Best Memphis, TN Attractions
Sun Studio
Sun Studio is a tiny spot - but really, really big events in the history of music happened here. The most famous of all, of course, was Elvis Presley...
Dixon Gallery and Gardens
Since 1976, this museum has housed a spectacular Impressionist collection including Degas, Monet and Pisarro, and the collection of art is rivaled only by...
Mud Island River Park
Taking advantage of an island that sprang up in the Mississippi in the early 20th century, this park offers a variety of attractions. Among them are the...
Beale Street Historic District
Once the center of black-owned businesses and nightclubs, Beale became the home of the blues at the turn of the 20th century - a waypoint along the trail...
National Ornamental Metal Museum
Decorative metalwork is a hallmark of the design and architecture of the American South, and the Metal Museum is dedicated to the art of fine metalwork, as...
Graceland
Graceland is the second most visited historic home in the United States, hosting more than 600,000 visitors who come to pay homage to the King. How long one...
Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo is consistently rated one of the top zoos in the country, both for its breadth of exhibits in an easy-to-navigate layout, and for the sheer...
National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum underwent a year-long, multi-million dollar rebirth, re-opening the full museum in 2014 with more interactivity, deeper...
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
The lesser known of Memphis' major musical attractions, Stax is still one of the richest experiences in the city for music lovers. Home to what became...
Local Expert Attraction Recommendations
Memphis with Kids: A Rocking Good Time
Music, Kings and Cotton: Memphis Rocks History
The Lover's Guide to Memphis — with Music
Local Expert Attraction Recommendations
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About Memphis, TN Attractions
The city of Memphis has a rich and colorful history of which its citizens are deeply proud, and world-class attractions that offer something for families, music lovers, outdoorsy types and art afficiandoes.
History is everywhere in Memphis, from the Lorraine Hotel, site of the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. - now the National Civil Rights Museum - to Sun Studio, where Elvis recorded his first record. The most visited private home outside of the White House is Elvis' former home, Graceland. The list of sites important to our country's musical history is never-ending, but there are a few that can't be missed including Stax, also known as Soulsville, USA, and Beale Street, where the blues found its roots as a true American sound. Music pours out of the clubs along Beale, and even from musicians who set up on the street hoping to be discovered.
For families, the Memphis Zoo is always a hit with its polar, panda and grizzly bears, excellent habitats and easy-to-navigate setting. The Botanic Garden's children's garden called My Big Backyard is a wonderful experience for children and their parents. A must-see for kids is the duck parade at the the Peabody Hotel; since the 1930s, the ducks have marched up and down a red carpet twice daily to frolic in the fountain of the Grand Lobby. During the evening parade - promptly at 5:00 p.m., one child is chosen to be an honorary duckmaster, and leads the ducks into the elevator for a journey to their rooftop home.
About Sally Walker Davies
Sally Walker Davies is enchanted by Memphis' music, history, and characters. From the artsy South Main Historic District to the grittiness of her favorite live music clubs to the sophisticated style of the eastern edge of the city, there’s a Memphis for every mood, and she loves every part of it. Walker Davies is an experienced broadcast, print, and online journalist... Read More
Explore Memphis
10Best Attractions by Type
Expert Tips for Memphis Attractions
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Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid: "It'll cost you $10 to ride that elevator to the summit of the Pyramid - but the feel is worth the ride, and the view."
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New Year's at Noon, Children's Museum of Memphis: "Tickets can be purchased online, or at the door the day of the event."
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AutoZone Liberty Bowl, Parade & Pep Rally: "Do something good this holiday season, and be a Bowl Buddy - you can buy tickets for yourself, and gift one to a St. Jude patient."