Discover Memphis, TN: 15 Must-See Tourist Attractions for Music, History, & Fun

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythm of Memphis, TN? This city, renowned as a melting pot of music, history, and fun, beckons visitors with a tapestry of iconic attractions that celebrate its rich cultural heritage.

From the hallowed halls of Graceland, where Elvis Presley’s legacy lives on, to the soul-stirring beats of Beale Street, known as the “Home of the Blues,” Memphis offers an unforgettable journey through America’s musical soul. Dive into the poignant history at the National Civil Rights Museum, or marvel at the giant pandas at the Memphis Zoo.

Whether you’re exploring the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll at Sun Studio or enjoying outdoor adventures at Shelby Farms Park, Memphis promises an experience that blends fascination and fun in equal measure. Join us as we uncover the top 15 must-see tourist attractions that make Memphis a destination like no other.

1. Graceland: Elvis Presley’s former estate and a museum showcasing his life and career.

Graceland, located in Memphis, is the iconic mansion that was once the home of Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Purchased by Elvis in 1957, the 14-acre estate has become a pilgrimage site for fans from around the world.

Visitors can tour the luxurious mansion, which retains the style and opulence of the era when Elvis lived there, featuring rooms like the famous Jungle Room with its Polynesian-themed decor and shag carpets. Graceland offers a rich display of Elvis’s artifacts, including his dazzling stage costumes, gold records, and personal memorabilia that chronicle his rise to fame.

The estate also houses the Meditation Garden, where Elvis, his parents, and his grandmother are buried, providing a solemn yet fitting tribute to his legacy. Additionally, the complex includes a car museum showcasing Elvis’s impressive collection, including his iconic pink Cadillac.

Adjacent to the mansion is Elvis Presley’s Memphis entertainment complex, which offers exhibits on his career, interactive displays, and dining options, making Graceland not just a museum but a comprehensive tribute to the life and career of one of the most influential figures in music history.

2. Sun Studio: Historic recording studio where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and others started their careers.

Sun Studio in Memphis is often referred to as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, owing to its pivotal role in launching the careers of some of the most legendary figures in music history. Founded by Sam Phillips in 1950, this historic recording studio became a groundbreaking venue where artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and B.B. King recorded their first hits.

The studio’s unassuming exterior belies the monumental cultural impact of the music created within its walls. Visitors can stand in the same space where Elvis recorded his first song, “That’s All Right,” and where Johnny Cash crafted his early masterpieces. The studio still retains its original recording equipment which has been meticulously preserved to reflect its 1950s glory, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the early days of rock ‘n’ roll.

Tours provide insight into the studio’s innovative techniques and the stories behind the iconic recordings that shaped modern music. Today, Sun Studio continues to serve as both a working studio and a museum, allowing visitors to experience the magic and history of the place where rock ‘n’ roll was born.

3. National Civil Rights Museum– Site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, now a museum tracing the history of civil rights.

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically assassinated in 1968. This museum tells the story of the struggle for civil rights in the United States. It has exhibits that show important events from the time of slavery through to the modern-day civil rights movement.

Visitors can see the room where Dr. King stayed and the balcony where he was shot. The museum uses photos, films, and artifacts to help people understand the fight for equality and justice. It’s a powerful place that helps everyone learn about the history and importance of civil rights.

4. Beale Street: Iconic Street Known as the “Home of the Blues,” Featuring Music Clubs, Restaurants, and Historic Venues

Beale Street, located in downtown Memphis, is one of the most famous streets in America and is often called the “Home of the Blues.” This lively and historic street is filled with music clubs, restaurants, and shops, offering a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can experience live blues music any night of the week. Iconic venues like B.B. King’s Blues Club, the Rum Boogie Café, and the Blues Hall Juke Joint keep the street alive with the sounds of Memphis blues, rock, and soul.

Beale Street is also home to historic landmarks like the W.C. Handy House, which honors the “Father of the Blues.” The street itself is a hub of cultural heritage and a popular destination for those wanting to explore Memphis’s rich musical history, enjoy Southern cuisine, and soak up the city’s electric nightlife.

5. The Peabody Memphis Hotel: Daily Duck March Where Ducks Walk Across a Red Carpet in the Hotel Lobby

The Peabody Memphis Hotel is luxurious and historic in downtown Memphis, famous for its unique daily Duck March. Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., a small group of ducks marches from their rooftop “Duck Palace” to the lobby fountain, walking down a red carpet in a charming and time-honored tradition. Led by the Duckmaster in a red jacket, this spectacle has delighted guests for nearly 90 years.

The tradition started in the 1930s and has become a beloved attraction, drawing crowds who gather to watch the ducks waddle their way through the elegant hotel lobby. The Peabody is not only known for this delightful parade but also its rich history, grand architecture, and world-class service, making it a must-see landmark in Memphis.

6. Memphis Zoo: One of the Few Zoos in the US with Giant Pandas, Featuring a Wide Variety of Animals and Habitats

The Memphis Zoo is a popular family attraction known for being one of the few zoos in the United States that houses giant pandas. Located in Overton Park, the zoo is home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 species.

Visitors can explore diverse habitats like the Northwest Passage, where polar bears and sea lions reside, and Cat Country, which features lions, tigers, and cheetahs. The zoo also includes interactive exhibits like Butterflies: In Living Color, which showcases beautiful, free-flying butterflies.

With its engaging animal displays and educational programs, the Memphis Zoo provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

7. Stax Museum of American Soul Music: This Museum Is Dedicated to Soul Music History and the Influential Stax Records Label

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, located on the site of the original Stax Records in Memphis, is a vibrant tribute to the history of soul music. The museum features a rich collection of over 2,000 artifacts, including instruments, costumes, and records that tell the story of Stax Records and its legendary artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the M.G.’s.

Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the roots of soul music, including a replica of the original recording studio and a century-old Mississippi Delta church that showcases the connection between gospel and soul. The museum’s engaging displays and immersive audio experiences celebrate the profound impact of Stax Records on American music and culture.

8. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum: Smithsonian-Affiliated Museum Chronicling the Birth of Rock and Soul Music in Memphis

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, created by the Smithsonian Institution, chronicles the birth and evolution of rock and soul music in Memphis. Located on Beale Street, the museum offers an in-depth look at the pioneers who shaped these genres from the 1930s through the 1970s.

With seven galleries and an interactive audio tour featuring 100 songs, visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the early days of Memphis music, the influence of Sun Records, and the rise of soul and rock ‘n’ roll. The museum includes a collection of instruments, costumes, and memorabilia that tell the story of how Memphis became a crucial center for the development of American music.

9. Shelby Farms Park: Large Urban Park with Trails, Lakes, Playgrounds, and Outdoor Activities

Shelby Farms Park is a vast urban green space in Memphis, spanning 4,500 acres—making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for all ages, including over 40 miles of trails for hiking and biking, 20 lakes for paddle boating and kayaking, and several playgrounds, including the popular Woodland Discovery Playground.

The park also features the Treetop Adventure Course, an exciting aerial course with ziplines and rope bridges. For dog owners, there is a spacious off-leash dog park known as The Outback. Shelby Farms Park provides ample opportunities for picnics, disc golf, horseback riding, and seasonal events, making it a perfect destination for family fun and outdoor adventures.

10. Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, Burkle Estate: Historic Home Used as a Station on the Underground Railroad to Aid Escaped Slaves

The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, located at the Burkle Estate in Memphis, offers a poignant glimpse into the history of the Underground Railroad. Built in 1849 by German immigrant Jacob Burkle, this modest home was secretly used as a haven for escaped slaves seeking freedom in the North.

Visitors to the museum can explore hidden tunnels and trap doors used to conceal fugitives and learn about the secret communication methods and routes used by those escaping slavery. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts and narratives that provide insight into the lives of escaped slaves and the courageous efforts of abolitionists who assisted them.

The Slave Haven Museum is an important historical site that educates visitors about the vital role Memphis played in the Underground Railroad.

11. AutoZone Park: Minor League Baseball Stadium and Venue for Soccer Matches and Other Events

AutoZone Park, situated in downtown Memphis, is a state-of-the-art minor league baseball stadium known for its intimate setting and fan-friendly atmosphere. Home to the Memphis Redbirds, the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, the park also hosts soccer matches for Memphis 901 FC.

With a seating capacity of 10,000, AutoZone Park offers a range of modern amenities, including a large video board, luxury suites, and family-friendly picnic areas. The stadium is conveniently located near Beale Street, making it a popular spot for sports fans to enjoy a game while experiencing the vibrant energy of Memphis.

In addition to baseball and soccer, AutoZone Park hosts various community events, concerts, and family activities throughout the year.

12. Memphis Botanic Garden: Extensive Gardens, Including Japanese and Iris Gardens, with Seasonal Events and Concerts

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a lush, 96-acre oasis offering a rich variety of themed gardens and seasonal activities. Among its many highlights are the Japanese Garden of Tranquility, featuring a serene pond, red drum bridge, and traditional Japanese landscaping, and the Tennessee Bicentennial Iris Garden, known for its beautiful iris blooms.

The garden also hosts numerous seasonal events, including the popular “Live at the Garden” summer concert series at the Radians Amphitheater, which features performances by well-known artists. Visitors can explore trails winding through over 20 unique gardens, enjoy feeding koi fish in the Asian Garden Pond, and participate in educational programs and workshops.

The Memphis Botanic Garden provides a tranquil setting for nature lovers and a vibrant venue for community gatherings and cultural events.

13. FedEx Forum: Major Sports and Entertainment Arena Hosting NBA Games, Concerts, and Other Events

The FedEx Forum is a premier sports and entertainment arena located in downtown Memphis, serving as the home of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies and the University of Memphis Tigers men’s basketball team.

This modern venue, with a seating capacity of 18,000, also hosts a variety of events, including concerts by top musical acts, comedy shows, and professional wrestling. Its central location on Beale Street places it at the heart of Memphis’s entertainment district, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the area.

The arena features state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable seating, and excellent sightlines from every angle, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all attendees. The FedEx Forum is a vibrant hub for sports and entertainment in Memphis, attracting fans and performers from around the world.

14. Crystal Shrine Grotto: Unique Underground Cavern Adorned with Crystals and Religious Sculptures

The Crystal Shrine Grotto, located within the Memphis Memorial Park Cemetery, is a fascinating underground cavern crafted by Mexican artist Dionicio Rodriguez in the 1930s. This unique attraction is adorned with intricate religious sculptures and colorful crystals embedded in the walls and ceilings. The grotto’s design is inspired by Biblical scenes and Christian symbols, creating a serene and reflective space for visitors.

Outside the grotto, visitors can admire the “Abraham’s Oak,” a striking 15-foot-tall sculpture also created by Rodriguez. The Crystal Shrine Grotto is not just a place of memorial but also a site for celebrations and community events, including weddings and sunrise services. Its artistic beauty and spiritual ambiance make it a distinctive landmark in Memphis.

15. Children’s Museum of Memphis: Interactive Exhibits and Activities for Children, Including a Carousel and Arts Experiences

The Children’s Museum of Memphis (CMOM) is a vibrant and engaging space designed to inspire learning and creativity in young visitors. This hands-on museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a kid-sized cityscape with a pretend grocery store, auto mechanic shop, and dentist office.

Children can explore the flight simulator, climb through a giant model of the human heart, and even ride a bicycle on a simulated Martian landscape. One of the museum’s highlights is the historic 1909 Dentzel Grand Carousel, offering a whimsical ride experience.

CMOM also includes an art studio for painting and sculpting, a circus-themed area, and numerous play zones that encourage imaginative play and exploration. The museum provides a fun, educational environment where children and families can enjoy a day of interactive learning and entertainment.

Conclusion

Memphis, Tennessee, offers a diverse array of attractions, making it a vibrant destination for music lovers, history enthusiasts, and families. Visitors can explore Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic home, and Sun Studio, where rock ‘n’ roll legends recorded their first hits. The National Civil Rights Museum provides an insightful journey through the Civil Rights Movement, situated at the historic Lorraine Motel.

Beale Street is alive with blues music, bustling clubs, and shops, while the Peabody Memphis Hotel entertains with its famous Duck March. Families will enjoy the Memphis Zoo with its giant pandas and the interactive Children’s Museum of Memphis.

For outdoor adventures, Shelby Farms Park offers trails and activities, and the Memphis Botanic Garden provides a serene retreat. Music history continues at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.

AutoZone Park hosts exciting baseball and soccer games, while the FedEx Forum is the go-to venue for major sports and entertainment events. The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum tells the powerful story of escaped slaves, and the Crystal Shrine Grotto captivates with its crystal-adorned underground cavern.

Memphis blends cultural heritage, musical legacy, and recreational fun, making it a compelling place to visit.

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Discover Memphis, TN: 15 Must-See Tourist Attractions for Music, History, & Fun