Memphis, Tennessee, is a city that truly has something for everyone. Known for its historic blues music scene, mouth-watering barbecue, and iconic landmarks, Memphis is a destination that rivals cities twice its size. Whether you’re a history buff looking to learn about the civil rights movement, an art lover eager to explore the vibrant local culture, or simply someone in search of great food and fun, Memphis is a city that won’t disappoint. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top attractions and things to do in Memphis, so you can start planning your next adventure.

The 2 Best Things to Do with Kids in Memphis Tennessee

1. Memphis Big Mojo Sun Studio Music History 3 Hour Bus Tour
2. Memphis Mojo Music History 90 Minute Bus Tour

The 2 Best Things to Do with Kids in Memphis Tennessee

1. Memphis Big Mojo Sun Studio Music History 3 Hour Bus Tour

Go behind the scenes at Sun Studio and explore the rich musical heritage of Memphis on a 3-hour guided bus tour. Accompanied by a professional musician, you will have the chance to grab a tambourine, shaker, bongo or sing-along during an interactive trip through the city. Your guide will regale you with humorous stories, history, and tales about famous Memphis personalities as you take in the sights.

On this exciting tour, you will see famous landmarks such as Sun Studio, Beale Street, Stax Studio, the Lorraine Motel, Cotton Row, Peabody Hotel, Overton Park, Historic Central Gardens, and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Additionally, you will pass by the early homes of Elvis, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash.

Learn about the birthplace of the blues and gain a true appreciation for the music that made Memphis famous. This bus tour offers a unique and engaging way to experience the city and is led by professional Beale Street musicians who are experts in their field. Book this tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

2. Memphis Mojo Music History 90 Minute Bus Tour

Experience the rich musical heritage of Memphis, The Home of the Blues, on the nation’s only music bus tour. A professional Beale Street musician will be your guide, entertaining you with comedy, history, and behind-the-scenes stories of famous Memphis personalities. You’ll get to play a tambourine, shaker, bongo or sing-along on this interactive tour. Pass by cultural landmarks such as Sun Studio, Beale Street, Stax Studio, The Lorraine Motel, Cotton Row, Peabody Hotel, Overton Park, Historic Central Gardens, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and visit the early homes of Elvis, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash. Along the way, learn about the origins of some of your favorite songs. This 90-minute bus tour is a must-do for anyone wanting to experience Memphis’ music scene.

Memphis Tennessee: Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists

Memphis, Tennessee, is a city famous for its rich music culture, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. Many tourists come to Memphis to experience the city’s unique vibe and explore its numerous attractions. If you are planning to visit Memphis, here are some frequently asked questions that might help you plan your trip.

1. What are the must-visit attractions in Memphis?

Memphis has a lot to offer, and there are many things to see and do in the city. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Memphis:

Graceland

Located at 3765 Elvis Presley Boulevard, Graceland is the former home of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. A tour of Graceland will take you through Elvis’s mansion, the trophy building, and his final resting place.

Beale Street

Beale Street is a historic street in downtown Memphis that is famous for its live music venues, restaurants, and shops. The street became popular during the 1920s and 1930s when it was a hub for African American musicians.

National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum, located at 450 Mulberry Street, is a museum dedicated to chronicling the civil rights movement in the United States. The museum is built around the Lorraine Motel, where civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Sun Studio

Sun Studio is a recording studio located at 706 Union Avenue that has played a significant role in the history of rock and roll. Many legendary musicians, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis, recorded their music at Sun Studio.

Mud Island River Park

Mud Island River Park is a park and museum located on Mud Island in the Mississippi River. The park features a scale model of the Mississippi River, a museum about the river’s history, and outdoor concerts and events in the summer.

2. What is the best time to visit Memphis?

The best time to visit Memphis is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer. Temperatures during the summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and wet.

3. What is the food like in Memphis?

Memphis is known for its delicious barbecue, but the city also has a lot of other great food options. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Memphis:

Barbecue

Memphis-style barbecue is known for its dry rubs and slow cooking methods. Some of the best barbecue restaurants in Memphis include Central BBQ, Rendezvous, and The Bar-B-Q Shop.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is another staple of southern cuisine, and Memphis has some great options. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken and Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken are both highly recommended.

Southern Comfort Food

In addition to barbecue and fried chicken, Memphis has a lot of great southern comfort food options. Some of the best restaurants include The Arcade Restaurant, Dyers Burgers, and Germantown Commissary.

4. What is the weather like in Memphis?

Memphis has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s. Winters can be cold and wet, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. Spring and fall are mild and offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

5. Where is the best place to stay in Memphis?

The best place to stay in Memphis depends on your interests and budget. Downtown Memphis is a popular choice for tourists, as it is close to many of the city’s top attractions. Other popular neighborhoods include Cooper-Young, Midtown, and East Memphis.

6. How do I get around in Memphis?

Memphis has a public transportation system called MATA that includes bus routes and the Main Street Trolley. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. If you plan to explore the city’s attractions outside of downtown, renting a car might be the most convenient option.

7. What is the nightlife like in Memphis?

Memphis has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and live music venues. Beale Street is a popular destination for tourists, as it is home to many of the city’s most famous bars and juke joints. Other popular nightlife spots include Cooper-Young and Overton Square.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Memphis Tennessee

If you’re planning a trip to Memphis, Tennessee, there are plenty of things to see and do. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to create an itinerary. From iconic landmarks to delicious food, Memphis has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in Memphis.

1. Visit Graceland

No trip to Memphis is complete without a visit to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. You can take a tour of the mansion, see Elvis’s famous car collection, and visit his grave. The mansion is open every day from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and tickets start at $41.

2. Explore Beale Street

Beale Street is a historic district that’s home to blues music and delicious food. Many famous musicians got their start on Beale Street, and you can hear live music every night of the week. There are also plenty of restaurants serving up classic Memphis dishes like barbecue and fried chicken.

3. See the National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum tells the story of the American civil rights movement and its impact on the world. It’s open every day except Tuesday, and tickets start at $17.

4. Try Memphis-style BBQ

Memphis is known for its delicious barbecue, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include Central BBQ, Rendezvous, and The Bar-B-Q Shop. Be sure to try the pulled pork and ribs, and don’t forget the barbecue sauce.

5. Visit the Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo is home to over 4,500 animals and is one of the top-rated zoos in the country. You can see everything from lions and tigers to pandas and hippos. There’s also a children’s section, a farm, and a beautiful garden. Admission starts at $15.

6. Check out the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum tells the story of the musical pioneers who made Memphis the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” You can see exhibits on Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and many other musicians who changed the course of American music. The museum is open every day, and tickets start at $14.

7. Walk along the Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is a defining feature of Memphis, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a walk along the riverfront. There are plenty of parks and paths to explore, and you can see the iconic Memphis Pyramid and the statue of Elvis Presley.

8. Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Another important musical museum in Memphis is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is located in the former Stax Records studio, where artists like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes recorded some of their most famous songs. Admission is $13, and the museum is open every day except Monday.

9. Try some local craft beer

If you’re a fan of craft beer, Memphis has plenty of options for you. Some of the most popular breweries include Wiseacre Brewing, Memphis Made Brewing, and Ghost River Brewing. Be sure to try some of the local favorites, like the Ananda IPA and the Memphis Sands.

10. Visit the Memphis Botanic Garden

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. There are over 31 specialty gardens to explore, including the Japanese Garden, the Sensory Garden, and the Herb Garden. There’s also a butterfly garden, a lake, and plenty of walking paths. Admission starts at $10.

Conclusion

Memphis is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. With so many things to see and do, it can be hard to decide how to spend your time. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun vacation, Memphis has something for everyone. Be sure to make time for these top ten activities to get the most out of your trip.