Reviewed by:
D. Goren
Head of Content
Updated March, 30
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Family Travel at Memphis International Airport: Everything You Need to Know
Memphis International Airport (MEM) serves as the main airport for the mid-South region and is the home of FedEx's global hub — which dominates the cargo side of the airport. On the passenger side, MEM has a compact, manageable layout with a single terminal and two concourses, making it easy for families to move through without confusion or long walks.
Family Amenities at MEM
MEM provides nursing rooms, baby care stations, and family restrooms within its terminal, with facilities accessible both pre- and post-security. The airport's smaller scale means quicker security lines and less transit time between check-in and gates — a real advantage for families traveling with young children. Dining in the concourses includes a selection of Memphis-themed restaurants and national brands, several of which offer children's menus.
This guide walks you through the family-relevant resources at Memphis International Airport so your trip starts smoothly.
Nursing Rooms and Baby Care Facilities at Memphis International Airport
Nursing rooms and breastfeeding facilities
Memphis International Airport (MEM) is a modern U.S. airport and generally offers spaces that support breastfeeding and pumping, but specific room locations and access rules can change (especially after renovations). In many airports, the most convenient options are found after security (airside) so parents don’t have to leave the gate area. You may also find nursing-friendly spaces before security (landside) near larger restroom cores or main public areas.
When a dedicated nursing room is available, it is typically designed for privacy and may include a locking door or a separate enclosed space. If a dedicated room is not available in the exact area you’re in, family-friendly options often include:
- Family/companion restrooms (single-occupancy restrooms that provide more privacy and room for a stroller)
- Quieter gate-area seating or less-traveled concourse corners for discreet nursing
Airport staff can often direct you to the nearest private option; however, this guide avoids listing room numbers or exact gate locations because those details can shift.
Baby changing stations
Baby changing stations are commonly available in MEM’s restrooms and are typically installed in both women’s and men’s restrooms, with many airports also placing them in family/companion restrooms. In a single-terminal airport like MEM, you’ll usually find changing tables:
- In restroom areas throughout the terminal, including both pre-security and post-security zones
- Near higher-traffic areas such as the main hall, food courts, and concourses
Most changing stations are wall-mounted fold-down tables. For accessibility, family restrooms (when available) can be easier if you’re traveling with multiple small children or need space to manage a stroller and carry-on bags.
Baby care centers (what to expect)
Some airports provide a dedicated baby care center or nursing room set up specifically for infant needs. Availability and exact amenities at MEM can vary, but a typical baby care space in a U.S. airport may include:
- Private or semi-private nursing area (often with a chair/bench and a small side surface)
- Changing table with a bit more room than a standard restroom station
- Sink for handwashing and quick cleanups
- Trash and paper towel disposal designed for frequent baby-care use
Even without a formal baby care center, family restrooms can serve a similar purpose for diaper changes and clothing swaps, with more space and a door you can close.
Bottle warming and formula preparation
At MEM, as at most airports, dedicated bottle warmers are not consistently available in public areas. For warming or mixing:
- Restroom sinks can help for rinsing bottles and washing hands, but they are not ideal for preparing formula due to limited space and varying cleanliness.
- Many quick-service restaurants and cafés can provide a cup of hot water on request, which parents commonly use to warm a bottle by placing it in the cup. (Temperature can vary, so check carefully to avoid overheating.)
- For formula, parents often prepare with pre-measured formula and use bottled water purchased in the terminal, or use ready-to-feed formula when preferred.
Important practical note: When asking for hot water, it may be served very hot. Stir/shake and test the bottle temperature before feeding.
High chairs in restaurants
In MEM’s dining areas, high chair availability depends on the specific restaurant. Many sit-down locations and some larger quick-service spots typically keep a small number of high chairs, but quantities can be limited during busy periods. Staff can often help you locate one or suggest seating with a bit more space for a stroller.
Notable features (MEM-specific)
MEM operates as a single-terminal passenger airport, which generally means shorter indoor walking distances than multi-terminal hubs and an easier time returning to a restroom or family restroom if you need to handle a quick diaper change. Because airport layouts and designated nursing spaces can evolve over time, the most reliable expectation is that you will find changing stations in restrooms throughout the terminal and at least one option for privacy (such as a family restroom) when you need a calmer spot for feeding or a full outfit change.
TSA Security Tips for Families at Memphis International Airport
Strollers Through Security
You can bring a stroller through TSA security, but it must be screened before you enter the secure area. In most cases you will take your child out, empty the stroller’s storage area, and place any loose items (blankets, toys, cups) into bins for X-ray screening. The stroller will either go through the X-ray machine or be inspected by hand if it does not fit, and TSA may do a quick wipe test for trace detection as part of standard screening. You may be asked to fold the stroller, so it helps to know how yours collapses and to remove any clip-on accessories ahead of time. If you are using a very small stroller, it will usually fit through the X-ray; larger jogging or full-size strollers more often require hand screening.
Liquids for Infants & Toddlers
TSA allows breast milk, formula, toddler drinks, and baby food in quantities larger than the usual 3.4 oz limit when you’re traveling with a child. These items are treated as medically necessary liquids, so they can go through security even if they don’t fit in a quart-size bag. Tell the officer at the start of screening that you have infant or toddler liquids, and be ready to take them out for inspection. TSA may screen the containers separately, which can include X-ray, testing the outside of the container, or asking you to open the container; you can request that breast milk and formula be screened in a way that avoids X-ray, but additional screening may be needed. Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs are allowed to keep these items cold, even if they’re partially melted, as long as they’re used for the child’s liquids.
Family & Accessible Lanes
Some airports provide Family and/or Accessible (ADA) security lanes, which are designed to give families with small children and travelers who need extra time a little more space to move through screening. These lanes are not available at every checkpoint, and staff may direct you there (or ask you to use a standard lane) depending on how the checkpoint is set up and how busy it is. Even in a family or accessible lane, you should expect the same TSA screening rules: you’ll place items on the belt, and adults generally go through the body scanner or metal detector while strollers and bags are screened. Strollers must be screened, and you may be asked to take your child out and fold the stroller if possible so it can go through the X-ray. If you’re traveling with baby formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, or baby food, these are allowed in reasonable quantities but may need additional screening (such as testing) and should be separated so you can present them for inspection.
Shoe Removal for Young Children
At TSA screening, children ages 12 and under usually do not need to remove their shoes, even when accompanying adults must take theirs off. Your child may keep shoes on while walking through the checkpoint, but TSA may still ask for shoes to be removed if they need extra screening. If a shoe must come off, it will be briefly checked and returned, and you can help your child put it back on after the screening step. For the smoothest experience, choose shoes that are easy to take on and off and avoid complicated laces or hard-to-remove boots. Keep socks handy in case your child is asked to remove shoes and will be walking on the floor.
Keeping Kids Busy at Memphis International Airport
Memphis International Airport (MEM) is a comfortable, mid-sized airport, but it is not widely known for having large, dedicated children’s play zones like you might see at some bigger hub airports. That said, families can still find ways for kids to move, reset, and stay calm before a flight by using open seating areas, quieter corners, and family-friendly concessions spaces. Amenities and layouts can change over time, so it helps to plan for flexible “play stops” rather than relying on one specific playground spot.
What to Expect at MEM
At many airports, play areas are purpose-built and clearly marked; at MEM, parents should be prepared that children’s play options may be limited or more informal. If a dedicated play area is available, it is most commonly found airside (past security), because that’s where families spend the most time waiting for flights. Landside (before security), space is typically focused on check-in, ticketing, and transportation access, so play options are usually minimal.
- Dedicated kids’ play areas: Not a signature feature of MEM; availability may be limited depending on current terminal updates.
- Best “practical play” locations: Wider hallway areas near seating clusters, quieter ends of concourses during off-peak times, and open areas away from main boarding lines.
- Airside vs. landside: If you find a kid-focused space, it is more likely to be past security.
Typical Play Features (If Present)
When airports offer children’s play corners (even smaller ones), they tend to include simple, durable equipment designed for quick, supervised breaks. If MEM has a play spot available during your visit, parents can generally expect items like:
- Soft-play elements (padded shapes or low platforms) for safer climbing and crawling
- Small climbing structures with gentle steps and short slides (usually intended for short bursts, not long play sessions)
- Interactive panels (spinners, bead tracks, sensory boards) that keep hands busy without running
- Open floor space where toddlers can stretch, practice walking, or play simple movement games close to you
Interactive screens or large themed zones are more common at very large airports; at MEM, if anything is offered, it’s more likely to be compact and practical rather than a big destination-style playground.
Best Ages for Airport Play Spaces
Most airport play areas (especially smaller ones) are designed with toddlers and younger elementary-age children in mind. If you come across a play corner at MEM, it will usually fit these age ranges best:
- Babies and early toddlers: Often best served by a quiet corner with room to crawl or stand with support (bring a small blanket or play mat if you use one)
- Toddlers (around 2–5): Typically the main target for soft-play and low climbing features
- Older kids (6+): May outgrow small play equipment quickly; they often do better with walking loops, window-watching, or calm activities at a table
Even when a play space is labeled for kids, parents should watch for posted guidance and always supervise closely—airport play areas are meant for short, shared use rather than long, unsupervised play.
Quiet or Calm Spots for Breaks
If your child gets overstimulated, the most helpful “family reset” is often a calmer environment rather than a play structure. At MEM, a true designated “kids’ quiet zone” may not be a standard feature, but you can usually find calmer options by:
- Choosing seating areas away from boarding lines and busy gate counters
- Looking for less crowded ends of concourses, especially between peak departure banks
- Using window-facing seating where kids can watch ground activity without being in the middle of foot traffic
- Taking short “sensory breaks” in a quieter corridor (staying clear of emergency exits and staff-only doors)
For younger children, calm spaces are ideal for snacks, reading, and decompression—especially after security screening or a lively meal area.
Notable Kid-Focused Attractions
MEM is best known for being the home of FedEx’s global hub operations, but it is not typically promoted for major, must-see children’s attractions inside the terminal. Families should plan on the play experience being more about finding comfortable space rather than visiting a famous themed playground.
Parent Tips for Using “Play Time” Wisely
- Plan play after security: If you have time, do your active break once you’re airside so you’re not rushing through screening right after your child has “finally settled.”
- Use short, predictable bursts: Aim for a quick 10–20 minute movement break, then transition to water, a snack, or a calm activity before boarding.
- Pick a boundary: If there isn’t a defined play area, choose a clear “play zone” near your seats (for example, a small open area beside your row) so kids aren’t weaving through heavy foot traffic.
- Time it around boarding: Stop active play a little before boarding starts so shoes are back on, hands are clean, and kids have a moment to settle.
- Keep essentials handy: Wipes or hand sanitizer, a small snack, and a refillable bottle help you move smoothly between play and boarding without extra trips.
With a little planning, MEM can still be manageable with young children: even a simple stretch-and-walk loop, a calm window seat, or a small open area near your gate can make the wait feel much easier for everyone.
Family Dining and Kids' Menus at Memphis International Airport
1
Corky's BBQ
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ is a Memphis institution known for classic Southern barbecue, especially its dry-rub and sauced ribs, and the Memphis International Airport outpost brings that hometown smokehouse vibe to travelers. It’s a straightforward, casual spot that works well for families because it’s lively and unfussy, and you’ll typically find kid-friendly options (often a kids’ menu in airport locations) plus a setting where a little chatter won’t feel out of place. Most folks come for the ribs, but pulled pork sandwiches and classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans are the kind of familiar comforts that both adults and kids tend to accept happily. Service is geared for the airport: order-at-the-counter or quick sit-down pacing depending on the setup, with food arriving fast enough to fit a boarding window and portions that usually feel hearty for the price. Expect about $15–$25 per adult (less for kids), which can be solid value when you want a filling meal that can double as a snack later in the flight. Corky’s has multiple locations around Memphis and has long been part of the city’s barbecue scene, making it a very on-brand “taste of Memphis” stop even when you’re only passing through.
2
Rendezvous Bar-B-Q
Rendezvous Bar-B-Q at Memphis International Airport brings a taste of one of Memphis’s most famous barbecue institutions to the terminal, built around the city’s love of smoky pork and bold seasoning. The original Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous in downtown Memphis is especially known for its dry-rub ribs cooked over charcoal and finished with a distinctive spice blend, a style that’s become part of local barbecue lore. For families, it’s an easy, casual stop with a lively, slightly noisy BBQ-house vibe where kids won’t feel out of place, and you can typically count on a kids’ menu and straightforward counter-or-quick-service pacing that works well between flights. Adults often go for the dry-rub pork ribs or a pulled-pork sandwich, while many kids gravitate to simpler plates like pulled pork or chicken with familiar sides. Portions tend to be hearty, service is designed to move travelers along without a long wait, and the food leans savory and spice-forward rather than overly sweet. Expect about $15–$25 per adult (less for kids), which can feel like solid value for sharing sides and getting a true Memphis barbecue name without leaving the airport.
3
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken at Memphis International Airport brings a Memphis-area favorite to the concourse, serving Southern-style fried chicken with a devoted following for its crunchy crust and a peppery, cayenne-leaning kick. For families, it’s an easy, casual stop with counter-style ordering and a lively, forgiving noise level, and many locations offer a kids’ menu plus simple sides that even picky eaters recognize. The must-order here is the fried chicken—often paired with classics like fries or slaw—while adults who like a little heat tend to appreciate the signature spice blend (it’s flavorful, but it may be warm for very young kids). Service is typically quick and built for travelers, with hearty portions that can work well for sharing if you’re feeding a group without juggling multiple entrées. Expect a price range of about $12–$20 per person depending on your order, which feels like solid value for an airport meal given the portion sizes and made-to-order feel. Gus’s started in Tennessee and became nationally known as a destination for spicy fried chicken, so grabbing it in Memphis feels appropriately local even when you’re eating between flights.
4
TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays at Memphis International Airport (MEM) is part of the long-running, casual American bar-and-grill chain known for big-flavor comfort food, a lively sports-bar vibe, and a menu built around burgers, chicken, and shareable appetizers. For families, it’s an easy choice because the atmosphere is naturally upbeat and forgiving of kid noise, and you can usually count on a kids’ menu plus basic family-friendly setups like booth seating and high chairs when available. Parents often gravitate to the Loaded Potato Skins, mozzarella sticks, or a classic burger, while kids tend to do well with simple staples like chicken fingers, mac and cheese, or a smaller burger-and-fries-style meal depending on what’s offered. Service is table-service and generally paced for travelers—quick enough to fit a layover, but still a sit-down break where food arrives hot and portions are typically generous for sharing. Expect a mid-range price of about $15–$30 per adult (kids less), which can feel like decent value for families when you split an appetizer and count on hearty portions. As a brand, Fridays traces its roots to New York City and became famous for turning the neighborhood “singles bar” energy into a mainstream chain experience, which today translates into a familiar, crowd-pleasing stop when you want something reliable before a flight.
Family Airport Guide FAQ
Does Memphis International Airport have a nursing room airside?
Memphis International Airport has dedicated nursing areas, and you can also ask an information desk or airline staff to direct you to the nearest lactation room. Locations and whether they’re before or after security can change with renovations, so it’s best to confirm on-site once you arrive. If you need privacy quickly after screening, ask a TSA officer or a gate agent for the nearest post-security option.
What are the rules for baby food at MEM security?
Yes—TSA allows formula, breast milk, and juice for infants and toddlers in “reasonable quantities” through security at MEM, even if they exceed the usual 3.4 oz liquid limit. These items do not have to fit in a quart-size bag, and you can bring a cooler bag and ice packs to keep them cold. Be prepared to tell the TSA officer you’re carrying them and allow extra time for screening; they may be screened separately.
Where can kids play at Memphis International Airport?
MEM does not consistently advertise a dedicated children’s play area, and availability can vary with terminal updates. If a play zone is present, signage in the concourse and airport staff can point you to it, but families should not rely on one being open. For a current, gate-area-specific answer, check the airport’s website map or ask at an info desk after you arrive.
Where do I pick up a stroller at MEM?
You can take a stroller through TSA security at MEM, and it will be screened (often by X-ray or a quick inspection if it doesn’t fit). Most airlines allow you to gate-check a stroller for free, and you’ll leave it at the end of the jet bridge or at the aircraft door depending on the flight. Rules can vary by airline and stroller size, so confirm with your carrier at check-in or the gate.
Are there high chairs at Memphis International Airport restaurants?
MEM does not guarantee dedicated “family” security lanes at all times, and TSA lane setups can change by day and staffing. If family lanes are available, they’ll be marked near the checkpoint, and a TSA officer can direct you to the best lane for strollers and kids. While some airlines may offer family-friendly check-in assistance, MEM does not universally provide a separate family check-in line across all carriers.
