leading attraction of this restaurant is its barbecue, you can sample other items on the menu, such as the tamales or the smoked sausage.

While digging into the most mouth-watering barbecues in Germantown, don’t forget to save some room for some of the toothsome treats that Germantown Commissary BBQ also offers, such as their puddings and coconut cream pies. 

The restaurant is adjacent to railway tracks, so you might have to raise your voice while giving your orders. 

Visit Germantown Commissary BBQ to assuage your taste buds and enjoy the Memphis-style barbecue.

Address: 2290 S Germantown Rd, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

10. Check out the Historic Germantown Train Depot Museum

Historic Germantown Train Depot Museum
Credits: Thomas R Machnitzki [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Historic Germantown Train Depot Museum
Among what to do in Germantown, TN, is to see the Historic Germantown Train Depot Museum.

Germantown is home to many historic locations, and the Germantown Train Depot Museum is among them.

The Germantown Train Depot Museum gathers the city’s history in one place.

When you visit this train station, you will learn more about the past and see the memories of the city with the railroad.

The Germantown Train Depot Museum has been renovated for tourists. It is now converted into a museum containing artifacts from the city’s early years.

Address: 2260 West St, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

11. See the best organic products at September Nail Salon

September Nail Salon
Credits: InnerVisionPRO / Shutterstock

September Nail Salon, a small-scale nail salon, was founded by Jennifer Purnell. The founder is dedicated to using only organic products for all the salon’s services.

September Nail Salon founded its bath and shower brand, September BODY, to provide patrons with the best products possible while undergoing treatments.

September’s BODY collection features Bath Bombs, Sugar Scrubs, Hydrating Body Mist, Body Butter Oils, etc.

Patrons love receiving the September BODY items as a present during services and often enquire about purchasing them for daily use.

September Nail Salon began producing products by hand for retail sales so anyone could use them at home or buy them as gifts. 

Address: 2101 Merchants Row, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

12. Drink wine and paint in Painting With A Twist

Painting With A Twist
Credits: silverkblackstock / Shutterstock

One of the fun things to do in Germantown, TN, is to paint and sip wine in Painting with A Twist.

Painting at this place is a unique activity to partake in during your stay in Germantown, TN. It is a fresh and enjoyable way to spend time in Germantown.

With Painting With A Twist, you are not only making art, but you are also creating memories. Get away from the hectic world and join this meditative event in one of the Painting With A Twist studios in Germantown.

Experience a reviving and soothing painting session with calming music to set up your mood while drinking a glass of wine. You can choose to book a private appointment or reserve a seat.

Whether you like to bond with your pals, express yourself via painting, or have fun on a date night, you can reserve an event in Painting With A Twist. 

Prepare to enjoy this new experience, interact with others, and share a laugh or two and stories with Painting With A Twist. 

Address: 3116 Village Shops Dr Ste 22, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

13. Purchase home decor at Southern Avenue Company

Southern Avenue Company
Credits: NDAB Creativity / Shutterstock

Southern Avenue Company, situated in the Shops of Saddle Creek In Germantown, is an eye-catching and welcoming home furnishing and gift business.

It is entirely comprised of attractive compositions imbued with lasting creativity.

Southern Avenue Company offers a private shopping experience that will amaze and inspire you each time you visit, with a fresh and expanding selection. 

Southern Avenue Company provides various clothing, including dresses, outwear, bottoms, tops, and robes. You can also get the perfect jewelry to go with your ensemble. 

Browse through the various frames, tableware, mirrors, furniture, and other products that suit your home décor if you are trying to buy new stuff for your house.

Address: 2228 S Germantown Rd, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

14. Buy a bottle of wine in Germantown Village Wine and Liquor

Germantown Village Wine and Liquor
Credits: Jag_cz / Shutterstock

Are you looking for affordable liquor? If yes, pay a visit to Germantown’s Village Wine and Liquor. This store features a wide collection of scotch, brandy, rums, tequila, and lots more.

Germantown’s Village Wine and Liquor also provides a variety of wine brands and styles that can complement your taste. From local brands to famous labels, you can find it here in this store.

The Germantown Village Wine and Liquor offers incredible prices, top-quality products, and experienced staff to help you choose the best wine and liquor.

You don’t need to be familiar with wines and liquor before you visit this store, as it has willing and happy staff to help you with whatever you need.

Address: 7730 Poplar Ave STE 5, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

15. Go on a delightful tour of the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum

The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, also known as the Burkle Estate, draws guests back to the pre-Civil War period.

The main house once served as a refuge for enslaved people along the Underground Railroad.

The house’s owner, Jacob Burkle, was a member of the antislavery movement and provided shelter to those trying to escape slavery.

The 1800s house is full of secret passages and trap doors used by runaway slaves trying to flee north to freedom. 

The estate also contains artifacts that portray the harsh conditions for enslaved people in the South.

Recent guests agree that while the museum is tiny, it is filled with information and offers a strong look into the lives of the enslaved people during this period.

The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum’s hours differ by season; it is open from 10 am to 4 pm from September to May and 10 am to 5 pm from June to August. It is only open from Tuesday to Saturday throughout the year.

Additionally, there is ample parking space and an admission fee. 

Address: 826 N 2nd Street, Memphis, TN 38107, United States

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16. Grab a tasty burger and enjoy live music at Huey’s Germantown

Huey's Germantown
Credits: Parasol Awnings/ Facebook
Huey’s Germantown

For over 50 years, Huey’s have served entertaining music, delicious hamburger, and craft beer in Memphis. It is one of the best places to visit in Germantown, TN.

Check out their expansive menu featuring burgers, desserts, sandwiches, sides, family-friendly snacks, gluten-free options, etc.

The site’s small-town ambiance, graffiti walls, and live local entertainment are possibly their most unique features. 

Local and regional bands often perform live music featuring blues, jazz, and sometimes rock on Sundays at Huey’s Germantown.

Address: 7677 Farmington Blvd, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

17. Take part in Outdoor Activities at Ridgeway Country Club

Ridgeway Country Club
Credits: Bohbeh / Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Germantown, TN, is to golf at Ridgeway Country Club.

You may partake in creative events, socialize with a diverse, broad-based membership, and experience almost every feature of country club life with a fresh viewpoint at Ridgeway Country Club.

For golfers of different ages and abilities, the gold course offers 18 competitive holes of golf.

This fantastic course offers golfers a pleasurable excursion since stunning lakes and beautiful native plants encircle it.

Other parts of the practice fields include an indoor practice area, a 300 + yard driving range, and putting and chipping greens.

Other club amenities include tennis courts, private dining rooms, an Olympic-sized pool, and a comfy theater for film screenings and special events.

Take advantage of the benefits of Ridgeway Country Club, which offers opportunities for interaction for the family members in swimming, golf, tennis, celebrating events, dining, and celebrating the important occasions in your life.

Address: 9800 Poplar Ave, Germantown, TN 38139, United States

18. Have a tour of the Memphis Botanic Garden

Memphis Botanic Garden
Credits: Bubbahotepblues [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Memphis Botanic Garden
The Memphis Botanic Garden, located in East Memphis, offers guests an escape from the hecticness of everyday life. There are 30 specialty garden areas spreading across 96 acres of land.

The Asian Garden, one of the visitors’ favorites, contains plants native to countries like Korea, China, Taiwan, and Japan.

Tourists also enjoy exploring the colorful Iris Garden and the Daffodil Hill, which displays up to 300,000 gorgeous blooms starting in January. 

Memphis Botanical Garden also features an arboretum area. The garden hosts events and concerts, which are ideal for adults and children.

Memphis Botanic Garden is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. but closes at 4:30 p.m. during its winter season.

Its on-site café is open for lunch daily, excluding Sundays. There are also picnic areas for visitors who want to enjoy a meal in the garden.

Memphis Botanic Garden is in Memphis, TN, 26 minutes from Germantown, TN.

Address:750 Cherry Rd, Memphis, TN 38117, United States

19. Buy Gift Items at More Than Words

More Than Words
Credits: SNS Studio / Shutterstock

Among the top things to do in Germantown, TN, is to buy presents at More Than Words. It was established by the owner and artisan, Lee Ann McGhee.

For over 20 years, this establishment has provided unique gifts for a house, newborns, friends, and weddings.

More Than Words offers an unusual range of framed calligraphy. Scriptures and motivational quotes are merged into her creative designs to create thoughtful gifts that the receivers will treasure forever.

The items in their showroom include trendy jewelry, clothing, home décor, and accessories.

You may find chic designer jewelry, trendy clothing, gifts for animal lovers, incredible works of art by regional artists, and one-of-a-kind service ware.

Address: 2135 Merchants Row STE 4, Germantown, TN 38138, United States

20. Visit the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
Credits: Michael Gäbler [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
As one of the largest museums in the South, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art brings multimedia art to life in numerous ways.

Its permanent exhibits showcase over 10,000 pieces that exemplify the evolution of art from the 1300s to the modern day.

The museum also offers different temporary exhibitions, which, in former times, have ranged from art features illustrating Native American voices to a photography showcase emphasizing Black history and identity in baseball. 

Also, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art displays outdoor sculptures, some of which go back to the 1800s.

Former visitors enjoyed the well-rounded collection and the attention to detail. They also enjoyed the museum’s inviting ambiance and informative staff.

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is normally open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The museum doesn’t open on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Plan your visit on Saturday between 10 a.m. and midday when admission is free.

Address:1934 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, United States

21. Go shopping at Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
Credits: didesign021 / Shutterstock

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is a mind-blowing modern architectural wonder you must see. From bowling to shopping or spending some hours at the spa, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

It houses the tallest free-standing elevator in the nation, as such, guests can enjoy remarkable views of the stores as they are moved up.

Guests who have visited this place agree it is a stop worth making even if you don’t think of yourself as an outdoor lover.

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is nestled on the banks of Wolf River Harbor, which joins with the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis.

The store opens from 9 a.m to 9 p.m daily except Sundays when it is open from 10 to 7 in the evening.

A fish feeding show takes place at 2 p.m. every day and is free to attend. 

Address 1 Bass Pro Drive, Memphis, TN 38105, United States

22. Drop by and see a film in Malco Summer Drive-In

Malco Summer Drive-In
Credits: BAZA Production / Shutterstock

Prepare to experience overwhelming nostalgia as you head to the Malco Summer Drive-In.

Malco Summer Drive-in is a fascinating movie theater where you can bring your furry friends and watch a movie together. 

This drive-in theater features countless screens showing newly released movies and some regular conveniences in a cinema, such as concession stands.

You can comfortably stay in your car while you watch a movie from the expansive screens of Malco Summer Drive-In.

Address: 5310 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN 38122, United States

23. Stroll through Victorian Village

Victorian Village
Credits: Eric Allix Rogers/ Flickr
Victorian Village

Victorian Village houses seven colorful 1800s mansions that will make you feel like you have taken a step back.

Some residences are business offices, but others have become event spaces. One operates as a bed and breakfast, allowing visitors to experience the luxury and conveniences of Victorian splendor.

The Woodruff-Fontaine House is open for tours from Wednesday to Friday. But be wary, as it is rumored to be plagued by the spirit of Mollie Fontaine, who grew up in the house. The mansion her father constructed for her across the street once served as a well-known lounge.

Victorian Village is open to walk-throughs at any time of day, but if you are interested in entering a home, you will have to check the precise hours, and there may be admission fees.

Nevertheless, you can always wander in the exteriors for free from the street. 

The Woodruff-Fontaine House is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 12 until 4 p.m. for self-guided tours.

Address: Memphis, TN, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Germantown

One of the reasons why Germantown is an excellent vacation spot is it has numerous destinations and activities that you can explore.

You will enjoy marveling at its remarkable parks, historic sites, world-class theaters, high-end boutiques and shops, and top-rated local restaurants.

The fun never ends in this charming city, so you need to experience the splendor of Germantown, TN.