Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the most iconic cities in the United States. It’s known for its rich cultural history, legendary music scene, and delicious cuisine. With so much to see and do, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this article, we’ll take a look at 17 of the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee.
Visit Graceland
Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, is a must-visit destination in Memphis. You can tour the mansion, see his collection of cars, planes, and memorabilia, and learn about the life of the King of Rock and Roll.
Tour the Sun Studio
Sun Studio is the birthplace of Rock and Roll, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and many other legendary musicians recorded their music. You can take a tour of the studio, see memorabilia, and even record your song.
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Explore Beale Street
Beale Street is the heart of the Memphis music scene. It’s lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s the perfect place to listen to live music, have a drink, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Walk through the Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo is a top-rated zoo, known for its giant pandas, big cats, and African savannah. It’s an excellent place for families to spend a day and get up close with some of the world’s most fascinating animals.
Check out the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Stax Museum is a tribute to the legendary soul music label Stax Records. You can learn about the history of soul music, see memorabilia, and listen to recordings of some of the most iconic songs of all time.
Learn about Civil Rights at the National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American society.
Visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a celebration of the city’s music history. You can learn about the origins of rock and soul music, see memorabilia, and listen to recordings of some of the most iconic songs of all time.
Enjoy the Pink Palace Museum
The Pink Palace Museum is a fascinating museum that covers a wide range of topics, including natural history, science, and Memphis history. It’s housed in a beautiful mansion and is a great place to spend a rainy day.
Catch a game at the FedExForum
The FedExForum is home to the Memphis Grizzlies NBA team. It’s a state-of-the-art arena that hosts concerts, games, and other events throughout the year.
Take a Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi
A Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi is an excellent way to see Memphis from a different perspective. You can take a leisurely cruise, enjoy the scenic views, and learn about the history of the Mississippi River. Some of the riverboats even offer dinner cruises with live music.
Visit the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee. It has an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by Picasso, Degas, and Monet.
See the Peabody Ducks
The Peabody Ducks are a famous Memphis tradition. Every day at 11 am, a group of ducks march down a red carpet from their rooftop palace to the lobby fountain of the historic Peabody Hotel.
Walk through Overton Park
Overton Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Memphis. It has walking trails, playgrounds, a golf course, and even a small zoo. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy some fresh air.
Explore Mud Island River Park
Mud Island River Park is a unique attraction that allows visitors to explore the Mississippi River on foot. It has a scale model of the river, a museum, and a concert venue.
Enjoy a BBQ meal
Memphis is famous for its BBQ, and there’s no shortage of delicious BBQ restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include Central BBQ, Rendezvous, and The Bar-B-Q Shop.
Go on a Ghost Tour
Memphis has a rich history and plenty of ghost stories. Going on a ghost tour is a fun way to learn about the city’s haunted past and see some of its most historic landmarks.
Visit the Memphis Pyramid
The Memphis Pyramid is a unique structure that was originally built as a sports and entertainment venue. Today, it’s home to a Bass Pro Shops megastore, restaurants, and even a hotel.
In conclusion, Memphis, Tennessee, has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a music lover, history buff, or foodie, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this iconic city. With this list of the 17 best things to do in Memphis, you’re sure to have a memorable trip.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Memphis? A: The best time to visit Memphis is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of festivals and events.
- How long does it take to tour Graceland? A: The Graceland mansion tour takes approximately 90 minutes, but you could easily spend a half-day exploring the entire property.
- Is Beale Street family-friendly? A: Beale Street can be lively and crowded at night, but during the day, it’s a family-friendly destination with plenty of shops and restaurants.
- Can you visit the Peabody Ducks at any time? A: The Peabody Ducks are marched twice a day, at 11 am and 5 pm, and you can watch the ceremony from the lobby of the Peabody Hotel.
- What is Memphis-style BBQ? A: Memphis-style BBQ is typically pork-based and cooked low and slow over hickory wood. It’s served dry or wet (with sauce) and is known for its sweet and tangy flavor.