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.

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.

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.

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