Nestled in the heart of the southern United States, Memphis is a city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Known for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and iconic landmarks, there are plenty of things to do and see in this bustling metropolis. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a music lover, Memphis has something for everyone. From exploring the birthplace of rock and roll to sampling some of the best BBQ in the country, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your itinerary. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience all that Memphis has to offer! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Memphis, TN, to help you plan your perfect vacation.
1. Downtown and the Beale Street Entertainment District
Downtown Memphis, Tennessee, is a vibrant and lively area known for its rich history, music scene, and diverse array of attractions. One of the most iconic and well-known spots in downtown Memphis is the Beale Street Entertainment District, which is often regarded as the “Home of the Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”
Beale Street, which dates back to 1841, became a hub for African American musicians in the early 20th century. It has since played a crucial role in the development of American music, with legendary artists such as B.B. King, Louis Armstrong, and Muddy Waters having performed there. Today, Beale Street is a lively, pedestrian-friendly destination filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs where visitors can enjoy live music, from blues and jazz to rock and modern pop.
In addition to the bustling music scene, the Beale Street Entertainment District offers various attractions and points of interest. A.W. Willis Bridge at the entrance to the district features a statue of W.C. Handy, the “Father of the Blues.” The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, located at the corner of Beale Street and B.B. King Boulevard, highlights the city’s musical heritage and its impact on American culture.
Downtown Memphis also offers other attractions beyond Beale Street. The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, is a poignant and informative historical site. The Peabody Hotel, famous for its resident ducks, provides a touch of elegance and luxury. The nearby Mississippi River offers picturesque views and opportunities for riverboat cruises.
With its rich musical history, diverse entertainment options, and cultural attractions, downtown Memphis and the Beale Street Entertainment District are must-visit destinations for music lovers and those interested in experiencing the unique spirit of Memphis.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States |
2. National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a powerful and thought-provoking museum that tells the story of the American Civil Rights Movement and its struggle for racial equality. The museum is housed in the Lorraine Motel, the site of the assassination of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968.
The National Civil Rights Museum features a series of interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and artifacts that chronicle the history of the Civil Rights Movement, from slavery to the present day. Visitors can explore important events and figures of the movement, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Greensboro sit-ins, and the Freedom Rides, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of the movement.
One of the museum’s most powerful exhibits is the recreated motel room where Dr. King stayed on the night of his assassination, complete with the original furnishings and decor. Visitors can also view the balcony where Dr. King was shot, now part of a permanent exhibit that explores the circumstances surrounding his death and the aftermath of the assassination.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States |
3. Graceland: The Home of Elvis Presley
Graceland, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is the former home of the legendary musician Elvis Presley and is one of the most famous and visited homes in the United States. Presley purchased the mansion in 1957 and lived there until his death in 1977, and it has since been opened to the public as a museum and tourist attraction.
Visitors to Graceland can take a tour of the mansion, which includes the main living areas, Presley’s bedroom, and the “Jungle Room,” which features an indoor waterfall and exotic decor. The tour also includes a visit to the trophy building, which showcases Presley’s extensive collection of gold and platinum records, costumes, and memorabilia.
In addition to the mansion, Graceland features several other attractions that provide insight into the life and career of Elvis Presley. The Elvis Presley Car Museum displays a collection of Presley’s cars, including his famous pink Cadillac and a 1956 purple Cadillac Eldorado that he gave to his mother. The Elvis Presley Archives features an extensive collection of personal items, documents, and photographs that offer a glimpse into Presley’s life offstage.
The Graceland complex also includes several restaurants, souvenir shops, and a concert venue that hosts live music performances and special events throughout the year. A visit to Graceland is a must for fans of Elvis Presley, music history, and pop culture, offering a fascinating look into the life of one of the most iconic musicians of all time.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116, United States |
4. Memphis Rock’n’Soul Museum
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a Smithsonian Institution-affiliated museum located in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. The museum tells the story of the city’s musical heritage, focusing on the origins of rock ‘n’ roll and soul music and their impact on American culture.
The exhibits at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum showcase a diverse range of musical styles and genres, including blues, gospel, R&B, rockabilly, and soul. Visitors can see artifacts and memorabilia from legendary musicians such as B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, and Al Green, as well as learn about the history and evolution of music in Memphis, which has played a significant role in shaping the American musical landscape.
The museum features a range of interactive exhibits and displays that offer an immersive and engaging experience for visitors. One of the highlights is the “Soul Train” exhibit, which allows visitors to step inside a replica of the iconic television show’s studio and dance to classic soul tunes. The museum also offers audio guides, films, and special exhibits that explore different aspects of Memphis music history and culture.
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in music history and culture. The museum’s dedication to preserving and celebrating Memphis’s rich musical heritage has made it a beloved attraction for locals and visitors alike, showcasing the enduring influence of Memphis music on American culture.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 191 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States |
5. Mississippi River Park and Museum
The Mississippi River Park and Museum is a beautiful and educational destination located in Memphis, Tennessee. The park covers over 50 acres and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, as well as a variety of recreational activities, including biking, hiking, and picnicking.
The centerpiece of the Mississippi River Park is the Mississippi River Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history and ecology of the river. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the river’s impact on American history and culture, as well as its vital role in the ecosystem of the surrounding region.
Visitors to the museum can learn about the history of river transportation, including the steamboat era, as well as the impact of the river on agriculture, industry, and trade. Exhibits also highlight the cultural significance of the river, including its role in the development of music, literature, and art.
The Mississippi River Park and Museum also offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions, including a riverwalk, playgrounds, and a splash pad for children. Visitors can take a stroll along the park’s scenic trails, relax in one of the park’s many green spaces, or take a riverboat tour to experience the beauty and power of the Mississippi River up close.
The Mississippi River Park and Museum is a great destination for visitors of all ages, providing a unique and engaging way to learn about the history and ecology of one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 1 River Park Dr, Tunica Resorts, MS 38664, United States |
6. Sun Studio
Sun Studio, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a legendary recording studio that played a pivotal role in the development of rock ‘n’ roll music. Opened in 1950 by Sam Phillips, Sun Studio is where iconic musicians such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Roy Orbison got their start.
Visitors to Sun Studio can take a guided tour of the studio and learn about its rich history and legacy. The tour includes a visit to the control room, where visitors can see the original equipment used to record some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century. The studio still has many of its original features, including the soundproofing tiles on the walls, the acoustic tile ceiling, and the vintage microphones and amplifiers used to create the studio’s unique sound.
The Sun Studio tour also features exhibits and memorabilia from some of the studio’s most famous artists, including Elvis Presley’s microphone, the Sun Records company file, and the studio’s original tape recorder.
In addition to its historical significance, Sun Studio is still an active recording studio, and visitors may even get a chance to witness a recording session in progress during their visit. The studio also hosts live music performances and special events throughout the year, celebrating the enduring legacy of the music created within its walls.
For fans of rock ‘n’ roll music and music history, a visit to Sun Studio is a must-see destination, providing a fascinating look into the origins of one of the most influential genres of music in American history.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 706 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, USA |
7. The Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo is a popular attraction located in Memphis, Tennessee, that is known for its extensive collection of animals from around the world. The zoo is situated on a 70-acre property in the city’s Midtown neighborhood and features a variety of exhibits and attractions that are fun for visitors of all ages.
The Memphis Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals representing over 500 species, including giant pandas, African elephants, lions, and tigers. Visitors can explore the many exhibits, which include naturalistic habitats that allow animals to roam and behave as they would in the wild.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Memphis Zoo is the Northwest Passage, which features animals and habitats from the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, including grizzly bears, river otters, and bald eagles. Other popular exhibits include the Zambezi River Hippo Camp, the Teton Trek, and the Cat Country exhibit.
The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and special events for children and families. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and beverage options at the zoo’s cafes and restaurants.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112, United States |
8. Shelby Farms Park
Shelby Farms Park is a large urban park located in Memphis, Tennessee, that offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. The park spans over 4,500 acres and features a variety of natural landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and lakes.
One of the most popular attractions at Shelby Farms Park is the Greenline, a 10.65-mile paved trail that is popular with cyclists, runners, and walkers. Visitors can also explore the park’s many other trails, which range in difficulty and offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
The park also features a variety of recreational facilities, including playgrounds, a splash park, a fishing lake, and a disc golf course. Visitors can also rent paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the park’s lakes and waterways.
Shelby Farms Park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie screenings. The park is also home to the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that works to protect and preserve the park’s natural resources and promote environmental education and stewardship.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 6903 Great View Dr N, Memphis, TN 38134, United States |
9. STAX Museum of American Soul
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a museum located in Memphis, Tennessee, that is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Stax Records and the artists who recorded there. Stax Records was a legendary music label that produced some of the most iconic soul and R&B music of the 1960s and 1970s, including hits from artists such as Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Sam & Dave.
The museum is housed in the original location of Stax Records, which was a converted movie theater in the city’s South Memphis neighborhood. The museum features a variety of exhibits that explore the history and impact of Stax Records, including displays of vintage recording equipment, instruments, and costumes worn by some of the label’s most famous artists.
Visitors to the museum can also listen to a wide range of Stax recordings, including many rare and previously unreleased tracks. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and special events, including concerts, lectures, and film screenings.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38126, United States |
10. Dixon Gallery and Gardens
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a museum and botanical garden located in Memphis, Tennessee. The museum is known for its impressive collection of fine art and decorative objects, as well as its beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces.
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens features a variety of art collections, including works by French Impressionists such as Monet, Degas, and Renoir, as well as a collection of porcelain and decorative arts. The museum also features a collection of contemporary art, with works by artists such as William Christenberry and William Eggleston.
The gardens at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens are also a major attraction, featuring a variety of landscaped gardens, including a cutting garden, a butterfly garden, and a Japanese garden. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gardens or explore them on their own, taking in the beauty of the carefully curated plantings and outdoor sculptures.
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens also offers a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and art classes. The museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and nature, and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 4339 Park Ave, Memphis, TN 38117, United States |
11. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is a museum located in Memphis, Tennessee, that is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the world’s great artistic traditions. The museum’s collection includes over 10,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects from around the world.
The Brooks Museum is home to an impressive collection of European art, including works by Renaissance masters such as Botticelli, as well as more modern works by artists such as Renoir and Matisse. The museum also features a collection of American art, with works by artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol, and a collection of contemporary art, with works by artists such as Kara Walker and William Eggleston.
In addition to its permanent collections, the Brooks Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works by both established and emerging artists. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including lectures, tours, and art classes.
The Brooks Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture. Its collections and exhibitions provide a rich and diverse view of the world’s artistic traditions, and its educational programs offer opportunities for visitors of all ages to learn and explore.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 1934 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, United States |
12. Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium
The Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium is a museum located in Memphis, Tennessee, that is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the natural and cultural history of the Mid-South region. The museum is housed in a historic mansion, which was originally built in the 1920s by the founder of the Piggly Wiggly grocery store chain.
The Pink Palace Museum features a variety of exhibits and collections, including displays of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, a replica of the first Piggly Wiggly store, and exhibits exploring the history of Memphis and the surrounding region. The museum also features a collection of antique automobiles, as well as a collection of historical medical equipment and artifacts.
The museum is also home to a planetarium, which features a variety of educational shows and programs that explore the wonders of the universe. The planetarium offers a variety of shows for visitors of all ages, including shows that explore the night sky, as well as programs that focus on specific topics such as black holes, the solar system, and the search for extraterrestrial life.
The Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and film screenings. Overall, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural and cultural history of the Mid-South region, as well as anyone interested in space and astronomy.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38111, USA |
13. Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, also known as the Burkle Estate, is a historic site and museum located in Memphis, Tennessee. The museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the Underground Railroad and the role that Memphis played in the abolitionist movement.
The Burkle Estate was owned by Jacob Burkle, a German immigrant who was a conductor on the Underground Railroad. The house is believed to have been a stopping point for runaway slaves on their way to freedom in the North. The museum features exhibits and displays that explore the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad, including artifacts, photographs, and documents.
Visitors to the museum can take a guided tour of the Burkle Estate, which includes a visit to the basement of the house, where there is a hidden room that is believed to have been used to hide runaway slaves. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and special events, including lectures, workshops, and film screenings.
The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the Underground Railroad and the struggle for freedom and equality. The museum provides a powerful and thought-provoking look at a difficult chapter in American history and the brave individuals who risked everything to fight for the rights of others.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 826 N 2nd St, Memphis, TN 38107, United States |
14. Children’s Museum of Memphis
The Children’s Museum of Memphis is a non-profit educational museum designed specifically for children located in Memphis, Tennessee. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs that allow children to learn through play and exploration.
The museum’s exhibits are designed to promote learning and encourage curiosity, creativity, and imagination. There are exhibits that allow children to explore a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art and culture. Some of the most popular exhibits include the airplane cockpit, the fire truck, the grocery store, and the toddler area, which is designed specifically for younger children.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also offers a variety of educational programs, including field trips, workshops, and camps. The programs are designed to provide children with hands-on learning experiences that are both fun and educational.
The Children’s Museum of Memphis is a great destination for families with young children. The museum provides a safe and engaging environment where children can learn and play, and the interactive exhibits and educational programs are designed to promote a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | 2525 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, United States |
15. Golf and Games Family Park
Golf and Games Family Park is a family entertainment center located in Memphis, Tennessee. The park offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages, including miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages, bumper boats, and an arcade.
The park’s miniature golf course features 18 holes and is designed to be fun and challenging for players of all skill levels. The go-kart track is a quarter-mile long and features both single and double-seater karts, allowing visitors to race against each other. The batting cages are equipped with machines that pitch baseballs and softballs at varying speeds, while the bumper boats allow visitors to cool off on hot days while splashing around in the water.
The park’s arcade features a variety of classic and modern games, including pinball machines, video games, and redemption games where visitors can win tickets to exchange for prizes. There is also a snack bar on site where visitors can purchase food and drinks.
Golf and Games Family Park is a great destination for families and groups of friends looking for a fun day out. The park’s wide range of activities and attractions provide something for everyone, and the friendly and helpful staff ensure that visitors have a great time.
| More info | http://golfandgamesmemphis.com/ |
| Address | 5484 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN 38134, United States |
16. Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid in Memphis
Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is a retail store and entertainment venue located in Memphis, Tennessee. The store is housed in a massive pyramid-shaped building that was originally built in the early 1990s as a sports and entertainment arena.
The Bass Pro Shops store at the Pyramid is one of the largest retail stores in the world, with over 600,000 square feet of space. The store features a variety of outdoor gear and equipment, including fishing and hunting supplies, camping gear, and clothing. The store also features a wide range of outdoor-themed exhibits and displays, including an aquarium that is home to a variety of fish and other aquatic creatures.
In addition to the retail store, Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid also features a number of entertainment venues, including restaurants, a bowling alley, an observation deck with panoramic views of Memphis, and a hotel. The hotel is located within the Pyramid and features 103 rooms, each with its own unique theme and decor.
The Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in outdoor sports and recreation. The store offers an incredible selection of gear and equipment, and the exhibits and displays provide a fun and educational look at the natural world. The entertainment venues and hotel make it a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
| More info | Wikipedia.org |
| Address | Memphis, TN 38105, USA |
