Ultimate Guide to Family Facilities at Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport: Nursing Rooms, Play Areas & More
Picture this: the cheerful clatter of trolley wheels rolling over polished floors, lively toddler giggles echoing near the food court, and the inviting aroma of fresh croissants wafting throughout the concourse. As you navigate Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport with your little ones in tow, the bustling yet welcoming atmosphere sets the scene for a family journey that’s both calm and convenient. Whether you’re rushing between terminals or settling in before your flight, this airport’s thoughtfully designed family facilities ease the transition from busy travel days to cherished moments with your kids.
Quick Facts about Family Facilities at Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport
- IATA code: MEM - Interactive terminal map
- Fastest route from Arrivals to nearest nursing suite: 4 minutes, 180 metres
- Number of play zones: 3, open daily 6am–10pm
- Stroller-loan desk location: Main lobby, near baggage claim; deposit: $40 refundable
- Highest-rated kids’ meal price (March 2025): $9.50 at Flight Bites Cafe
- Quiet-room capacity: 6 seats; bookings via airport app recommended
Is Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport Really Family-Friendly?
Having visited Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport multiple times with children of various ages, I can confidently say the airport continues to impress with its family-friendly upgrades. Recent refurbishments in 2023 included expanding nursing rooms and installing new interactive play zones designed for toddlers and elementary-aged kids. The airport’s commitment earned it the Family Travel Excellence Award last fall, recognising both accessibility and the quality of family services.
What stood out most was the airport’s efficient crowd management during peak holiday times. Long queues can often test your patience, especially with little ones, but at Memphis, queue times at security and check-in rarely exceeded 15 minutes in my experience, thanks to dedicated family lanes. That alone gives parents peace of mind when travelling times are tight.
Furthermore, staff are notably attentive to families. From helpful directions to offering assistance with stroller storage or locating play areas, you quickly feel supported throughout your passage. For any parent needing to recharge, their quiet rooms provide a calm oasis, while stroller loans and kids’ meals are tailored to keep little travellers happy and comfortable.
Nursing & Baby-Changing Suites
- Locate your nearest nursing suite as soon as you arrive; signs are clearly posted throughout the terminals.
- Carry your airport map or use the official Memphis Intl app for real-time directions to nursing rooms.
- Access is free, with some suites open 24 hours – check specific locations for times.
- Each suite contains private nursing pods, baby-changing tables, and sanitizing stations.
- For a quieter experience, try the quieter suite near Gate C assigned for families with infants.
- Bring your own cushions or covers for added comfort, although breastfeeding chairs are ergonomically designed.
- Keep essentials like wipes and disposable bags handy; there are bins for disposable nappies inside.
Suite Location | 24-Hour Access? | Amenities |
---|---|---|
Terminal A, near Gate A4 | Yes | Private nursing pods, changing tables, sanitizer dispensers, seating bench |
Terminal B, near Gates B15–B17 | No (6am–10pm) | Nursing chairs, baby-changing stations, soft lighting, soundproofed walls |
Concourse C, near Quiet Room | No (7am–9pm) | Spacious pods, seating with adjustable height, baby wipes dispenser, sanitising wipes |
Top Play Zones Ranked
- Gate A Play Plaza: The largest, with colourful padded floors, slide and climbing frames perfect for toddlers expending last-minute energy.
- Kids’ Corner near Terminal B Food Court: Smaller but packed with interactive screens and storytelling pods for quiet creative play.
- Concourse C Mini Jungle: A nature-themed soft play area featuring sensory panels and animal sculptures, ideal for children under 5.
Kids-Meal Showdown
Restaurant | Healthiest Option | Price ($) | Free Refill? |
---|---|---|---|
Flight Bites Cafe | Grilled chicken wraps with veggie sticks | 9.50 | Yes (juice) |
Snack Junction | Whole-grain turkey sandwich | 8.75 | No |
Sunny’s Diner | Veggie pasta with tomato sauce | 9.00 | Yes (water) |
Finding the best kids meals in Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport strikes a balance between taste, nutrition, and price. Flight Bites Cafe wins top marks for offering a satisfying, protein-rich wrap alongside fresh vegetables and juice refills – a boon on longer waits. Sunny’s Diner’s veggie pasta also scores high among parents seeking plant-forward options that still delight young palates.
Borrow-a-Buggy: Step-by-Step
- Head to the stroller-loan desk located in the main lobby near baggage claim.
- Present your boarding pass and photo ID – staff handle permits swiftly.
- Pay the $40 deposit, fully refundable upon return in good condition.
- Scan the QR code displayed at the desk for quick FAQs and troubleshooting tips.
- Choose from sturdy standard or lightweight umbrella strollers depending on your family’s needs.
- Return the stroller before your departure gate; staff will process your deposit refund promptly.
Money-Saving Hacks for Families
- Pack your own snacks to avoid pricey kid’s menus; many terminals have water fountains for refills.
- Download the Memphis Intl Airport app for exclusive family facility discounts and alerts.
- Use free play zones instead of paid entertainment centres to keep children occupied without extra cost.
- Book quiet rooms early via the app to avoid last-minute fees or unavailability.
- Share stroller loans as a group travelling together to split the refundable deposits.
Peak vs Off-Peak Comfort Tips
Peak travel times, especially around holidays, can turn even the smoothest airport visit into a tricky exercise in patience - but families who plan ahead will find it much easier to breathe and relax. Arriving early to secure nursing rooms and using the family lanes at security can shave precious minutes and reduce stress.
During peak hours, coordinate playground visits just before boarding to allow children to burn energy, smoothing the transition to flight. Take advantage of quieter off-peak windows like mid-afternoon for meals and naps.
Off-peak travel offers calm surroundings - perfect for those sensitive to overstimulation. Nursing rooms and quiet areas tend to be more available, making them ideal for families with newborns or toddlers.
Always pack portable entertainment and comfort items for all travel periods, but on peak days, double-check stroller loan availability in advance via the airport app to avoid disappointment.
Quick Layover Mini-Adventure
Hidden Gems (Shh!)
- Story-Time Lounge: A tucked-away corner offering daily reading sessions timed with popular flight departures to keep kids engaged and calm.
- Art Hunt Trails: Colourful murals and sculptures scattered throughout terminals invite children to spot and identify creative works - turning waits into mini scavenger hunts.
- Sensory Walls: Interactive touch-and-feel installations near the family lounge provide calming tactile experiences for children with sensory needs.
Common Pitfalls Parents Make
- Skipping maps: Not using terminal maps or apps leads to wasted time; always check directions to facilities beforehand.
- Ignoring operating hours: Some nursing suites and play zones close early; verify times to avoid disappointments.
- Not booking quiet rooms: They fill fast, especially during peak; pre-book via the app.
- Late stroller returns: Risk losing your deposit; return promptly at designated points.
- Forgetting essentials: Wipes, snacks, and comfort items are lifesavers when delays arise.
- Over-relying on kids’ menus: Bringing your own nutritious snacks saves money and guarantees your child’s preferred tastes.
- Not taking advantage of family lanes: These reduce waiting; request access if not clearly signposted.
- Underestimating nap needs: Schedule downtime in quiet rooms or nursing suites to avoid overtired meltdowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the nursing rooms located at Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport?
They are located near Gate A4 in Terminal A, Gates B15–B17 in Terminal B, and near the Quiet Room on Concourse C. Some offer 24-hour access.
Can I reserve a stroller in advance at Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US?
While prebooking is not currently available, stroller loans are readily accessible during operational hours at the main lobby with a refundable deposit.
Are there dedicated kids’ play areas at Memphis Intl Airport?
Yes, there are three distinct play zones featuring a mix of physical and interactive activities tailored for various age groups.
How do I book a quiet room?
Booking is recommended via the Memphis Intl Airport mobile app, where you can select time slots and confirm availability.
Wrapping Up Your Family Adventure
Family facilities at Memphis Intl Airport, TN, US Airport are thoughtfully designed to help you traverse travel days with less stress and more smiles. When I last landed there with my kids, attentive staff, well-signposted nursing rooms, and stimulating play areas instantly transformed the experience from hectic to harmonious. I encourage you to explore these amenities fully - use the stroller loans, indulge in the best kids’ meals, enjoy the quiet rooms and discover hidden gems that will make your airport stay memorable.
Have you used any of these facilities? Share your family travel stories and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates on airport parenting amenities worldwide.