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Memphis translates to Established and Beautiful. And that's exactly what it is. Nestled on the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee, Memphis is known as both the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll. And music is still at the heart of the city. Beale Street, one of the most famous streets in America, is three busy downtown blocks where travelers can hear live blues, jazz, rock, R&B, and gospel decorating the streets.
Pair Memphis’ history of legendary live music with some of the best barbeque in the country, classy hotels, fun outdoor adventures, and inspiring museums, and lucky visitors will experience fun from morning to night. Here is the ultimate travel guide to Memphis, Tennessee.
Best Time To Go to Memphis
Spring (April and May). This is one of the best times to go to Memphis. The weather isn't too hot or cold, and tourists will likely get a dry and sunny climate. The month-long Memphis in May Festival officially kicks off summer and treats attendees to an average temperature ranging between the 60s and 70s.
Summer (June through September). HOT and muggy. Temperatures hover in the 90s during the summer months. Water activities, cold drinks, alfresco patios, rooftop bars, and air conditioning offer a respite from the sun. The hottest month is July, with highs of 91º and lows of 74º.
Fall (October and November). This is a great time to travel with kids. Lots of outdoor activities are available, and the summer crowds have lessened. The summer heat has cooled down, but it's not quite as cold as winter. Layering is advised.
Winter (December through March). Winter can be chilly, with lows reaching the 30s and highs climbing to the 50s. The coldest month of the year is almost always January. These months also see the most rainfall, so make sure to pack an umbrella.
Best Ways To Get Around Memphis
The easiest way to get around Memphis is by car. The city's attractions are spread out, so they're not necessarily easily accessible by foot. And parking is easy. Travelers arriving by plane can rent a car at the airport, but there are also several spots downtown to rent a car. Another good option is to reserve a Zipcar.
If travelers don’t fancy driving, the Memphis Area Transit Authority can get them anywhere in the city via bus. But it may be more fun to take the trolley. The vintage trolley cars drop passengers off at many popular spots, including Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Trolley Cost: A one-way ticket is only $1, and $3.50 for an all-day pass. 3-day passes are available for $9.
Alternatively, the Memphis Hop is a Hop-on Hop-off bus that stops at many big tourist spots and picks up from various downtown hotels.
- Cost: $22 for Adults, $17 for children.
The FREE Sun Studio Shuttle runs seven days per week and nearly every hour. It travels between Graceland, Memphis Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Sun Studio. Seats are first-come, first-serve.
Bikes are also available to rent for the hour, the day, or the week. To rent one, buy a membership at a docking station kiosk or online, take the bike, and then simply return it at one of the 60 docking stations around the city.
Taxis are prevalent on Beale Street but may be harder to get outside the hustle and bustle of downtown. Plan ahead and order an Uber or a Lyft.
Where To Eat In Memphis
Memphis is known for its barbeque—it's home to more than 100 barbeque spots! But while they have some of the best barbeque restaurants in America, that’s not all they have to offer.
From soul food to twists on southern classics, fine dining, and vegan eateries, a wide variety of award-winning restaurants will welcome visitors with friendly Southern hospitality.
Breakfast
Brother Junipers
The friendly atmosphere at Brother Junipers is as warm as their freshly baked bread. This award-winning restaurant is perfect for indulging in pastries and freshly ground coffee. Popular entrées include the San Diegan Open Face Omelet and Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.
- Address: 3519 Walker Avenue, Memphis
- Opening Hours: Tuesday through Friday – 6:30 AM to 1 PM; Saturday – 7 AM to 12:30 PM; Sunday – 8 AM to 1 PM. Monday – Closed.
Lunch
Central BBQ
Possibly the best barbeque spot in Memphis, this is where the locals eat. Central BBQ is famous for its BBQ nachos, smoked pulled pork, ribs, and hot wings. The restaurant's popularity helped this casual hot spot grow to four locations within the Memphis city limits.
- Address: Downtown - 147 E Butler, Memphis; Midtown – 2249 Central Avenue, Memphis; Summer – 4375 Summer Avenue, Memphis; Poplar – 6201 Poplar Avenue, Memphis
- Opening Hours: Open Daily. Downtown, Summer & Poplar – 11 AM – 9 PM; Midtown Food Truck – 11 AM – Sunset.
Dinner
Restaurant Iris
Kelly English is a Memphis chef with an appreciation for southern cooking and a New Orleans background, which offers customers a Memphis take on classic Creole dining. Restaurant Iris is a great spot for a special occasion. Try the Grilled Kvaroy Salmon and the Speckled Trout!
- Address: 4550 Poplar Avenue, Memphis
- Opening Hours: Open daily for lunch (11 AM – 2 PM) and dinner (5 PM – 8:30 PM)
Drinks
Earnestine & Hazel’s
Everyone should make a trip to Earnestine & Hazel's at least once. One of America's most popular dive bars, it represents the soul of Memphis through the jazz and blues that flow through the streets.
Rumor has it Earnestine & Hazel’s hosted legends like B.B. King, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Sam Cook, and Chuck Berry. Try the Soul Burger and get a closer look at the Jukebox. Some say it’s haunted!
- Address: 531 South Main Street, Memphis
Where To Stay In Memphis
Memphis boasts plenty of accommodations, with more planning to pop onto the map this year. Whether travelers are looking for a classy upscale hotel, affordable accommodation, or a low-budget option, there’s something for everyone.
Luxury
The Peabody
Built in 1969, this legendary hotel, known as the "South's Grand Hotel," became world-famous for its resident Mallard ducks who march through the hotel’s Grand Lobby every day between 11 AM and 5 PM. A stay at The Peabody is a treat for any traveler.
- Address: 149 Union Avenue, Memphis
- Amenities: The hotel claims to have every modern luxury imaginable and exceptional guest services. Some examples include 42” flat screen TVS; On Demand movies; music and internet services; free calls to local, long distance and 800 numbers; access to athletic club and pool; unlimited coffee and tea in Peabody Deli & Desserts; daily bottled water.
Mid-range
Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street
The Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street is located downtown at the heart of Beale Street, two blocks from the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and FedEx Forum (home to the Memphis Grizzlies), and less than a mile from the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Address: 175 Peabody Place, Memphis
- Amenities: complimentary hot breakfast; free Wi-Fi; indoor pool; fitness center.
Budget
Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown
Located in historic downtown Memphis near the trolley line, the Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown overlooks the Mississippi River.
- Address: 100 N. Front Street, Memphis
- Cost:
- Amenities: Seasonal rooftop pool and deck; complimentary hot breakfast; flat-screen cable TV; fitness center; free Wi-Fi.
Top Things To Do in Memphis
With so many attractions packed into this beautiful city, travelers are never left wondering what to do. Here are a few of the best things to do in Memphis. Add them to the itinerary!
Beale Street
One of America’s most iconic streets and the official home of the blues is the perfect spot to eat, drink and shop. In one day, travelers can take a meal break for delicious barbeque food, search vintage shops and music memorabilia stores, and dance the night away in one of the many nightclubs or live music venues.
Be prepared to pay $5 on select Friday, Saturday and holiday nights after 9 PM. The Beale Street Security Fee helps to reduce crowd sizes and create the best possible experience for visitors.
Graceland
Over one million people visit Elvis' beautiful Memphis mansion every year. Graceland is open for guided and self-guided tours. Visitors can step aboard Elvis’ customized airplanes, check out the Jungle Room and see the home decor and memorabilia from when Elvis graced the abode.
And after working up an appetite, head onsite to Vernon's Smokehouse or Glady's Diner to try some of Elvis's southern favorite dishes and then buy a souvenir at the largest Elvis merchandise store in the world.
For tourists looking for even more Elvis time, check out these places in Memphis that every Elvis fan needs to see.
- Address: 3734 Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis
- Cost: Prices range from $28 to $215.
Elvis Fans—check out everything to know before visiting Graceland.
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Another must-do for music lovers, Stax Records is one of the most popular soul music record labels of all time. Home to Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Johnnie Taylor, and more, the label is critical to American music history.
With various exhibits, visitors to Stax Museum of American Soul Music can check out period recording equipment, visit the hall of records, witness Isaac Hayes’ Cadillac Eldorado, and then let loose on the Express Yourself dance floor.
- Address: 926 E. McLemore Ave, Memphis
- Hours: Tuesday through Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
- Cost: $13 for Adults, $10 for Children
Go outside and Play
Go on a bike ride! Memphis has over 60 miles of bike trails and lanes. Or explore the 4,500 acres of Shelby Farms Park. With GoApe Adventures, tourists can zipline through trees and over lakes, visit the Woodland Discovery Playground, play frisbee golf, or ride horses.
If the weather is really hot and a cool-off is required, try the stand-up paddleboard on Hyde Lake or rent a kayak. Shelby Farms Park is open 365 days per year from sunrise to sunset.
Go to the Zoo
Say hello to the lions, tigers, and pandas at one of the top zoos in the country! The Memphis Zoo is spread over 70 acres. That's a lot of space to explore its 3,500 animals.
- Address: 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis
- Hours: Spring - 9 AM to 6 PM; Winter - 9 AM to 5 PM
- Cost: From $21 for Adults and Children aged 12-21; From $16 for Children aged 2-11.
The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Hotel
When in Memphis, touring the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Hotel should not be missed! With 260 artifacts (more than 40 films, interactive media, and oral histories), visitors are guided through five centuries, starting at the beginning of the resistance during slavery and ending at the important events of the late 20th century that motivated citizens around the world to set up for equality.
- Address: 450 Mulberry Street, Memphis
- Hours: Monday & Wednesday through Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM; Tuesday - Closed
- Cost: $18 for Adults, $15 for Children; Free for 4 & Under
Timed tickets are sold online only, and there are no refunds.
Popular Neighborhoods In Memphis
No matter where tourists are in Memphis, they’ll find great food, lively entertainment, and unique shops. Here’s a breakdown by neighborhood.
Downtown offers lots of attractions (like the National Civil Rights Museum), the beautiful waterfront, live music, some of the city’s best eateries, and plenty of events in the Beale Street Entertainment District and the South Mains Art District. As tourists wander downtown, keep an eye out for civil rights statues at national landmarks, galleries, and museums.
Midtown also offers live music, entertainment, art, and cuisine in Crosstown Concourse Overton Square Entertainment District, the Broad Avenue Arts District, and the trendy Cooper-Young Historic District. And it’s also home to the Memphis Zoo.
South Memphis is where tourists will find the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Graceland, authentic barbeque, and soul food hot spots.
East Memphis is the garden district. Big homes, gardens, and cute small businesses are all contained within the area’s natural beauty. Here, travelers can find Shelby Farms Park, antique stores, a traditional mall, and visionary chefs offering delicious cuisine.
Tips To Know When Traveling To Memphis
Be safe. Memphis has a high crime rate compared to other U.S. cities, and Beale Street often has a heavy police presence. Common travel sense applies here. Don’t walk alone late at night, don’t leave valuables in the car, and don’t flash money around.
Need help? Just ask a local. Memphis offers southern hospitality at its finest.
Dress code? Whatever travelers want! In this laid-back city, anything goes. From formal wear to sweatpants and an Elvis shirt, nobody will bat an eye.
How To Spend The Perfect Day In Memphis
For tourists looking to make the most out of one day in Memphis, attention should be focused on Downtown and Midtown. These areas are more densely packed, so visitors will get the most out of their visit.
Why not start the day by learning something new? Visit one of Memphis' many museums, like the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, before taking a break for lunch nearby. After eating, keep the educational journey going at the National Civil Rights Museum, or opt for an afternoon of shopping on South Main Street. If the weather’s nice, try some outdoor adventures. It’s always a good idea to kayak!
And when the sun starts to set, head over to Beale Street. Listen to the music spilling through doorways. Put dancing shoes on and party into the night! Or simply grab a drink, stroll down the street, and soak it all in.
FAQ
Q: What is Memphis known for?
Around the world, Memphis is known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll. But the city also has a strong history in jazz, gospel, rap, R&B, and soul music. Today's music-loving tourists will love Graceland and other Elvis highlights, Sun City, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and of course, the infamous Beale Street.
Q: Why is Memphis a tourist attraction?
A wonderful tourist destination, visitors from all over the country come to Memphis every year to visit Graceland, Beale Street, museums, art galleries, parks, and sporting events. Memphis also has a wide variety of outdoor adventure options and wonderful dining experiences.
Q: Is it worth going to Memphis?
Absolutely! It's one of the greatest music cities in the country. And with legendary barbeque spots, the magic of Beale Street, independent shops, museums, and a rich history, Memphis is full of adventures travelers don't want to miss!