Things To Do
in Memphis
Situated along the Mississippi River, this city is renowned for its pivotal role in the civil rights movement and as the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll music, with Graceland, Elvis Presley's former home, drawing visitors from around the globe. Its rich cultural tapestry is also reflected in the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
The vibrant music scene, historic landmarks, and the famous Beale Street entertainment district make it a unique destination for tourists seeking a blend of musical history and southern hospitality.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Beale Street, known for its vibrant music scene. Enjoy breakfast at a local café to fuel up for your adventures.
Explore the National Civil Rights Museum to learn about the history of the Civil Rights Movement. Grab lunch nearby to refuel before heading to your next destination.
Witness live music at one of the famous blues clubs on Beale Street. End your night with some delicious BBQ at a local restaurant.
Visit the Sun Studio, where legendary artists like Elvis Presley recorded their hits. Take a guided tour to appreciate the rich musical history of the place.
Head to Graceland, Elvis Presley's former home, and explore the grounds. Enjoy lunch at a nearby diner while discussing your favorite Elvis tracks.
Attend a concert at FedExForum or a local venue featuring Memphis musicians. Unwind with some dessert and coffee at a cozy spot downtown.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich music heritage, particularly in blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities.
- Delicious and diverse cuisine, especially famous for barbecue.
- Strong sense of community and Southern hospitality.
- Access to cultural landmarks such as Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Higher crime rates compared to the national average.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Humidity and heat during summer months can be uncomfortable.
- Economic challenges and poverty in some areas.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
Best Activities in Memphis
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the beautiful landscape of Shelby Farms Park.
Walk or cycle across the Big River Crossing, the longest public pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi River, for stunning views of the river and downtown Memphis.
Explore the scenic gardens and trails of Memphis Botanic Garden, featuring a variety of plant collections and landscapes for outdoor enjoyment.
Tours
Uncover the best of Memphis with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Memphis
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its vibrant nightlife and live music, it provides a colorful backdrop for photos.
The iconic home of Elvis Presley offers numerous photo opportunities, including the mansion, the famous gates, and the Meditation Garden.
Offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline.
One of the largest urban parks in the United States, it provides beautiful natural scenery and diverse photo opportunities.
Food in Memphis
Memphis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender, smoky, and slathered in tangy sauce, Memphis BBQ ribs are a culinary icon. Central BBQ and The Rendezvous offer top-notch versions of this local favorite.
Must-Try!
A fiery specialty, hot chicken is a spicy delight. Indulge in this Nashville import at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, where it's fried to crispy perfection.
Juicy, slow-cooked pulled pork piled high on a bun, often served with coleslaw. Payne’s Bar-B-Q and The Bar-B-Q Shop are exceptional spots to savor this Southern classic.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Memphis better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market showcases a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats, making it a prime spot for a relaxed Saturday morning stroll and food exploration.
A hub of lively energy and delectable aromas, Beale Street is an iconic destination for diverse street food options. From BBQ to soul food, the street offers a mix of flavors to tempt any palate.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Memphis, it is important to show respect for elders by using respectful language and gestures, and by listening attentively to their stories and wisdom.
Greetings are a key part of the culture in Memphis. It is polite to greet others with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi' and to use 'sir' or 'ma'am' when addressing people, especially in formal or professional settings.
Memphis has a rich heritage in music and arts, so showing an appreciation for these forms of expression is often seen as respectful. Attending local concerts, visiting art galleries, and supporting local artists are all ways to embrace the cultural norms of Memphis.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Memphis with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Memphis
Ensure a smooth experience
In Memphis, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
Payments in Memphis are commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Memphis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Memphis, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. It's also the season for events like the Beale Street Music Festival and Memphis in May International Festival.
Summer in Memphis is hot and humid, but it's the season for outdoor concerts, festivals, and events. Be prepared for high temperatures and occasional thunderstorms.
Fall is a popular time to visit Memphis, with comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. The city also hosts the Delta Fair and the popular Cooper-Young Festival.
Winter in Memphis can be chilly, but it's a great time to enjoy holiday events, light displays, and the city's rich indoor attractions like museums and live music venues.
Memphis at Night
Hiking in Memphis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the largest urban parks in the country, offering extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding among scenic lakes and woodlands.
A beautiful state park located just north of Memphis, featuring hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and along the Mississippi River.
Located southeast of Memphis, this park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the natural landscape.
A scenic trail that runs along the Wolf River, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
A lesser-known gem with hiking trails, picnic spots, and fishing opportunities along the Mississippi River.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Memphis through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Memphis by plane.
Located in Memphis, Tennessee, this is the primary airport serving the Memphis area.
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, approximately 210 miles east of Memphis, this airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Located in Little Rock, Arkansas, about 135 miles west of Memphis, this airport offers various domestic flights.
Located in Highfill, Arkansas, around 250 miles northwest of Memphis, this airport serves the northwest Arkansas region.
Located in Birmingham, Alabama, approximately 230 miles south of Memphis, this airport provides access to both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 64% of the population in Memphis, primarily concentrated in the southern and eastern parts of the city.
Approximately 28.7% of the population, with a significant presence in the northern and suburban areas.
Representing about 7% of the population, with growing communities in various neighborhoods.
Around 1.6% of the population, with diverse groups including Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese communities.
Including Native American, Pacific Islander, and multiracial individuals, making up the remaining percentage of the population.
The Soul of Memphis
Discover the essence of Memphis through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Memphis is home to the Memphis Grizzlies, a professional basketball team in the NBA. The sport is extremely popular in the city, and the Grizzlies have a passionate fan base.
American football enjoys a significant following in Memphis, particularly college football. The University of Memphis Tigers football team draws considerable local support.
Minor league baseball is also popular in Memphis, with the Memphis Redbirds serving as the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, attracting many fans to their games.
Soccer is growing in popularity in the Memphis area, with a local team, Memphis 901 FC, competing in the USL Championship, and events like youth soccer leagues are common.
Memphis has a rich history in auto racing, particularly with the Memphis International Raceway which hosts various motorsports events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Memphis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Numerous eateries in Memphis offer delectable vegetarian dishes, with options ranging from plant-based BBQ to creative salads and flavorful veggie burgers.
Vegans will find an array of options in Memphis, from soulful vegan comfort food to innovative plant-based cuisine, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
Local restaurants and cafes in Memphis provide gluten-free choices, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to savor Southern flavors without any dietary compromises.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Memphis with these cultural adventures.
