Things to do in Memphis

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Pink Palace Museum featuring a house

Memphis Attractions

Beer, barbeque, and the blues: These are just a few of the quintessential elements of Music City. Memphis, Tennessee is known for its rich contribution to rhythm and blues, and it’s true that anyone with a song in his heart or a melody in her soul will appreciate its deep musical roots. Still, things to do in Memphis span across lots of interests, including food and sports. Whether you are on a mission to stay active on your getaway or just want some R&R, Memphis can meet your vacation expectations.


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Most popular activities in Memphis

What to do in Memphis

Free Things to Do in Memphis

Vacationing in Memphis on a budget? The following can be seen for nada.

Magevney House - Amble through this historic attraction and uncover a couple of secrets from yesteryear.

Mud Island River Park - Discover why locals and visitors alike are enchanted by the vibe of this place.

Peabody Ducks - Chat to a few locals and learn why many sightseers drop by this place.

St. Peter Catholic Church - Take a moment for some meditation or prayer at this respected sacred site.

Court Square - If you're into pottering around the garden, this place will excite your inner green thumb.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Memphis

The life blood of Memphis isn’t restricted to downtown, and if you ask locals where the heart of the city is, you will probably get lots of different answers. Whether you want to eat during your entire vacation, or reserve some time for a historical tour, there is a Memphis neighborhood to catch your interest.

Midtown — Some people say Midtown is Memphis, and its passionate defenders have a lot to make their case with. From the Memphis Zoo to mouthwatering truffle fries at local eateries, you can easily fill a day here. Don’t miss out on the eccentric shops and antique stores in the Midtown antique and design district.

Downtown — The Downtown core of Memphis is one of the most walkable areas of the city, and you won’t be left wanting for places to go. Shopping, nightlife, and notable sites like Beale Street and Sun Studios are all downtown.

East Memphis — If you’re ready to slow things down a bit, keep in mind that many fun things to do in Memphis happen at an easy Southern pace. East Memphis hosts quite a few of them, from walks through the Dixon Gallery and Gardens to leisurely horseback rides at Shelby Farms.

Germantown — Germantown is largely residential, but visitors can still take advantage of generous parkland and good food.

Things to See in Memphis

Some of the best attractions in Memphis, TN won’t leave you tired out. For a relaxing day among fresh blooms, head to the Memphis Botanic Garden where you can meander around in nearly 100 acres. The butterfly garden attracts its namesake in large numbers, so bring your camera. Other things to see in Memphis keep you actively entertained. The Orpheum Theater, Hattiloo Theater, and other artistic venues are always putting on impressive performances throughout the year. Of course, you shouldn’t leave town without exploring some music history. Take a gander at the exhibits inside famed Sun Studios, which now serves as a museum.

Sightseeing in Memphis

If you want to experience the heart and soul of this Tennessee city, a few activities simply can’t be missed. Visit Graceland to pay homage to Memphis’ most famous son: Elvis Presley. Cap off your day with a trip to Beale Street, where you can let local musicians blow you away. Things to do in Memphis, TN also include: shamelessly stuffing yourself silly with barbeque, visiting the ducks at the Peabody Hotel, and embarking on walking tours. Memphis tours, which are also offered by bus, are an efficient way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time.

Things to Do in Memphis with Kids

There are lots of incredible experiences in Memphis that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. Here are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Memphis? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Memphis on a sunny day?
A Elvis Presley’s Graceland Excursions Tupelo Tour plus lunch and a New Orleans Cocktail History Tour are a couple of sensational outdoor experiences that’ll tempt you out of your hotel.
What to do in Memphis on a rainy day?
Dive into some of these enticing indoor activities and you’ll soon forget about the rain:


What is Memphis famous for?
Capture some snaps at Graceland — it’s a well-known local attraction.
What should I not miss in Memphis?
If you want to experience the best of this place, fit these attractions into your itinerary:

  • Memphis Zoo
  • Orpheum Theatre
  • Sun Studio
  • Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Are there cheap things to do in Memphis?
What can you do in Memphis for free?
You could leave your cash in the hotel safe for the day, because these top attractions can be seen for nothing:

  • Beale Street
  • University of Memphis
  • Peabody Ducks
  • Wolfchase Galleria


Discover the most popular places to visit in Memphis

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Memphis

Beale Street showing nightlife, night scenes and street scenes

Downtown Memphis

4/5(1,782 area reviews)

Memphis history comes to life at blues clubs, barbecue joints, rowdy bars, music museums and the one-time epicenter of the Mississippi Delta cotton industry.

Downtown Memphis
Pink Palace Museum featuring a house

East Memphis

4/5(216 area reviews)

East Memphis is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Memphis Botanic Garden and Memphis Museum of Science & History.

East Memphis
Memphis Zoo which includes street scenes

Midtown

4/5(190 area reviews)

Theaters, live music, and museums are just a few things travelers enjoy about Midtown. Check out Minglewood Hall or Memphis Zoo while you're exploring the area.

Midtown
Graceland showing a house and a pool

Whitehaven

3.5/5(1,285 area reviews)

The ample dining options and great live music are top of the list for many visitors to Whitehaven. A stop by Graceland or Tri-State Bank of Memphis might round out your trip.

Whitehaven
Sun Studio featuring signage

New Pathways

While visiting New Pathways, you might make a stop by sights like FedEx Forum and Beale Street.

New Pathways
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Southwind

Travelers come to Southwind for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Mike Rose Soccer Complex and TPC Southwind while you're in town.

Southwind

Popular day trips from Memphis