Budget-Friendly Tips for Exploring Memphis

Looking for a fun-filled city break that won’t break the bank? Memphis has you covered. With a non-stop schedule of free festivals—200 of which are located in the highly walkable downtown area—there’s never a dull moment in the Bluff City.

Moreover, a plethora of low-cost yet high-quality restaurants, easy transport links, and outstanding live music create the perfect backdrop for an exceptional city break without splurging.

The main challenge for budget-conscious travelers tends to be hotel expenses during major festivals. However, with careful planning, you can easily find great deals. Here are some fun, cheap ways to experience Memphis.

Cheap and Easy Arrival to Memphis

Memphis is Tennessee’s most popular train destination, making arrival by rail a breeze. There are 19 separate train routes, including non-stop services from Chicago and New Orleans. Fares to Memphis Central Station start at about $50; from there, it’s a stroll or trolley ride downtown.

Consequently, Memphis’ central location means that 85% of the country is within an eight-hour drive. Greyhound also has a sprawling network of routes that stop in Memphis from most major cities across the country.

If flying internationally, cheap airfares are no secret; it’s wise to book your ticket far in advance. Alternatively, consider flying into Nashville and then taking a Greyhound bus (3.75 hours, from $47) to shave some costs.

Memphis International Airport is located about 12 miles from downtown. Ride-sharing services and taxis provide a quick solution, or if time permits, the bus journey costs just $2, taking line 28 to downtown. Additionally, you can check if your accommodation offers a free shuttle service.

Combined Tickets for Legendary Music Museums

Music is the magnet that draws visitors to Memphis. However, visiting its many storied museums can become costly. A smart strategy to keep expenses low is to purchase combined tickets. For instance, pairing the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum with the Memphis Music Hall of Fame Museum costs only $19, saving you $3 off the total ticket price.

Additionally, for $105, the Memphis Backstage Pass provides access to four of the city’s most popular attractions: Graceland Mansion, Sun Studio, Stax Museum, and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. This pass offers a 20% discount off the total ticket prices, making it an excellent choice for budget-savvy travelers.

Experience South Main’s Free Monthly Street Festival

On the last Friday of each month, Memphis’ South Main district comes alive with the city’s longest-running street festival. The area’s vibrant independent businesses remain open late, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy local culture.

You’ll be serenaded by musicians playing on street corners as you explore the neighborhoods. South Main also features a free walking tour of stunning street murals, many of which commemorate the city’s role in the civil rights movement.

Travel in Style on the Memphis Trolley

The best way to navigate Memphis on a budget is by hopping on the beautifully nostalgic trolley service. The ticket price is reminiscent of a bygone era, with a one-way fare costing just $1, or you can ride all day for a mere $2.

Memphis’ three trolley lines—Main Street, Madison, and Riverfront—deliver you to key landmarks, including Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum. Be sure to carry the exact fare in cash!

Explore Memphis by Bike

Burn calories without burning dollars by taking advantage of Memphis’ bike-share initiative. A two-hour ride costs a reasonable $5, while a three-day rental is only $35. This is an excellent way to enjoy the sights at a minimal cost.

Scenic routes such as the one-mile Big River Crossing Pathway into Arkansas or the Shelby Farms Greenline, which stretches through seven miles of wilderness, are great places to start. Once finished, simply return the bike at any of the 60 docking stations across Memphis.

Enjoy Midweek Gallery Visits for Savings

Visiting Memphis on a Wednesday? Stop by the Brooks Museum of Art to admire a diverse collection from local and international artists, with entry on a pay-what-you-can basis. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local art scene without the usual costs.

Throughout the week, you can also enjoy free entry at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, renowned for its impressive Impressionist paintings set in picturesque gardens. The Crosstown Arts Gallery at the revived Crosstown Concourse complex is another gem for immersing yourself in Memphis’ local artistry.

Delicious Budget-Friendly Eats

Memphis is brimming with reasonably priced dining options. For hot BBQ on a budget, Cozy Corner and Central BBQ stand out as must-visit locations. Do not be dissuaded by their appearances; the long lines reflect their tasty, affordable offerings.

Furthermore, Earnestine & Hazel’s serves satisfying soul burgers in a unique juke joint setting reputedly haunted by ghosts. Food truck enthusiasts should explore Broad Avenue on weekends, while Court Square provides cheap eats from local trucks during weekday lunchtimes.

Enjoy the Memphis Happy Hour Trail

If you don’t mind starting the party early, you’ll find that many Memphis bars run happy hours until 7 PM, where you can relish a martini for around $5 or a pint of draft beer for approximately $4. Cheers to that!

Tip: Avoid the tourist crowds of Beale Street and venture into the neighborhoods of Cooper-Young and Overton Square in East Memphis to enjoy a more local vibe.

Consider Off-Peak Season Hotels or Hostels

Looking for the best hotel rates in Memphis? Plan your visit between late fall and early spring when discounts are more readily available.

The Hostel Memphis, situated in a historic building in the vibrant Cooper-Young district, offers the cheapest rooms, complete with a fully equipped communal kitchen and complimentary breakfast, starting at just $35 per night for a bed in a shared dorm room.

Participate in Free Street Festivals

Memphis has an exciting schedule of free events all year long, celebrating the arts, music, and the city’s renowned food scene. Notable festivals include the Cooper-Young Festival and the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival, which boast lively performances and local vendors.

Enjoy Free Activities throughout Memphis

Early risers should head to Elvis Presley’s Graceland between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM, where it’s free to walk to the meditation garden to pay respects at the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s grave.

Furthermore, be sure to visit The Peabody Memphis hotel for their twice-daily parade of waddling ducks through the lobby.

For an entertaining experience, explore the Memphis Pyramid on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. This place boasts a Bass Pro Shops swamp-themed attraction filled with alligators and other captivating exhibits, including the nation’s tallest freestanding glass elevator.

Experience Free Music in Memphis

Nothing compares to an evening stroll along Beale Street, where you’ll enjoy world-class blues in music venues lining the historic street while savoring a drink. The Overton Park Shell amphitheater hosts 50 free outdoor performances during the summer months, providing a perfect way to soak in the sounds during a warm Memphis evening.

Average Daily Costs in Memphis

• Hostel room: $35+

• Basic room for two: Citywide $100+ (Downtown $150+)

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $100+

• Public transport ticket: average ticket around Memphis is $1 for bus and trolley

• Coffee: $2.77

• Pulled pork BBQ sandwich: $5.75 to $7.99

• Dinner for two: $30 to $100

• Beer/pint at the bar: $3 to $5