Why Should You Visit Memphis Tennessee?

Memphis Tennessee is a great city, filled with musical and cultural history, barbeque, a vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of attractions that make it one of the top destinations in the United States. With its two distinct vibes – one of the past, and one of the present – it offers something for all types of travelers. Here’s why you should visit Memphis on your next vacation.

Live Music and Museums

Memphis is known for its legendary music scene, and for very good reason. It is the birthplace of some of the most influential icons in music history, from Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis to B.B. King and Etta James. From bars, to clubs, to the famed Graceland (which draws an average of 600,000 visitors annually), this city’s music scene is unique and unforgettable.

And if your interests lie outside of music, there’s still plenty to do. Check out the National Civil Rights Museum, housed in what was once the Lorraine Motel – where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated; the Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium; Stax Museum of American Soul Music; and even The home of Elvis Presley inside Graceland.

Historic Attractions

Memphis holds the title of America’s Most Historic City with over 200 years of history and is home to a multitude of preserved homes, villas, and former dwellings that visitors can explore. Its beautiful Beale Street Historic District is home to Blues Hall of Fame as well as a museum dedicated to architect E.F. Gallagher. The district is also home to several restaurants, bars & live music venues – enjoy small bites along with drinks with friends & make sure you check out some live music while you’re there!

Barbeque Heaven

Barbecue is synonymous with the south, and Memphis has some of the best you’ll find anywhere. There are several local restaurants that are well-known for their barbeque, such as Rendezvous Charcoal Ribs and Central Barbecue, that serve up some delicious ribs and Memphis style BBQ pork sandwiches. If you’re looking for something a little different, hit up Interstate Barbecue for some tantalizing dishes like burnt ends and pork shoulder smothered in tangy sauce. And then there’s Gus’s Fried Chicken! Serving up some of the world’s best fried chicken since the 1950s, Gus’s uses a unique recipe of fresh ingredients and spices to give their chicken an unbeatable flavor.

For those who like to get out and explore on their own, here’s a helpful guide on Barbecue Hotspots in Memphis , showcasing some of the best BBQ spots in town!

End your dinner with one of the local specialty desserts- The Ultimate Guide to Memphis Desserts. Chocolate Beignets, Floozies Cookies or Bourbon Pecan Pie are some must-trys!

Nightlife and Events

Memphis also has an incredibly vibrant nightlife & event scene. From live music at local bars & clubs to art shows & outdoor movie screenings there’s something for everyone here. The annual Music Fest has grown immensely over recent years, with thousands flocking to Downtown Memphis every May for 3 days of music, art & food from around the globe – not one to miss! Other fun events in town include downtown beer bike tours, seasonal farmers markets & summer rooftop parties at Czar Bar among many other offerings.

Conclusion

If you love music, history and good old-fashioned southern cooking, then Memphis should definitely be on your short list of places to visit at least once in your lifetime! With so much to offer – from outdoor activities & sightseeing to amazing food & drinks – there’s something for everyone here in Memphis Tennessee!

Insider’s Guide: Why You Should Visit Memphis, Tennessee

Are you curious about the birthplace of rock and roll, blues, and soul music? Look no further than Memphis, Tennessee. With its rich history, delicious food, and lively cultural scene, Memphis offers unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Here is an insider’s guide to help you discover the hidden gems and local favorites that make Memphis a unique and exciting city to visit.

Beyond Elvis: Local Attractions

While Graceland may be an iconic attraction, Memphis has a lot more to offer beyond its famous son. Take a stroll down Beale Street, where you can hear live blues music at any time of day. Then visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which showcases the history of soul music legends like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes. For a taste of something completely different, head over to the Metal Museum, where you can watch artisans craft beautiful metalwork while taking in stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Memphis Cuisine: Where Delicious Meets History

Memphis cuisine is a unique intersection of Southern comfort food and African American culinary traditions, making it a truly unique experience for food lovers. Head over to Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken for a taste of their legendary spicy fried chicken. Another must-try spot is the BBQ Shop, known for its delicious pulled pork sandwiches and Memphis-style dry-rub ribs. And don’t forget to try the classic Memphis dessert, banana pudding, at The Arcade Restaurant, a century-old establishment featured on Food Network.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in The Soul of Memphis

Memphis’s cultural scene is just as vibrant as its music scene. Take a walk through the National Civil Rights Museum, attached to the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Dive into the world of blues at the Blues Hall of Fame Museum, where you can learn about the legacy of Memphis music and blues performers. You can also explore the Pink Palace Museum, a former grand family home turned museum, to get a glimpse of Memphis life as it was in the early 20th century.

Local History: Stories That Will Captivate You

Memphis’s rich past has created a history that is both fascinating and complex. Take a ride on one of Memphis’s vintage trolleys along the city’s original trolley line, built in 1860. Stop at the Overton Park Conservancy, where you can explore the park’s historic 126-acre forest, including the Old Forest State Natural Area, one of the last remaining urban old-growth forests in the nation. Lastly, visit the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum located in a house with secret compartments and tunnels that represents Memphis’s critical role in the Underground Railroad.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Adventure Awaits

For adventure seekers looking to go off the beaten path, consider visiting Shelby Forest State Park, which offers over 20 miles of hiking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls and stunning bluffs. If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city, head to the Peabody Rooftop Party on Thursdays, where you can enjoy live music and breathtaking views of downtown Memphis. Lastly, experience the legendary Mississippi River at the Mud Island River Park, where you can explore a scaled-down replica of the lower Mississippi River and catch a sunset concert at the Amphitheater.

Take a Chance on Memphis

With its music traditions, rich history, and world-famous cuisines, Memphis is a city that offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Now that you have discovered some of Memphis’s hidden gems, you are equipped to go beyond the tourist traps, dive head-first into the soul of Memphis, and make memories that will last a lifetime.