All You Need to Know About Visiting Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is an enchanting city in western Tennessee that draws in visitors from all over the world. As the birthplace of blues, rock “n roll, and soul music, Memphis is an iconic city for music lovers. With a rich cultural history, delicious local cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, there’s plenty to see and do in Memphis. This guide will provide you with all you need to know before visiting this sweltering Southern city.

Getting Around in Memphis

The Memphis Metropolitan Area has a population of over 1.3m people, making it the second-largest city in Tennessee. It’s spread across three counties—Shelby, Tipton, and Fayette—so it’s important to know how to get around the city.

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) operates public transportation in the Memphis area. There are bus, shuttle, and trolley services available all over Memphis, as well as an on-demand transport service for seniors and people with disabilities.

Those travelling around the city on foot or by bike will find that the Memphis Greenprint offers several multi-use paths, bike lanes, and sidewalks that make it easy to navigate around the city without a car.

Of course, being able to drive around the city yourself is another great option. If you plan on renting a car during your stay in Memphis, you should make sure you’re aware of the local driving laws.

Where to Stay in Memphis

There are lots of great places to stay in Memphis, from budget-friendly hostels to chic urban hotels. Here are some of the best options depending on your budget and needs:

Budget:

• Memphis Hostel – An affordable youth hostel with dorm-style rooms and private rooms with private bathrooms.
• Econo Inn – A budget hotel located close to the airport.

Mid-Range:

• Residence Inn by Marriott – An all-suites hotel that’s spacious yet cozy.
• Hyatt Place Downtown – A modern hotel with chic rooms that have all the amenities.

Luxury:

• The Madison Hotel – An upscale hotel located downtown with gorgeous rooms.
• The Peabody Hotel – A historic five-star hotel with luxurious suites and an old world charm.

What to Do in Memphis

From music tours to food tours, there’s a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages in Memphis. Whether you’re an art lover or an animal lover, you’ll find plenty to do in this vibrant city:

• Graceland – Pay homage to the King of Rock “n Roll with a visit to his former home turned museum.
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music – Take a tour through this museum which celebrates the legacy of soul and R&B music.
• National Civil Rights Museum – Learn about African-American history and civil rights movements at this historical museum.
• Memphis Food Tour – Allow your taste buds to do the exploring on this delicious tour through Memphis’ culinary scene.
• Memphis: 3 Local Breweries Bus Tour with Tastings – Explore three of Memphis’ top breweries on a guided bus tour with tastings along the way! Learn about local brewing culture and sample some of the city’s best beers.

Where to Eat & Drink in Memphis

In Memphis, you’ll find lots of tasty restaurants featuring local specialities like BBQ, Mississippi Delta cuisine and soul food. Here are some of our favourites:

• Central BBQ

– Enjoy perfectly smoked BBQ ribs, chicken and pulled pork alongside classic side dishes like baked beans, coleslaw and stuffed potatoes at this tried and true institution

• Corky’s BBQ & Ribs – This famous BBQ joint’s menu features delicious pork ribs, chicken, catfish and more.
• McGrills BBQ Restaurant – Savour Southern staples like smoky brisket, tender pork ribs and Memphis-style hot wings at this tasty diner.

If you’re looking for a faster take on local cuisine, head to one of the city’s famous Soul Burgers stands where you can sample juicy burgers made with a unique blend of spices and seasonings like chili powder, garlic powder and cumin.^[1]. Don’t forget to try some classic Memphis dishes like cornish hen and Delta hot tamales too.^[2].

When it comes to nightlife in Beale Street has everything from quiet pubs to lively clubs for music fans.^{[3] For a drinks out there Headquarter sports bar is popular amongst locals whilst Blues City Café live music venue attracts music fans from all round.[4]. You can also soak up some of Memphis’ amazing music scene while taking a tour of the Sun Studio or B B Kings Museum or checking out some local musicians performing at Arnette’s Chop Shop.[5].}

Conclusion

Whether you’re visiting Memphis for its deep musical legacy or its regional delicacies, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in this vibrant city. From incredible blues bars to world famous museums and delicious BBQ restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Memphis. So why not book your trip today? And don’t forget to check out the Memphis: 3 Local Breweries Bus Tour with Tastings, a wonderful way to explore some of Memphis’ finest brewing culture!

References:

• [1]:https://www.bonappetit.com/story/the-realest-soul-burgers
• [2]: https://www.thrillist.com/eat/memphis/the-best-foods-in-memphis
• [3]: https://www.timeout.com/memphis/bars/best bars in beale street memphis
• [4]: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/tennessee/best places for live music in memphis tn
• [5]: https://gotripmemphis.com/what to do music in memphis

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