Top 10 Things to Do in Memphis, Tennessee

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Things to Do in Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee, is a city rich in history, culture, and music. Known as the “Home of the Blues” and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. If you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Memphis.

Things to Do in Memphis

1. Visit Graceland – Home of Elvis Presley

Home of Elvis Presley

No trip to Memphis is complete without visiting Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley. This sprawling mansion showcases Elvis’s personal life, career, and legacy. Tour the mansion, see his famous jumpsuits, visit the Meditation Garden where he is buried, and explore his impressive car collection.

  • Location: 3764 Elvis Presley Blvd
  • Admission: Starting at $28 for the mansion tour

2. Explore Beale Street – The Heartbeat of Memphis

 

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Beale Street is one of the most famous streets in the U.S. and a must-visit for any music fan. This historic street is lined with blues clubs, bars, and restaurants featuring live music. Popular spots include B.B. King’s Blues Club, Rum Boogie Café, and Blues City Café.

  • Location: Downtown Memphis
  • Best Time to Visit: Evening for live music and nightlife
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3. Tour the National Civil Rights Museum

National Civil Rights Museum

Housed at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, the National Civil Rights Museum is one of the most powerful historical sites in the U.S. The museum chronicles the history of the civil rights movement, from slavery to the present day.

  • Location: 450 Mulberry St
  • Admission: Adults $18, Seniors & Students $16

4. Walk Along the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park

Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park

Tom Lee Park is a scenic riverfront park offering stunning views of the Mississippi River. It’s a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take a sunset stroll. The park is also home to the annual Memphis in May International Festival.

  • Location: Riverside Dr, Downtown Memphis
  • Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the best views

5. Visit the Memphis Zoo

 

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The Memphis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the U.S. and home to over 3,500 animals, including giant pandas, polar bears, and elephants. Families and animal lovers will enjoy spending a day exploring its themed exhibits like the Teton Trek and Zambezi River Hippo Camp.

Location: 2000 Prentiss Place
Admission: Adults $21, Kids (2-11) $16

6. Discover Sun Studio – The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Known as the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Sun Studio is where legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. A guided tour gives you an inside look at the famous studio and its role in shaping music history.

  • Location: 706 Union Ave
  • Admission: $15 for guided tours

7. Enjoy BBQ at Central BBQ or Rendezvous

 

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Memphis is famous for its barbecue, and no visit is complete without trying some slow-cooked, mouth-watering ribs. Central BBQ and Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous are two of the top BBQ joints in the city. Whether you prefer dry-rubbed or saucy ribs, Memphis has it all.

  • Location: Multiple locations in Memphis
  • Must-Try: Pulled pork, ribs, and brisket
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8. Visit Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

If you’re a soul music fan, the Stax Museum is a must-visit. The museum is dedicated to Memphis soul music and features exhibits on Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the MG’s. You can even see Isaac Hayes’ custom Cadillac.

  • Location: 926 E. McLemore Ave
  • Admission: Adults $13, Seniors & Students $12

9. Experience Shelby Farms Park

For outdoor lovers, Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. With over 4,500 acres, it offers activities like hiking, biking, paddle boating, zip-lining, and even a buffalo range. Rent a bike or take a peaceful kayak ride on the lake.

  • Location: 6903 Great View Dr N
  • Admission: Free (activities may have fees)

10. Watch a Memphis Grizzlies Game at FedExForum

Memphis Grizzlies Game at FedExForum

Basketball fans should catch a Memphis Grizzlies game at the FedExForum. The atmosphere is electric, and you’ll get to see one of the most exciting teams in the NBA. If you visit outside of basketball season, check for concerts and other events hosted at the arena.

  • Location: 191 Beale St
  • Ticket Prices: Vary by game and seat

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Memphis

1. What is Memphis best known for?

Memphis is best known for its deep musical roots, especially in blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. It is home to iconic landmarks like Graceland, Beale Street, and Sun Studio. The city is also significant for its role in the civil rights movement, with the National Civil Rights Museum located at the Lorraine Motel.

2. What are the top attractions in Memphis?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Memphis include:

  • Graceland (Elvis Presley’s home)
  • Beale Street (Live music and entertainment hub)
  • National Civil Rights Museum
  • Sun Studio (Birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll)
  • Stax Museum of American Soul Music
  • Memphis Zoo
  • Shelby Farms Park
  • Tom Lee Park (Riverfront views)
  • FedExForum (Home of the Memphis Grizzlies)
  • Famous BBQ spots like Central BBQ and Rendezvous
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3. What is the best time of year to visit The City?

The best time to visit is in the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor festivals like the Beale Street Music Festival and Memphis in May are in full swing. Summer can be very hot and humid, while winter is mild but less lively.

4. Is Beale Street family-friendly?

During the daytime, Beale Street is family-friendly, offering live music, restaurants, and historical landmarks. However, at night, it becomes more of an adult-oriented entertainment district with bars and live performances. Some venues may have age restrictions in the evening.

5. What are some free things to do in Memphis?

There are plenty of free attractions, including:

  • Walking along Beale Street
  • Visiting Tom Lee Park along the Mississippi River
  • Exploring Shelby Farms Park
  • Walking through the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
  • Visiting the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum Plaza
  • Watching the famous Peabody Ducks at The Peabody Hotel

6. How many days do I need to explore The City?

A 3-day trip is ideal to explore the city’s highlights. You can visit Graceland, Beale Street, and the Civil Rights Museum in one day, explore Sun Studio, the Stax Museum, and eat Memphis BBQ on another, and spend a day at Shelby Farms Park, the Memphis Zoo, or a Grizzlies game.

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

  • Driving: Renting a car is the best way to get around if you want to explore beyond downtown.
  • Trolley: The Main Street Trolley is an affordable and fun way to see downtown Memphis.
  • Walking: Downtown Memphis is pedestrian-friendly.
  • Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are widely available.

8. Where can I try the best BBQ in Memphis?

Memphis is famous for its barbecue, and some of the best places to try include:

  • Central BBQ (Known for pulled pork and ribs)
  • Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous (Famous for dry-rubbed ribs)
  • The Bar-B-Q Shop (Great for BBQ spaghetti)
  • Cozy Corner (Known for smoked Cornish hen)

9. What music-related attractions should I visit?

Memphis is the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. Top music attractions include:

  • Graceland (Elvis Presley’s mansion)
  • Sun Studio (Where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded)
  • Beale Street (Live music clubs and historic bars)
  • Stax Museum of American Soul Music (Home of legendary soul artists)
  • Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

10. Is The City safe for tourists?

Like any major city, Memphis has areas that are safer than others. Tourist areas like Beale Street, Graceland, and downtown attractions are generally safe, especially during the day. It’s recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and use rideshares or taxis when needed.

Final Thoughts

Memphis is a city full of rich history, incredible music, delicious food, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re exploring Graceland, dancing on Beale Street, or indulging in world-famous BBQ, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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