Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee, pulses with the rhythms of music, echoes of history, and aromas of mouthwatering cuisine. This Mississippi River city shaped the careers of Elvis Presley and B.B. King, while playing a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Walk in the footsteps of music legends at Sun Studio, dance to live blues on Beale Street, or savor slow-cooked ribs at Central BBQ. Explore the National Civil Rights Museum, housed in the Lorraine Motel, or immerse yourself in soul music history at the Stax Museum.

Music Legacy

Memphis's musical roots run deep. At Sun Studio, stand where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. The studio's tours showcase original equipment and recount stories about the birth of rock 'n' roll. On Beale Street, live music fills the air nightly, continuing a tradition that began in the early 20th century. Visit B.B. King's Blues Club or explore the W.C. Handy House Museum, dedicated to the "Father of the Blues."

Memphis-Style Barbecue

Memphis barbecue is known for its dry rubs and tangy sauces. Try this local specialty at numerous restaurants throughout the city. Central BBQ, a local favorite, serves tender ribs and pulled pork sandwiches. The Bar-B-Q Shop claims to have invented barbecue spaghetti, a unique Memphis dish. For a more upscale experience, head to Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous, known for its dry-rub ribs served in a basement restaurant downtown.

Outdoor Spaces

Memphis has several large parks and green spaces. Shelby Farms Park covers 4,500 acres and includes lakes, forests, and 40 miles of trails. Rent bikes, go horseback riding, or try the treetop adventure course. Overton Park, near downtown, houses the Memphis Zoo, where you can see giant pandas and other rare animals. The park also includes an old-growth forest and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art.

Graceland

Graceland, Elvis Presley's former home, offers a glimpse into the King's personal life. Tour the mansion, preserved as it was in the 1970s, including the eclectic Jungle Room. See Elvis's collection of cars and planes, and visit the meditation garden where he is buried. The complex also includes museums dedicated to Elvis's career and impact on popular culture.

Civil Rights History

The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel chronicles the American civil rights movement. Built around the hotel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum traces the struggle for equality from slavery through the present day. Interactive exhibits and historical artifacts bring this crucial period of American history to life. The museum also incorporates the boarding house from which James Earl Ray fired the fatal shot, now part of an exhibit on the assassination investigation.

Getting Around

While a car is useful for exploring the wider Memphis area, you can easily walk around the downtown core or use the trolley system. The Main Street Trolley line runs north-south through downtown, connecting many major sites. The Madison Avenue line heads east towards the medical district. For longer trips, use the city's bus system, though service can be limited in some areas. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available throughout Memphis.