Memphis, the largest city in Tennessee, is a cultural hub in the southern United States. Known as the birthplace of rock and roll and the blues, this city is filled with rich history and unique attractions. From the famous Graceland to the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis has much to offer visitors who are interested in music, culture, and history. In this blog post, we will explore the best attractions and things to do in Memphis. Whether you are planning a vacation or a weekend getaway, Memphis is the perfect destination for an unforgettable experience. So let’s discover the best of Memphis together!

The 2 Best Things For Couples To Do In Memphis

1. Memphis City Tour With Optional Sun Studio Admission
2. Memphis Ghosts Walking Tour

The 2 Best Things For Couples To Do In Memphis

1. Memphis City Tour With Optional Sun Studio Admission

Discover the hidden gems of Memphis on this narrated city tour. You’ll see more than just the famous sights as you drive past grand Victorian homes and cultural landmarks. Plus, you’ll get to visit the legendary Sun Studios where artists like Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley recorded their music. This tour also includes round-trip transportation from select downtown Memphis hotels. With a small group, you’re sure to have a personalized experience. Admission to Sun Studio is included for ages 7+. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive tour of Memphis!

2. Memphis Ghosts Walking Tour

Take a spooky stroll through Memphis with this guided ghost walking tour. Experience the darker side of downtown and hear chilling tales of the city’s haunted heritage as told by a professional storyteller. This guided walking tour takes you through top city attractions, including the Orpheum Theatre, and includes a visit to Earnestine and Hazel’s, a former brothel known as one of the most haunted buildings in Memphis. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover Memphis’s ghostly secrets! Hotel pickup and drop off, local taxes, and gratuities are included. Meeting point is at Alfred’s On Beale and the tour ends at the Orpheum Theatre.

Frequently Asked Questions About Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee is a city rich in history and culture. From its famous music scene to its delicious barbecue, Memphis has a lot to offer tourists. But before visiting, it’s important to have some basic knowledge about the city to help plan your trip. Here are some frequently asked questions about Memphis:

1. What is Memphis known for?

Memphis is known for several things, including:

• Being the birthplace of rock and roll music, with a strong connection to Elvis Presley and Graceland
• Being the home of the blues music scene, with famous venues such as Beale Street and the Blues Hall of Fame Museum
• Having some of the best barbecue in the country, with iconic restaurants like Rendezvous and Central BBQ
• Being the site of important civil rights history, such as the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated
• Being a major transportation hub, with a busy airport and interstates I-40 and I-55 running through the city

2. What is the best time to visit Memphis?

The best time to visit Memphis is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be cold and rainy. However, if you’re a music lover, visiting in the summer during the Memphis in May music festival may be worth enduring the heat.

3. Is Memphis safe for tourists?

Like any city, Memphis has some areas that may be more dangerous than others. However, the downtown and tourist areas are generally safe as long as you take common sense precautions such as staying in well-lit areas and not flashing expensive jewelry or cash. It’s also recommended to use a taxi or ride-share service at night instead of walking.

4. What are some must-see attractions in Memphis?

Some must-see attractions in Memphis include:

• Graceland – the home of Elvis Presley
• The National Civil Rights Museum – located at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination
• Beale Street – the famous blues music scene with live music, restaurants, and shops
• The Memphis Zoo – home to over 4,500 animals including giant pandas
• The Stax Museum of American Soul Music – a museum dedicated to the history of soul music

5. What is the best way to get around Memphis?

The best way to get around Memphis is by car, either by renting one or using a ride-share service. The city also has a trolley system that runs along Main Street with fares starting at $1.

6. What is the food like in Memphis?

Memphis is famous for its barbecue, with delicious options such as dry-rub and wet-rub ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Other popular foods in Memphis include fried chicken, hot tamales, and soul food such as fried catfish and collard greens.

7. Are there any festivals or events in Memphis worth attending?

Memphis in May is the city’s biggest festival, which includes several events such as the Beale Street Music Festival, World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, and the Great River Run. Other popular events include the Memphis Jazz Festival, the Indie Memphis Film Festival, and the Cooper-Young Festival in midtown.

8. Where are the best places to shop in Memphis?

Some of the best places to shop in Memphis include:

• Lafayette’s Music Room – a music store with vintage vinyl, CDs, and instruments
• The Memphis Farmers Market – open on Saturdays with fresh produce and local crafts
• The Pink Palace Museum & Planetarium – a museum and store with Memphis souvenirs and gifts
• Overton Square – a shopping and dining district with boutiques and a movie theater

9. What is the nightlife like in Memphis?

Memphis has a vibrant nightlife scene with Beale Street being the center of it all. With live music venues, bars, and restaurants, there are plenty of options to choose from. Other popular nightlife spots include midtown’s Cooper-Young district and the Broad Avenue Arts District.

10. Is Memphis a family-friendly destination?

Memphis is definitely a family-friendly destination with plenty of attractions for all ages. The Memphis Zoo, Pink Palace Museum, and Mud Island River Park are just a few examples of places to take kids. Additionally, many of the restaurants in Memphis are family-oriented with kid-friendly menus available.

Final Thoughts

Memphis is a city that has something for everyone. From the rich history and culture to the delicious food and vibrant music scene, there are endless reasons to visit. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, tourists can plan their trip accordingly and have the best Memphis experience possible.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Memphis

Memphis is a city that offers a rich cultural experience with plenty of things to see and do. From iconic landmarks to world-renowned museums, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this guide, we will take you through some of the best things to do as a tourist in Memphis.

1. Visit Beale Street

Beale Street is a must-see when visiting Memphis. It is a three-block stretch of iconic blues clubs, restaurants, and shops that have been at the heart of Memphis’ music culture since the early 1900s. Take a stroll down Beale Street and take in the sights and sounds of Memphis. Don’t forget to stop and check out some of the famous blues clubs like BB King’s Blues Club and the Rum Boogie Cafe.

2. Explore Graceland

No visit to Memphis is complete without a trip to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. Graceland is a beautifully preserved mansion that gives visitors an up-close look at the life and legacy of one of the greatest musicians of all time. Be sure to take a guided tour of the mansion, visit the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, and grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on the Graceland campus.

3. Visit the National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is a powerful and educational experience that tells the story of the American Civil Rights Movement. The museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement.

4. Tour Sun Studio

Sun Studio is widely recognized as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. Some of the most iconic musicians in history have recorded at Sun Studio, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Take a guided tour of Sun Studio and learn about the history of rock ‘n’ roll and how it all started right here in Memphis.

5. Experience the Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo is home to over 4,500 animals from around the world. It is one of the top-rated zoos in the country and offers visitors a chance to see a variety of animal exhibits, including the Northwest Passage, Cat Country, and Primate Canyon. The zoo also hosts daily shows and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

6. Take a Riverboat Cruise

Experience Memphis from the Mississippi River with a riverboat cruise. Take in the views of the Memphis skyline and learn about the history of the river and its significance to Memphis. There are several different riverboat companies to choose from, each offering different types of cruises and tours.

7. Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a can’t-miss attraction for music lovers. The museum highlights the history and influence of Stax Records, a Memphis-based record label that played a significant role in the rise of soul music in the 1960s and 70s. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see one-of-a-kind artifacts, and listen to some of the greatest soul music of all time.

Book Your Tour Now

Memphis is a city that is rich in culture and history. From its music scene to its civil rights legacy, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The above list is just a few of the many things that you can do as a tourist in Memphis. Be sure to also check out other attractions like the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, the Pink Palace Museum, and the Memphis Botanic Garden. With so much to explore, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in this vibrant city.