Memphis isn’t just a city. It’s a feeling. It’s the humid air on the Mississippi River banks, the echo of a horn on Beale Street, and the powerful, soul-deep history that’s shaped American music and culture.
People come for the barbecue (and you should), but they leave remembering something much bigger.
Get ready to walk in the footsteps of legends. This is your guide to the real Memphis, where every stop tells a story.
We’re moving past the obvious to give you the rhythm, the flavor, and the heart of Bluff City. These are the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee.
1. Pay Homage at Graceland
You can’t talk about Memphis without Elvis. Graceland isn’t just a mansion tour; it’s a pilgrimage into the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Walking through the iconic Jungle Room, seeing his dazzling jumpsuits, and standing quietly at his meditation garden is a surprisingly moving experience.
The recent Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum adds even more depth with fantastic exhibits. Yes, it’s popular and you’ll be with a crowd, but it’s done with real heart.
For music lovers, it’s the ultimate must-do in Memphis. Give yourself a half-day to see it all without feeling rushed.
2. Feel the Beat on Beale Street
Beale Street is the beating heart of Memphis. By day, it’s a historic district with shops and museums. But as the sun sets, it transforms. The neon lights flicker on, and the sound of live blues spills out of every door.
You don’t have to spend a dime to soak up the atmosphere. Just walk. Listen to the bands from the sidewalk, watch the street performers, and feel the infectious energy.
It’s loud, proud, and absolutely electric. A stroll down Beale is a top Memphis activity and the soul of the city’s musical legacy.
3. Dive Deep at the National Civil Rights Museum
Housed at the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, this museum is a powerful, essential experience. It’s not an easy visit, but it is a vital one.
The exhibits guide you through the entire history of the American Civil Rights Movement with dignity and profound clarity.
Standing in Room 306, preserved as it was in 1968, is a moment you won’t forget. The museum across the street, which includes the boarding house from which the shot was fired, adds further crucial context.
It’s educational, immersive, and emotionally stirring. This is arguably the most important place to visit in Memphis.
4. Explore the Wonders of the Memphis Zoo
Ranked consistently as one of the top zoos in America, the Memphis Zoo is a world-class attraction. It’s home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 different species.
The exhibits are beautifully designed, like Teton Trek with its grizzlies and wolves and the massive China exhibit featuring giant pandas.
The zoo is huge, so wear comfy shoes. Highlights include Cat Country, Primate Canyon, and the splash park for kids. It’s a fantastic, family-friendly day out that combines education with wonder.
For a fun break from the city’s heavier historical sites, this is a perfect choice among things to do in Memphis with family.
5. Walk the Mississippi at Tom Lee Park
After all that history and music, you might need some sky. Tom Lee Park is a sprawling, 30-acre riverfront park along the Mississippi. It’s the city’s front porch. You can watch the massive barges drift by, walk or bike the trails, and just breathe in that river air.
The park is named for a local hero who rescued 32 people from a sinking steamship in 1925. It’s a place for festivals, picnics, and spectacular sunsets.
Seeing the Big River Crossing pedestrian bridge light up at night is magical. It’s a free, peaceful, and quintessential Memphis thing to do.
6. Discover Sun Studio, The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll
This is where it all started. Sun Studio is a sacred ground for music fans. In this unassuming storefront, Sam Phillips recorded Howlin’ Wolf, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and, of course, a young Elvis Presley.
The guided tours are led by passionate storytellers who make the history come alive. You’ll stand in the very room where Elvis cut his first demo and feel the ghosts of legends.
It’s small, it’s authentic, and it crackles with energy. For any music fan, this is a non-negotiable must-see in Memphis.
7. Get Creative at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
Nestled in the beautiful, green Overton Park, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is an oasis of beauty. It’s the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee, holding a collection that spans from ancient to modern.
You’ll find Renaissance paintings, stunning decorative arts, and a strong collection of modern and contemporary pieces.
The museum itself is a work of art, and the setting in the park makes for a lovely cultural outing. It’s a quiet, inspiring space that showcases a different, refined side of the city.
8. Stroll Through History at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Tucked away in a modest house in North Memphis, this museum holds powerful secrets. The Burkle Estate, now known as Slave Haven, is believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad.
You can descend into the cramped, dark cellar where people hid, learning harrowing stories of courage and escape. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, offering a personal and impactful perspective on this painful chapter of history.
It’s a humble but profoundly moving Memphis attraction that leaves a lasting impression.
9. See the Peabody Ducks March
It might sound silly, but trust us, it’s a beloved Memphis institution. Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., the famous Peabody Ducks march from their royal duck palace on the roof, down the elevator, and across a red carpet to the lobby fountain.
People gather early to get a good spot. The Duckmaster tells the story, and it’s a moment of pure, whimsical joy. Grab a spot in the grand lobby of the historic Peabody Hotel, enjoy the live music, and witness this charming 90-year-old tradition. It’s a unique and fun thing to do in Memphis TN.
10. Learn at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
If Sun Studio is rock ‘n’ roll’s birthplace, Stax is the temple of soul. Located on the original site of Stax Records, this museum celebrates the gritty, powerful sound that defined an era. Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the M.G.’s all recorded here.
The museum is fantastic, with interactive exhibits, flashy costumes, and even Isaac Hayes’ custom Cadillac.
The energy is joyful and celebratory. You’ll leave with a deep appreciation for the community and creativity that fueled this iconic label. It’s a soulful highlight on any Memphis itinerary.
11. Enjoy the Greenery at the Memphis Botanic Garden
Spanning 96 acres in Audubon Park, the Memphis Botanic Garden is a living rainbow. With over 20 specialty gardens, there’s always something in bloom.
Wander through the serene Japanese Garden, smell the roses in the formal garden, or explore the whimsical Big Backyard children’s garden.
It’s a place of peace and natural beauty. They host concerts, festivals, and art exhibits throughout the year. For a leisurely, fragrant, and beautiful stroll, this is a top choice for outdoor activities in Memphis.
12. Experience the Charm of South Main Arts District
For a taste of Memphis’ modern, creative side, head to the South Main Arts District. Just south of downtown, this walkable neighborhood is lined with beautifully restored buildings housing art galleries, boutiques, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
On the last Friday of every month, it comes alive for the Trolley Night Art Tour with open galleries and street performers.
The historic trolleys still run down the street, adding to the charm. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir, enjoy a great meal, and see the city’s vibrant contemporary culture.
Conclusion
Memphis gets under your skin. It’s the ache of the blues, the sizzle of great food, and the weight of history that makes you stand a little taller. This city doesn’t just entertain you; it teaches you and moves you.
Your turn. Pull on your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and open your ears. This list of the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee is your starting line. Now go write your own story on the banks of the Mississippi. The rhythm is waiting.