Visit Downtown Memphis to experience a fervent atmosphere in this entertainment, historical and financial district. Walk the streets once traversed by civil rights activists, cotton workers and pioneers of blues and soul music. Catch performances at legendary concert halls and dine on mouthwatering barbecue. Take time out from the Downtown Memphis bustle on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Packed with live music venues, boisterous taverns and emblematic shops, Beale Street evokes memories of an early 1900s Memphis. This is the Home of the Blues, where B.B. King, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash have all played. Attend shows at the B.B. King Blues Club and outdoor events at Handy Park. Grab an old-fashioned soda at A. Schwab and a deep-fried burger at century-old Dyer’s Burgers.
Go on an interactive journey through Memphis’ music heritage at the Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum. The W.C. Handy House Museum has exhibits about one of the most influential blues artists. Delve deeper into the city’s musical roots at the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.
The lively atmosphere continues at the galleries, retail outlets and varied dining options of the South Main Arts District. Learn about the civil rights movement at the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Dine on local and international food at Puck Food Hall and enjoy more music at the Blues Hall of Fame.
Stroll through the Cotton Row Historic District to see buildings that were once part of the biggest cotton market in the world. Set within the old Memphis Cotton Exchange, The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange highlights the evolution and impact of cotton in the Mississippi Delta region.
When the time comes to relax, Tom Lee Park awaits with walking paths, lush lawns and splendid views across the Mississippi River. Court Square is another leafy spot to find respite from the crowds.
Downtown Memphis is abuzz with activity throughout the day and well into the night. Use public buses and the Main Street Trolley to travel around.
