The many things to do in Memphis Tennessee is unsurpassed by any other city in the state. With some of the richest history in the nation, blues music was indirectly born from the thriving cotton industry that once flourished along the banks of the Mississippi and was traded to many ports through water transportation. Memphis culture lives through the soulful music that reverberates through the streets of Memphis exactly like it did long ago. If you love music, you’ll never run out of things to do in Memphis TN.
The civil rights movement is exceptionally documented at the National Civil Rights Museum. One of the most important things to do in Memphis Tennessee is further your knowledge about one of the most determining and influential revolutions of our time. This Memphis attractions complete with interactive exhibits and extraordinary displays, that all help to lay foundation of knowledge necessary for understanding the city in greater depth.
From the cotton fields of the Mississippi Delta to the echoing sounds of blues music, visiting Beale Street should be high on your list of things to do in Memphis. Beale Street is an exciting mix of restaurants, shops, bars and clubs where fervent music plays all day and all night. One of the most significant attractions in Memphis TN, Beale Street should be thoroughly explored and savored.
Things to do in Memphis TN include attending the huge number of Memphis Blues Fests in and around the city. Blues music is to Memphis like classical music is to a trained pianist, there is no separation. Check out the incredible International Blues Challenge in February or the Juneteenth Freedom Festival to hear the likes of local, national and international talent.
A visit to the Brooks Museum is another of the great things to do in Memphis TN. The museum is home to the greatest collection of fine arts in the state and draws art-lovers from around the world. The museum is the biggest of Memphis attractions in the art world and exhibits an outstanding collection of permanent and traveling exhibits.
Just about every rock and roll legend had, at one time or another, recorded music at Sun Studios, called the “birthplace of rock n’ roll.” Sun Studios will be at the top of your list of things to do in Memphis if you’re an Elvis fan, but also if you’re a plain, old music hound. Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis are only a handful of the illustrious rock stars that have graced the studio.
The Cotton Museum
The story of the Mississippi cotton industry inevitably turns into the tale of the birth of blues. The contributions of cotton in a cultural aspect are highlighted at the museum and have been reflected in music, art, society and literature. For a true understanding of the beginnings of blues music and the development of the cotton industry make sure to pay a visit to this highly regarded museum.
Memphis attractions include Mud Island, a perfect place to float lazily down a recreation of the Mississippi River. Things to do in Memphis Tennessee at Mud Island include a visit to the Mississippi Museum, the Riverwalk, a monorail ride, concerts and more.
Perhaps the biggest of attractions in Memphis TN, Graceland has welcomed millions of people through its doors since it began tours of Elvis’ famous 14-acre estate. The tour is a one-of-a-kind-experience and one of the most fun things to do in Memphis, whether you’re an Elvis fan or not.
Memphis In May
Things to do in Memphis TN include Memphis in May, an exciting month long festival featuring excellent musical acts, hundreds of fun activities, fabulous food and more. Enjoy the Beale Street Music Festival, eat championship barbeque and enjoy the Sunset Symphony which marks the end of the massive celebration.
Touring the zoo is another of the fun family things to do in Memphis TN. The Memphis Zoo is home to more than 500 species of animals highlighted through almost 4,000 animals living in the zoo. Exciting exhibits, interactive presentations, fun feeding times and more can all be experienced at this world-class facility.
