Traffic and parking information for upcoming events

Cooler weather is bringing with it a season of fun events at the park, which means more traffic and more cars. Plan ahead now to avoid having to search for parking during these events, and remember that walking, cycling, or riding a scooter into the park will save time and alleviate congestion.

Zoo Boo begins this week and continues next weekend and Halloween night. Heavy traffic is anticipated beginning at around 5:00 PM on event evenings. Because families will be leaving the event after dark, the N. Parkway Zoo entrance will not be used during Zoo Boo. The entrance will continue to be used during daytime hours on busy days.

During Zoo Boo, the bike rack boundary on the Greensward will remain intact during the day. During event hours, the Zoo parking team will open sections to allow additional parking as needed. To help ensure visitors do not drive onto prohibited areas of the Greensward or engage in other activities deemed harmful to the Park, the Zoo has added additional staffing, Security One support, and generator lighting.  

To assist with managing heavier than normal traffic in our neighborhoods, the Zoo has purchased digital signage and scheduled MPD (PST) support for key intersections. Valet will continue to be offered during Zoo Boo and during weekend days in October.

We also expect large crowds on Saturday, November 2, when Brooks Museum hosts the Dia de los Muertos festival and Levitt Shell hosts the Memphis Soul Music Festival. Gospel music at the Shell gets underway at 11:00 AM, while the Dia de los Muertos parade begins at Overton Square and will make its way to the park around noon. Traffic will be one-way into Overton Park on this day, entering at Poplar and Tucker and exiting at Veterans Plaza Drive. Shuttles will be available at the Snowden School lot and the Overton Square garage to bring visitors to these events.