The Ultimate 4-Day Memphis Adventure!
Discover Elvis Presley's home and blues in Memphis, Tennessee.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into your hotel: The Peabody Hotel is a Memphis landmark and offers a luxurious stay.
- Grab some delicious BBQ at Central BBQa Memphis staple.
- Stroll along the historic Beale Streetknown for its blues music and vibrant nightlife.
- Visit the iconic Sun Studio, where many famous musicians have recorded.
- Take a riverboat tour along the Mississippi River and enjoy the stunning views.
- Start your day with a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Take a tour of Graceland, the home of the legendary Elvis Presley.
- Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and learn about its impact on music history.
- Explore the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum and see the rich musical heritage of Memphis.
- Head to the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and appreciate the stunning art exhibitions.
- Start the day with a visit to the Shelby Farms Parkone of the largest urban parks in the United States.
- Take a bike ride along the greenline and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Visit the Memphis Zoo and get up close with some exotic animals.
- Spend the afternoon at the Memphis Botanic Garden and explore its beautiful gardens.
- Enjoy an evening of live music at the Levitt Shella free outdoor concert venue.
- Visit the Memphis Farmers Market and try some of the delicious locally grown produce.
- Head to Broad Avenue Arts District for some unique shopping experiences.
- Enjoy a delicious fried chicken meal at Gus's Fried Chickena Memphis institution.
- Spend the afternoon at the Cooper Young neighborhoodbrowse the shops and enjoy some coffee at a local cafe.
- End your day on a sweet note with some iconic Muddy's Bake Shop cupcakes.
- Memphis is known for its rich cultural heritage, music history, and delicious southern cuisine. Every day of your stay will be packed with unique experiences and will leave you with unforgettable memories!
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.