15 Fun Things to Do in Memphis Tennessee | Local Guide
Memphis, Tennessee’s vibrant heart, sits atop the Mississippi River bluffs. This city blends Southern charm with modern excitement. It offers soul-stirring music, mouthwatering BBQ, and unforgettable experiences.
Our guide covers 15 must-do activities in Memphis. It caters to history buffs, music lovers, and adventure seekers alike. You’ll find plenty of attractions that capture Memphis’ unique spirit.
Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home, draws over 600,000 visitors yearly. It’s a top Memphis sightseeing spot. But there’s more to explore.
The daily Peabody Duck March delights guests. Shelby Farms Park spans 4,500 acres of outdoor fun. These unique experiences make Memphis truly special.
Put on your comfortable shoes and explore Memphis’ grit and grind. This welcoming city is full of fascinating sights. Get ready to uncover Memphis’ best attractions and make lasting memories!
Explore Beale Street’s Vibrant Nightlife
Beale Street throbs with energy across three blocks of Memphis. This National Historic Landmark offers a unique blend of music, food, and culture. It defines Memphis entertainment and has been since 1966.
Live Music Venues
Beale Street boasts an impressive array of live music spots. B.B. King’s Blues Club and Rum Boogie Café showcase nightly performances. The Orpheum Theatre, from 1928, adds historical charm to the musical scene.
Iconic Bars and Restaurants
Savor Southern flavors at Beale Street’s renowned eateries. Indulge in barbecue ribs, fried catfish, and Southern fried chicken at local hotspots. Silky O’Sullivan’s offers a unique Memphis experience.
Hard Rock Cafe serves American classics with a side of music history. Beale Street welcomes visitors year-round, with most venues open from 11 AM to 2 AM. The area shines during the Beale Street Music Festival.
Age restrictions apply after certain hours. A $5 security fee is charged on select nights after 9 PM.
- Open container policy – the only place in Tennessee where it’s allowed
- Most bars open until 3 AM or 4 AM
- Free country concerts at Kix On Beale every Thursday in June and July
- Home to legendary musicians like B.B. King and W.C. Handy
Beale Street’s lively atmosphere and rich musical heritage make it a must-visit destination. It offers authentic Memphis entertainment that you won’t find anywhere else.
Discover the Rich History at the National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum honors America’s fight for equality. It’s at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, where Dr. King was killed. Visitors can explore 400 years of Black history here.
Essential Exhibits to Visit
Plan for 2-3 hours to see the museum’s powerful exhibits. Room 306 remains as it was in 1968, the day of Dr. King’s assassination.
The Civil Rights Timeline in the Legacy Building shows key events from 1619 to 1968. It offers a full view of the movement’s history.
- Freedom Rides exhibit, commemorating the brave activists of 1961
- Sit-in recreation from the 1960 Greensboro protests
- Interactive “Voices of The Civil Rights Movement” display
Audio Guides and Tours
Audio guides bring history to life with rich context and personal stories. They’re great for self-guided Memphis tours.
Timed entry tickets help manage crowds and improve your visit. They ensure a more structured experience at the museum.
| Admission Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | $20.00 |
| Senior (65+) | $18.00 |
| College Student (with ID) | $18.00 |
| Children (5-17) | $17.00 |
| Children (4 & under) | Free |
| Active U.S. Military | Free |
This top-rated museum is open daily, except Tuesdays. It welcomes over 90,000 students each year. The American Alliance of Museums ranks it in the top 5% of U.S. museums.
Tour Graceland – Elvis Presley’s Home
Graceland, a famous Memphis attraction, showcases Elvis Presley’s life. This 14-acre estate attracts millions of fans yearly. Elvis bought it at just 22 years old.
A Walk Through Elvis’ Life
The Graceland tour explores key areas of Elvis’ home. Visitors can see the Jungle Room and Meditation Garden. An interactive iPad tour narrated by John Stamos brings Elvis’ story to life.
Special Exhibitions
Graceland offers exhibits featuring Elvis’ car collection and custom airplanes. The Racquetball Building shows Elvis’ private world as it was in 1977.
For die-hard fans, the “Presley for a Day” tour provides an exclusive experience. This tour is limited to 8 people daily.
| Tour Type | Adult/Senior Price | Youth Price (5-10) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Additional Day | $18.50 | $9.30 |
| 2 Additional Days | $30 | $15 |
| 3 Additional Days | $40 | $20 |
Many Memphis tours include Graceland as a highlight. Various ticket options and discounts are available. The Guest House at Graceland offers 450 rooms and a theater.
Experience Memphis Zoo’s Unique Wildlife
The Memphis Zoo is a top attraction for wildlife lovers. It spans 70 acres and houses over 3,500 animals from 500 species. Nature fans will find this zoo a must-see destination.
Highlights of the Zoo
The zoo features 19 exhibits, each showing different ecosystems. Teton Trek mimics Yellowstone National Park with elk, wolves, and grizzlies. The China exhibit is special, being one of four U.S. zoos with giant pandas.
Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences too. The Sea Lion Show and Once Upon A Farm petting zoo are popular spots. These attractions offer close encounters with animals.
Special Events and Programs
Memphis Zoo hosts various events year-round. Adults love Zoo Brew, while families enjoy Zoo Boo at Halloween. The zoo offers daily keeper chats and summer camps for kids.
Moonlight safaris are part of the Zoo Snoozes program. These night tours let visitors see nocturnal animals in action. It’s a unique way to experience the zoo.
| Zoo Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Over 70 acres |
| Number of Animals | 3,500+ |
| Number of Species | 500+ |
| Number of Exhibits | 19 |
| Conservation Efforts | Conservation Six initiative |
The Memphis Zoo is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It offers a fun and meaningful outing for all ages. The zoo’s focus on conservation and education makes every visit count.
Enjoy the Art at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a captivating Memphis attraction. It spans 17 acres and houses over 2,000 objects in its permanent collection. Art lovers and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore here.
Founded in 1976 by Hugo and Margaret Dixon, it’s an accredited museum and certified arboretum. This cultural gem offers a unique blend of art and nature.
Rotating Exhibits and Art Events
The Dixon keeps its offerings fresh with seasonal exhibitions and engaging activities. Art on the Rocks, a popular event for adults, often sells out quickly.
The gallery hosts Munch and Learn series, featuring presentations by local artists and scholars. Currently, a special exhibit showcases portraits of Eugenia Errazuriz, a key figure in art and design.
Outdoor Spaces to Explore
The Dixon’s gardens are a masterpiece in themselves. Spring visitors can marvel at over 125,000 tulips and daffodils during Dixon Blooms.
Families can enjoy a scavenger hunt, exploring various textures around the grounds. In October, don’t miss the Pumpkin House display, perfect for photo opportunities.
Admission to this Memphis attraction is free through 2024. You can admire works by Degas and Grassel indoors or join yoga sessions in the gardens.
The Dixon offers a serene and sophisticated escape in the heart of Memphis. It’s an accessible cultural treasure for all to enjoy.
Savor Southern Flavors at Local Restaurants
Memphis restaurants offer a tasty trip through Southern cuisine. The city’s food scene attracts locals and tourists alike. From barbecue joints to upscale eateries, Memphis is a food lover’s paradise.
Must-Try Dishes
Memphis is famous for its dry-rub ribs. Try these tender, flavorful ribs at Cozy Corner or Payne’s Bar-B-Que. For Southern comfort food, visit Alcenia’s for fried chicken and collard greens.
Craving something sweet? Don’t miss the bananas foster pancakes at Garden Brunch Cafe. These dishes showcase Memphis’ unique culinary traditions.
Popular Dining Spots
The Four Way, a Memphis institution, serves soul food that once fueled civil rights leaders. For modern Southern cuisine, try Amelia Gene’s in downtown Memphis. They offer innovative dishes like scallops with hollandaise sauce.
Café Piazza in Collierville serves delicious Italian fare. Their caprese salad and crispy Margherita pizza are local favorites. The Kitchen Table in Arlington offers unique Southern dishes.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Margie’s 901 or Phillip Ashley Chocolates. These spots offer gourmet desserts. Memphis’ diverse food options make exploring the city’s culinary scene a popular activity.
Visit Sun Studio – The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Sun Studio is a top Memphis attraction, second only to Graceland. This small building on Union Avenue birthed rock ‘n’ roll. Sam Phillips opened it in 1950, and it quickly became a music innovation hub.
Guided Tours Overview
Sun Studio tours run daily from 10 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Weekend hours are longer. Adult tickets cost $15, while children 5-11 pay $10.
Tours start hourly, offering a close look at music history. You’ll see the studio where Elvis recorded his first song in 1953.
Visitors can view gold records and rare photos. You can even hold the microphone used by music legends.
Notable Recording Artists
Sun Studio launched many rock ‘n’ roll icons’ careers. The “Million Dollar Quartet” – Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins – recorded here.
Other greats include B.B. King, Roy Orbison, and Charlie Rich. Sun Studio remains active today, attracting modern artists like U2 and Tom Petty.
This Memphis tour offers music lovers an unforgettable journey. You’ll experience the unique sound and rich history of rock ‘n’ roll.
Attend a Game at FedExForum
FedExForum is Memphis’s top spot for entertainment and activities. It hosts exciting NBA games and concerts. Sports fans and music lovers flock to this amazing arena.
Memphis Grizzlies Basketball
FedExForum is where the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies play. The arena seats 18,119 fans for thrilling basketball action. Doors open an hour before the game starts.
Come early to feel the pre-game energy. You’ll be part of an electric atmosphere.
Events and Concerts
FedExForum isn’t just for basketball. It’s also a top-notch concert venue. The arena hosts rock shows, family events, and more.
Doors usually open an hour before events begin. This gives you time to find your seat and buy snacks.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Parking | 1,500 spaces in Gossett Motors Parking Garage |
| Luxury Options | Club Seats, Hennessy Club Boxes, Premium Suites, ULTRA Club |
| Guest Services | Located on Plaza Level (Section 102) and Terrace Level (Section 202) |
| Accessibility | Family restrooms on all public levels, Sensory Room available |
| Payment Options | Cashless transactions accepted, including Apple Pay and Google Pay |
Buy parking passes online for a smooth visit. The Toyota Parking Garage is closest to the arena. Only clear bags (6x8x2 inches) are allowed inside.
These rules keep everyone safe while enjoying Memphis entertainment. Plan ahead for the best FedExForum experience.
Experience the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Dive into Memphis’s musical heritage at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. This iconic venue celebrates its 20th anniversary. It offers a soul-stirring journey through generation-shaping sounds.
Music lovers and history buffs will find this Memphis museum captivating. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Guided Tours Insight
Take an immersive tour through the recreated Studio A. This historical representation mirrors the original Stax studio from 1959 to 1974. The museum houses over 2,000 interactive exhibits and artifacts.
A standout piece is Isaac Hayes’ gold-plated, peacock blue 1972 Superfly Cadillac El Dorado. As you explore, iconic hits like Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” serenade you.
Iconic Artists Celebrated
The Stax Museum honors artists who defined an era. The Hall of Records showcases over 1,000 soul music cuts. Discover artifacts from the legendary 1967 European revue, highlighting Stax artists’ global impact.
Established in 1999, the Soulsville Foundation continues promoting this legacy. Its music academy has performed internationally. For an unforgettable Memphis experience, touring this soul music mecca is essential.
FAQ
What’s the best time to visit Memphis?
April to May and October to November offer mild weather and plenty of outdoor events. Music lovers should visit in May for the Memphis in May International Festival.
How long should I plan to stay in Memphis to see the main attractions?
A 3-4 day trip covers most major attractions like Graceland, Beale Street, and the National Civil Rights Museum. For a deeper dive into the city’s culture, consider staying a week.
Is Memphis a walkable city?
Downtown Memphis is walkable, with many attractions close by. For farther destinations like Graceland or the Memphis Zoo, use public transport, rideshares, or rent a car.
What’s the best way to experience Memphis’s music scene?
Start with a night on Beale Street and visit Sun Studio and the Stax Museum. Catch a live show at one of the city’s many music venues.
Check local event calendars for music festivals and special performances.
Are there any free attractions in Memphis?
Memphis offers several free attractions. These include the Dixon Gallery and Gardens (free through 2024) and Mud Island River Park.
Shelby Farms Park and the Fire Museum of Memphis are also free. Many museums offer free admission days throughout the year.
What’s the best BBQ restaurant in Memphis?
Memphis is famous for its BBQ, with opinions on the “best” varying widely. Some highly-rated options include Central BBQ, The Bar-B-Q Shop, and Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous.
For a true Memphis experience, try a few and decide for yourself!
Is it safe to visit Memphis?
Popular tourist areas like Downtown, Midtown, and East Memphis are generally safe during the day and evening. Like any large city, some areas are safer than others.
Always use common sense precautions, especially at night.
