Best Things To Do in Memphis, Tennessee: A Guide to Music and History
Memphis, Tennessee, is a destination that doesn’t just offer sights; it offers an immersion into American cultural history itself. From the deep, resonant sounds of Delta Blues to the electrifying energy of Rock ‘n’ Roll, this city has served as a crucible where music, struggle, and innovation met. It’s a place defined by its rhythm—a cadence set by the Mississippi River and amplified through legendary artists.
Whether you are tracing the footsteps of civil rights leaders or simply sampling smoky ribs from a historic smokehouse, Memphis promises an experience that is both deeply historical and wonderfully vibrant. Prepare to explore a city where every corner whispers stories of change, genius, and enduring American resilience.
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Quick picks: Plan for at least three days to fully appreciate the depth of Memphis’s culture. Focus on balancing historical exploration (The National Civil Rights Museum) with musical immersion (Beale Street and Sun Studio), while allowing time for nature in its expansive parks.
Top Places to Stay in Memphis, TN
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Splendid Colonial in Midtown with Parking Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 391 |
| Large Condo in Downtown Memphis 502 South Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 122 |
| ARRIVE Memphis 477 S. Main St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 1,034 |
| Big Cypress Lodge 1 Bass Pro Drive, Memphis, TN 38105, United States of America | 1,232 |
| Modern Luxe Studio + Gated Parking & Wifi 669 Adams Avenue #3, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38105, United States of America | 59 |
| Instaworthy Luxe Loft w/ Amazing Views (King Bed) 669 Adams Avenue #7, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38105, United States of America | 49 |
| Private Gated Cottage Walk to Overton Square Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 181 |
| Jolly Accommodations & Suite-Sleeps 10 2789 Gailwood Drive, Memphis, TN 38134, United States of America | 45 |
| The Rambler 400 South Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 803 |
| Jolly Jefferson Ave Walk to the Best of Midtown Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 118 |
| Memorable Nomad Haven Walk to Cooper Young's Best Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 61 |
| Revitalized Historic Place Memphis, 38103, United States of America | 50 |
| Elegant 6 Bedroom Home in Heart of Memphis 4339 Amber Lane, Memphis, TN 38111, United States of America | 37 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis Germantown 1680 S Germantown Rd. , Memphis, TN 38138, United States of America | 245 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Wolfchase Galleria 2935 North Germantown Parkway, Memphis, TN 38133, United States of America | 377 |
| Southern Elegance in Heart of Memphis 1985 Carr Avenue, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38104, United States of America | 27 |
| Peabody Memphis 149 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 3,175 |
| Fenced in backyard, 7 minutes from Downtown 2 bedroom 2036 York Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104, United States of America | 26 |
| Hyatt Place Memphis Wolfchase 7905 Giacosa Place, Memphis, TN 38133, United States of America | 1,222 |
| The Mini Mansion at Graceland 3660 Masonwood Lane, Memphis, TN 38116, United States of America | 31 |
| J Birds’ Bungalow in the heart of Midtown 1387 Vance Avenue, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38104, United States of America | 30 |
| The Guest House at Graceland 3600 Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38116, United States of America | 3,321 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Downtown 310 Union Avenue, Memphis, 38103, United States of America | 2,124 |
| River Inn of Harbor Town 50 Harbor Town Square, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 136 |
| Residence Inn Memphis Downtown 110 Monroe Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 135 |
| Gated Midtown Retreat near Overton Square Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 55 |
| Homewood Suites Memphis Germantown 7855 Wolf River Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38138, United States of America | 745 |
| Gated Midtown Cottage with Perfect Location Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 80 |
| Walk to the Best of Midtown Charming Cottage Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 62 |
| Modern Luxe Studio + Free Gated Parking + King Bed 669 Adams Avenue #6, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38105, United States of America | 20 |
| Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Memphis-Wolfchase Galleria, an IHG Hotel 2751 New Brunswick Road, Memphis, TN 38133, United States of America | 1,182 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown Beale Street 201 Union Avenue , Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 1,145 |
| Best Historic Retreat Home in Midtown Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 33 |
| Hyatt Place Memphis Germantown 9161 Winchester Rd, Memphis, 38138-8509, United States of America | 887 |
| Canopy By Hilton Memphis Downtown 164 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 860 |
| Walk to your Own Gated Retreat from Midtown's Best Midtown, Memphis, 38104, United States of America | 44 |
| Modern 3-bedroom home with patio and fire pit 1002 New York Street, Memphis, TN 38104, United States of America | 20 |
| Dtwn Memphis Retreat Less Than 1 Mi to Beale Street! Memphis, 38103, United States of America | 14 |
| Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments 669 Jefferson Avenue Downstairs apartment, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38105, United States of America | 235 |
| Happy on Haddington- Easy access to I-240 Haddington Drive 6236, Memphis, 38119, United States of America | 37 |
| Entire Townhouse 5582 Clarke Address, Memphis, TN 38115, United States of America | 42 |
| The Retreat at Graceland 1102 Whitaker Cove, Memphis, TN 38116, United States of America | 32 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Wolfchase 2839 New Brunswick Road, Memphis, TN 38133, United States of America | 283 |
| Modern Ranch in East Memphis Wellsville Road 1277, Memphis, 38117, United States of America | 10 |
| Courtyard by Marriott Memphis East/Park Avenue 6015 Park Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119, United States of America | 214 |
| The Berclair Cottage- Mines to attractions Given Avenue 4334, Memphis, 38122, United States of America | 34 |
| NEW Downtown River Gem - Scenic Patio Beale 3Mi 1272 Island Harbor Drive, Memphis, TN 38103, United States of America | 9 |
| Spacious Memphis Home Less Than 3 Mi to Graceland! Memphis, 38116-8212, United States of America | 15 |
| Centrally Located 2BR Overton Square Unit 2 Fast WiFi Free Parking Yes Pets 83 North Cooper Street Unit 2, Midtown, Memphis, TN 38104, United States of America | 21 |
| The Big Gray Hideaway Glenview Avenue 1712, Memphis, 38106, United States of America | 12 |
Destination Overview: A Cultural Journey
To visit Memphis is to understand a confluence of powerful forces. Historically, the city’s prosperity was intrinsically linked to the Mississippi River—a major artery of trade that brought goods and people from across the continent. This commercial flow created a rich, complex society where different cultures intersected.
This unique melting pot environment fueled an unparalleled musical evolution. Starting with the raw energy of Delta Blues, the music traveled, absorbed influences, and transformed into Soul, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and R&B—genres that defined modern American identity. Therefore, Memphis is not merely a collection of attractions; it is a narrative experience about struggle, freedom, art, and survival.
Best Things To Do: Music, History, & Culture Attractions
These sites form the core of any visit to Memphis, offering deep dives into the city’s most significant cultural pillars. Each location tells a vital chapter of American history or musical genius.
National Civil Rights Museum and Lorraine Motel
This is an essential stop for understanding modern American history. The National Civil Rights Museum occupies the historic site of the Lorraine Motel—the place where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. This location carries immense historical gravity, serving as a powerful memorial.
The museum itself provides an exhaustive and deeply moving educational experience. Its exhibits cover pivotal moments, tracing the struggle for equality from periods of slavery through the monumental events of the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors encounter interactive displays, including accurate replicas like the bus associated with Rosa Parks, allowing history to feel immediate and tangible. This comprehensive journey is a profound testament to resilience and the ongoing fight for justice.
Beale Street: The Soul of Memphis Music
Once the heart of the city’s nightlife, Beale Street remains a global destination for music enthusiasts. Walking down this historic thoroughfare is a sensory experience—a blend of neon signs, sizzling BBQ aromas, and the constant, soulful wail of live blues, jazz, and rock music.
Beale Street offers history alongside hedonism. While enjoying world-class performances at venues like B.B. King’s Blues Club or Rum Boogie Cafe, visitors can also appreciate the area’s historic architecture. Look for sites such as the WC Handy House, honoring one of the “fathers of the blues,” and the various plaques that tell the story of music defining this street.
Graceland: The Kingdom of Elvis
For fans of pop culture history, Graceland is unparalleled. This iconic estate was the home of Elvis Presley, offering a detailed peek into the life and flamboyant style of “The King.” It functions as much more than a museum; it’s a cultural monument.
Beyond touring the mansion itself—which showcases everything from opulent living rooms to the famous Jungle Room—visitors can explore multiple exhibits. These include the extensive Elvis Presley Car Museum, featuring his famous collection of vehicles, and dedicated galleries detailing his career evolution. Equally impressive is the Airplanes Exhibit, which houses two private jets (like the Lisa Marie), offering a look into the glamour of global stardom.
Sun Studio: Where Sound Changed the World
Before Graceland or Beale Street, Sun Studio was the incubator. This humble, historic recording facility is credited with shaping modern music genres, particularly Rock ‘n’ Roll. It’s where legends like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their early, defining hits.
Visiting Sun Studio feels like stepping back in time into a sonic laboratory. Guided tours allow visitors to see the original recording equipment and stand in the very rooms where revolutionary sound was captured. It provides an intimate understanding of how raw talent and simple technology could fundamentally change the course of music history.
Outdoors & Leisure: Nature’s Embrace
Memphis is also surrounded by massive green spaces, offering a necessary contrast to the intensity of downtown cultural tours. These parks provide opportunities for relaxation, family fun, and connection with nature.
Shelby Farms Park
Spanning over 4,500 acres, Shelby Farms is one of the largest urban recreational areas in America. It offers a sprawling escape from the city bustle. The park’s diverse landscape supports numerous activities for all ages—from gentle strolls and strenuous hikes to family fun.
- For Active Families: There are miles of established trails perfect for biking, jogging, or simply taking a leisurely walk through the woods.
- For Little Ones: The Children’s Adventure Zone offers dedicated play areas, including playgrounds, splash pads, and petting zoo sections, making it ideal for family outings.
Mud Island River Park
This park celebrates Memphis’s deep connection to the Mississippi River. A key feature is the detailed model of the lower Mississippi River, known as the Riverwalk. This model allows visitors to learn about the river’s critical role in commerce and culture through informative panels.
The park also features recreational options like pedal boats on its lake, providing a scenic and peaceful way to take in the surroundings while enjoying the gentle flow of the water—a direct nod to the lifeblood that has sustained Memphis for centuries.
Taste of Memphis: BBQ and Local Cuisine
No guide to Memphis is complete without celebrating its culinary centerpiece: Southern barbecue. This cuisine is more than just food; it is a cultural rite of passage, steeped in tradition and smoky flavor.
Memphis BBQ is renowned for its unique style—often featuring slow-smoked ribs and tender pulled pork. The difference between joints can be subtle, from the tangy complexity of a signature sauce to the deep, earthy smoke of a dry rub. When sampling Memphis cuisine, it’s recommended to try multiple styles: pairing the sweet richness of pulled pork with the savory depth of smoked ribs.
Beyond BBQ, while local specialties abound, savoring a meal in the vicinity of Beale Street or along Rendezvous is an experience in itself—a perfect way to wind down a day of exploration.
Memphis offers an incredible depth of activities, depending on whether your interests lean toward musical history, civil rights exploration, or natural relaxation. Here is a guide to making the most of your time in the Music City.
For the Music Lover (The Rhythmic Core)
Dedicate time to experiencing Memphis’s legendary musical pulse. Key activities include:
- Blues Immersion on Beale Street: Spend an evening enjoying live music at a classic bar. While browsing the historic architecture, keep an ear out for the vibrant mix of blues and soul that permeates the air.
- Tracing Rock ‘n’ Roll Roots at Sun Studio: Take a guided tour to understand the physical space where modern rock history was made. This gives insight into the creative process behind genre-defining sounds.
- Visiting Graceland: For pop culture enthusiasts, touring Elvis’s home provides an unmatched look into the life and style of “The King” and the era of global stardom.
For the History Buff (The Stories of Struggle)
Explore Memphis’s pivotal role in American social change:
- National Civil Rights Museum: This museum provides an essential, comprehensive journey through the Civil Rights Movement. Allowing ample time here is crucial for understanding this monumental period of American history.
- Exploring Downtown Memphis: Take a walk around the historic districts to see the architecture and memorials that tell stories of change and resilience throughout the city’s development.
For Relaxation & Nature (The Green Escape)
Balance your intense cultural deep dives with time in Memphis’s beautiful green spaces:
- Exploring Shelby Farms Park: Spend a day enjoying one of America’s largest urban parks. It is excellent for hiking, biking, or simply having a picnic and letting the natural environment provide a calming contrast to downtown intensity.
- Riverfront Activities at Mud Island: Take advantage of the Mississippi River’s presence by renting a boat or simply walking along the riverwalk. This offers scenic views and a peaceful connection to the lifeblood that has sustained Memphis for centuries.
Areas To Explore
Start with the central area of Memphis, Tennessee, then branch into nearby districts, parks, waterfronts, historic streets, or quieter neighborhood corridors when they fit your route. These areas help visitors understand the destination beyond a single attraction.
Use maps to group stops that are close together, and check transportation, parking, and accessibility before heading farther out. A few well-chosen areas usually make the day feel more coherent than crossing town for unrelated stops.
Food and Local Tips
Use meals in Memphis, Tennessee as practical breaks between activities instead of treating dining as a separate checklist. Look for locally run cafes, casual restaurants, markets, bakeries, or neighborhood spots near the areas you already plan to visit.
Before choosing a place, check current hours, recent menus, accessibility, and whether reservations are useful. Travelers with dietary needs should confirm options directly, and families may want easier parking, shorter waits, and flexible seating.
Planning and Booking Tips: Tips and Logistics
Executing a trip through Memphis requires strategic planning due to the spread-out nature of its attractions. While downtown areas are quite walkable, major zones like Graceland and Shelby Farms require dedicated transportation time.
- Transportation Flow: For daily movement between core hubs (Beale Street, Civil Rights Museum, Sun Studio), walking is feasible. However, moving from the outskirts to Graceland or out to Shelby Farms will generally require ride-shares or local bus services.
- Ticket Management: It is strongly advised that all major attractions—Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Sun Studio—have tickets purchased in advance online. This not only ensures entry but often provides access to special exhibit information or time slots.
- Pacing Yourself: Memphis is rich, which can be overwhelming. Plan your days around a central theme (e.g., History Day vs. Music Day) rather than trying to fit everything into one day.
Suggested Memphis Itinerary
To help structure your visit, here are two suggested thematic day plans that allow you to manage the sheer depth of what the city offers.
Day 1: The Historical & Musical Core (Downtown Focus)
- Morning (History): Begin at the National Civil Rights Museum. Allow at least three hours for this profound and educational deep dive into American justice.
- Lunch & Transition: Enjoy a classic Memphis BBQ lunch near the downtown area.
- Afternoon (Music History): Visit Sun Studio to experience its legendary recording rooms, followed by an exploration of the historic architecture surrounding Beale Street.
- Evening (Nightlife): Immerse yourself on Beale Street. This is the time for live music! Enjoy dinner and let the blues and soul sounds guide your evening.
Day 2: Pop Culture & Nature Escape
This day offers a change of pace, balancing star power with natural relaxation.
- Morning (Pop Culture): Dedicate the morning to Graceland. Spend time exploring Elvis’s life and the memorabilia to soak up the atmosphere of rock ‘n’ roll history.
- Lunch: Grab a casual lunch near the Riverfront area.
- Afternoon (Nature/Leisure): Head to Shelby Farms Park or Mud Island River Park. If the family is involved, Shelby Farms provides vast space for cycling and playground time; if you prefer river views, enjoy a relaxing paddle on the lake at Mud Island.
Visitor Tips
The perfect trip to Memphis changes depending on who you are traveling with. Tailoring your visit ensures maximum enjoyment for everyone.
For Families
Focus heavily on the natural side of the city. The Memphis Zoo and Shelby Farms Park offer ample space, interactive exhibits (like the splash pads), and activities that keep younger guests engaged while older family members enjoy a peaceful day out.
For History Buffs & Academic Travelers
Prioritize deep dives into the National Civil Rights Museum and Sun Studio. Consider taking specialized walking tours focused on Memphis’s industrial or civil rights history to gain academic depth beyond the main exhibits. Reading up beforehand on the evolution of Delta Blues will enhance the experience at Beale Street.
For Older Travelers & Accessibility
Be aware that while many attractions are mindful of accessibility, some historic sites and park paths can involve uneven terrain or stairs. The museum buildings generally offer excellent infrastructure, but always check current facility details. Utilizing riverboat rides (where available) or the paved pathways in the parks offers a more comfortable way to enjoy the sights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I plan for a visit?
While you can see the highlights in two intensive days, Memphis truly thrives when given time. A minimum of three full days is recommended to allow sufficient time to explore both the profound history and the leisure activities at a comfortable pace.
Is Memphis walkable?
The core downtown area, particularly the stretch between Beale Street and the Civil Rights Museum, is highly walkable. However, due to the distance separating Graceland (in its own neighborhood) from downtown hubs, relying on ride-shares or public transport for inter-neighborhood travel is necessary.
Are there non-BBQ dining options?
Yes. While BBQ is iconic, Memphis boasts a rich variety of Southern cuisine. You can find excellent local spots offering fried chicken, soulful Creole dishes, and other regional American fare that complement the smoked meats.
Conclusion: Making Memories in the Music City
Memphis, Tennessee, is an unparalleled destination because it asks you to participate in its history. It demands that you listen—to the roar of history at the Lorraine Motel, to the soulful chords echoing from a Beale Street bar, and to the quiet whisper of time within Sun Studio.
The city’s enduring spirit, fueled by music, civil rights struggle, and deep traditions like BBQ, ensures that every visit leaves an indelible mark. Plan your journey with curiosity, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to be swept away by the unforgettable rhythm of Memphis.