Memphis is one of our all-time favourite places to visit. It has a unique charm, rich history, and plenty to explore. While it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings (we learned this when a helpful local on the Trolley told us we stick out like sore thumbs and there must be an angel watching over us), we found Memphis to be welcoming, vibrant, and packed with personality.
So, let’s get to the good stuff – because Memphis has plenty of it! Without further ado, here are our top 10 must-dos in this iconic city:
- Sing The Blues on Beale Street
Okay, maybe listen to the Blues on Beale Street is more accurate! It’s where the soul of Memphis comes alive. Live music spills out from every bar, neon lights glow, and the energy is contagious. Grab a drink, enjoy some blues, and soak up the iconic vibes of this legendary street.
Tip: Most bars charge a cover fee at the door which will last for the whole day, so make sure you account for that!
- Experience the Peabody Duck March
Yes, you read that right – ducks. Every day, morning and evening, The Peabody Hotel hosts the famous Duck March, where their resident ducks waddle through the lobby to the fountain…in style – red carpet and all! It’s quirky, it’s cute, and it’s pure Memphis magic.
If you don’t make it for the march, don’t fret – the ducks chill and play in the lobby fountain all day, before returning to their Royal Duck Palace on the rooftop of the hotel.
Aside from the ducks, it’s a really lovely hotel and definitely worth a visit. You can grab a cocktail from the bar (we loved the Memphis Mule) or dine at one of their fancy af restaurants.
- Follow in Rock ‘n’ Roll Footsteps at Sun Studios
Step into the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, where legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits. You’ll hear the stories, see the memorabilia, and maybe even feel the ghosts of rockstars past. This tour was absolutely one of our highlights of the trip. There’s loads to learn and you can even take a picture with the very microphone the greats used to record their hits!
Tip: It’s worth remembering that it can get busy and you do need a ticket for a specific tour time, so make sure to plan ahead!
- Spend the day at Graceland
Following Elvis’ footsteps just once at Sun Studios isn’t enough, and no trip to Memphis is complete without visiting the King’s castle. From Elvis’s jumpsuits to his pink Cadillac, Graceland is a must-see for fans and the Elvis-curious alike. Tbh, even if you’re not a fan, it’s still worth a visit. We are fans but almost didn’t go, just because we didn’t know what to expect. And we’re super glad we changed our minds. It was really worth it!
Not only do you get visit the Graceland Mansion itself, you also get access to multiple museums, his private jet collection and so much more. It’s basically Disneyland for Elvis fans.
There is so much to see here, that you really need to set aside a whole day. We were shocked at just how much there was and how much time we needed (and wanted!) to spend here. The gift shops alone are enough to kill at least an hour!
- Walk Through History at the National Civil Rights Museum
The Lorraine Motel, located on Main Street, is the location of the assassination of Dr Martin Luther King. Keeping the original building of the Motel, it’s now home the National Civil Rights Museum. This is an absolute must do if you’re visiting Memphis.
The museum tells ‘the history behind the movement’ and why this history is more important than ever.
- ‘Eat Like The King’ at Memphis’ Oldest Cafe
The Arcade Restaurant has been serving up comfort food since the 1920’s. Their sweet potato pancakes are famous – just ask anyone who’s been!
Located in the historic South Main Arts District, you just to have to visit! Whether it’s for their all day breakfast, Southern style lunch specials or their creative bar and extensive coffee menu. We went to breakfast (it was right next to our hotel – ARRIVE Memphis) and it did not disappoint!
Car lovers, this one’s for you! Explore the evolution of American automobiles and see some seriously cool vintage rides. To be completely honest, we are not car lovers. By any stretch of the imagination. BUT, this museum was amazing! The staff are friendly and so knowledgeable and the exhibits are just great. Even as people who are just not in to cars, we had a really good time and learned loads. So if you do like cars, well…you gotta go!
Tip: The museum is just up the street from Sun Studios. We got our Sun Studios tour ticket and spent the waiting time in The Edge Motor Museum!
- Visit a Not-So-Ancient Pyramid
Bass Pro Shops (the biggest in the world, might we add) at the Pyramid isn’t your average store – it’s a full on experience! Go bowling, visit an indoor swamp, and ride the tallest freestanding elevator to get epic views. It even has a hotel – Big Cypress Lodge.
Depending on what you like, I would plan for spending at least an hour here even if you’re just looking around. It’s big!
The lovely trolley driver dropped us off there, advised us to spend at least an hour there, and then came to collect us an hour later!
- Ride The Historic Trolley
Travel back in time on this charming vintage trolley. At just $1, it’s an affordable and fun way to explore downtown Memphis, with plenty of stops for sightseeing.
The trolley routes take you to lots of the points of interest, including Beale Street, Union Avenue, The Peabody and the South Main Arts District.
- Dine In Style at Flight Restaurant
Can’t decide what to eat? At Flight, you don’t have to! Their menu is designed for sampling, so you can try a little bit of everything, from small plates to wine pairings. They have options for everyone, and the food it really good. As is is the wine. And yes, we did try more than one wine flight!
Not only is it Memphis’ #1 restaurant in Memphis (according to Open Table) it also makes their list of the top 100 restaurants in the whole of the US. Deffo worth a visit in our opinion!
Let us know if you found any more great things to do in Memphis!
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