Handy Park

Of the many music venues in Memphis, W.C. Handy Park is one of the most accessible for visitors. You’ll likely pass it when walking down Beale Street sightseeing or while on one of the many guided tours of this historical area. A large statue of W.C. Handy stands at the entrance; behind it, you’ll notice two different stages to accommodate larger and more intimate events that can draw thousands of people.

• Beale Street is the only open-container area in the state.

• Most scheduled events are free to enter, including major concerts.

• Even when there aren’t officially scheduled events, many buskers and street performers set up in the park to entertain the crowd.

Handy Park is located at 200 Beale Street, taking up the entire block that Peabody Place, Rufus Thomas Boulevard, and Third Street (US-79) surround. This popular area is served by a city bus and taxis, though you’ll likely follow most visitors by parking in the Beale Street Entertainment District and walking to Handy Park.

This grassy open space is an excellent place to stop, sit, and take selfies with the W.C. Handy Statue at any time of the day or evening. Its main draw for visitors and locals is the free events in the park, including free concerts on the park’s two stages. There’s no bad time to go, but if you want to hear live music, check ahead at its events schedule.

Unsurprisingly, the “Father of the Blues” gets recognized with much more than a public park in Memphis. The W.C. Handy Home and Museum is set in his turn-of-the-century home. Located on Beale Street just two blocks east of Handy Park, this shotgun house is open for tours and features exhibits from the musician’s life.