West Memphis combines activities along the Mississippi with the city’s history and music heritage. The Big River Trail runs through the floodplain, and the West Memphis Commercial Historic District includes a section of East Broadway. The city is also home to KWEM’s broadcasting history, nature attractions, and places to enjoy food trucks.
Trails and Bridges along the Mississippi
The Big River Trail includes a seven-mile loop through the West Memphis floodplain along the Mississippi. The trail also offers nearly five miles of paved, hard-surface paths along the Mississippi for walking, running, and jogging. Big River Crossing is the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge across the Mississippi and provides a scenic connection between West Memphis and downtown Memphis. Crossing the bridge is free.
Bike-share stations are located at the Big River Trailhead and Big River Crossing – West. If you plan to use the bike-share system, check its availability in advance. Trail and park conditions, as well as bike-share availability, may change; take these factors into account when making your specific plans.
Music and City History
KWEM began its first broadcast on February 23, 1947. In West Memphis, local musicians performed live on the radio. Appearances on KWEM brought Ike Turner, B. B. King, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley to public attention and gave their rise to prominence as musicians a decisive boost. An exhibit on the Arkansas State University Mid-South campus features a replica of the KWEM studio and online broadcasts from the station.
Another historic landmark is the West Memphis Commercial Historic District. It includes the 700 through 900 blocks of East Broadway and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. Local radio history and a clearly defined section of East Broadway thus represent different facets of the city’s history.
Nature, Food, and Visitor Information
Ducks Unlimited Park adds a nature focus to the riverfront trails, with wetlands and views of the riverbank. Birdwatching and fishing are available there. Check current park conditions when planning your visit.
The Broadway Food Truck Fest is an annual event in West Memphis featuring live music. At the 2026 event, visitors could sample food from more than 25 vendors. Broadway Food Truck Park has space for up to twelve food trucks; shaded seating areas, restrooms, green spaces, and an interactive mural are also available.
The West Memphis Welcome Center provides visitors with current information about attractions, regional events, and weather conditions. Travelers can also use computer terminals and Wi-Fi there and enjoy fresh coffee. If you want to use a specific service, check its current availability in advance.
More Places to Visit
Riverside International Speedway is a quarter-mile, banked dirt oval track with a gumbo surface. Southland Casino has a Winners Edge simulcast area.
Discover More Destinations
Also discover Edmondson, Gilmore, Marion, Turrell.
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