Best things to do in Memphis

Memphis Unmissables

This collection highlights the cultural and geographical landmarks of Memphis, centered on its musical heritage and the Mississippi River. It features the historic Beale Street entertainment district and the Smithsonian-developed Rock 'N Soul Museum. The list also explores the city's riverfront through the Mud Island River Park, which includes a detailed scale model of the lower Mississippi, and the historic Peabody Hotel, known for its long-standing architectural and social significance in the downtown core.

Memphis Unmissables — Map

Thomas R Machnitzki (thomas@machnitzki.c… / CC BY 3.0

A

Mississippi River Model Walk

A very interesting and peculiar attraction - a model of Mississippi river located on the Mud Island.

Adam Jones, Ph.D. / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

The Peabody Memphis

The Peabody Memphis is a historic luxury hotel in Downtown Memphis, Tennessee, opened in 1925.

C

Beale Street

A central transit point providing direct access to the historic Beale Street entertainment district, a National Historic Landmark renowned for its blues heritage and live music venues.

Egghead06 / Public domain

D

B.B. Kings Blues Club

A legendary place of great fast food and excellent music! Staying here for the evening ensures a good experience.

H. Michael Miley / CC BY-SA 2.0

E

Gibson Guitar Factory Tour

Gibson guitars are well-known all around the world. Be a part of an amazing tour around the Gibson factory.

F

Memphis Rock 'N Soul Museum

Developed by the Smithsonian Institution, this museum documents the evolution of Memphis music. Exhibits trace the journey from field hollers and sharecropper blues to the global influence of rock 'n' roll and soul.

Thomas R Machnitzki (thomas@machnitzki.c… / CC BY 3.0

G

Mississippi River Museum at Mud Island

Situated in the city's Mud Park, this museum depicts the history of Mississippi River and all concerning it.

Thomas R Machnitzki (thomas@machnitzki.c… / CC BY 3.0

H

Mud Island Park

Mud Island is a small peninsula in Memphis, Tennessee. It is bordered by the Mississippi River to the west and the Wolf River and Harbor…

I

Memphis Riverboats

Guided sightseeing tours of the Mississippi River conducted on traditional paddlewheel boats. Cruises provide historical narration regarding the river's role in the development of Memphis and views of the city skyline.

Thomas R Machnitzki / CC BY 3.0

J

Elvis Presley Memorial

Statue of the King of Rock'n'roll! What more to say?

Thomas R Machnitzki / CC BY-SA 3.0

K

The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange

The Memphis Cotton Exchange is located in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, United States, on the corner of Front Street and Union Avenue.

L

Beale Street Landing

A modern riverfront terminal and public park at the foot of Beale Street. The facility features a distinctive sod-covered roof, a playground, and serves as a docking point for river cruises.

Other Lists

Memphis Monuments & Memorials Memphis Museums & Cultural Gems Memphis Parks and Recreation