MEMPHIS, Tenn. — While people across the Mid-South were excited about the opening about Bass Pro, many people were looking forward to what it would bring for the youth in the community.
Many people in Memphis said the city doesn’t have a massive shopping and entertainment complex downtown that attracts the whole family.
That changed when Bass Pro at the Pyramid opened at 6 p.m. Wednesday.
It included a 13-lane bowling ally and billiards area, along with a swamp area featuring animals.
There was also a Ducks Unlimited Museum, all things kids could enjoy.
“Bad, we need it bad,” said George Woodard, a longtime Memphis resident.
People WREG talked to in the community said more for kids to do was a must.
There has been a lot of attention on teens and how to keep them busy after a series of mob attacks and school fights.
While Bass Pro can’t stop violence, Memphians WREG spoke with hoped it gives youth and families a positive destination.
“I think it will be very educational for them. I think it will give them somewhere to go and something to do to spend their time because I think that’s part of our problem, they have too much time on their hands,” said Sandra Blackard from Tipton County.
Other people said it would also be a place for families in smaller communities to come visit.
“I think it’s going to be a big boost for the city,” said Billy Stewart.
Stewart spent the past 30 years in Memphis and has seen plenty of places come and go, like Peabody Place downtown.
He said Bass Pro will be different.
“Now this is coming in I think it will make it up and make it a lot better,” he explained.