Memphis just keeps winning!
Tom Lee Park, our crown jewel on the Mississippi River, has earned the highest honor award for urban design from the American Institute of Architects New York (AIANY) and we couldn’t be prouder.
This recognition puts Memphis on the global stage, joining award-winning projects in Singapore, Taiwan, Canada, and China.
But let’s be real. There’s nothing quite like what’s happening on the Bluff City’s riverfront.
Why This Award Matters
When Tom Lee Park reopened in Labor Day 2023, the goal was to reconnect Memphis to the Mississippi River and create an accessible space for everyone.
The AIANY jury saw that vision loud and clear:
💬 “We felt like it was transformational for the city and is really delivering on its ambition of reconnecting the city with the Mississippi River.”
They praised the park’s extensive community engagement, seamless architecture and landscape design, and its ability to create a true common ground for Memphians.
Tom Lee Park is turning heads
Tom Lee Park already racking up national and international recognition, proving that Memphis is setting the standard for urban parks done right. Almost two million visitors have already experienced this game-changing riverfront, and it’s only getting started.
🏙 Fast Company
Named it one of the top three urban design World Changing Ideas.
🎠 Mental Floss
Listed the Life on the River playground among the 11 Most Unique Playgrounds in the U.S.
📰 London Times
Said Tom Lee Park is a must-do activity in America’s most fun city.
🌍 Bilbao Metropoli 30
Named it one of the top 100 projects in the world.
🏆 ASLA Awards
Recognized the park for urban design excellence.
🌱 SITES Certification
Acknowledged the park’s sustainability in planning, design, and management.
A Park Built for the People, By the People
Tom Lee Park is a park for everyone. Designed with input from thousands of Memphians, it’s proof that when we dream big, invest in our city, and come together as a community, incredible things happen.
So whether you’re soaking in a Mississippi River sunset, exploring the interactive playground, or just grabbing a seat and taking it all in, you’re experiencing something that’s being celebrated worldwide.
Memphis, the world is watching. And they love what they see.
📍 Come experience it for yourself. Visit memphisriverparks.org for more info.
