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?
If you’re considering a short trip or a weekend getaway to Memphis, Tennessee, you’re in for a treat! This lively city is packed with exciting things to see and do. During my last visit, I had only a weekend to spare, so I focused on the city’s musical heritage with a touch of the culinary scene, as a tribute to my Mom’s memory. If you’re an Elvis Presley or Blues fan, or a foodie like me, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. But fear not, Memphis has more to offer, and I’ll be sure to sprinkle in a few additional suggestions for your stay.
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When you’re ready to spend 24 hours in Memphis, or maybe more, find great hotel options here.
Must Do Memphis Activities in One Day
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.
Visit Sun Studios
If music makes your heart beat and your soul sing, why not take a whirlwind tour to the iconic Sun Studios in Memphis? Even with only 24 hours in the city, make sure to reserve some time for “The Birthplace of Rock’n’roll”. Trust me, you’ll feel the rhythm and melody in the air as soon as you step into the studio that Elvis, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison once graced.
Fancy a trip down memory lane? Grab a fizzy drink at the nostalgic soda counter, explore music memorabilia at the gift shop, and take the awe-inspiring tour to fully appreciate the historic magnitude of this place. If you’re planning a weekend getaway, you’ll be pleased to know that tours are offered seven days a week, making it super convenient for your schedule.
Affordability? Absolutely! Adult tickets are priced at $20, with a handy $2 discount for Youth (12-18). Kiddos aged 5-11 are $15, children under five are unable to tour the studio. But hey, here’s a tip: tickets are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so plan accordingly. Don’t miss out on a beat in Memphis!
National Civil Rights Museum
Memphis holds a crucial place in history, serving as a battleground for civil rights activists. It was where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his final speech before his assassination in 1968.
One of the must-visit sites is the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King stayed and was shot. It is now part of the National Civil Rights Museum, a complex that includes other buildings with historical significance, such as the rooming house from which James Earl Ray assassinated Dr. King. Its exhibits and interactive displays are both educational and emotional, making it an important stop on any trip to Memphis.
Today, visitors can learn about this significant movement through museums, tours, and landmarks scattered throughout the city. If you have additional time another great choice is the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum.
Take a Walk on Beale Street – Home of the Blues
Beale Street is the heart and soul of Memphis. This iconic street is filled with lively cafes, blues clubs, and BBQ restaurants. Spend an afternoon strolling down Beale Street, listening to live music pouring out of every establishment. Don’t forget to stop by A. Schwab’s, one of the oldest general stores in America, for some souvenirs and a taste of nostalgia.
For a unique experience, head to Rum Boogie Cafe, where you can listen to blues and rock music while enjoying delicious BBQ ribs. One of our favorites is the Blues City Cafe, another popular spot, known for its lively atmosphere and mouth-watering Memphis-style BBQ. We really enjoyed Dyer’s Burger’s too. They are still serving the same delicious burgers since they began in 1912.
Music and Memphis
Memphis is known as the birthplace of blues music, giving it a rich musical heritage that continues to thrive today. Beale Street is home to numerous blues clubs where you can catch live performances and dance the night away.
But blues is not the only music genre in Memphis. The city is also famous for its gospel and soul music, with artists like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin making their mark here. You can learn more about these legends by visiting Graceland, Presley’s former home turned museum, or Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
Visit the Iconic Graceland
No trip to Memphis is complete without paying homage to the King of Rock’n’Roll himself. Located just 9 miles from downtown, Graceland is Elvis Presley’s former home and now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
The mansion tour will take you through the extensive house, including the famous Jungle Room, Elvis’ trophy building, and his final resting place in the Meditation Garden. You can also explore other exhibits on the property, such as Elvis’ car collection and his personal airplanes. Visiting Graceland is a must for any music lover or pop culture enthusiast.
Indulge in Some Fabulous Memphis Food
Memphis is a food lover’s paradise, with its unique flavors and mouth-watering dishes. For breakfast, try the famous biscuits and gravy at Arcade Restaurant or indulge in some fluffy pancakes at Brother Juniper’s.
Memphis is known for its mouth-watering barbecue, and no visit here is complete without trying some. Make your way to one of the many legendary BBQ joints in town, such as Central BBQ, Rendezvous, or Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous. Each spot has its own unique twist on classic BBQ dishes like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.
If BBQ is not your thing, then check out Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken! Since we only had only 24 hours in Memphis on our first visit, we went to Gus’s. Not only is the chicken outstanding, but the service is fantastic.
The fried chicken is not too greasy and it was so moist, with a nice, hot spiciness that is perfect. Please keep in mind that Gus’s chicken is not the same as Nashville’s Hot Chicken; Gus’s is special. Get ready to enjoy some crispy and spicy goodness.
And if you have room for dessert, don’t miss out on the scrumptious pies at Ms. Polly’s Cake Giants or some creamy gelato at Jerry’s Sno Cones. Or better yet, head over to Gibson’s Donuts, serving up the best donuts in America since 1967 (their words, not mine) 24 hours a day.
Explore the Mississippi Riverfront and watch the Sunset
The Mississippi River is a significant part of Memphis’s history and culture. Take a stroll along the riverfront, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a riverboat cruise to see the city from a different perspective. You can also visit Mud Island, an interactive park that showcases the history and importance of the Mississippi River.
After enjoying the perfect meal at Gus’s, we decided to walk along Riverside Drive in Tom Lee Park. The park is named after Tom Lee, a fantastic man and true hero. Tom Lee, an African American riverworker, saved the lives of 32 passengers after witnessing the M.E. Norman Steamboat capsize in 1925.
Even though Tom Lee could not swim, he used his small boat to return to the steamboat multiple times to rescue as many passengers as possible, even after nightfall. Tom Lee died of cancer in 1952, and in 1954, not only did the city of Memphis name the park in Tom Lee’s honor, but it also had a granite obelisk erected in his memory.
The park space here is lovely, not to mention a great place to watch the sunset. The location is also just a short walk back over to Beale Street.
Additional Tips for Planning Your Memphis Weekend Trip
Places to Stay in Memphis
From luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, Memphis has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. For a taste of Southern hospitality, stay at the historic Peabody Hotel, where you can witness the famous duck march every day.
🤩 Check Peabody Hotel Prices and Availability!
We chose to stay at the Sheraton Downtown Memphis Hotel on Main Street because it was a perfect location to explore as much as we could quickly. In addition, the Sheraton is dog-friendly, and they don’t even charge a pet fee! Please note that they only allow dogs up to 65 pounds.
🤩 Check Sheraton Downtown Hotel Prices and Availability!
Or, for a more unique experience, book a room at the Big Cypress Lodge inside Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. You’ll feel like you are sleeping in a cabin in the middle of the wilderness without sacrificing any modern comforts.
🤩 Check Big Cypress Lodge Prices and Availability!
Best Ways to Get Around Memphis
To truly experience the charm of Memphis, I recommend exploring the city on foot, especially the downtown area. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, and you’ll get to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.
But if you need to travel further, there are plenty of options.
The iconic trolley cars are the best way to get around the downtown area, giving you a sense of the historic part of downtown. Or you can rent a bike from one of the many kiosk stations.
Of course, you also have the option to use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.
The Best Time to Visit Memphis
Memphis is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. However, the best time to visit would be spring, March through May, and the fall, September through November. The weather is pleasant, and many outdoor events and festivals are happening during these months.
Summer can be sweltering, with temperatures reaching over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but it’s also the perfect time to cool off in the city’s many pools or visit nearby water parks. Winter can bring colder temperatures, but the holiday season brings a festive atmosphere to Memphis with Christmas lights, markets, and events.
How Long Should You Spend in Memphis
With so much to see and do in Memphis, we recommend spending at least 24 hours to get a taste of the city’s culture and history. However, if you have more time, we suggest staying for a few days to immerse yourself in all that Memphis has to offer fully.
If you’re on a tight schedule, we recommend prioritizing must-see attractions such as Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Beale Street. But if you have more time to spare, check out other hidden gems like the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and Sun Studio.
No matter how long you stay, one thing is certain: Memphis will leave a lasting impression on you. From its rich history and vibrant music scene to its mouth-watering cuisine and friendly locals, this city is truly one of a kind. So pack your bags, book your trip, and prepare for an unforgettable 24 hours in Memphis!
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.
Check Out the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
For music lovers, the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a must-visit. This museum tells the story of Memphis’s musical heritage and impact on genres like rock, soul, and blues. With interactive exhibits and rare artifacts, you’ll get an in-depth look at the city’s contribution to American music. Plus, it’s conveniently located on Beale Street, known for its vibrant music scene and nightlife.
Enjoy the Duck March at the Peabody Hotel
The Peabody Hotel is a historic landmark in Memphis, known for its luxurious accommodations and famous resident ducks. Every day, these ducks march from their rooftop penthouse to the lobby fountain, where they spend the day swimming. It’s a quirky and charming tradition that has been a part of the hotel since the 1930s. You can catch this wonderful performance daily at 11 am and 5 pm. In addition to being great fun for the family, the hotel is also quite impressive to explore.
Visit the Larger Than Life Bass Pro Shop
Picture this: a venue inside a Pyramid, where the Memphis Grizzlies used to dominate – pretty cool, right? But wait, there’s more! This place boasts the world’s tallest freestanding elevator. It’s not just a ride, it’s an adventure. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to the most breathtaking view of Memphis and the glorious Mississippi River. A quick tip, bring your camera because you’ll definitely want to capture this moment!
24 Hours in Memphis Wrap-Up
Memphis is a city full of history, culture, and soul. With just 24 hours in Memphis, you can experience the best of what this vibrant city has to offer. From immersing yourself in the Civil Rights Movement and enjoying live music on Beale Street to indulging in delicious Southern cuisine and exploring iconic landmarks like Graceland, Memphis will leave you wanting more.
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.
Also, we are constantly working to make the blog better. We want to make sure the content we provide is informative and fun! Therefore, please leave a comment or reach out to us on our Let’s Connect page.
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