15 Top Tourist Attractions in Memphis, TN
Memphis, TN, United States attracts blues and rock 'n' roll fans while Nashville attracts country fans. Music lovers are drawn to this urban symphony. The strategy entails sampling Memphis BBQ and visiting the Rock 'n' Soul Museum and STAX Museum of American Soul. Watch the Peabody Ducks parade at the Peabody Hotel, a downtown tradition for nearly 90 years.
10 Mins
44 Views
December 4, 2023
Memphis, TN Discover The Best and Most Visited Places in 2025/2026
Memphis, TN, United States attracts blues and rock ‘n’ roll fans while Nashville attracts country fans. Music lovers are drawn to this urban symphony. The strategy entails sampling Memphis BBQ and visiting the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and STAX Museum of American Soul. Watch the Peabody Ducks parade at the Peabody Hotel, a downtown tradition for nearly 90 years.
Memphis is steeped in history, particularly slavery, the civil rights movement, and music. The Slave Haven–Burkle Estate Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum, which displays Dr. King’s death in the Lorraine Motel, highlight the city’s African American history.
Discover Memphis’ must-see sights and activities by browsing our top destinations. This place gave birth to famous musical genres, offering several places to celebrate them. Beale Street, Sun Studios, and Graceland are just the beginning of the audio journey.
Walk through Memphis’ cultural maze, rich with history and harmony.
1. Graceland In Memphis, TN
Graceland is the antecedent abode of the iconic Elvis Presley. In addition, it is a sacred site for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll adherents, constituting the quintessential pilgrimage. Acquired by Elvis in the annals of 1957. Moreover, this sprawling 14-acre sanctuary beckons tourists to immerse themselves in the legacy of the musical sovereign. The Odyssey entails a comprehensive exploration of his erstwhile residence—an immersion in memorabilia, and a pilgrimage to his final resting place within the Meditation Garden.
Guided sojourns through the mansion unveil the entirety of the domicile. Commencing from the stately foyer and the living chamber where Elvis regaled luminaries to the Jungle Room. Outfitted with shag carpets and Polynesian embellishments. The Trophy Building, a narrative epicenter of Elvis’s saga, unfurls a tableau encompassing Priscilla’s nuptial attire, resplendent ensembles worn by the crooner under the spotlight, an array of jewelry, accolades, and the juvenile artifacts of Lisa Marie.
2. Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Sun Studio In Memphis, TN
Embarking on a pilgrimage to Sun Studio in Memphis. Is an evocative journey through the annals of musical history. This hallowed studio serves as the crucible where luminaries like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, and Roy Orbison. Forged the nascent chapters of their illustrious careers. Not merely a relic of the past, the studio pulsates with the contemporary cadence of recording artists, including recent maestros like John Mellencamp. It offers an enthralling gaze into the alchemy of the recording process. Avail yourself of the complimentary shuttle service, conveniently connecting from Graceland and the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
Elevate the gratification derived from this magnetic allure by partaking in the Memphis City Tour coupled with Sun Studio Admission. Traverse the cityscape via a curated bus expedition, immersing yourself in the highlights, with a pit stop to witness the regal promenade of the Peabody Ducks. Cap off the adventure with an insightful tour of the hallowed grounds of Sun Studio, harmonizing the historical echoes with the contemporary rhythms of Memphis.
3. National Civil Rights Museum–Lorraine Motel
Step south from Beale Street to see the National Civil Rights Museum in the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. died in 1968. The building houses the National Civil Rights Museum and charts the history of civil rights in the US. The surviving hotel room and balcony, where King died, is marked by a mournful white wreath.
This thought-provoking museum has immersive displays and relics from important events like the Montgomery bus boycott. A cache of 250 items and 40 films tell a five-century story. Explore the history of slavery, the Civil War, its aftermath, and Jim Crow, the struggles and accomplishments of African Americans.
4. Beale Street, Memphis, TN
Beginning a stroll along Beale Street, the “Home of the Blues,” is an introduction to Memphis. This street uncovers historic landmarks including the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Now a memorial to the “Father of the Blues,” WC Handy’s former home is a tribute to the artistic origins of classic songs like the Memphis Blues and St. Louis Blues. The 1876-founded A. Schwab dry goods shop lends history to this avenue.
B.B. King, Riley King’s nickname, came from this street. Enjoy the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and other attractions in the lively atmosphere. Explore its exhibits of instruments, memorabilia, and rare sonic memoirs honoring local musicians.
The Orpheum Theatre, a cultural hub since 1928, must be visited. An immaculately preserved interior and an antique Wurlitzer organ make the theater a visual and acoustic feast for performing arts fans.
5. The Historic Peabody Memphis Hotel
Memphis’ entertainment scene spans Beale Street’s blues harmonies to Graceland’s Soundstage. Nevertheless, The Peabody Duck March at The Peabody Memphis stands out.
A scarlet carpet leads from the elevator to the lobby’s ornate fountain. The ceremonial grandeur draws a crowd. The official in a scarlet jacket with gold braid and epaulets speaks eloquently about the event. A nine-decade tradition begins in an 1869 hotel with a crescendo of gorgeous music.
The actors of this unique production live atop the hotel in a $200,000 marble and glass hideaway. In a miniature hotel, they sleep in their oasis with a fountain. Their amusing parade from their penthouse to the lobby and back daily at 11 am and 5 pm captivates spectators.
6. Memphis Zoo | Memphis, TN
After opening in 1906, the Memphis Zoo now houses around 3,500 animals from 500 species. It is one of four zoological reserves in the country that cares for giant pandas, demonstrating its dedication to biodiversity.
The Northwest Passage’s ecological haven is home to black bears, bald eagles, and ravens, as well as polar bears and sea lions. Lions, tigers, cheetahs, and antelopes rule Cat Country, a predator-prey landscape. Elephants, giraffes, penguins, and the mischievous bonobo live in diverse environments, along with a charming farm animal exhibit.
A highlight is “Butterflies: In Living Color,” a seasonal wonder from Memorial Day to October. Enjoy restaurants, rides, souvenir stores, and a learning center in addition to the fascinating fauna. Guided tours or behind-the-scenes experiences enhance your Memphis Zoo visit.
7. Soulsville at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, a unique soul music museum, replicates Stax Records’ original studio. This musical tribute museum showcases “everything soul,” including luminaries, music, and its history. This lyrical genre’s 2,500 instruments and costumes show its history.
The museum’s highlight is a meticulously preserved century-old Mississippi Delta church that shows gospel music’s roots. The Soul Train TV program dance floor’s echoes captivate visitors. Soulsville’s history is revealed by Aretha Franklin and Memphis Slim at the museum.
The Soulsville Foundation continues its musical legacy outside the museum through Stax Music Academy and Soulsville Charter School. These groups promote emerging singers and musicians, sustaining Memphis’ soulful symphony.
8. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum In Memphis, TN
Designed by the Smithsonian Institution, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum honors music pioneers from the 1930s to the 1970s. Explore seven interesting galleries with a digital audio tour and 100 songs to tell the story of each era.
Music legends’ clothes and nearly 30 instruments form a beautiful mosaic. Explore Memphis’s early musical years, Sun Records’ transformation, soulful melodies, rural music and culture, and disco’s vivacity in the museum’s displays.
This music sanctuary is part of the “Backstage Pass” savings bundle, which also includes Graceland, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum. Take a musical journey through the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum’s vivid hallways.
9. Shelby Farms Park | Memphis, TN
Shelby Farms Park’s 4,500 acres dwarf New York’s Central Park fivefold. A variety of activities for kids, adults, and dogs are available in this lush paradise. The Woodland Discovery Playground and Water Play Sprayground promise fun for kids.
For daredevils, the Treetop Adventure Course features net bridges, rope ladders, “Tarzan Swings,” and ziplines. Laser Tag and paintball satisfy adrenaline enthusiasts. Rent paddleboats and kayaks to explore the park’s 40 miles of well-paved pathways or paddle the 20 lakes. Take a guided equestrian tour to experience the park’s beauty.
On a leash or free, pets can play at the Outback Off-Leash Dog Park. Enjoy picnicking, outdoor games, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Finish your day at the park’s inviting restaurant with patio dining overlooking Hyde Lake and several food trucks. Shelby Farms Park is a vast recreation canvas waiting to be explored.
10. Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, Burkle Estate
The Burkle Estate, built by German immigrant Jacob Burkle along the Mississippi River in 1849, has a secret history. The Memphis Stockyards were housed in this modest building when Memphis, TN was the state’s main slave-trading metropolis.
Burkle secretly built vaults and passageways beneath the modest facade, unbeknownst to his slave-owning neighbors. These underground rooms were designed as refuges for slave escapees.
The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum at the Burkle Estate still reflects this history. Take a guided tour to learn escapees’ and Underground Railway operators’ complex messaging system. Explore the Deep South’s rich slave culture by following those seeking freedom. Above all, watch the hardships liberationists suffer. The Burkle Estate symbolizes the tenacity of those who sought refuge and freedom in adversity.
11. AutoZone Park | Memphis, TN
AutoZone Park, a 10,000-seat coliseum in downtown Memphis, TN, hosts the Memphis Redbirds baseball team and Memphis 901 FC. This stadium is part of the panoramic tour of the entertainment district and historic downtown, located near Beale Street.
This sports facility has won many awards, including Minor League Ballpark of the Year from Baseball America in 2009. Consider a guided tour or hosting your special event on these sacred grounds to enhance your experience. The east side Family Leisure Picnic Pavilion invites picnickers. The stadium is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for fans and visitors to enjoy AutoZone Park’s sports and architecture.
12. Memphis Botanic Garden
On 96 acres, the Memphis Botanic Garden has over 20 gardens, many of which are connected by paths from the visitor center. In the Tennessee Bicentennial Iris Garden, a sculpture of the iris goddess emerges from a reflective pool, creating a captivating atmosphere that makes it a popular location for garden weddings in a floral symphony from spring to summer.
In The Lowlands, the Delta and Pollinator Gardens, Delta House, and Living Gazebo await. The Japanese Garden of Tranquility, with its Red Drum Bridge and Moongazing Pavilion, is especially beautiful when the maple leaves turn red in fall. For a magical experience, ask the staff how to feed the colorful koi fish in the Asian garden pond.
Eleven acres of this floral wonderland are reserved for entertainment, such as a concert series at Radians Amphitheater, where Sheryl Crow has performed in harmony with the natural backdrop. The Memphis Botanic Garden, a beautiful and culturally significant space, invites exploration and reflection.
13. FedEx Forum
The FedEx Forum, an 18,000-seat facility in downtown Memphis, TN, is home to the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies and Memphis Tigers. This multipurpose stadium hosts wrestling, boxing, professional bull riding, and intriguing comedians and artists outside of hoops.
The forum dominates downtown with over 800,000 square feet on 14 acres. With 18,000 seats, the facility guarantees a winning experience from any angle. The forum’s proximity to Beale Street enhances its appeal in the entertainment zone.
Logistics are easy with a buffet and a five-tier parking garage run by Gossett Motors that offers 1,500 parking spots in the forum complex. The FedEx Forum offers a sensory experience in downtown Memphis, TN whether for basketball or other events.
14. Marvel at the Crystal Shrine Grotto
The Memphis Memorial Cemetery’s simple entry hides the magnificent world beyond the reflected pool and beautiful three-tiered fountain. Through the stone arches of this non-denominational cemetery with nearly a century of history, the crystal shrine grotto is revealed.
This mysterious installation by Mexican artist Dionicio Rodriguez combines quartz crystals with cement to build Christian tableaus and embed quotes in a cavern. Piped-in music complements the sculptor’s vision.
Another example of the artist’s skill is the 15-foot Abrahams Oak near the grotto entrance. From proms, graduations, and weddings to Easter sunrise services, the cemetery is a place of celebration. Memphis Memorial Cemetery’s crystal grotto and creative expressions invite people to celebrate life as well as mourn.
15. Children’s Museum of Memphis
For busy families, the Children’s Museum of Memphis (CMOM) offers a variety of interactive displays to entertain kids. A colorful metropolis featuring kid-sized auto mechanic shops and dentist offices, an interactive Times Square model, and a massive Light-Bright wall are highlights.
The adventurous can ride a bicycle on Mars, explore the Mississippi River, navigate a large heart’s arteries, and sit in a flight simulator and airplane cockpit. A thrilling big-top circus, a 1909 Dentzel Grand Carousel ride, and an art studio for painting and sculpting are all available at the museum. Special occasions increase excitement.
Snack bars and picnic areas are convenient for family outings. The Children’s Museum of Memphis promises an interactive and enjoyable experience for parents and their children.
