24 Hours in Memphis
Exploring new places and experiencing different cultures can bring joy and inspiration. That’s why I want to take you on a journey through the vibrant city of Memphis, Tennessee. 24 hours in Memphis, Are you ready?
Memphis is one of America’s most influential music cities, known for its connection to Elvis Presley, blues history, and the Mississippi River. This 24 Hours in Memphis itinerary shows you exactly what to do in one day, including iconic music landmarks, historic sites, and where to spend the evening.
If you have limited time, this guide helps you prioritize the essential stops and experience the heart of Memphis efficiently.
Key Takeaways
- In 24 hours in Memphis, prioritize Sun Studios, the National Civil Rights Museum (Lorraine Motel), Beale Street, and Graceland.
- Plan food around classic Memphis staples, barbecue, and Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, then add a local dessert stop.
- End the day at the Mississippi Riverfront (Tom Lee Park) for an easy walk and a strong sunset view near downtown.
- For where to stay, downtown hotels simplify a one-day itinerary, the Peabody Hotel adds a classic Memphis experience, and Big Cypress Lodge offers a unique option.
- The best seasons for a Memphis visit are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) for comfortable weather and outdoor events.
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When you’re ready to spend 24 hours in Memphis, or maybe more, find great hotel options here.
24 Hours in Memphis Itinerary Quick Schedule
Memphis is a city filled with history, culture, and soul. With only 24 hours to spare, here are some must-do activities that will give you a taste of this dynamic city.
Morning
Visit Sun Studios → Explore the National Civil Rights Museum
Afternoon
Walk downtown → Visit Memphis riverfront
Evening
Dinner on Beale Street → Live music → Sunset by the Mississippi River
This schedule balances music history, cultural landmarks, and Memphis’s most walkable areas.
Getting Around Memphis
- Walk: Best for Beale Street, riverfront, and most downtown attractions.
- Trolley: Useful for traveling between downtown landmarks.
- Uber or Lyft: Recommended for Sun Studios, Graceland, or locations outside downtown.
- Drive: Helpful if visiting multiple neighborhoods in one day.
Downtown Memphis is compact, making it easy to explore efficiently.
Map-Friendly List of Stops (In Order)
Use this sequence to minimize travel time:
- Sun Studios
- National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel
- Downtown Memphis walking area
- Mississippi Riverfront
- Beale Street
This order follows a logical geographic flow through the city.
One Day in Memphis Activites
Morning: Visit Sun Studios
What It Is
Sun Studios is the historic recording studio where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and B.B. King recorded early music.
Why Go
It is one of the most important music landmarks in the United States and provides insight into Memphis’s role in shaping modern music.
Time Needed
45 to 60 minutes
Pro Tip
Arrive early in the morning to secure your preferred tour time.
Sun Studio Tickets and Access
- Adult tickets: Approximately $15
- Youth discounts: Available
- Children: Free under a certain age (check official site)
- Tours: Guided tours offered throughout the day
- Entry: First-come, first-served for most tours
Check the official Sun Studio website for current pricing and tour availability.
National Civil Rights Museum
Late Morning: National Civil Rights Museum
What It Is
The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
I highly recommend a visit while you’re in Memphis. Not only is it a deeply moving experience, but to this day, it is still one of the most traumatic events in our history.
Why Go
It provides a comprehensive and powerful overview of the American Civil Rights Movement.
Time Needed
1.5 to 2 hours
Pro Tip
Allow enough time to experience the full museum exhibits, as they provide essential historical context.
One Day in Memphis Afternoon Activites
Afternoon: Explore Downtown Memphis
What It Is
Downtown Memphis includes historic streets, shops, restaurants, and access to the Mississippi River.
Why Go
Downtown Memphis includes historic streets, shops, restaurants, and access to the Mississippi River.
It offers walkable access to major attractions and provides a sense of Memphis’s character and atmosphere.
Time Needed
1 to 2 hours
Pro Tip
Take your time walking toward the riverfront for scenic views.
Afternoon: Mississippi Riverfront
What It Is
The Memphis riverfront provides views of the Mississippi River and open walking areas.
Why Go
It offers scenic views and a quieter contrast to the busy downtown streets.
Time Needed
30 to 60 minutes
Pro Tip
Visit in late afternoon or sunset for the best lighting and views.
Evening: Beale Street
What It Is
Beale Street is Memphis’s most famous entertainment district, known for live blues music, restaurants, and nightlife.
Why Go
It is the best place to experience Memphis’s music culture in one location.
Time Needed
2 to 3 hours
Pro Tip
Visit multiple venues to experience different musicians and styles.
How to Prioritize Based on Your Interests
If You Love Music
Prioritize:
- Sun Studios
- Beale Street
- Mississippi Riverfront
These locations showcase Memphis’s musical heritage.
If You Care About History
Prioritize:
- National Civil Rights Museum
- Sun Studio
- Downtown Memphis walking areas
These stops provide cultural and historical context.
If You Are Traveling With Kids
Prioritize:
- Riverfront walking areas
- Downtown Memphis
- Beale Street during early evening hours
These locations offer flexible pacing and open space.
More Weekend Trip Ideas
If you enjoy short city trips, you may also like:
window.fd(‘form’, { formId: ’69c97535f127ec11ec1ecf17′, containerEl: ‘#fd-form-69c97535f127ec11ec1ecf17’ });Frequently Asked Questions About 24 Hours in Memphis
What’s the best itinerary for 24 hours in Memphis?
A strong one-day Memphis plan is Sun Studio, the National Civil Rights Museum, and a walk on Beale Street for live music and food. Then add Graceland if you want a major music landmark. Finish at the Mississippi Riverfront (Tom Lee Park) to end the day downtown.
Is the National Civil Rights Museum worth visiting on a short trip?
Yes. The museum includes the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stayed and was shot in 1968. The exhibits are educational and emotional, so it’s a high value stop even with limited time.
What are the best food stops to try in Memphis in one day?
For breakfast, try the Arcade Restaurant (biscuits and gravy) or Brother Juniper’s (pancakes).
Lovers of classic Memphis barbecue, should head over to Central BBQ and Rendezvous, because they are popular choices.
If you are a fan of fried chicken then one of my favorite’s is Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken.
Where should I stay if I only have one day in Memphis?
Downtown lodging makes it easier to move quickly between major spots. Some excellent choices include the Peabody Hotel (and its duck march), Sheraton Downtown Memphis Hotel on Main Street, and Big Cypress Lodge inside Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. You may also like the Residence Inn, which is where we stayed recently and they have excellent customer service.
What’s the best time of year to visit Memphis?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best picks because the weather is pleasant and outdoor events are common. Summer can run over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter is colder but has holiday events.
Ideas for a Weekend in Memphis Itinerary
As was previously stated, if you want to have a different experience with your 24 hours in Memphis or you have more time to explore, here are some other ideas for you.
- Visit Graceland
- Check Out the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
- Enjoy the Duck March at the Peabody Hotel
- Visit the Larger Than Life Bass Pro Shop
24 Hours in Memphis Itinerary Summary
Spending 24 hours in Memphis gives you enough time to visit Sun Studio, explore the National Civil Rights Museum, walk along the Mississippi River, and experience Beale Street’s live music scene.
Following a structured itinerary helps you experience Memphis’s most important landmarks while keeping travel time efficient.
Memphis offers a unique combination of music history, cultural significance, and walkable downtown attractions, making it an excellent destination for a short visit.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Memphis and get ready to have the time of your life! And don’t forget to share your experiences with me – I would love to hear about your 24 hours in this fantastic city. Happy travels!
Finally, whatever you decide to do in Memphis, have fun! Also, if you have other cool ideas of what to do in Memphis, we would love to hear from you. So please leave a comment.
Of course, if you’re looking for more inspiration, like 24 hours in Memphis, check out these posts. Top Attractions to See in One Day in Chicago, as well as Fun Things to Do in Houston.
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A Note from Lisa
I’m Lisa, the creator behind FollowSoots.com. I’ve been traveling extensively since 2018 and have visited more than 50 countries across five continents. When I create Pretty Places guides, I focus on destinations that feel beautiful, memorable, photo-friendly, and realistic to explore. My goal is to inspire people to rediscover beauty, creativity & wonder in this world!
