Memphis for Music, Food, and Fun on a Budget

Enjoy the lively music and soulful food of Memphis without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Memphis on a limited budget can be fun and affordable. Visit iconic places like Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street for free or for a minimal fee. Grab a bite at local eateries serving delicious BBQ and experience the music scene for which the city is famous.

Day trip plan

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Day

Blues, BBQ, and Beale Street

  • Start the day with a visit to the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum to learn about the city's musical history
  • Head to Central BBQ for a tasty and affordable lunch of pulled pork and ribs
  • Walk down historic Beale Street, lined with neon signs and blues clubs like B.B. King's Blues Club
  • Stop by the Memphis Music Hall of Fame to check out the exhibits dedicated to musicians like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash
  • Take in a free sunset view of the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park
  • End the night at Blues City Cafe, where live music and a plate of their famous ribs make for a perfect Memphis experience.

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 On A Budget: Blues, BBQ and Elvis

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.

Memphis: Blues, BBQ, and Beale Street Fun

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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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.

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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.