Mud Island River Park

*CAUTION FOR ANYONE WITH A SERVICE ANIMAL*

On a cross country move (NC to CA) we decided to stop at Mud Island for our daughter and her service animal. At the front gate I was told that unless I had proof of a disability (against the law to ask), paperwork that proved the dog was a service animal (against the law to ask), and a written doctor's statement (ludicrous as well as illegal), I needed to "get out". When I told her her demands were illegal, she literally told me to get off the property. I refused. She then called the police. I found myself sitting on the side of the parking lot explaining to the police what the laws were.

It was a horrendous experience. Keep in mind I'm also dealing with a child in hysterics because she's afraid the police are going to take her dog away. All because Mud Island doesn't train their employees. Beware.

Mud Island is perfect for kids and grownups alike. And it's a wonderful way to cool off on a hot, Memphis day. On a day with the grandkids, start by arriving at Mud Island on the monorail. And if you have teenagers in tow, consider a paddle in Wolf River Harbour with The Adventure Center. Bicycles are another fun alternative.

Having fun there with my little big boy husband ! Interesting and a good way to cool down on a summer day

Fun for the kids and a great way to cool down on a hot day!

Ok I am going to give this review 4 stars because it truly is impressive. They have outlined every curve and detail of the Mississippi River with its bordering cities and states. It runs the length of the park all the way to the end (to the delta). You have to see it for yourself. BUT- it is not easy to get there. We went in June and it was too hot to walk the crossover bridge (from the adjacent welcome center) So we drove. You pay a minimal fee for parking. But then you walk the entire length of the isle park to get to the end and to get a photo op with the Memphis sign. So just know— if you have small children or elderly or disabled, there will be a good bit of walking involved. If going when it is sunny and warm, bring an umbrella for shade and water to drink.

The kids had a blast, and so did we! We didn't go into the museum itself, but we walked along the river replica. It's fun to hop over the landscape while you travel from one end of the river to the other. At the end is the giant MEMPHIS sign. We went early in the morning and had the place to ourselves.

This place is closed down. The monorail is broken and there is no water.

It is a very cool location with the topography of the whole Mississippi River! Great for kids and adults. There were lots of people walking around with dogs.
I have three complaints though:
1. The fake Mississippi River was really gross in some parts, especially where you are allowed to swim.
2. There were spiderwebs EVERYWHERE! I have never walked into so many spiderwebs in my life. I feel like I have spiders crawling all over me.
3. Nothing was open, they had restaurants and stuff but they weren’t open. Elevators didn’t work.

We experienced mud island with my in laws and 7yr and 13yr old kids. We all had fun walking the river, learning about the region and cooling off. We spent about 1.5 hours there and treated ourselves to an ice cream snack at the end. Then walked the short cut back to monorail/tram. Would definitely recommend a fun activity outside!

Mud Island is a bit long in the tooth these days, but the Riverwalk seemed well maintained.