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Put on your blue suede shoes and drop on in. Whether it is the strains of the Blues calling to your ears, the smell of old fashioned Southern barbecue calling to your nose, or the myriad sights that catch your eye, there is something unique about the city of Memphis. Visitors are welcomed to this heritage-rich city located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River with typical Southern hospitality. If you stay for a week or two, you may never want to go home.
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Memphis City Guide
Long known as “the birthplace of rock n’ roll,” Memphis, Tennessee is a favorite vacation destination for many travelers. Memphis exudes a relaxed, laid-back attitude.
Located in the southeast corner of Tennessee, Memphis entices visitors with its eclectic mix of Elvis sites, blues clubs, barbecue joints, museums and more. Memphis is the type of city you experience, rather than visit.
Whether you’re a fan of the King or not, Graceland Mansion is exciting to visit. Explore the Jungle Room, the Trophy Building, the Meditation Garden, Elvis' private jets, the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, and Sincerely Elvis exhibit. Visit Sun Studio, the most famous recording studio in the world, and see where it all began. Guided tours explain the history of rock 'n' roll and the story behind this studio, which launched the careers of Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and many others.
The National Civil Rights Museum, housed in the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, tells the story of the civil and human rights struggles and victories. Take an afternoon stroll through the Japanese, Sensory, Rose, Herb and Wildflower Gardens at the beautiful Memphis Botanic Garden features 22 gardens on 96 acres.
You just can’t visit Memphis without enjoying some mouth-watering barbecue. Barbecue joints are around every corner, but if you’re downtown, check out Rendezvous, Charlie Vergos’ located in an 1890 building. The menu features mouth watering dry-style barbecued ribs as well as shoulder sandwiches, pork loin, chicken, shrimp and more.
A vacation in Memphis means good food, good music and plenty of southern hospitality. With so many attractions and restaurants, your biggest problem will be deciding where to begin and end. Let us help you plan your next adventure in Memphis.
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Graceland
3734 Elvis Presley Blvd.
Memphis, TN 38116
901-332-3322; 800-238-2000
Whether you’re a fan of the King or not, Graceland Mansion is exciting to visit. Elvis Presley’s daughter, Lisa Marie, narrates the digital audio-guided tour of the home. The Jungle Room and the Trophy Building are the most entertaining parts of the tour for most visitors. Other Graceland attractions include the Meditation Garden, Elvis' private jets, the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum and Sincerely Elvis exhibit.
Sun Studio
706 Union Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
901-521-0664 or 800-441-6249
Visit Sun Studio, the most famous recording studio in the world, and see where it all began. Guided tours explain the history of rock 'n' roll and the story behind this studio, which launched the careers of Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and many others. Hear outtakes from sessions, and view a variety of exhibits, including Elvis' first microphone.
Memphis Pink Palace Museum
3050 Central Ave.
Memphis, TN 38111
901-320-6320
This eclectic museum features an IMAX theater, a planetarium and exhibits such as a hand-carved miniature circus and a replica of the first Piggly Wiggly grocery store, history, education, science and technology all under one roof.
Memphis Riverboats
45 Riverside Drive
Memphis, TN 38103
901-527-BOAT
Climb aboard a riverboat and take a ride down the Mississippi River and see Memphis from a different perspective when you choose from a variety of options, including sightseeing cruises, evening music cruises, and day cruises to Helena and more.
Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
191 Beale Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-205-2533
Explore the birth of rock n’ roll music and the musicians that brought it to life, such as Elvis, Otis Redding, Johnny Cash, Isaac Hayes, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, Al Green and many more.
Memphis Botanic Garden
750 Cherry Road
Memphis, TN 38117
901-576-4100
Relax and take an afternoon stroll through the Japanese, Sensory, Rose, Herb and Wildflower Gardens or one of the other featured gardens on this gorgeous 96 acres boasting native flowers and monthly wine tasting.
Cooper-Young Entertainment District
South Cooper Street at Young Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
901-276-7222
The Cooper Young Entertainment District is located in historic Midtown and features unique art galleries and gift shops. Take a break at one of the coffee houses or eateries onsite.
Overton Square Entertainment District
2157 Madison Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104
901-273-0014
This eventful multi-block complex features a variety of retailers, several live theater and entertainment venues and restaurants such as the first TGI Friday's franchise and Boscos, Tennessee's original brewpub.
Alex Haley House Museum
200 S. Church St.
Henning, TN 38041
731-738-2240
Alex Haley’s famous book "Roots" told the world about the lives of slaves from pre-Civil War to freedom. The Alex Haley House Museum is located in Haley's childhood home and features exhibits about his life and work as a writer. The Haley family burial site is located nearby.
Center For Southern Folklore and Cafe
119 S. Main St.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-525-3655
The Center for Southern Folklore is sure to capture your imagination with exhibits depicting the culture of the south through photos, film and documentation at this combination museum, nightclub and coffee house.
Slave Haven/Burkle Estates
826 N 2nd St.
Memphis, TN 38107
901-527-3427
Trap doors, secret cellars, startling ads, auctions and artifacts all help bring to the life the history of this former stopping place for run away slaves on their journey through the Underground Railroad.
National Civil Rights Museum
450 Mulberry Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-521-9699
Located at the Lorraine Motel, place of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this interactive museum features the human rights struggle and victories that made our Nation the place it is today.
Peabody Place Museum
119 S Main St.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-523-ARTS
The Peabody Place Museum features rare Chinese art from the personal collection of Jack and Marilyn Belz. Displays include Russian lacquer boxes, Italian mosaics, minerals, gemstones and fossils. Many items originated in the Orient and Europe and the Manchu Dynasty is showcased through detailed ivory carvings, elegant cloisonné, an imperial robe and other artifacts.
Art Museum of the University of Memphis
3750 Norriswood St.
Memphis, TN 38152
901-678-2224
Take a self-guided tour through Egyptian art that is exhibited here and the collection of splendid West African artifacts and contemporary art.
Chucalissa Museum
1987 Indian Village Dr.
Memphis, TN 38109
901-785-3160
In Choctaw chucalissa means “abandoned house” – this museum depicts the life and culture of Native American Indians through the intriguing reconstructed village, artifacts, exhibits and displays.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens
4339 Park Ave.
Memphis, TN 38117
901-761-5250
Stroll through the exquisite gardens on site or browse the Impressionist collection that includes Degas, Monet, and Pisarro.
Gibson Beale Street Showcase
145 Lt. George W. Lee Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-543-0800
See how the talented craftspeople hand-shape a block of wood into an extraordinary musical instrument and see the latest in guitar technology.
Lauderdale Courts
252 N. Lauderdale
Memphis, TN 38105
901-521-8219
Home of Elvis Presley from 1949-1953 restored in the late 40’s early 50’s and you can take a tour or even stay the night.
Southland Park Gaming and Racing
1550 N. Ingram Blvd.
West Memphis, AR 72301
800-467-6182
Place your bets on live and simulcast greyhound and thoroughbred racing. Open year round, 7 days a week.
Soulsville: Stax Museum of American Soul Music
926 E. McLemore
Memphis, TN 38106
901-942-7685
This is where it all happened in the 60’s and 70’s when soul music was made famous by Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, Isaac Hayes, and more!
Davies Manor Plantation
9336 Davies Plantation Road
Memphis, TN 38133
901-386-0715
On the National Register of Historic Places this is the oldest log and chink home in Shelby County.
Jack Daniels Distillery
Highway 55
Lynchburg, TN 37352
931-759-6180
Drink in the information on the fine art of making whiskey at the Nation’s oldest registered distillery.
Children’s Museum of Memphis
2525 Central Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104
901-458-2678
“Children play to learn. Adults learn to play again.” The slogan of this museum says it all as adults and children explore the hands-on, interactive exhibits that allow families to enjoy the wonderful world of math, science, health and art.
Fire Museum of Memphis
118 Adams Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-320-5650
Fascinated by fire or want to learn about fires safety? With several rooms full of intriguing exhibits, animated “talking” horse, interactive games, artifacts, stories and photos you can set your mind ablaze with the wealth of information located here.
Golf and Games Family Parks
5484 Summer Ave.
Memphis, TN 38134
901-386-2992
If you are looking for an adventure look no further as the young and young at heart let loose at this 40-acre park featuring a golf driving range, putt-putt, go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats, kiddie rides and game room.
Laser Quest
3417 Plaza Drive
Memphis, TN 38111
901-324-4800
Lots of fun and excitement with this combo of hide-n-seek and tag in this live action laser tag establishment.
Main Street Trolley
547 N. Main Street
Memphis, TN 38105
901-274-6282
Hop aboard one of the antique trolleys that stop at several of the downtown attractions including The Pyramid, Beale Street, National Civil Rights Museum, and more.
Memphis Motorsports Park
5500 Victory Lane
Millington, TN 38053
901-358-7223
Visitors, start your engines at this multi-track auto racing facility, home to the NASCAR Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series, NHRA championship drag strip, and a dirt track. Open year round with 220 race days.
Lichterman Nature Center
5992 Quince Road
Memphis, TN 38119
901-767-7322
Wonder on meandering trails and boardwalks, visit the Nature Store or browse the greenhouse as you absorb the beauty of the natural setting around you.
National Civil Rights Museum
450 Mulberry Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-521-9699
Located at the Lorraine Motel, place of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this interactive museum features the human rights struggle and victories that made our Nation the place it is today.
Mud Island River Park
125 N. Front Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-576-7241
Rent a canoe, kayak or pedal boat and explore the Mississippi first hand or take the tame way around and explore the Mississippi River Museum and Riverwalk model.
Ride The Ducks of Memphis
26 S. Second Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-521-DUCK
Explore Memphis by land and water – in the same vehicle! Learn the history, experience the humor, and have fun with the whole family!
Memphis Zoo
2000 Prentiss Place
Memphis, TN 38112
901-276-WILD (9453)
Home to more than 3,000 animals this fantastic zoo features awesome exhibits including Cat Country, Primate Canyon, Animals of the Night, Once Upon a Farm, Dragon's Lair, Tropical Bird House, Herpetarium, Aquarium and more.
Duck March at the Peabody Hotel
149 Union Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-529-4000
The Duck March at The Peabody Hotel will tickle all ages. For more than 75 years, the Peabody Ducks have been escorted daily from the Royal Duck Palace on the hotel's roof to an elevator especially reserved for them. This event is filled with pomp and circumstance as the five Mallards, one drake and four hens emerge from their elevator to the music of John Philip Sousa's King Cotton March. Strutting along the red carpet laid out just for them, they make their way to the fountain, where they stay until 5 pm, when they ceremoniously return to their penthouse palace.
January
Elvis Birthday Week
800-238-2000
Celebrate the birth of the ”King” at this annual birthday celebration and surrounding events.
February
Beale Street Zydeco Festival
901-529-0999
Get your beads ready and head to the Beale Street Zydeco Festival and celebrate Mardi Gras Memphis style.
International Blues Challenge
901-527-2583
You don’t have to have the blues to love the music. Includes International Blues Challenge and Keeping the Blues Alive Awards.
March
Annual International Film Festival
901-626-9685
A film feast with 58 films from 13 countries, more than 40 filmmakers, and cast and crew present, as shorts, documentaries, animated and feature films are presented for your viewing pleasure.
April
O’Reilly Super Chevy Show
866-40-SPEED
Take a ride to the Super Chevy Show featuring fire-breathing jet cards, nitro coupes, a car corral and a super swap meet.
Africa In April
901-947-2133
Uncover the history, traditions and culture of Liberia as we celebrate their original arts and crafts and the exceptional food.
May
Memphis in May International Festival
901-525-4611
If you are in Memphis in May you won’t miss this month long celebration featuring a magnificent music festival, fun family festival, mmmmm….a barbeque cook-off and captivating symphony productions.
Annual Blues Music Awards
901-527-2583
The W.C. Handy Awards showcases the top names in blues music and bestows the highest honor for Blues artists.
Our Big Fat Greek Festival
901-327-8177
Two days of intrigue as people learn of the influence Greece had on our nation featuring great sites, sounds and taste of the culture.
June
Memphis Italian Festival
901-685-1378
Your mouth will water as the smells of authentic Italian food waft into your senses. Fill up on the delectible treats, spark your interest in the arts and crafts, rouse your auditory senses with live music, and get giddy with the games.
Juneteenth Freedom Festival
901-385-4943
It’s always a great day to celebrate our freedoms and it’s even better when we can do so with live blues, gospel, hip-hop and jazz music; a crazy carnival, golf tournament and appealing vendor booths.
July
Beale Street 4th of July – Red, White, and Blue Celebration
901-529-0999
On the Mississippi River the gorgeous fireworks and city light will delight the whole family as they reflect on this body of water during this bold 4th of July celebration.
August
Elvis Tribute Week
800-238-2000
Elvis paved the way in the rock n’ roll world and fans from all around celebrate his contributions in a week-long city wide celebration complete with a Candlelight Vigil.
Southeastern Indian Heritage Festival
901-785-3160
Rich in Native American culture and traditions this festival features ethnic dance, music, crafts and stickball.
September
Memphis Music & Heritage Festival
(901) 525-3655
A trip to Memphis wouldn’t be complete without exploring their culture and traditions and it can be done at this festival featuring live music, arts and foods from the Memphis Region.
Cooper-Young Festival
(901) 276-7222
Pick a stage any stage because there are three to choose from featuring ongoing live music and 250 fantastic artist booths.
Mid-South Fair
901-274-8800
Hold onto your hats because here is never a lack to do at this fair with more than 50 spine-tingling rides, scrumptious food vendors, hundreds of interesting exhibits, free concerts, a live stock show and a raging rodeo.
October
Pink Palace Crafts Fair
901-320-6408
Crafts, crafts and more crafts with more than 200 booths you can relish in the pleasing pottery, fabulous furniture, unique clothing and dazzling jewelry.
Native American Days
901-785-3160
Take a journey into the past as you study the culture and traditions of Native Americans.
November
W.C. Handy Birthday Celebration
901-527-3427
Memphis goes all out for birthdays and this is no exception featuring a delightful parade and many other exciting activities.
W.C. Handy Heritage Awards
901-527-3427
The musicians of Beale Street are recognized and awarded for their contributions and authentic tunes.
December
Christmas at Graceland
800-238-2000
The King of rock n’ roll loved the holidays and threw out all the stops and that tradition is kept alive today with fabulous twinkling lights and authentic holiday decorations
Population:
650,100
Time Zone:
Central
Climate:
Summertime temperatures soar into the 90s, coupled with high humidity, so be prepared to seek respite in air-conditioned buildings. Although winter temperatures are mild, it does get cold enough to snow occasionally, but the white stuff doesn’t last long. Early spring brings the most rainfall, and daytime temps begin to warm up.
Airport:
Memphis International Airport (MEM)
2491 Winchester Road
Memphis, TN 38116
(901) 922-8000
Rail:
Amtrak
800-USA-RAIL
Getting Around Memphis:
Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA)
City Bus and Trolley
901-577-2640
Taxis:
City Wide Cab Company
901-722-8294
Yellow Cab Co.
901-577-7777
Metro Cab Company
901-323-3333
Renegade Transportation Services
901-398-2266
Visitor Information:
Memphis Visitors Center
3205 Elvis Presley Boulevard
Memphis, TN 38116
888-633-9099
Memphis/Shelby County Visitor Center
12036 Arlington Trail
Arlington, TN 38002
901-543-5333
Tennessee State Welcome Center
119 N. Riverside Drive
Memphis, TN 38103
901-543-5333
Dining:
Rendezvous, Charlie Vergos’
52 S 2nd St.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-523-2746
Barbecue joints are around every corner, but if you’re downtown, check out Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, located in an 1890 building. The menu features World Famous Ribs as well as shoulder sandwiches, pork loin, chicken, shrimp and more.
Alfred’s on Beale
197 Beale St.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-525-3711
Alfred’s on Beale offers plenty of southern comfort food, including burgers, pork chops, pasta, corn-fed catfish, and the best barbecued ribs.
Corky’s Barbecue
5259 Popular Avenue
Memphis, TN 38119
901-685-9744
Some of the best BBQ in Memphis cooked the old fashioned southern way – choice meats in open and closed pits with hickory chips and charcoal cooked at low temperatures! Pork shoulders are cooked for 22 hours and ribs for more than 7 hours!
Paulette’s
2110 Madison Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104
901-726-5128
Known for its European slant and continental dishes this upscale restaurant is also a great place to stop after visiting the theatre. Choose from many dessert and coffee selections.
Frank Grisanti’s Italian Restaurant
1022 Shady Grove Road
Memphis, TN 38120
901-761-9462
This 90-year-old family owed eatery boast an award winning cuisine.
Hard Rock Café
315 Beale Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-529-0007
Tasty all American treats are what you will find at the Hard Rock Café.
Nightlife:
Rum Boogie Café
182 Beale Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-528-0150
Eat, drink, dance, and party till the wee hours in the morning with live blues music every night of the week.
Zinnie’s
1688 Madison
Memphis, TN 38104
901-726-5004
Play pool, toss darts, catch a game on the TV, and if you get hungry you can even partake in some great bar food! Patio area gets hopping in the warmer months!
B.B. King’s Blues Club
143 Beale Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-524-5464
One of the most famous nightspots in Memphis! Live blues nightly, good food, cold beer, and loads of fun!
Hi-Tone Café
1913 Poplar Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
901-278-8663
Upbeat bar considered to be a rowdy Overton Park nightclub! Featuring live music – mostly rock – but always a party band belting out tunes for you to drink a lot and dance to!
Earnestine and Hazel’s
84 East Calhoun
Memphis, TN 38103
901-523-9754
The jukebox gets the party started with jazz and blues. If you find yourself craving a burger this one is rumored to be the best in Memphis.
Wet Willie’s
209 Beale Street
Memphis, TN 38103
901-578-5650
Get dizzy as a variety of frozen daiquiris mixing slushie machines on the wall spin. This bar tends to be crowded filled with great music and people.