Discover the Soul of Memphis- Top Attractions in the Bluff City

Memphis, Tennessee, pulsates with culture and soul-stirring rhythms. Musical legends roam the streets, and music history echoes through the bandshells and alleyways. Attractions beckon the curious traveler, melody seekers, and those settling into Memphis as their new hometown. Narrowing down what to do and see first can be a challenge. We recommend starting with these handpicked must-see things to do in Memphis.

Graceland

You can’t roll into Memphis and not make a pilgrimage to the home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. Fans flock to Graceland to soak in the presence of the King through his lifestyle. Tour the mansion and gain insights into Elvis’s life, his achievements, and his taste for opulence. From the Jungle Room to his gold records, it’s all on display at this iconic Memphis landmark.

For fans of music history, a stop at the extensive collection of Elvis Presley memorabilia and private homes is a must. Graceland sells five tour experiences, with the Ultimate VIP experience taking you through all there is to see at Graceland, including Elvis’ custom jets. The historic landmark and museum also hosts several special events throughout the year. Its holiday lighting ceremony is one of the top seasonal events in Memphis. Musicians play Graceland’s soundstage as part of the live concert series. Go to Graceland’s website to see what upcoming events will step onto its stage and event spaces.

Beale Street

A melting pot of delta blues, neon lights, and historic architecture, Beale Street is the heartbeat of Memphis nightlife and the rhythm ‘n’ blues vibe. Tourists flock here for the famous music scene, but locals must come here at some point. So many live music venues, concerts, and BBQ restaurants line the historic street, making it an entertainment destination for everyone. Annual events on Beale Street include its Fourth of July Red, White, and Boom! and the New Year’s Day Bash.

You’ll need to spend more than a day on Beale Street. The packed-in venue‘s musical history has a deep roster of Memphis bucket list attractions. Here’s a short mini-itinerary to get your Memphis culture fix:

• BB King’s Blues Club: Stop in for live music on stage daily and southern comfort food. It has two event spaces
• Orpheum Theater: Catch a Broadway show or comic act at this historic venue
• Handy Park: Outdoor concerts and events keep Memphis’s musical legacy front and center
• A. Schwab General Store: Check out the soda fountain and shop memorabilia from this landmark Beale Street store, in business for over a 100 years
• FedEx Forum: See the big names in music and sports, including the hometown Memphis Grizzlies
• Blues Hall & Rum Boogie Cafe: The two connect, delivering diverse sounds and Cajun-style dining
• Memphis Music Hall of Fame: Honoring the legacy of Memphis’ great musicians and the city’s rich musical history

As with all Memphis’ musical attractions, go to their website to see an upcoming event list. Many have music or another program happening most days of the week. Check for Beale Street annual events before you go.

Sun Studio

Dubbed “The Birthplace of Rock’ n Roll,” Sun Studio icons like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded hits here. Every Memphis local should tour this famous studio at least once and learn about its role in music history. The 40-minute tours run seven days a week, once every hour. Soak in the music history, as the tours even include recording outtakes.

Learn about founder Sam Phillips and how he discovered early blues icons. Sun Studio has an early recording of Elvis Presley to hear, and stories behind how Johnny Cash achieved the iconic sound in “I Walk the Line.” If you’re lucky, you may catch a live recording session, although most of the recording sessions happen in the evening after tours. 

Please note that tickets can’t be bought ahead of time; they must be purchased in person the day of the tour. For that reason, it’s recommended to go early. Sun Studio is in The Edge district, just off the end of Beale Street.

National Civil Rights Museum

This museum delivers a profound look at the American Civil Rights movement. The History Channel, USA Today, and other sites have featured the National Civil Rights Museum, highlighting its moving exhibits and relevant stories. 

Unlike other museums, here you see history in context. The complex of buildings centers around the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. A walkthrough takes you back to the pivotal moment in time. Besides the motel exhibition, the museum has the bus Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat and the burned Freedom Riders’ bus.

These are just some of the seminal events featured in the Civil Rights Movement. Overall, its artifacts and permanent exhibits tell 400 years of stories about the ongoing work to achieve civil rights. You can hear oral histories about black history and see museum exhibits on seminal events. A visit promises to be deeply moving and educational. 

Memphis Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the US, the award-winning Memphis Zoo in Overton Park promises adventure for the whole family. Primates and crawling reptiles are a small addition to the over 3,500 animals at the Zoo. The exhibits mimic natural habitats while safely allowing visitors to observe big cats and elephants going about their days. Keeper talks rotate around these exhibits during the day to educate visitors about the various species and the Zoo’s conservation efforts. 

Besides the animal habitats, the Zoo includes entertaining specialty experiences. Feed the giraffes or be impressed by sea lion antics at their show. Walk among ancient giants at the new Dino Park, which also has a scavenger hunt. Children will delight in the carousel, farm train, and rides open in warmer months. 

The Zoo includes holiday-themed family-friendly events on its schedule, too, like an egg hunt, Zoo Boo at Halloween, and Zoo Lights over the holiday season. Spring and summer camps take kids behind the scenes. Or, you can have a unique adventure with an overnight zoo campout. Again, please take a look at their website for upcoming events.

The Zoo is part of Overton Park, another top attraction in Memphis. Its grounds include the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, a golf course, and the famous Levitt Shell. The historic music venue still hosts a wide variety of music acts throughout the year.

Memphis BBQ Trail

No Memphis experience is complete without tasting its signature barbecue. Memphis-style is about slow-roasting pork or ribs over a pit covered with a spice rub and balanced with a tangy yet sweet sauce. Which place serves it best? We won’t poke that tiger, as over 100 joints serve their best take on BBQ. As you can imagine, every local will have an opinion on the top Memphis BBQ joint. 

Instead, try all the Memphis BBQs and decide your favorite. Follow the Memphis BBQ Trail to savor smoked ribs, pulled pork, and all the fixins’. Each joint has its unique flavor and story. On the plus side, you’re guaranteed a delicious experience wherever you go.

Shelby Farms Park

Shelby Farms in East Memphis is five times the size of Central Park! This urban park is so large it even has a buffalo herd! Locals love it because of all the activities available on its 5,400 acres. 

Trails for biking, horseback riding, and hiking total up to 40 miles; the Greenline path connects to downtown Memphis. You can bike directly from the city’s heart into spacious meadows and forests. Escape the glitz of Beale Street for the quiet nature trails, all without ever leaving Memphis! For watersports, the park has over 20 bodies of water for fishing and paddling.

Of course, Shelby Farms Park has plenty of green space for picnics and play. The Woodland Discovery Playground and splash pad rank among Memphis’ best playgrounds for kids. Pups prefer the off-leash Outback 100-acre area with unpaved walking trails and ponds. Shelby Farms Park even has high-adventure options, like a BMX track, tree-top challenge course, and paintball area. Annual events at the park include trail races, Starry Nights, and Earth Day celebrations.

Memphis Botanic Garden

Need another green space escape option? Step into a tropical forest at one of the 30 specialty gardens of the Memphis Botanic Garden. Find the prehistoric plants and Japanese-style garden in East Memphis at Audubon Park. Wander among Iris and herbs, shade gardens, and native pollinators. The Memphis Botanic Garden is a place to get in touch with nature. All its specialty gardens are designed to educate and inspire. Bring the kids to the children’s garden or attend a special event. The venue runs spring plant sales, summer camps, and holiday lights.

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

You can’t miss the massive glass pyramid dominating the Memphis skyline. Underneath the glittering facade awaits 535,000 square feet of prime Bass Pro Shops retail space–plus more. Take a day to explore the pyramid, as besides outdoor merchandise, you have on-site dining at five venues, a waterfowl museum, an archery range, a pistol range, and bowling. Be awed by a massive indoor swamp with towering cypress trees. Its aquariums hold 600,000 gallons of water stocked with Mississippi River native fish. Even more impressive: ride the fee-sanding elevator 300 feet to the lookout. Memphis and the mighty Mississippi sparkle below you in all their glory with panoramic views. When it comes to views of downtown, Mud Island, and Beale Street, it’s hard to beat the Bass Pro Shops pyramid.

Want a truly unique staycation? Book a room at the rustic-themed lodging inside the pyramid or a relaxing visit to the on-site Spa. Stays include a complimentary Sky High ride, valet parking, and shuttle service.

Big River Crossing

Walk or bike across the longest active pedestrian bridge spanning the Mississippi River. The Big River Crossing, or BRX as locals call it, has spectacular views of downtown and the mighty Mississippi. Gain a unique perspective of the river’s power and scale. The bridge connects Tom Lee Park and Main Street Memphis to West Memphis, Arkansas. On that end sits the 1,500-acre Ducks Unlimited Park conservation area with more extensive trail options. The BRX is part of the 110-mile Big River trail system and pedestrian corridor. 

Additionally, BRX and the next-door Hernando de Soto bridge lights up at night in a spectacular light show. The exhibition starts at sundown and runs every hour until 10:30 pm. Parking is free on both sides of the Mississippi River. You can view it from the parks or some elevated bars in downtown Memphis.

Cooper-Young Festival

A community fixture for over thirty years, the Cooper-Young Festival in its hip namesake district is the perfect place to celebrate local Memphis culture and community spirit. Over 100,000 people come every September to wander the 435 artisans, including craftsmen and musicians. 

The Cooper-Young district is proud of its distinct character, with century-old homes, family-owned businesses, and an eclectic bent. The family-friendly festival epitomizes what makes living in this part of Memphis so appealing. Attending is free, but bring cash for the vendors and food.

Best of Things to Do in Memphis

Every corner in Memphis has a story, and every tune has a soul. The city has witnessed the highs and lows of American history. Feel it in the bluesy depths of Beale Street and the solemnity of the National Civil Rights Museum. As a new resident to Memphis, take the time to explore its streets, listen to its music, and indulge in its culinary delights. Remember to check out its natural trails when you need a break from the music scene. Each of these top attractions in Memphis promises to be as enriching as it is entertaining.