Best Things to Do in Memphis

Ready to experience a powerful piece of history? The exhibits at the National Civil Rights Museum serve as a moving reminder of how far we have come as a society. Visitors can journey through time and experience what life was like for those who fought for equal rights in America from Rosa Parks to countless others. The main attraction is the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was fatally shot on April 4th, 1968.
 
This room has been preserved as it was when Dr. King stayed there, making it an incredibly moving experience for anyone visiting the museum. The National Civil Rights Museum offers an invaluable educational opportunity for people of all ages providing insight into one of the nation's most defining moments and inspiring visitors to continue working toward true equality today.

Located in Memphis, Tennessee, the Stax Museum is a must-see for any soul music lover. It's one of the most popular attractions featured on many Memphis tours due to its unique blend of history and culture. The museum celebrates the rich legacy created by artists from Stax Records an iconic record label that helped define soul music in the 1960s and '70s.
 
The museum offers visitors an immersive experience with interactive exhibits showcasing memorabilia from some of soul's biggest stars, including Otis Redding, the Mar-Keys, and Isaac Hayes. Explore how this genre shaped popular culture through displays featuring vintage clothing and instruments used during recording sessions at Stax Studios where classic hits like "Soul Man" were born.
 
Special events throughout the year from live performances and educational workshops to movie screenings, keep the experience fresh for every visit. Whether you're a lifelong fan or simply curious about this influential genre, there's something here for everyone.

Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee is known as "the birthplace of rock and roll." For over 60 years, it has been a mecca for musicians from all over the world who have come to record in this iconic studio. Sun Studio opened its doors in 1950 and soon after began signing some of the most renowned musicians of all time, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Roy Orbison. 
 
The studio has seen many transformations since then but still remains an integral part of music history today. Visitors can take a guided tour through the facility to learn about its past while getting a glimpse into what goes on behind the scenes at today's recording studios — with interactive displays featuring vintage microphones, instruments, and other equipment used by legendary artists during sessions here.

The Victorian Village Memphis, Tennessee is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city. Located just outside of downtown Memphis, this historic neighborhood was once home to some of the most affluent families in the region during the 19th century. It's easy to see why it was once called "Millionaire's Row." Strolling through its streets feels like stepping into a time machine, with many homes restored and converted into museums offering visitors an inside look at how life used to be.

History buffs will love exploring these grand mansions and learning about their fascinating pasts from how they were built using locally sourced materials to details on who lived there and what life was like in pre-Civil War America. Don't forget to admire the architecture as you go you'll find everything from Victorian-style homes adorned with stained glass windows and ornate fireplaces to scalloped shingles and distinctive turrets that give each house its own unique character.

AutoZone Park is one of the most fun things to do in Memphis, offering the whole family a chance to enjoy America's favorite pastime. Home to the Minor League baseball team the Memphis Redbirds, AutoZone Park delivers exciting on-field action in a lively stadium atmosphere.
 
The stadium has great seating options including enclosed suites and box seats with full-service amenities, as well as general admission sections so everyone can find something comfortable within their budget. You'll also find an amusement area outside the park featuring games and activities like mini golf and batting cages perfect for kids who want to stay in the action!
 
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, various restaurants around AutoZone Park offer delicious food while you watch the game. Finish the evening at one of the nearby bars to catch up on all things sports with friends. With its diverse entertainment options and incredible atmosphere, it's easy to see why this ballpark stays packed throughout baseball season.

Once owned by rock 'n' roll icon Elvis Presley, Graceland is a famous mansion that spans 13.8 acres. The Presley family and Elvis himself  are buried here. For anyone looking to experience his legacy, getting tickets for the "Making of Elvis" exhibit should be at the top of your list. If you prefer to tour the entire mansion, be sure to set aside about two hours so you can see everything. There are also other activities to enjoy at Graceland throughout the year, from concerts and museum exhibits to on-site restaurants.

Mud Island River Park is one of the best things to do in Memphis if you're looking for free outdoor fun. This popular recreational area is just a short walk from downtown Memphis and is open from dawn until dusk every day of the week. The park offers a wonderful variety of activities and amenities — making it a perfect spot for a relaxed day out with family and friends. The only thing you'll need to pay for is parking. 
 
One of the park's most unique features is its man-made river, where visitors can cool off on hot summer days. Enjoy a leisurely pedal boat ride or take a dip in the refreshing waters to escape the heat. The surrounding trails are also great for walking or biking while taking in views of downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River — providing plenty of opportunities to explore and appreciate nature.
 
The park also hosts many events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and art shows, so there's always something new to discover here.

The Pink Palace Museum in Memphis, Tennessee is a popular destination for those looking to explore science and history. This museum offers visitors an interactive learning experience with exhibits featuring everything from fossils and artifacts to vintage cars and artwork.
 
One of the highlights is its IMAX theater, where guests can enjoy some of their favorite films in 2D and 3D on a massive screen. The museum also has a planetarium that provides breathtaking views of outer space using state-of-the-art technology — perfect for stargazing!
 
The museum also houses an impressive collection of local art pieces ranging from classical paintings to modern sculptures — giving visitors yet another opportunity to appreciate the culture around them. Whether you're here to learn, explore, or simply take in something new, the Pink Palace Museum has plenty to offer visitors of all ages.

The Memphis Riverboats are one of the best things to do in Memphis, offering locals and visitors alike an opportunity to travel back in time as they cruise along the Mississippi River. These majestic vessels have been sailing since the 1800s, providing passengers with breathtaking views of downtown Memphis and its surrounding areas.

Feeling hungry? Tastin' 'Round Town is a popular food tour in Memphis, Tennessee that offers an unforgettable experience for food lovers. As its name implies, this tour allows visitors to sample some of the city's best eats and drinks while exploring its unique culture all in just under four hours.
 
The Tastin' 'Round Town team will take you on a guided journey through five local restaurants where you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes such as classic Southern BBQ, pork nachos, or saucy wet ribs. Along the way, they'll share interesting facts about each restaurant so you can learn more about their history and customs.
 
After each stop, guests are treated to samples of regional wines or beers depending on what's available that day. With so much variety and flavor packed into one tour, Tastin' 'Round Town has become an absolute must-do for any visitor coming to experience Memphis.

The Children's Museum of Memphis is truly a one-of-a-kind destination for kids and families. Located in the heart of Midtown, this interactive museum features more than 25 hands-on exhibits that foster creativity, learning, and exploration through play.
 
Kids can explore everything from an indoor treehouse to a mini grocery store or even build their own city with real blocks! The museum also offers educational programs such as art classes, science experiments, and storytime sessions that are both engaging and informative. It's a testament to the museum's appeal that it has been welcoming visitors for over 30 years.
 
The Children's Museum of Memphis also hosts various special events throughout the year, from holiday gatherings to workshops on topics ranging from the ocean to inventions. Whether you live in town or are just visiting for a few days, the Children's Museum of Memphis is a wonderful stop for the whole family.

The Memphis Zoo is one of the most beloved attractions in the city, delighting visitors with its incredible animal exhibits for over 100 years. Located in Midtown Memphis, this zoo offers guests an unforgettable experience as they stroll through its lush grounds, observing some of nature's most magnificent creatures.
 
You can explore habitats from all around the world, featuring well over 3,500 different animals including penguins, giraffes, elephants, and tigers — just to name a few. The zoo also features exhibits like the "Dragon Lair," which allows visitors to get up close with Komodo dragons while learning about these fascinating creatures firsthand.