Memphis 7 Day Itinerary
Memphis Travel Itinerary (7 Days)
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Memphis
- Morning: Arrive in Memphis and check-in at Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown or similar.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the National Civil Rights Museum located at the site of the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
- Walk along Beale Street, a famous entertainment district known for its blues music and lively atmosphere.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Central BBQ, a local favorite for delicious barbecue.
Day 2: Music Heritage
- Morning:
- Visit Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and other legendary musicians recorded their first hits.
- Take a guided tour of the studio and learn about its rich history.
- Afternoon: Explore the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, which showcases the city’s music heritage through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
- Evening: Catch a live music performance at Lafayette’s Music Room, a popular venue featuring local and national acts.
Day 3: History and Culture
- Morning:
- Visit the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of art from around the world.
- Explore the surrounding Overton Park, a beautiful green space with walking trails and picnic areas.
- Afternoon: Tour the Pink Palace Museum, a natural history museum featuring exhibits on science, history, and culture.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Gus’s Fried Chicken, a Memphis institution serving mouth-watering fried chicken.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventures
- Morning:
- Visit the Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals from around the world.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Overton Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
- Afternoon: Rent a bike and ride along the Mississippi River Trail, which offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Four Way Restaurant, a Memphis staple serving Southern comfort food.
Day 5: Soulful Experiences
- Morning:
- Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, dedicated to preserving the legacy of soul music.
- Take a guided tour of the historic Soulsville USA neighborhood, where Stax Records was founded.
- Afternoon: Explore the Memphis Botanic Garden, featuring beautiful gardens and a variety of plant species.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Cozy Corner Restaurant, serving delicious soul food and BBQ.
Day 6: Day Trip to the Countryside
- Morning:
- Take a day trip to the nearby town of Collierville, known for its charming small-town atmosphere.
- Visit the [Collierville Historic District](https://www.colliervilletn.gov/ historic-district), featuring beautiful antebellum homes and buildings.
- Afternoon: Explore the Shelby Farms Park, a 4,500-acre park offering hiking trails, lakes, and picnic areas.
- Evening: Return to Memphis and enjoy dinner at The Rendezvous, a famous BBQ joint.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning:
- Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions.
- Check-out of your hotel and depart Memphis.
Things to Know
- Memphis is known for its rich music heritage, so be sure to explore the city’s many music venues and landmarks.
- The city has a strong soul food tradition, so be prepared to indulge in delicious BBQ, fried chicken, and other Southern comfort foods.
- Memphis can be hot and humid during the summer months, so pack accordingly and stay hydrated.
Transportation
- Memphis International Airport (MEM) is served by most major airlines. Rent a car or take a taxi/Uber to get to your hotel.
- The city has a public transportation system, including buses and a downtown trolley.
Tips
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like Sun Studio and the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Take advantage of the city’s many free or low-cost attractions, such as the Memphis Botanic Garden and Overton Park.
- Don’t forget to try some of Memphis’ famous dry-rubbed ribs during your stay!