Memphis: An Epic 2-Day Musical Journey
Family Fun in Memphis: Experience Southern hospitality, history, and music in the heart of Tennessee.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Memphis, located in the southern United States, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and famous music scene. A family-friendly trip to Memphis offers a perfect blend of entertainment and educational experiences, including visits to iconic attractions such as Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, the legendary Beale Street for live music, and the Memphis Zoo renowned for its diverse animal exhibits. With a variety of family-friendly activities and delicious Southern cuisine to enjoy, Memphis guarantees an unforgettable vacation for all ages.
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- Start your day with a soulful breakfast at Arcade Restaurant, Memphis' oldest cafe, where Elvis himself used to chow down on some lip-smackin' pancakes.
- Climb aboard the Memphis Riverboats for a leisurely cruise along the mighty Mississippi River, soaking in stunning views while reliving Mark Twain's adventures.
- Visit the iconic Sun Studio, where legendary artists like Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash recorded their earliest hits, and feel the goosebumps of music history.
- Don't miss Graceland, the flamboyant abode of the King himself wander through his house, gawking at his rhinestone jumpsuits, and maybe even catch the ghost of his iconic voice.
- Wrap up the day with a finger-lickin' dinner at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, where the perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat will transport your taste buds straight to heaven.
- Dive into the blues at the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, where you can uncover the roots of this soul-stirring genre that captured the hearts of millions.
- For lunch, head to the legendary Central BBQ, where the smoky aroma alone could make a vegetarian reconsider their life choices. Sink your teeth into some lip-smackin' ribs!
- Stroll along the illuminated neon signs of Beale Street, the heartbeat of Memphis' nightlife. Lose yourself in the bluesy melodies pouring out of every jukebox and cozy bar.
- Pay homage to history at the National Civil Rights Museum, built around the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood before his untimely end.
- End your Memphis adventure with a ride on the Memphis Suspension Railway, a quirky monorail offering stunning views of the city skyline and a fitting farewell to the Bluff City.
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Memphis by plane is to fly into Memphis International Airport. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights to Memphis from major cities within the United States.
Car
If you are driving to Memphis, the main highway routes to follow are I-40, I-55, and I-240. Memphis is easily accessible by car and there are multiple public parking options available within the city.
Train
Although there is no direct train to Memphis, you can take Amtrak train to New Orleans and then take a connecting Greyhound bus to Memphis.
Boat
The Mississippi River connects Memphis to various cities along its route, however, traveling to Memphis by boat is not a common mode of transportation. The river is mainly used for cargo transportation.
Bus
Greyhound offers daily bus services to Memphis from various cities within the United States. The main bus station in Memphis is located on Airways Blvd.