What are the Best Things to Do in Memphis, TN?

Memphis, TN is a bustling city on the Mississippi River situated at the edge of Tennessee. Home to Graceland, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Sun Studio, as well as many other attractions, Memphis is a great place to explore. Whether you’re looking for some family-friendly fun or an adult entertainment hotspot, these are some of the best things to do in Memphis, TN.

Exploring Elvis Presley’s Home, Graceland

If you’re a fan of rock ‘n’ roll, you won’t want to pass up the chance to explore Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland. Graceland is one of the most visited private homes in the country, drawing almost 500,000 visitors a year. While touring the estate, visitors will find the Graceland Mansion, home to King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s elaborate décor and artwork. Visitors can also explore “Elvis Presley’s Memphis,” where they can visit Elvis’ two customized airplanes, Automobile Museum, and even hunt for memorabilia in the Trophy Building.

Enjoy Some Live Music at Beale Street

To really immerse yourself in the essence of Memphis culture, be sure to visit Beale Street. The street is known as the Birthplace of Blues and is lined with night clubs, restaurants and shops. The street is also home to some of the best live music in town – enjoy some juke joint blues, swinging soul, and rocking gospel all right in the heart of Memphis.

At Beale Street, you’ll also encounter street performers, live bands, unmissable restaurants and even more signs of Memphis culture. The street has become a mecca for music lovers from all over the world – if you only have time for one stop in Memphis, make it Beale Street!

Experience the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel

Memphis is home to the National Civil Rights Museum at the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination. Located at the Lorraine Motel, this complex was once an epicenter in the battle for equal rights for all Americans. Today, it serves as a reminder of a not-too-distant past and pays tribute to those who marched and fought for civil rights during the movement.

The museum allows visitors to travel through time in civil rights history with interactive exhibitions that highlight key moments in that struggle. Tourists can explore stories of struggle and strife as well as integration overall depicted in this comprehensive tour through historic artifacts.

Ride a Duck Tour

Duck tours are a great way to experience Memphis. These amphibious tours travel down city streets – and then right into the flowing waters of the mighty Mississippi! See some of Memphis’ most famous landmarks and get some interesting local history as well as your tour cruises by sites like Tom Lee Park and the river levees. The fun doesn’t stop there though – enter the river for a Louisiana-style boat themed expedition complete with music and quacking calls from the guide! If you’re looking for a unique experience in Memphis, duck tours are sure to please.

Experience Gastronomic Delights Along Overton Square

Tucked away from Main Street is Overton Square – buzzing with life, tourists, locals and eateries of every kind. Whether you’re looking for some old-fashioned Southern-style cooking or want to try out delicious international foods, Overton Square has something to offer everyone! Stop by one of the square’s many eateries including Copper Rhythm Kitchen, Bryant’s Barbeque or Kooky Canuck – with delicious options like these you won’t have any trouble finding something you’ll love!

No matter where your tastes lie, Memphis is sure to bring something new and exciting to every traveler. With attractions spanning music history, civil rights importance and even TV fame (the fictional Bluth Banana Stand was based on Overton Square!), there is certainly something here for everyone. Now that you know of all of these great things to do in Memphis, TN we hope that you are ready to pack your bags and experience Memphis first-hand!

If you’re looking for more information about traveling to Memphis and even a guide for things to see and do about Memphis make sure to check out travelmemphis.com. There you will find maps, detailed guides about attractions such as Beale Street and Graceland, tips for where to eat and drink and even hotel recommendations so you can find somewhere comfortable to stay on your Memphis adventure! We hope this guide helps you on your journey to finding out all the best things to do in Memphis TN!