University District

The University District is home to Memphis’ largest institution of higher learning, The University of Memphis. The district is made of several distinct neighborhoods, including East Buntyn, Sherwood Forest, and Normal Station. Its main drag, a two-block strip of Highland Avenue known as the Highland Strip, is a staple of Memphis nightlife and offers food and drinks to fuel any study session. Recently, planning has focused on prioritizing pedestrians, including building standards for storefronts and updated railroad crossing to suit the university’s 20,000-plus students.

The inaugural Central to the Arts Festival is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 1.

University of Memphis readies inaugural arts festival celebrating community’s creative spirit

"This festival is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the arts," says Dr. Ryan Fisher, interim dean of the College of Communication and Fine Arts.

The street is filled with rainbows and parade participants at the 2016 Memphis Pride Parade. (photo courtesy of the Museum of Science & History/Pride Archives)
LGBTQ history exhibition is a first for Memphis museum
Abstract artist James Little is a native Memphian whose work will be featured at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens in spring 2022. (Sophia Little, 2020)
Artist James Little comes home to Memphis for Dixon exhibition
Transit Equity Day events are scheduled for Feb 1-4, 2022 in Memphis.
Public invited to Transit Equity Day events, online and in-person Feb 1-4
PRIZM Ensemble executive director Gavin Wigginson (submitted)
PRIZM Ensemble’s new leader helps kids explore social issues through music
Tennessee Steam Fest was founded in 2017 by the Discovery Center in Murfreesboro. (submitted)
Memphis’ first STEAMfest aims to inspire students’ educational and professional futures
(Lisa Ferdinando, Wikimedia Commons)
Need a COVID-19 test? Want to get your vaccine? Where to go in Shelby County.
Father-child artist duo Theo James (L) and Nisa Williams (R) stand in front of the mural they created for the Mid-South Coliseum Coalition, Sept. 13, 2021 (Sarah Rushakoff)
New public art installation adds beauty and history to Mid-South Coliseum revitalization effort
On the greensward at Overton Park, members of the Central High School band take a few extra minutes to practice their parts as the rest of the band wraps up practice behind them. May 2021. (Cole Bradley)
The parks are packed as Memphians look to work and play safely
Mahogany Memphis is  "upscale Southern with a dash of Creole," according to co-owner Veve Yates. Mahogany Memphis is the fifth local restaurant featured in the "Still Serving" series. (Forever Ready Productions)
Video: Fine dining and bold new ideas with Mahogany Memphis

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