Welcome to Memphis, Tennessee, the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll! Memphis is a city steeped in rich musical history, vibrant culture, and Southern charm. Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay, this guide will help you navigate the best things to do in Memphis, divided into sections based on landmarks, culture, food, entertainment, shopping, outdoor activities, sports, and nightlife.
Landmarks
1. Graceland
No visit to Memphis is complete without a trip to Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley. This iconic mansion offers an intimate look at the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Explore the mansion, the Meditation Garden where Elvis is buried, and various exhibits showcasing his career and personal life.
The Graceland complex also includes the Elvis Presley Car Museum, which features his collection of cars, and the Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum, which houses memorabilia, costumes, and awards. For the full experience, consider staying at The Guest House at Graceland, a luxury hotel just steps away from the mansion.
2. Beale Street
Beale Street is the heart and soul of Memphis. This historic street is lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s the place where legends like B.B. King and Muddy Waters performed, and it continues to be a vibrant hub for live music and nightlife.
Stroll down Beale Street to experience the lively atmosphere, catch a live blues performance, and visit iconic spots like B.B. King’s Blues Club and A. Schwab, the oldest store on Beale Street. The Beale Street Entertainment District is also home to festivals and events throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination.
3. Sun Studio
Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, Sun Studio is where legends like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the studio and see the original recording equipment.
Sun Studio offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. The knowledgeable guides share stories about the artists and their groundbreaking recordings. Don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic Sun Studio microphone.
4. National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, chronicles the history of the civil rights movement in the United States. The museum features exhibits on slavery, segregation, and the fight for equality.
The museum’s powerful exhibits include multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and artifacts that tell the story of the struggle for civil rights. It’s a moving and educational experience that highlights the importance of this pivotal chapter in American history.
5. Stax Museum of American Soul Music
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Stax Records, the iconic record label that produced hits by artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the MG’s. The museum is located at the original site of Stax Records and features over 2,000 exhibits.
Visitors can explore the recreated recording studio, see costumes and instruments used by Stax artists, and learn about the history of soul music. The museum also hosts live performances and special events, making it a dynamic destination for music lovers.
Culture
1. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee. It houses a diverse collection of artworks, including European, American, African, and contemporary pieces. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Cole. The museum’s beautiful building and serene gardens make it a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
2. Dixon Gallery and Gardens
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a fine arts museum and public garden that features impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, decorative arts, and contemporary art. The museum’s beautiful gardens include formal gardens, woodland trails, and a cutting garden.
The Dixon’s art collection includes works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas, as well as contemporary artists. The gardens are meticulously maintained and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum Theatre is a historic theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances. The theater, built in 1928, is an architectural gem with its grand lobby, ornate plasterwork, and stunning chandelier.
The Orpheum’s calendar is packed with a variety of performances, from Broadway musicals and ballet to comedy shows and concerts. Attending a show at the Orpheum is a memorable experience, with its blend of historic charm and modern entertainment.
4. Levitt Shell
The Levitt Shell is an open-air amphitheater located in Overton Park. It’s known for its free concerts, which feature a diverse lineup of local, national, and international artists. The Shell is also famous for being the site of Elvis Presley’s first paid concert.
Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and enjoy an evening of music under the stars. The Levitt Shell’s family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful setting make it a popular destination for music lovers of all ages.
5. Memphis Music Hall of Fame
The Memphis Music Hall of Fame honors the city’s rich musical heritage by celebrating the contributions of its legendary musicians. The museum features exhibits on artists like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many others who shaped the sound of American music.
Interactive displays, memorabilia, and multimedia presentations make the Memphis Music Hall of Fame an engaging and educational experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of music and its impact on culture.
Food
1. Barbecue
Memphis is renowned for its barbecue, and no trip to the city is complete without indulging in this Southern delicacy. Rendezvous, Central BBQ, and The Bar-B-Q Shop are some of the top spots to savor slow-cooked ribs, pulled pork, and smoked sausage.
Memphis-style barbecue is characterized by its tangy tomato-based sauce and the use of both wet and dry rubs. Whether you prefer your ribs dry or drenched in sauce, you’re sure to find a barbecue joint that hits the spot.
2. Soul Food
Soul food is a staple of Southern cuisine, and Memphis offers some of the best. Head to Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken for crispy, spicy fried chicken, or visit The Four Way for classics like fried catfish, collard greens, and cornbread.
Soul food restaurants in Memphis serve up hearty, comforting dishes that reflect the city’s culinary heritage. Be sure to save room for dessert—sweet potato pie and banana pudding are must-tries.
3. Fine Dining
Memphis boasts a vibrant fine dining scene with numerous upscale restaurants offering innovative cuisine. Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar offers a unique dining experience with its small plates and wine flights, while Restaurant Iris, led by chef Kelly English, serves contemporary Southern fare.
Other notable fine dining establishments include The Majestic Grille, known for its steak and seafood, and Folk’s Folly Prime Steakhouse, a Memphis institution. These restaurants provide a sophisticated dining experience, perfect for special occasions.
4. International Cuisine
Memphis’s diverse population is reflected in its international dining options. Try Pho Binh for delicious Vietnamese pho, Casablanca for flavorful Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes, or Las Delicias for authentic Mexican cuisine.
From sushi and ramen to tapas and falafel, Memphis’s international restaurants offer a world of flavors to explore. It’s a great way to experience the city’s cultural diversity through its food.
5. Breakfast and Brunch
Start your day off right with a hearty Southern breakfast or brunch. Arcade Restaurant, Memphis’s oldest café, is a beloved spot for breakfast classics like pancakes, omelets, and biscuits and gravy. For a modern twist, try The Beauty Shop, a quirky restaurant located in a former beauty salon, known for its creative brunch dishes.
Other popular brunch spots include Brother Juniper’s, known for its savory breakfast scrambles, and Sunrise Memphis, which serves up delicious breakfast sandwiches and pastries. Brunch in Memphis is a leisurely affair, perfect for relaxing and enjoying good food and company.
Entertainment
1. Live Music Venues
Memphis’s live music scene is legendary, with venues offering everything from blues and rock to jazz and soul. Beale Street is the epicenter of live music, with clubs like Rum Boogie Cafe and Blues City Cafe featuring nightly performances.
The Hi-Tone Cafe and Lafayette’s Music Room are other popular spots for live music, showcasing local and touring bands. The city’s vibrant music scene ensures there’s always a great show to catch.
2. Comedy Clubs
For a night of laughs, head to one of Memphis’s comedy clubs. Chuckles Comedy House features performances by national and local comedians, while The Comedy Junt offers an intimate setting for stand-up and improv shows.
Comedy lovers will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy a good laugh in Memphis. The city’s comedy clubs provide a fun and entertaining night out, with a diverse lineup of comedic talent.
3. Theater and Performing Arts
In addition to the Orpheum Theatre, Memphis is home to several other performing arts venues. The Playhouse on the Square and Theatre Memphis offer a variety of productions, from classic plays and musicals to contemporary works.
Ballet Memphis and Opera Memphis are also part of the city’s rich performing arts scene. Attending a performance at one of these venues is a wonderful way to experience Memphis’s cultural offerings.
4. Festivals
Memphis hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and food to art and culture. The Beale Street Music Festival, part of the Memphis in May International Festival, features performances by top artists across multiple genres.
Other notable festivals include the Memphis Film Festival, the Cooper-Young Festival, and the RiverArtsFest. These events showcase the city’s creative spirit and provide a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
5. Movies and Drive-Ins
For a nostalgic movie experience, visit the Malco Summer Drive-In, one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in the country. The drive-in offers a double feature of current releases, providing a unique and enjoyable way to watch movies under the stars.
Memphis is also home to several traditional movie theaters, including the Malco Paradiso and the Studio on the Square. These theaters offer a mix of mainstream and independent films, ensuring there’s something for every movie lover.
Shopping
1. South Main Arts District
The South Main Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and antique shops. Stroll down South Main Street to discover unique shops like T Clifton Art, which features contemporary art and glassworks, and Stock & Belle, a stylish boutique offering clothing, home goods, and gifts.
The district is also home to the Memphis Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The South Main Trolley Night, held on the last Friday of each month, is a lively event with extended shop hours, live music, and street performances.
2. Overton Square
Overton Square is a bustling entertainment district with a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. Browse the boutiques for unique fashion finds, gifts, and home decor. Sweet Noshings, a candy and snack shop, is a fun stop for sweet treats and nostalgic candy.
The square also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, making it a dynamic destination for shopping and entertainment. After shopping, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants or catch a live performance at the Hattiloo Theatre.
3. Cooper-Young
The Cooper-Young neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of shops and galleries. Browse the local boutiques for vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and unique home decor. Burke’s Book Store, one of the oldest independent bookstores in the country, is a must-visit for book lovers.
The neighborhood’s artistic vibe and diverse shopping options make it a great place to explore. After shopping, relax with a coffee at one of the local cafes or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
4. East Memphis
East Memphis offers a variety of shopping options, from high-end retailers to local boutiques. Laurelwood Shopping Center is home to stores like James Davis, a luxury men’s clothing store, and The Pink Door, a women’s boutique offering stylish apparel and accessories.
The area also features several specialty stores, including Babcock Gifts, known for its fine china and gifts, and The Booksellers at Laurelwood, an independent bookstore with a cozy cafe. East Memphis provides a more relaxed shopping experience, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
5. Wolfchase Galleria
For a traditional mall experience, visit Wolfchase Galleria, the largest shopping center in Memphis. The mall features over 120 stores, including major retailers like Macy’s, Dillard’s, and H&M, as well as a variety of dining options and a movie theater.
Wolfchase Galleria is a great place to spend a day shopping, with a wide range of stores offering everything from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods. The mall’s family-friendly atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular destination for shoppers.
Outdoor Activities
1. Shelby Farms Park
Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering over 4,500 acres of green space and outdoor activities. The park features miles of trails for walking, running, and biking, as well as lakes for paddle boating, kayaking, and fishing.
The park’s Woodland Discovery Playground and Water Play Sprayground are popular spots for families. Shelby Farms also offers horseback riding, a zipline course, and the Hyde Lake Wheel House, where you can rent bikes and paddleboards. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy nature.
2. Overton Park
Overton Park is a large urban park located in the heart of Memphis. The park is home to the Memphis Zoo, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, and the Levitt Shell. It also features hiking trails, a golf course, and picnic areas.
The Old Forest State Natural Area within Overton Park offers a serene escape with its wooded trails and diverse plant and animal life. The park’s amenities and central location make it a popular destination for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
3. Mississippi River Park
Mississippi River Park is a scenic waterfront park that offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. The park features walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and public art installations.
The park is also home to the River Garden, a unique urban green space with native plants, play areas, and seating. Take a stroll along the riverfront, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and watch the river flow by.
4. Tom Lee Park
Tom Lee Park is a large riverfront park that hosts the annual Memphis in May International Festival. The park offers open green spaces, walking paths, and stunning views of the Mississippi River.
The park is named after Tom Lee, an African American riverworker who saved 32 people from drowning in the Mississippi River in 1925. It’s a great place to enjoy a walk, have a picnic, or attend one of the many events and festivals held throughout the year.
5. Greenbelt Park
Greenbelt Park is a linear park located on Mud Island, offering 1.5 miles of walking and biking trails along the Mississippi River. The park provides beautiful views of the river and the downtown skyline.
Greenbelt Park is a peaceful and scenic spot for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride. The park’s open spaces and riverfront location make it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Memphis.
Sports
1. FedExForum
FedExForum is the home of the Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) and the University of Memphis Tigers basketball team. The arena also hosts concerts, family shows, and other sporting events.
Attending a Grizzlies game is an exciting experience, with the team’s passionate fan base and thrilling on-court action. The arena’s central location and state-of-the-art facilities make it a top destination for sports and entertainment in Memphis.
2. AutoZone Park
AutoZone Park is a minor league baseball stadium located in downtown Memphis. It’s the home of the Memphis Redbirds, the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. The stadium offers a fun and family-friendly atmosphere, with various promotions and events throughout the season.
AutoZone Park’s central location and modern amenities make it a great place to catch a baseball game. The stadium also hosts other events, including concerts and festivals, providing a variety of entertainment options.
3. Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium is the home of the University of Memphis Tigers football team. The stadium also hosts the annual Liberty Bowl, one of the oldest and most prestigious college football bowl games.
Attending a Tigers football game or the Liberty Bowl is a thrilling experience, with the energetic atmosphere and passionate fans. The stadium’s rich history and tradition make it a significant part of Memphis’s sports culture.
4. Memphis International Raceway
For motorsports enthusiasts, Memphis International Raceway offers a variety of racing events, including drag racing, road racing, and drifting. The facility also hosts car shows and other automotive events.
The raceway’s diverse lineup of events and state-of-the-art facilities make it a top destination for motorsports in the region. Whether you’re a racing fan or a car enthusiast, there’s something for everyone at Memphis International Raceway.
5. Golf Courses
Memphis is home to several beautiful golf courses, offering a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels. Mirimichi Golf Course, owned by Justin Timberlake, is known for its stunning design and commitment to environmental sustainability.
Other notable courses include TPC Southwind, which hosts the PGA Tour’s WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational, and Galloway Golf Course, a popular public course with a scenic layout. Memphis’s golf courses provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors and practice your swing.
Nightlife
1. Beale Street
Beale Street is the epicenter of Memphis’s nightlife, with its vibrant clubs, bars, and live music venues. The street comes alive at night with the sounds of blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll. Popular spots include B.B. King’s Blues Club, Rum Boogie Cafe, and Silky O’Sullivan’s.
Beale Street’s lively atmosphere and diverse entertainment options make it a must-visit destination for nightlife in Memphis. Whether you’re looking to dance, listen to live music, or enjoy a drink with friends, you’ll find it here.
2. Cooper-Young
The Cooper-Young neighborhood offers a more laid-back nightlife scene with its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The neighborhood’s artistic vibe and diverse crowd make it a popular spot for a night out.
Bars like Young Avenue Deli and Alchemy offer a great selection of craft beers and creative cocktails. The neighborhood’s relaxed atmosphere and unique venues make it a great place to explore for a fun and casual night out.
3. Overton Square Overton Square is a bustling entertainment district with a variety of bars, restaurants, and live performance venues. Enjoy a drink at Lafayette’s Music Room, known for its live music and Southern-inspired menu, or stop by Boscos for craft beer brewed on-site.
The square also features several theaters, including the Hattiloo Theatre and the Playhouse on the Square, offering a range of live performances. Overton Square’s vibrant nightlife scene and diverse entertainment options make it a popular destination for a night out.
4. Downtown Rooftop Bars
For stunning views of the city skyline, visit one of Memphis’s many rooftop bars. The Peabody Rooftop, located atop the historic Peabody Hotel, offers panoramic views of downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River. The bar is known for its summer rooftop parties, featuring live music and dancing.
Other notable rooftop bars include The Madison Hotel’s Twilight Sky Terrace and Hu. Roof at the Hu. Hotel. These bars provide a sophisticated and stylish setting for a night out, with expertly crafted cocktails and breathtaking views.
5. Live Music Venues
Memphis’s live music scene extends beyond Beale Street, with venues like Minglewood Hall and The Hi-Tone showcasing a diverse lineup of local and touring bands. The Levitt Shell in Overton Park also offers free concerts in a beautiful outdoor setting.
The city’s rich musical heritage and vibrant live music scene ensure there’s always a great show to catch. From blues and rock to jazz and soul, Memphis’s live music venues offer something for every music lover.
Conclusion
Memphis is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its iconic landmarks, immersing yourself in its rich cultural offerings, savoring its diverse cuisine, enjoying its vibrant entertainment scene, indulging in retail therapy, engaging in outdoor activities, cheering on your favorite sports teams, or experiencing its dynamic nightlife, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore all that the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll has to offer!