Memphis: Blues, BBQ, and Beale Street Fun

Memphis: Where family fun and music history meet!

19 July 2023

A family trip to Memphis offers a unique blend of history, music, and delicious food. Start by exploring the iconic Graceland, home of Elvis Presley, where kids can learn about the King of Rock 'n' Roll. The Memphis Zoo, with its wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits, is a great option for a fun-filled day, followed by indulging in mouthwatering barbecue at one of the city's renowned restaurants.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Blues, BBQ, and Beale Street Delights

  • Start your day with a finger-licking breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant, where Elvis himself used to dine!
  • Dive into the heart of Memphis music at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, where rhythm and soul collide in a funky melody.
  • Feel like a rock 'n' roll legend as you tour Sun Studio, the birthplace of Elvis's groundbreaking career and countless other iconic musicians.
  • Treat your taste buds to a lip-smacking BBQ lunch at Central BBQ, where smoky flavors dance on your tongue like a Memphis soul shuffle!
  • Enjoy an evening stroll down Beale Street, the vibrant artery of the city, alive with the sounds of blues, jazz, and the undeniable spirit of Memphis.
Day 2

History, Peabody Ducks, and Riverfront Magic

  • Immerse yourself in Memphis history at the National Civil Rights Museum, where powerful exhibits recount the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement.
  • Catch the world-famous Peabody Ducks, as these dapper web-footed celebrities waddle their way through the opulent lobby of the Peabody Hotel.
  • Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise down the mighty Mississippi River, where the traditional sounds of a calliope will transport you to a bygone era.
  • Visit the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, a mesmerizing tribute to the innovators who shaped the unique musical landscape of Memphis.
  • Savor a savory dinner at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, where each perfectly juicy bite transports you to a Southern food lover's paradise.
Day 3

Wildlife Encounters and Soulful Farewells

  • Start your day getting up close and personal with the eclectic inhabitants of the Memphis Zoo, from playful pandas to majestic lions.
  • Explore the vibrant and artistic vibe of Cooper-Young, a hip neighborhood featuring charming boutiques, colorful street art, and cozy cafes.
  • Enjoy a soulful brunch at The Beauty Shop, a quirky eatery housed in a former hair salon, where flipping pancakes is an art form.
  • Pay homage to the King at Graceland, Elvis Presley's opulent mansion, where you can step back in time and marvel at his incredible musical legacy.
  • Bid farewell to Memphis with a delectable dinner at The Majestic Grille, a historic movie theater turned restaurant, where savoring every bite feels like a grand finale.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Memphis

Welcome to the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, the home of the blues, and the land of some seriously delicious barbecue. Get ready to have a hunka hunka good time in this musical mecca.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Romantic Weekend in Memphis: Music, Food, and Fun

Memphis, with its bluesy charm and rich musical heritage, is an ideal destination for a romantic trip. From strolling along the scenic Mississippi River to exploring the historical Graceland mansion, there's plenty to do and see in this vibrant city. Culinary delights await with world-famous BBQ and classic soul food, while the lively nightlife offers great music and cocktails.

The Ultimate 4-Day Memphis Adventure!

A trip to Memphis, United States as a tourist is an opportunity to steep yourself in blues music history with tours to iconic music landmarks like Sun Studio, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. Activity is plentiful in Memphis with options like barbecue sampling, strolls along the Mississippi River, and a visit to the Memphis Zoo, among others. Explore the city's arts scene at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, catch a performance at the Orpheum Theatre, or shop and dine in trendy neighborhoods like Midtown and Cooper-Young.

Four Fun Days of Memphis Music and BBQ

A trip to Memphis on a limited budget can be both fun and wallet-friendly. Start by visiting the iconic Beale Street for live music and delicious Southern cuisine. Catch a glimpse of Elvis Presley’s legendary estate, Graceland, by visiting during off-peak hours and opting for a self-guided tour. Lastly, explore the city’s art and history scene at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and the National Civil Rights Museum.