Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Memphis, TN

What comes to mind when you hear the name Memphis? Beyond its most famous resident, the city is celebrated for its rich music scene, delightful cuisine, and its genuine Southern hospitality. Established in 1819, it is the youngest among Tennessee’s major cities, with a population of roughly 654,000 as recorded in 2013.

Renowned for its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and its exquisite Cajun and Creole culinary offerings, combined with its extensive parks and remarkable rock and roll heritage, it is a certainty that you will leave with a deeper appreciation for music, if you didn’t have it before your visit. Let’s explore the top attractions and experiences in Memphis!

1. Sun Studio

Sun Studio has hosted an array of iconic musicians, making it hard to choose where to begin. Inaugurated in 1950, it produced the first rock and roll single (Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats’ “Rocket 88”). Dubbed “The Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” Sun Studio has garnered fame by signing artists such as Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash.

Join a guided tour to view remarkable items, including the very microphone used by Elvis during his first recording in 1954. The knowledgeable guides are eager to share stories about the legendary musicians who have performed within these walls.

Following the tour, be sure to visit the nostalgic Sun Studio Soda Shop and Record Store for memorabilia. Admission is complimentary for children aged 5-11, though children under 5 are not permitted due to the tour’s nature.

2. National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel

This museum provides a profound perspective on the civil rights struggle over five centuries, featuring over 40 films, oral histories, 260 artifacts, and interactive media, guiding visitors through crucial historical events such as slavery resistance, the Civil War, and the rise of Jim Crow laws.

Exhibitions include programs such as The Rise of Jim Crow and Standing Up by Sitting Down, alongside the opportunity to stand outside the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. spent his final hours.

This is an invaluable educational experience suitable for all ages; the Museum offers free admission to Tennessee residents on Mondays starting at 3 PM and to active military personnel at all times, provided proof of ID.

3. Graceland

Did you know that Graceland was named after a relative of its original owners, the Toof family? Elvis purchased the estate in 1957 at the young age of 22, becoming a home to family and friends during his two-decade residency. This location holds profound significance for his dedicated fans worldwide, who come to pay tribute to ‘The King.’

A visit to this iconic site promises an engaging narrative through time, guided by an iPad tour narrated by actor John Stamos, offering insights into the home and its rich history.

A special tour guide is available for children, and once the in-depth exploration concludes, there are several gift shops featuring a wide range of Elvis memorabilia, including CDs, DVDs, t-shirts, jackets, and accessories.

4. Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Another noteworthy establishment in the realm of music museums, this particular venue is unparalleled as it is solely dedicated to preserving the legacy of American soul music. It honors the artists who recorded in its premises and boasts an extensive collection of over 2,000 artifacts, films, galleries, and interactive exhibits, including Isaac Hayes’ opulent custom Cadillac Eldorado.

The Wall of Sound display features albums and singles released by Stax from 1957 to 1975, showcasing the studio as a true birthplace of soul music. Families visiting will find themselves immersed in the rhythm of this vibrant location.

5. AutoZone Park

This family-friendly ballpark earned the title of 2009 Minor League Ballpark of the Year by Baseball America, thanks to its state-of-the-art, neo-traditional design.

As the home of the Memphis Redbirds, the stadium features comfortable seating, an open-air party deck accommodating up to 175 fans, and The Boardwalk, a family-oriented amusement area complete with playground facilities, alongside impressive post-game fireworks displays.

6. Beale Street

Beale Street epitomizes the eclectic diversity that Memphis has to offer. From unique novelty items to rare vinyl records, clothing, art, and so much more, it stands as a fantastic destination to spend a few leisurely hours.

Visitors can take a stroll, enjoy a meal or drink at one of the riverside establishments, and immerse themselves in the friendly Southern atmosphere. At night, Beale Street transforms into a vibrant entertainment hub, featuring venues like Rum Boogie Café and BB King’s Blues Club, ensuring there is something for everyone.

7. The Peabody Ducks

The sight of these famous ducks marching along their designated path is sure to bring joy to families. Their history in 1933 began when the General Manager of the Peabody Hotel, Frank Schutt, whimsically placed them in the hotel fountain.

With assistance from Bellman Pembroke, a former circus animal trainer, the daily duck march at 11 AM and 5 PM was established and remains a tradition today. A brief history talk by the Duckmaster precedes this delightful show.

8. Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum

If you wish to delve into the origins of rock and soul music, this museum is the ideal destination. Since its opening in 2000, it has chronicled the journeys of musical pioneers who transcended racial and economic challenges to shape the music we cherish today.

The narrative spans from the rural landscapes of the 1930s to the vibrant years marked by Sun, Stax, and Hi Records, through to the thriving musical era of the 1970s and beyond. Visitors can explore seven galleries featuring audio-visual programs, costumes, instruments, and numerous musical artifacts, complemented by a digital audio tour with over 300 minutes of content.

9. FedExForum

FedExForum serves as the home for the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies and the NCAA Division I men’s basketball program from the University of Memphis, which previously hosted games at the Pyramid Arena.

This versatile arena is not only ideal for basketball but is also equipped to hold ice hockey matches, family shows, and concerts, making it a popular venue. The staff is recognized for their friendliness, and the diverse array of food options—ranging from gourmet shrimp and grits to BBQ specialties—further enriches the experience.

10. Mud Island River Park

A visit to Mud Island River Park is a delightful experience for families, situated on a small peninsula encircled by the Mississippi River. Opened in 1982, it is accessible via a pedestrian bridge connecting the island to the Civic Center Plaza.

The park features an amphitheater for outdoor concerts and a museum dedicated to the Mississippi River. It is an ideal site for enjoyment on warm days, offering pedal boats and scenic walking and biking trails. A nearby gift shop sells toy boats for children to float along the river.

11. Belz Museum of Asian & Judaic Art

This unique museum presents a blend of two distinct cultural heritages. The collection, originally initiated by Mr. and Mrs. Belz, now serves as a showcase of exquisite Asian and Judaic artifacts, including intricate jade sculptures.

Additionally, the museum houses a room dedicated to the Holocaust, featuring photographs and biographies of survivors, along with another room highlighting the legacy of Oriental Jews. The rich cultural tapestry makes this site a compelling stop for visitors.

12. Shelby Farms Park

Spanning 4,500 acres in the heart of Shelby County, Shelby Farms Park features a network of urban trails totaling six and a half miles. Recently protected from commercial development, the park now enjoys the opportunity to expand and enhance its offerings.

Visitors can partake in a variety of activities such as biking, horseback riding, hiking, and fishing. The clean, recycled playground caters to children of all ages, while a food truck located nearby serves delicious offerings like burgers and hot dogs.

13. Elmwood Cemetery

Although it may be an unconventional destination, Elmwood Cemetery is certainly worth a visit. Established in 1852, it holds the title of the oldest active cemetery in Memphis and is one of the earliest rural garden cemeteries in the South. Fans of crime writer John Grisham may recognize it from a scene in the 1993 film “The Firm.”

The historic grounds feature an impressive Entry Bridge and Carpenter-Gothic Office Cottage. Along with being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Elmwood also serves as an official Bird Sanctuary and Arboretum, offering serene strolls beneath the cemetery’s ancient oak and magnolia trees.

14. Pink Palace Museum

The Pink Palace Museum is a remarkable educational facility filled with science and history exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages, including an IMAX theater and planetarium. Its vast size makes it one of the largest centers of its kind in the Southeastern United States.

Among the many attractions are recreations of Clarence Saunders’ Piggly Wiggly, the first self-service grocery store in the U.S., alongside dioramas, exhibits, and audio-visual displays that illustrate the cultural and natural history of the Mid-South. With a variety of touring exhibits presented year-round, the museum offers plenty of opportunities for family learning and enjoyment.

15. Slave Haven / Burkle Estate Museum

This educational museum serves as an extraordinary exploration of the history of slavery in mid-1800s Memphis, when the city was Tennessee’s largest slave trading hub.

Jacob Burkle, a German immigrant involved with the anti-slavery movement, provided refuge for fleeing slaves by hiding them in his home. Through guided tours, visitors can explore the house and descend into dark, hidden cellars, uncovering stories of the hidden passages that offered sanctuary.

16. Bass Pro Shop

The impressive Bass Pro Shop at the Pyramid offers a unique retail experience within its colossal structure. Families can explore and enjoy an immersive environment, from the hotel and 600,000-gallon water feature to the mesmerizing aquarium and the tallest freestanding glass elevator in the country.

This destination is ideal for enthusiasts of the outdoors or anyone looking to simply engage with the range of attractions available, ensuring a fun outing for all.

17. Tom Lee Park

Located along Riverside Drive on the banks of the Mississippi River, Tom Lee Park is an excellent venue for family outings.

This 30-acre park is frequented by walkers, cyclists, and joggers, and it also hosts Memphis in May, featuring events such as the Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and live music performances. Off-season, the park offers a tranquil place to enjoy riverside strolls and stunning views of the landscape.

18. Memphis Riverboats

For an authentic view of Memphis, consider a leisurely cruise on a Paddlewheeler, where you can learn about the history of the Mississippi River.

This enjoyable sightseeing excursion lasts approximately 90 minutes, complemented by amusing and informative commentary about the river’s rich heritage.

19. Tastin’ Round Town

For a true culinary experience in Memphis, consider participating in a food tasting tour. Tastin’ Round Town showcases the city’s vibrant culinary scene, known as the birthplace of blues and soul barbecue.

Select from various tours featuring modern, award-winning chefs or delicious, historic family-owned restaurants. Each three-hour tour includes tastings at four to six restaurants, providing insight into the culture, history, and entertainment of this remarkable Mississippi Delta city.

20. Children’s Museum of Memphis

The Children’s Museum of Memphis is an engaging and hygienic venue featuring over 30 permanent exhibits, along with rotating interactive displays and programs. The museum’s mission focuses on creating memorable learning experiences through play.

Your children will have the opportunity to engage in various hands-on activities, including role-playing in a supermarket and a fire truck, or constructing with Lego. The facility is tailored to keep young minds occupied, with food options available on-site, including juices and sandwiches.

21. The Memphis Zoo

This delightful zoo, established in 1906, currently houses over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 species. Among its attractions are the beloved resident pandas, making Memphis Zoo one of only four American zoos to feature these charming creatures.

The zoo is well-maintained, and the staff provides exceptional assistance to enhance the experience. Visitors are encouraged to explore the various concessions available, or relax with a picnic in the designated areas.

22. The National Ornamental Metal Museum

This unique institution focuses on the preservation and exhibit of historical and contemporary metalwork. It stands as a one-of-a-kind facility, dedicated to metal arts, and is worth visiting for actively engaging with metalwork artists.

The museum also provides educational facilities and training opportunities, allowing visitors to interact with apprentices involved in this craft. Following your visit, unwind by the river, surrounded by nature beneath the oak trees.

23. Fire Museum of Memphis

Approaching the Fire Museum, visitors are greeted by the Memorial Wall, a poignant tribute to fallen Memphis firefighters, which is a compelling 22 feet high and 25 feet wide.

The museum offers interactive displays, with activities designed especially for children under 10, providing exciting experiences such as simulating fire scenarios and dressing in firefighter gear. The variety of engaging exhibits ensures family members of all ages will leave with lasting memories.

24. Blues City Cafe

Blues City Café is the place to savor delicious food accompanied by live music after 9 PM. Since its launch in 1991, the café has built a reputation for its delectable ribs, steaks, catfish, tamales, and indulgent desserts.

As it proudly carries the title of being the ‘No.1 business at the No. 1 tourist attraction in Tennessee,’ the café frequently showcases talented musicians, including notable artists like BB King, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Kid Rock.

The entire family can indulge in the café’s culinary offerings, with an evening of entertainment welcoming kids to the Cadillac Room, a lively space which opens to adults to enjoy live performances.

25. Cotton Exchange Building

The Cotton Exchange Building is a significant historical site in Memphis, reflecting the city’s legacy in cotton trading. Visitors can gain insightful information about the trading practices that shaped the region’s economy and culture.

Now accessible to the public, the museum provides engaging activities for children and an informative experience for the entire family, spurred by enthusiastic staff who are eager to share the importance of this commodity in America’s history.