Memphis in 3 Days: Music, Food, and Fun!

Experience the soulful vibes of Memphis without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Memphis, United States on a limited budget can still offer a fantastic experience. Start by visiting free attractions such as the National Civil Rights Museum and the Memphis Farmers Market. To save on food costs, try the local barbecue or dine at local cafes and food trucks.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Blues and BBQ

  • Check into the River Inn of Harbor Town, a charming boutique hotel overlooking the Mississippi River
  • Walk down Beale Street and stop for a drink at BB King's Blues Club
  • Head to Central BBQ for a lunch of some of the city's best ribs and pulled pork
  • Explore the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and learn about the origins of Memphis's rich musical history
  • End the day back on Beale Street for live blues at Rum Boogie Cafe
Day 2

Elvis and Civil Rights

  • Start the day with breakfast at Brother Juniper's, a local favorite for their delicious pancakes and unique omelets
  • Tour Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, and marvel at his iconic jumpsuits and collection of Cadillacs
  • Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated
  • Have lunch at The Arcade, the oldest restaurant in Memphis, known for its delicious chili and old-fashioned milkshakes
  • Take a stroll through the Overton Park Greensward and relax with a picnic in the shade
Day 3

Art and Nature

  • Start the day with breakfast at The Beauty Shop, a trendy restaurant in a converted hair salon
  • Explore the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and see works by some of the world's greatest artists
  • Spend the afternoon at the Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals, including giant pandas and polar bears
  • Have dinner at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, a Memphis classic known for their spicy and crispy chicken and mouthwatering sides
  • End the day with a beautiful sunset view of the Mississippi River from Tom Lee Park.

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

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.

A 4-day Romantic Memphis Adventure

A romantic trip to Memphis, United States offers a unique blend of Southern charm, vibrant music, and delicious cuisine. From exploring iconic landmarks like Beale Street and Graceland, to taking a romantic stroll along the Mississippi River, there are plenty of activities to do with your significant other. Indulge in traditional BBQ and soulful blues music while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the city.

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.