Memphis, Tennessee, USA 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Memphis Itinerary: Music, History & Barbecue

This itinerary focuses on the musical heritage of Memphis alongside its historical significance.

Day 1: Blues on Beale Street

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant, a Memphis institution serving up classic Southern comfort food since 1919.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the blues at Beale Street.

    • Things to do:
      • Stroll down Beale Street and soak in the lively atmosphere.
      • Visit the Memphis Music Foundation’s Blues Hall of Fame, showcasing the legends of Memphis music.
      • Catch a live performance at one of the many blues clubs along Beale Street (e.g., B.B. King’s Blues Club, Rum Boogie Cafe).

  • Evening: Enjoy a classic Memphis dinner at The Rendezvous, a legendary barbecue joint famous for its dry-rub ribs and “The Best Ribs in America” claim to fame.

    • Things to know:
      • The line can be long at the Rendezvous, especially on weekends. They only serve their famous ribs at lunch & dinner!

Day 2: Civil Rights History & Music Legends

  • Morning: Reflect on the past at the National Civil Rights Museum. Explore the exhibits detailing the history of the Civil Rights movement in Memphis, the city where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.

  • Afternoon:

    • Option 1: Visit Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll, and learn about the iconic recording studio that launched the careers of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and more.
    • Option 2: Explore the history of music in Memphis at Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley. This is a must-do for any Elvis fan.

  • Things to know:

    • For Music Lovers:
      • Blues Hall of Fame: Located in the historic Beale Street Entertainment District, this museum is a great place to learn about the origins of the Blues and its impact on music history.

  • Evening: Enjoy live music at one of the many venues on Beale Street, such as a blues bar or even a blues festival if you’re lucky!

Things to know:

  • History & Culture: Memphis was a key location in the fight for civil rights, and the museum offers a powerful look into that history.
  • Day-to-Day Music: Beale Street is known for its vibrant nightlife and live music scene. Many venues have free entry during the day, offering a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy local music.

Day 3: Rock ’n’ Roll Legacy & Riverfront Delights

  • Morning: Dive into the history of the Blues at the Blues Hall of Fame, then explore the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

  • Things to Eat:

    • Beale Street Classics: Enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of the many restaurants along Beale Street, known for its soul food and music heritage.

  • Music & History: * Immerse yourself in the history of blues music by visiting Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley recorded his first songs. * Explore Memphis’s rich musical history with a visit to Memphis Music.

  • Afternoon: Discover the vibrant Beale Street arts scene:

    • Beale Street
    • Graceland: Explore the historic home of Elvis Presley and immerse yourself in the legacy of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.
    • The Blues Hall of Fame: Immerse yourself in the history of the blues, from its roots in Mississippi Delta music to its impact on modern-day genres.

Transportation:

  • Downtown Memphis: The best way to explore the Beale Street area is by walking. You can easily walk to all the major attractions and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city.
  • Public Transportation: Consider using the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) bus system or the trolley for getting around.

Things to know:

  • Beale Street History: Visit the Peabody Hotel for a glimpse into the past. The Peabody Ducks are a beloved tradition, and their daily waddle is a sight to behold.

  • Downtown’s Beale Street history: Enjoying the vibrant nightlife and music scene on Beale Street? Check out the local bars and clubs that host live music every night.

  • Public Transportation:

    • MATA: The Memphis Area Transit Authority offers a convenient bus system with routes throughout the city.
    • Downtown Trolley: A fun way to explore downtown and experience the history of this public transportation system.

Tips:

  • Book in advance: Many venues on Beale Street sell tickets tickets for popular shows, so purchasing them beforehand is recommended.

  • Transportation Options:

    • MATA: The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) runs a frequent and reliable bus and trolley service.

  • Things to do: Explore the history of Sun Records, the iconic recording studio that helped launch Elvis Presley’s career, or visit the Graceland Mansion for a look at the life and times of Elvis.

  • Public Transportation: The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) runs a frequent and convenient trolley service along Beale Street and other downtown routes.

Day 3 Options:

  • Beale Street history: Visit the Civil Rights Museum, the Stax Museum, or explore the history of music in Memphis by taking a tour of the legendary Sun Records studio.

  • Public Transportation: The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) offers a variety of options for getting around, including bus routes and the trolley.

  • Things to Eat:

    • For the adventurous: Try a local favorite like B.B.’s Q Joint, a barbecue restaurant with a menu that features traditional Memphis dishes and modern twists on barbecue classics.
    • For the budget-conscious: Enjoy a delicious (and affordable) meal at one of the many restaurants offering live music on Beale Street.

  • Things to Know:

    • Beale Street History: The “Home of the Blues” is a great place to start, but you can also explore other parts of Memphis’s musical history.

    • Transportation:

    • For transportation:

    • Public Transportation: Take advantage of Memphis’s public transportation options like the MATA Trolley for a fun and historical perspective on getting around the city.