You’ve probably driven past the sprawl of green at the corner of Central and Hollywood without a second thought. It’s easy to do. In a city like Memphis, where history is tucked into every cracked sidewalk and oversized magnolia tree, Tobey Park can look like just another patch of grass. But honestly, if you think it’s just a place to walk the dog or catch a casual softball game, you’re missing the actual heartbeat of the neighborhood.
Tobey Park Memphis TN is basically the Swiss Army knife of Midtown recreation. It’s 44 acres of "choose your own adventure." One minute you’re watching a intense rugby match—yes, actual rugby—and the next you’re watching a twelve-year-old nail a kickflip over at the skate park. It’s a weird, wonderful mix.
The Skate Park and the "Memphis Wave"
Let’s talk about the concrete. Most people know Tobey because of the Memphis Skate Park. It’s not just some flat slab of cement with a couple of metal rails. When they built this thing back in 2012, they actually cared about the design.
A2H, the firm behind it, did something kinda cool—they built the park around the existing magnolia trees. Instead of chopping them down for more skateable surface, they turned the trees into an observation area. It gives the whole place a bit of shade, which, if you’ve ever survived a July in Memphis, you know is a literal lifesaver.
The Technical Stuff
The park features:
- In-ground bowls with flawless Gunite finishes.
- The "Memphis Wave," a massive vertical structure that’s basically a rite of passage for local skaters.
- Snake runs and a mix of street obstacles like stairs and handrails.
It’s free. It’s open to everyone. But if you’re under 12, the city is pretty strict: you need a helmet, pads, and a grown-up nearby. Also, a pro tip: Mondays are for bikes. If you show up with a BMX on a Tuesday, you might get some side-eye.
More Than Just a Dog Park
The dog park at Tobey has a bit of a reputation. Depending on who you ask, it’s either the best community spot in Midtown or a place they were "warned" about years ago.
The truth? It’s changed a lot. Thanks to a grant from PetSafe and a very dedicated group called the Friends of Tobey Dog Park, the area has seen a massive glow-up. There are two separate fenced-in spots—one for the little guys under 25 pounds and one for the big dogs.
They’ve got benches, plenty of shade, and during the summer, they usually have small plastic pools you can fill up with a hose. It’s a community. You’ll see the same group of regulars every afternoon, and honestly, they’re usually pretty welcoming. There’s even a bucket of communal toys if you forgot your tennis ball at home.
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The Rugby Legacy of McBride Field
This is the part most people don't know. Tobey Park isn’t just for football or baseball (though there are five lighted ballfields there). It’s the home of Memphis Rugby.
Specifically, McBride Field.
Named after Ken McBride—a pioneer of the Memphis Wanderers Rugby Club who passed away in 1979—this field is sacred ground for the local rugby scene. The Memphis Blues and the University of Memphis teams have roots here. If you happen to be there on a weekend during the season, you might catch a match. It’s fast, it’s loud, and it’s a side of Memphis culture that doesn't always make the evening news.
Safety and the "Midtown Reality"
Look, let’s be real for a second. This is a public park in a major city. Is it 100% pristine and quiet? No.
Tobey Park is located right next to the City of Memphis Parks office, which means there’s a fairly consistent official presence. It’s well-lit for the most part, especially the ballfields and the skate park. Most visitors say they feel perfectly safe during daylight hours and when events are happening. Like anywhere else in Memphis, you just use common sense. Don’t leave your bag sitting on a bench while you go for a mile-long walk. Lock your car.
The Future: "The Last Mile"
Something big is coming in 2026.
If you’re a fan of the Shelby Farms Greenline, you know it currently ends a bit abruptly. But there are plans in motion for "The Last Mile." This project aims to bridge the gap and extend the Greenline all the way to Tobey Park.
Once that’s finished, you’ll be able to bike from the heart of Midtown all the way out to Shelby Farms without dealing with major traffic. It’s going to completely change the accessibility of the park. It’ll stop being just a destination for people with cars and become a major hub for the city’s cycling community.
What’s actually on-site?
- The Athletics Office: If you want to join a kickball or softball league, this is where you go.
- Volleyball: There’s an outdoor court that gets surprisingly busy on weekends.
- Picnic areas: Restrooms are available, which is a luxury for some city parks.
- The Memorial: There is a small, touching memorial to Tyre Nichols near the skate park, a reminder of the park's deep connection to the local community.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Check the Schedule: If you’re a biker, only go on Monday. If you're a skater, any other day is yours.
- Hydration is Key: While there are water fountains, they can be hit or miss in the winter. Bring a jug of water for your dog if you’re heading to the dog park.
- Park Smart: There’s plenty of parking at 2599 Avery Ave, but it fills up fast when there are league games at the ballfields.
- Join the Community: If you're a regular at the dog park, look for the local Facebook group. It’s the best way to know if the pools are filled or if there’s a maintenance issue.
Tobey Park is a bit rough around the edges, sure. But it’s authentic. It’s where the city’s subcultures—skaters, rugby players, dog lovers, and athletes—all bump into each other. It’s a slice of the real Memphis.