What is Memphis Famous For?

Memphis, Tennessee, is world-renowned for many great things. From a thriving culinary and music scene to massive parks, incredible attractions, and much more, this city has something for everyone. Here is a quick look at what Memphis is famous for.

The Music Scene

If there is one thing Memphis is really famous for, it’s the music scene. It’s the birthplace of Rock N Roll and home to greats like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, and it continues to churn out great sounds today. A visit to a “juke joint”, such as the Gold Strike Casino, lets you experience live music that gets you up and dancing. You can also make a trip to Beale Street, the epicenter of blues culture that has been immortalized in multiple books and films.

The Food

Memphis is home to arguably the best barbeque the United States has to offer. From dry rubbed ribs to pulled pork to tender brisket, there is something here for everyone. These dishes pair perfectly with the traditional sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and hush puppies. Besides barbeque there are plenty of great places to eat some southern favorites, including catfish, fried chicken, and more.

The Parks

Memphis has some of the best parks in the United States. One of the must-see venues is Shelby Farms Park – home to 4,500 acres of incredible green space, with more than 100 lakes, playgrounds and trails to explore. Other popular parks include Mud Island, Overton Park, Tom Lee Park for riverfront vibes, and Lichterman Nature Center for nature and wildlife.

The Attractions

There are many attractions in Memphis that leave visitors stunned. Perhaps the most well-known one is Graceland, an iconic property owned by Elvis Presley with a museum inside and plenty of information about Elvis’ life and legacy. But there are also other attractions worth visiting like the Pyramid Arena with its IMAX theatre, the Pink Palace Museum of Natural History, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and the National Civil Rights Museum.

Of course this list of what’s Memphis famous for is fairly short; there’s actually so much more to the city than these five categories. Whether your interests incline towards college basketball at the University of Memphis or simply exploring the rich history of the city, you can find action to thrill any traveler here in Memphis.

If you’re looking for more ways to learn about what makes Memphis so special, check out Choose901, an online resource with information about the local culture and events in Memphis.

An Insider’s Guide to Memphis: Top Local Attractions, Dining Spots, and Hidden Gems

Memphis is a city in Tennessee, often referred to as the birthplace of rock and roll. Being the largest city on the Mississippi River, Memphis has a rich history, pristine art galleries, music, and cultural scenes, all of which attract visitors from around the globe. In this article, we will take you on an insider’s tour of Memphis, from famous attractions to hidden gems, local eats, and cultural experiences.

Discover Memphis’ Top Attractions

There are plenty of exciting places to visit in Memphis that are steeped in history and culture. As a first-timer in Memphis, here are some top-rated places to give you a good taste of what the city has on offer:

1. Graceland Mansion: The king of Rock and Roll’s former home, Graceland Mansion was turned into a museum after his death. The mansion tour is the most famous attraction and features a look into Elvis Presley’s home and life.
2. National Civil Rights Museum: Formerly the Lorraine Motel where civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Civil Rights Movement and features multimedia exhibits.
3. Beale Street: Often referred to as the “Home of the Blues,” Beale Street is lined with historic venues and clubs that offer live music performances every night of the week. It’s a must-visit destination for music lovers.

Embrace the Eats

The Memphis food scene boasts famous local eats, from barbecue to soul food. Here are some dining spots you cannot miss:

1. Rendezvous: Famous for their dry-rubbed ribs, Rendezvous is located in the basement of an alleyway and has been a Memphis tradition since 1948.
2. Gus’s Fried Chicken: This family-owned restaurant serves some of the best fried chicken in America, and their daily homemade sides will have you coming back for more.
3. The Arcade: Established in 1919, The Arcade is a Memphis institution and America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. You can’t go wrong with their breakfast dishes.

Cultural Experiences

Memphis’ cultural scene is diverse and vibrant, and there are many unique experiences to be had:

1. Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Located in the same building as the original Stax Records, the museum preserves the history of soul music while featuring interactive exhibits.
2. Levitt Shell: An outdoor music venue located in Overton Park, Levitt Shell hosts free concerts in the summer, featuring both local and national musicians.
3. Ernest Withers Collection Museum and Gallery: Ernest Withers was a famous Memphis photographer whose images captured pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement. The museum features a large collection of his work.

Hidden Gems

Apart from the city’s famous attractions, there are some lesser-known places worth checking out:

1. Overton Park: A large public park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and a fabulous playground, Overton is also home to the beautiful Memphis Zoo, which houses over 3,000 animals.
2. The Metal Museum: This little-known museum features the works of metal artists and craftsmen from around the world. It’s a hidden gem that offers a surprising amount of education on metal arts.
3. The Orpheum Theatre: Located downtown, the Orpheum Theatre is a beautifully decorated theatre that hosts a variety of shows throughout the year.

Memphis is a vibrant city, steeped in culture, art, and history. With this guide, you’re sure to discover the best the city has to offer. From famous attractions to hidden gems, the Memphis food scene, and cultural experiences, the city has something for everyone. Happy exploring!