Memphis-4-day-itinerary
Memphis Itinerary: 4 Days of Soulful Fun
Day 1: Music and History
- Morning: Start at the National Civil Rights Museum (9:00 am - 5:00 pm, $16 admission) located at the site of the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
- Lunch: Head to Central BBQ (11:00 am - 9:00 pm, $$) for delicious dry-rubbed ribs and other Memphis-style barbecue favorites.
- Afternoon: Visit Sun Studio (10:00 am - 6:00 pm, $12 admission), the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and other legends recorded their first hits. Take a guided tour to learn more about the studio’s rich history.
- Evening: Check-in at The Peabody Memphis ( luxurious hotel with a rich history) or Aloft Memphis Downtown (trendy boutique hotel). End the day with live music and cocktails at Earnestine & Hazel’s (5:00 pm - 3:00 am, $), a soulful juke joint.
Day 2: Soul Food and Blues
- Morning: Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music (10:00 am - 5:00 pm, $12 admission) to learn about the history of soul music and its legendary artists like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes.
- Lunch: Savor Southern comfort food at Gus’s Fried Chicken (11:00 am - 9:00 pm, $$), a Memphis institution.
- Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Mississippi River and visit the Memphis Riverwalk, a pedestrian path with great views of the city.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Corky’s BBQ (11:00 am - 9:00 pm, $$), another Memphis barbecue staple. Then, head to Beale Street (nightlife district) for live music and people-watching.
Day 3: Outdoor Fun
- Morning: Explore the beautiful Overton Park (dawn till dusk, free admission), which features a golf course, playgrounds, and walking trails.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Young Avenue Deli (11:00 am - 10:00 pm, $$), a casual eatery with sandwiches and salads.
- Afternoon: Visit the Memphis Botanic Garden (9:00 am - 6:00 pm, $10 admission) for some serene greenery and scenic views.
- Evening: Dine at Itta Bena (5:00 pm - 10:00 pm, $$$), a contemporary American bistro with a focus on local ingredients.
Day 4: Elvis and More
- Morning: Visit Graceland (9:00 am - 5:00 pm, $30-$40 admission), the iconic home of Elvis Presley. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
- Lunch: Eat at Marlowe’s (11:00 am - 10:00 pm, $$), a restaurant located near Graceland with Southern favorites and live music.
- Afternoon: Stop by the Pink Palace Museum (9:00 am - 5:00 pm, $15 admission) for science exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium.
- Evening: End your trip with dinner at Huey’s (11:00 am - 10:00 pm, $$), a Memphis institution serving burgers and sandwiches.
Transportation
- Memphis International Airport (MEM): Fly into MEM and take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation.
- Getting Around: Use public transportation, walk, or take a taxi/Uber to get around the city.
Tips and Essentials
- Weather: Memphis can be hot in the summer and chilly in the winter. Pack accordingly.
- Tipping: 15%-20% is standard for restaurants and bars.
- Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in dimly lit spots.
- Events: Check the city’s event calendar for festivals like Memphis in May or the Soulsville USA Festival.
Other Attractions
- Memphis Zoo (9:00 am - 5:00 pm, $15 admission): Home to over 3,500 animals from around the world.
- Broad Avenue Arts District: A vibrant neighborhood with art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
- Shelby Farms Park (dawn till dusk, free admission): A massive urban park with walking trails, a lake, and picnic areas.
Enjoy your trip to Memphis!