Memphis-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Monday

Places to Visit

  • National Civil Rights Museum: Start your day with a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum located at the site of the former Lorraine Motel. The museum showcases the history of the civil rights movement and features exhibits on figures such as Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Sun Studio: Head over to Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley recorded his first single “That’s All Right (Mama)”. Take a tour of the studio and learn about its significance in the development of rock ’n’ roll.

Activities

  • Take a Self-Guided Tour of Beale Street: Spend some time exploring Beale Street, known for its live music scene. Check out the various bars and clubs, and grab dinner at one of the many restaurants along this famous street.
  • Sunset Stroll Along the Mississippi River: End your day with a relaxing walk along the banks of the Mississippi River. Take in the views of the city as the sun sets.

Where to Eat

  • Central BBQ: For lunch, head over to Central BBQ and try their pulled pork sandwich.
  • The Pig on Beale Street: Grab dinner at The Pig on Beale Street and enjoy some delicious barbecue.

Where to Stay

  • Westin Memphis Beale Street: Consider staying at the Westin Memphis Beale Street for its prime location right in the heart of downtown Memphis. Enjoy stunning views of the Mississippi River from your hotel room.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Memphis Downtown: Another great option is the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Memphis Downtown, which features modern rooms and a rooftop bar with great city views.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Be prepared for hot summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly.
  • Safety: As in any major city, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in Memphis, especially at restaurants and bars.

Transportation

  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore downtown Memphis, but wear comfortable shoes as the city has many pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.
  • Public Transport: Use the City of Memphis Public Transit System for transportation within the city. You can also hail a taxi or ride-share service if needed.
  • Parking: Be mindful of parking signs and fees when driving in the city.

Tips

  • Respect the Music Scene: Memphis is known for its rich musical heritage, so be respectful of local musicians and venues.
  • Try Local Cuisine: Sample some of the city’s famous barbecue, soul food, or blues-inspired eats at restaurants throughout the city.

Day 2: Tuesday

Places to Visit

  • Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: Spend your morning exploring the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Check out its impressive collection of American art and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
  • Memphis Zoo: Head over to the Memphis Zoo for a fun-filled afternoon with family or friends. Home to over 3,500 animals from around the world, the zoo features exhibits on big cats, primates, and reptiles.

Activities

  • Stroll Through Overton Park: After visiting the zoo, take some time to explore beautiful Overton Park. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the park.
  • Attend a Music Event: If you’re visiting during peak season, catch a live music event at one of Memphis’ many venues.

Where to Eat

  • The Arcade Restaurant: Grab breakfast or brunch at The Arcade Restaurant, which has been serving up Southern favorites since 1919.
  • Cozy Corner: Try some delicious barbecue at Cozy Corner and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Memphis Museum Hours: Make sure to check museum hours as they may vary depending on the day or time of year.
  • Zoo Hours: Check zoo hours for the best times to visit during your stay.

Day 3: Wednesday

Places to Visit

  • Sun Studio: Spend a few more hours exploring Sun Studio and learn about its rich history in music production.
  • The Rock ’n’ Soul Museum: Head over to The Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, which showcases the city’s significant contributions to rock ’n’ roll and soul music.

Activities

  • Visit the Memphis Farmers Market: Visit the Memphis Farmers Market on Wednesdays for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
  • Take a Music Tour: Join a guided tour to explore more of Memphis’ music history and learn about its famous musicians.

Where to Eat

  • Alcenia’s Restaurant: For lunch, grab some soul food at Alcenia’s Restaurant. Try their fried chicken or catfish sandwich.
  • The Beauty Shoppe: Grab dinner at The Beauty Shoppe, a historic diner that serves up classic American fare.

Day 4: Thursday

Places to Visit

  • Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Spend your morning exploring the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Learn about this iconic label and its contribution to soul music.
  • Beale Street Historic District: Take some time to explore the Beale Street Historic District, which features beautifully restored buildings from the 19th century.

Activities

  • Visit the Memphis Botanic Garden: Visit the beautiful gardens at the Memphis Botanic Garden for a relaxing afternoon. Check out their events and exhibitions.
  • Attend a Sports Game: If you’re visiting during sports season, catch a game by one of the city’s teams, such as the Memphis Grizzlies or the Tigers.

Where to Eat

  • The Four Way Restaurant: Grab lunch at The Four Way Restaurant, which has been serving up Southern favorites since 1946.
  • Peg Leg Brewing Company: For dinner, head over to Peg Leg Brewing Company and enjoy some great craft beer with their menu of sandwiches and salads.

Things to Know

  • Sun Studio Hours: Be sure to check Sun Studio hours as they may change depending on the time of year or day.
  • Stax Museum Hours: Check Stax Museum hours for the best times to visit during your stay in Memphis.

Day 5: Friday

Places to Visit

  • Overton Park: Spend some more time exploring Overton Park, perhaps visiting its beautiful Japanese Garden or taking a stroll along the walking trail.
  • The Peabody Hotel: Stop by The Peabody Hotel and watch the famous duck march at 11 am.

Activities

  • Visit the Memphis Flyer: Visit the headquarters of the Memphis Flyer, an alternative weekly newspaper with a unique take on local news.
  • Go Shopping on Beale Street: Spend some time shopping along Beale Street for souvenirs or local fashion.

Where to Eat

  • The Cupboard Restaurant: Grab lunch at The Cupboard Restaurant and enjoy their variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups.
  • B.B. King’s Blues Club: For dinner, head over to B.B. King’s Blues Club for live music and delicious barbecue.

Things to Know

  • Overton Park Hours: Check Overton Park hours for the best times to visit during your stay in Memphis.
  • The Peabody Hotel Hours: Make sure to check The Peabody Hotel hours, as they may vary depending on the time of year or day.

Day 6: Saturday

Places to Visit

  • Beale Street: Spend a fun-filled Saturday exploring Beale Street and its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Catch some live music at one of the local venues.
  • The Gibson Guitar Factory Tour: Visit the Gibson Guitar Factory for a tour and learn about this famous guitar maker’s history.

Activities

  • Visit the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid: Spend your morning exploring the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid, a unique shopping destination featuring fishing gear, camping supplies, and more.
  • Attend a Live Music Event: Catch a live music event at one of Memphis’ many venues. This city has a vibrant music scene.

Where to Eat

  • Dyer’s Restaurant: Grab breakfast or brunch at Dyer’s Restaurant for delicious Southern-style food in a cozy atmosphere.
  • The Breakfast Shoppe: Try some tasty breakfast dishes at The Breakfast Shoppe, which features omelets, pancakes, and more.

Day 7: Sunday

Places to Visit

  • Sun Studio: Spend your last day in Memphis exploring Sun Studio one more time. Take a tour of the studio and learn about its history.
  • Beale Street Historic District: End your trip with a visit to the Beale Street Historic District, which features beautifully restored buildings from the 19th century.

Activities

  • Visit the Memphis Farmers Market: Visit the Memphis Farmers Market for one last chance to pick up some local produce or baked goods.
  • Relax at Your Hotel: Consider spending your last day relaxing at your hotel. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in Overton Park, or spend some time shopping along Beale Street.

Where to Eat

  • Central BBQ: Grab one last meal of barbecue at Central BBQ for their delicious pulled pork sandwich.
  • The Arcade Restaurant: Try some more Southern favorites at The Arcade Restaurant, which serves up fried chicken and other classic dishes.