Memphis, Tennessee, USA-7-day-itinerary

August 6, 2024

7-Day Memphis Music & Culture Extravaganza

This itinerary explores the vibrant music scene, delicious food, and rich history of Memphis, Tennessee.

Where to Stay:

The Peabody Memphis: Iconic hotel known for its daily duck march. (Luxury)
Hotel Napoleon: Boutique hotel with a stylish Art Deco vibe. (Mid-range)
Airbnbs/VRBOs: Plenty of options in historic neighborhoods like Midtown and Cooper-Young. (Budget-friendly)

Transportation:

Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA): Bus system covers most of the city.
Ride-sharing apps: Uber & Lyft are readily available.
Walking/Biking: Explore downtown and surrounding areas on foot or rent a bike.

Things to Know:

Day 1: Arrival & Beale Street Buzz

Morning: Arrive at Memphis International Airport (MEM) and check into your accommodation.
Afternoon: Explore Beale Street, the heart of Memphis blues music. Visit historic clubs like B.B. King’s Blues Club and Rum Boogie Cafe. Enjoy live music and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Evening: Dinner at a Beale Street restaurant like Silky O’Sullivan’s for classic Southern cuisine or The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium for craft beer and pub fare.

Day 2: Graceland & Soul Food Delights

Morning: Visit Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley. Take a tour of the mansion, museum, and Meditation Garden.
Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Memphis soul food at The Four Way Restaurant, a local institution serving up delicious fried chicken, collard greens, and mac & cheese since 1946.
Evening: Catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre, a beautifully restored historic venue hosting Broadway productions, musicals, and concerts.

Day 3: Civil Rights History & Artistic Exploration

Morning: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Reflect on this important chapter in American history.
Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Cooper-Young neighborhood known for its eclectic art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
Evening: Enjoy a unique dining experience at Alchemy, a restaurant focused on innovative dishes and craft cocktails.

Day 4: Rock ’n’ Roll Roots & River Views

Morning: Visit Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their early hits. Take a tour and learn about music history.
Afternoon: Stroll along the Mississippi Riverwalk, enjoying scenic views of the river and the Memphis skyline. Consider taking a riverboat cruise for a different perspective.
Evening: Dinner at The Rendezvous, famous for its dry-rub ribs, a Memphis culinary staple.

Day 5: Artistic Expressions & Craft Beer Scene

Morning: Visit the Brooks Museum of Art, showcasing American and European art from various periods.
Afternoon: Explore the Memphis breweries scene with a brewery tour and tasting at places like Wiseacre Brewing Company or Crosstown Brewing Co.
Evening: Enjoy live music at one of the many intimate venues in Midtown, such as The Hi-Tone Cafe or Minglewood Hall.

Day 6: History & Nature

Morning: Visit the Memphis Zoo, home to diverse animal species from around the world.
Afternoon: Explore Shelby Farms Park, a sprawling urban park with walking trails, bike paths, lakes, and playgrounds.
Evening: Dinner at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken for crispy, juicy fried chicken – a Memphis classic!

Day 7: Farewell & Souvenirs

Morning: Browse the unique shops and art galleries in Overton Square or the South Main Arts District for souvenirs.
Afternoon: Enjoy a final meal at one of your favorite Memphis restaurants.
Evening: Depart from Memphis International Airport (MEM) with memories of your soulful adventure.

This itinerary is just a suggestion – feel free to customize it based on your interests and travel style!