Memphis On A Budget: Blues, BBQ and Elvis

Discover the Blues and BBQ of Memphis without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Memphis, United States on a limited budget can still be a fun and fulfilling experience. Start by exploring the city's many free attractions, such as the Memphis Zoo and Beale Street Historic District. To save money on meals, try local food trucks or grab a BBQ sandwich from a roadside stand. Finally, consider staying in a budget hotel or hostel to stretch your dollars further.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Blues and BBQ

  • Check into the Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, a cozy and budget-friendly hotel near Beale Street
  • Get your blues fix at the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, where you can learn about the city's famed music scene
  • Take a stroll down Beale Street, the heart of Memphis' blues district, and catch a live show at one of the many venues
  • Fill up on some of the best BBQ around at Rendezvous, a local institution renowned for their dry-rub ribs
  • End the night with a drink at the Peabody Hotel, where you can watch the famous ducks march through the lobby
Day 2

History and Elvis

  • Start the day with breakfast at the Arcade Restaurant, a retro diner that's been serving up classic dishes since 1919
  • Visit the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the site of the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated
  • See where the King lived at Graceland, Elvis Presley's mansion-turned-museum filled with memorabilia and artifacts
  • Take a walk through the Memphis Botanic Garden, which features beautiful gardens and a Japanese Zen garden
  • End the day with a meal at The Beauty Shop, a funky restaurant housed in a former salon complete with retro decor and amazing food.

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.

More travel plans

Memphis in Five: A Romantic Adventure

A romantic trip to Memphis, United States, would likely include exploring the city's vibrant music and food scenes, as well as visiting key historical sites like the National Civil Rights Museum and Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley. Couples could also enjoy a sunset riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River or take a stroll through the scenic Shelby Farms Park.

Memphis Meltdown: A Funky Family Adventure in the USA

A family friendly trip to Memphis, United States offers a blend of history, music, and culture. Explore iconic attractions such as Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, where kids can learn about the life of the legendary musician. Visit the Memphis Zoo, which features a diverse range of animals and interactive exhibits, providing an entertaining and educational experience for the whole family.

5 Days of Memphis Music and Culture

A trip to Memphis, United States offers a range of exciting activities for tourists. Visitors can explore the famous Graceland estate and museum, which showcases the life and career of legendary musician Elvis Presley. Other must-see attractions include the National Civil Rights Museum and the vibrant music scene on Beale Street.

Memphis: An Epic 2-Day Musical Journey

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.